Well Shit, There Goes My 6-Pack Abs.

Barley Swine gives you the most amazing olives in the world. Dipped in olive oil with a hint of garlic, rosemary, and red peppers.

Well actually, there goes my 1 pack abs.  Ha!  I was working my way to that 2-pack, you know the abdomen with that trace of a mid-line.  That dress must fit like a glove, but I will tell you, armpit fat is a bitch to get rid of.  I think it comes from my mom’s side, because apparently my sister says she has armpits like my dad.  Hahaha, I don’t know if that’s a good thing or bad thing.

RMK and I went to Austin to run some errands for the wedding, and it was so nice to visit the property.  We got our excitement back for why we chose this place.  I think with all the “whirlwind” doing on, we started feeling like our original idea of eloping was a good plan indeed.  But once we walked on property…ahhhh.  It was just right.

The Grilled Carrot Salad is Unbelievable at Barley Swine. It was my favorite by far!

But of course, we wanted to explore Austin (the city where he proposed to me)  before we have to leave Texas.  It’s an awesome, gorgeous city with amazing food, cool people, and just a young, fun-loving feel.  It will be missed!  But if you are visiting, you must visit the following!

The seared lamb with baby artichoke. Perfectly cooked and seasoned.

Barley Swine

On the weekend, this place opens at 5pm.  I suggest you be there at 5pm.  We got there at 4:45 before the doors were even opened, and the line was incredible.  I highly suggest the grilled carrot salad (which has the best feta cheese ever) and the fried brussel sprouts with capers.  RMK loved the potato fritters and special of the day: seared lamb.  Only in Texas do you have to put on your menu: “Small serving sizes,” but the serving size is perfect for 2 people who are not Texas-sized.  The combination of flavors are amazing, and every bite is just worth it.  Don’t expect to spend less than $50 per a couple here though because it all starts to add up, especially with their impeccable beer selection.  So just sit back, enjoy the ambiance with good food and beer.

Its called the White Rascal...an unfiltered, light beer so you can see the yeast.

Gourdoughs

Grannys Pie Goodness. It was soo delicious. Heaven in each bite.

I have seen it featured in several television shows on the Food Network and magazines and blogs.  Their name is everywhere as having the best doughnut, if not a meal in itself.  Across from it is the Odd Duck also, which has it’s own cult following.  I highly recommend both.  The doughnut has the perfect crispy edge with a hot, doughy center.  They put high quality toppings too: the best bananas, the best candied nuts, and hot caramel.  The menu at Gourdough’s is unbelievable, and you just stand there and have no idea what to choose.  All I know is get ready to work-out harder, with a side of cold milk of course.

Other Austin restaurants here and here and here.