At Home on the East side

THE RESILIENT

side

OF AUSTIN

AT

HOME ON THE EASTSIDE

r a b i n i ith M kup w y r e Deliv rbside Pic & Cu 949 uite A 4 4 1 6 ) (512 ther King Jr. Blvd. S Lu Martin 1902 E

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ch_L @Monar

Spring Special Edition

CONTENTS

07

Publisher’s Note

09

Art+Entertainment A Moment in Time

Explore East Austin neighborhoods through the vibrant lens of an abstract landscape painter.

24

Local+Local Pros Restoring History

The life and home of an East Austin symbol will be preserved and celebrated with a restoration that’s underway.

31 Go+Do

Get Out in the Backyard

Growth has more than one meaning for this local garden-turned-community farm.

35

Home+Away

A Weekend in Memphis

Home to the blues, Beale Street, and countless barbecue joints, a trip to Memphis is one for the books.

41

Sip+Taste

Welcome to the Diner’s Club

Sixth and Waller takes a modern approach to the classic diner.

Read more at eastsideatx.com.

36

Seeing the Light

Natural light touches nearly every part of this airy, inviting home. But the thoughtful creative collaboration between client and architect is what really brings the space to life.

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Help our community tackle COVID-19 recovery. centraltexasfoodbank.org eastsideatx.com

5

EAST THE RESILIENT

Rosewood Avenue Austin, Texas 78702 eastsideatx.com

Publisher Nillo Studios, LLC Creative Director Will Bowling Publishing Editor Ashley Bowling

EASTSIDEATX.COM advertise@eastsideatx.com

Contributing Photographers Shelby Bella, Heather Barnes, Scott Gordon, Leonid Furmansky, Mackenzie Smith Kelly, Charles Davis Smith, Craig Thompson, Summer Maulden, Casey Woods

Copy Editor Pam Bowen

Distribution Brian Phillips, Will Bowling

Editorial Team Sam Lauron, Alison Bryce

Submissions info@eastsideatx.com

Social & Events Sam Lauron

Advertising advertise@eastsideatx.com

@prospectrealestate

@austinrotisserie

Business Development Will Bowling, Brandon Lewin

@cherrywood_coffeehouse

Get all that is in this issue and more everyday at

OF AUSTIN

Contributing Writers Jess Hagemann, Jessi Devenyns, Sean Saldana, Gigi Hernandez, Christopher Ferguson, Mallory Lehenbauer

Photo Editor Eric Morales

} T N I R P { {Online} {Social}

side

Tag @eastsideatxmag in your favorite East Austin photos and use the hashtag #EASTsideATX to be featured!

CONNECT WITH US eastsideatx eastsideatxmag We promise we read every single comment!

Copyright Š 2016 Nillo Studios, LLC. EASTside Magazine is published by Nillo Studios, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without express written consent. Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice, but is rather considered informative. Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.

6 EASTside | Spring 2020

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When Local Matters Most

3317 Manor Road/Dharma-Yoga.net

W

hile most are at home with kids running around, trying to complete lesson plans, business plans, meal plans, and juggling virtual meetings, know that you are not alone. It’s HARD. Go ahead, give yourself a high-five, and remember to greet each day with loads of grace.

And embrace life's clouds and rainbows as they come, knowing that in the end, it's the hard seasons that make us stronger. No one is left untouched from this storm. Yet, we all have adapted to the new methods of life fairly quickly. And we are very proud of our community and the way they have made sweeping changes to help the most vulnerable. We hope that this time moves you to compassion in new ways.

3317 Manor Road/Dharma-Yoga.net

eastside | publisher's letter

3317 Manor Road/Dharma-Yoga.net

But let’s not forget the ones taking the brunt of this shut down: your local small businesses and the people who work for them, service industry workers, single parents, and especially the kids who have lost their schools, teachers, and their feeling of a safe place. Our hearts break for you.

Please know there are some helpful resources listed at eastsideatx.com/covidresources. There are SO many local organizations who are picking up the pace and caring for those who have been hit the hardest. Many of them are your neighbors, so please support them if you can.

Personally, we've talked with many small business owners over the last month. They all share the same fears: having to let their faithful staff go, crushed dreams, the sleepless nights, and the possibility of losing their business. They, like you, have had to pivot everything on a dime but are so often carrying the weight of many others’ livelihoods on their shoulders. Yet, in many conversations, there is still a sparkle and HOPE! Because Austinites are a community-centric people, we WILL bounce back with the support of our people-first collaborative nature that this city excels in. It’s going to take A LOT of intentional local spending (especially in a world where drop ship has become a way of life) and a change in our mindsets and habits to fully see the community rally around and frequent the tried and true businesses that dot every corner. And we have no doubt our community will do just that!

Though the story assignments for this issue happened prior to March, and we couldn’t have possibly known how quickly our lives were about to change. On March 17, we revamped our business plan. At the forefront of our thoughts were our readers and advertisers! Where we were once mailing 4,500 copies to doorsteps, we are now mailing out 50% more magazines to ensure they get into hands while at home—at no cost to readers or advertisers. We are still publishing the stories about how local businesses and the people here make our community such a great place to live, work, and play. We are continuing to publish local stories about our neighbors and how to get involved, while simultaneously publishing local and relevant information daily at eastsideatx.com.

From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU for reading and for supporting our small crew!

How honored we are to serve you.

Please remember, every Austinite can share in the local love by: 1. Frequenting hyper-local businesses and eateries.

2. Buying from your local farmers, grocers, and meat markets.

3. Purchasing Austin made products and brands.

4. Supporting locally owned and operated "mom and pop” shops (including the 67 businesses that grace the following pages).

Tag @eastsideatxmag with #ATXlocallove and share with us how you are weathering the storm and be sure to also tag the local businesses you are supporting.

We appreciate You, Will & Ashley Bowling

Laura Shook Guzman LMFT

Somatic Psychotherapist and Wellness Coworking Consultant Supporting Mental Wellness & Well-being for Entrepreneurs

Work Wellness Speaker & Facilitator Book a complimentary 15 min consultation, www.consciousambition.com/psychotherapy

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Art+ entertainment

May +Spring 2020

10 land-

scape art

NEIGHBORHOOD WALKS INSPIRED ONE LOCAL ARTIST’S COLORFUL STILL LIFE PAINTINGS.

12 entertainment

EAST AUSTIN CULINARY STUDIO TAKES A HANDSON APPROACH TO NUTRITION.

eastside | art

A Moment in Time

Infusing Life into Everyday Scenes WORDS BY Sam

PHOTOS BY Eric

Lauron Morales

Some search far and wide for artistic inspiration. But for artist Sari Shryack, her vivid paintings are fueled by the most familiar surroundings.

A

fter studying art and graphic design in college, Sari moved from Missouri to Austin when her husband landed a job here. A year had gone by before she realized she hadn’t painted since moving. Determined to build that part of her life back, she set out to create one painting or drawing a day for an entire year and share her creations on Instagram for extra accountability. Many of her paintings during this time were still life scenes she observed while on daily walks around East Austin. Looking back, she credits Austin’s vibrant scenery for sparking her renewed sense of creativity. “I would run around the neighborhood and was really inspired by the houses,” she recalls. “But what really blew my mind about Austin, especially compared to the Midwest where I grew up, was the colors and sunlight here.”

Drawing from the style depicted by modern and realist painters like Edward Hopper, Sari’s colorful landscape and still life paintings take a similar approach to everyday objects. Sari views items or places that are otherwise overlooked by many through a vibrant, abstract lens. By playing with light and highly-saturated colors, she’s able to infuse life into anything she sees, whether that’s a bottle of nail polish or an old home she regularly passes on her evening runs.

Long-established East Austin homes regularly acted

10 EASTside | Spring 2020

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“I would love it if people could see the beauty and integrity in old homes just as they are.”

as a muse for much of Sari’s early work.

What made them stand out to her was not only the classic architecture or the way they caught light but also the fact that they felt lived in.

“I’ve always loved older homes,” she beams. “But I especially love the ones where you can tell that there was a party in the backyard the night before or [ones that] still have Christmas lights up in February.”

When painting homes, Sari deliberately omits people from the scene. Instead, she wants to give viewers a sense of wonderment, allowing them to fill in the gaps on their own or maybe even imagine themselves there. But even with an absence of people, the paintings feel lively, warm, and full of character.

Through all of her work, Sari’s overall desire is to leave beholders feeling more optimistic. “The world is heavy,” she states. “I always want my work to just generally leave people feeling lighter.”

With her home paintings specifically, she hopes that the portraits will convey a deeper appreciation for older homes and the stories they carry within them.

“I would love it if people could see the beauty and integrity in old homes just as they are.”

CATE

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11

eastside | entertainment

A Recipe for Health

Nourishing the Body & Soul through Cooking WORDS BY Jessi

PHOTOS BY Mackenzie

Devenyns Smith Kelly

Amanda Darby is a nutritionist by education but a chef by necessity. Shortly following her entry into food education, Amanda discovered that the majority of people already possessed a basic instinct for healthy food. The problem was that they weren’t confident in transforming ingredients into meals.

12 EASTside | Spring 2020

“M

ost people don't know how to make things taste good, and if it doesn't taste good, they won't eat it, and they're just going to go back to their old habits,” explains Amanda, owner and teacher at East Austin Culinary Studio. To jolt her clients out of their culinary rut, Amanda began teaching basic kitchen skills, which included everything from olive oil selection to vegetable pairings. However simple, the changes that resulted from providing people with a kitchen tool box were astonishing. Amanda says that not only did their diet improve but mastering the kitchen also led to new communities and healthier networks with friends and family.

For Amanda, there came a point where it was no longer practical to drive between individual residences to provide lessons.

To both improve efficiency and create a

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home base for her hands-on approach, Amanda landed in a live-work space in Mueller where she set up her studio to teach people how to cook.

East Austin Culinary Studio opened in 2018 while Amanda was juggling a toddler and a six month old baby. To get things off the ground while keeping balance in her own life, Amanda chose to focus on a different demographic and began catering to businesses and work teams by offering cooking classes as a way to build relationships outside of the workplace. Her success snowballed, and in early 2020, she debuted public classes that anyone can attend. With class options like Asian dumplings, sushi, and Mediterranean cuisine, Amanda shares that her courses were filled with eager learners from the inaugural launch.

At the studio, public classes are taught

Native Knowledge East Austin

Culinary Studio additionally offers space, professionalgrade props, and backgrounds for food photographers to craft styled shoots.

by local guest instructors while Amanda continues to apply her energy to the professional team building classes where she coaches attendees on the intersection between food and nutrition. “I will hit on things like fat and oil quality… [and] ingredients that you shouldn't use for your health.” She elaborates that nutritionally black and white areas exist, but much about healthy eating exists in a grey area that is unique to each individual’s constitution. “So it's more about going back to get people to have a firm understanding of what's healthy for them.” She believes that those black and white areas are low- and bad-quality ingredients that lack nutritional density as well as those that are toxic or inflammatory.

While currently only public and team building courses are offered, Amanda reveals that there is a third phase left to be incorporated into the studio. “The final phase is getting back to my roots, which would be the nutrition services. I would love to do more one-on-one consultations in that [realm],” says Amanda. However, much like constructing a balanced, nutritional plate takes time, so too does building out the full offering of classes at the studio.

Contact:

2100 Robert Browning St. info@eastaustinculinarystudio.com eastaustinculinarystudio.com @eastaustinculinarystudio

EAST AUSTIN 1901 E 7TH ST. | (512) 981-MODS NORTH AUSTIN

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13

THE HEWN HOUSE Modern Takes On Traditional WORDS BY Sam

Lauron Davis Smith

PHOTOS BY Charles

Matt Fajkus wants to make one thing clear about modern homes: they aren’t just simple boxes. His namesake architecture firm adheres to the concept of Modernism, which means their projects are much deeper than the stereotypical imagery of stark lines and cold interiors that the word “modern” typically conjures up.

T

he opposite of Classicism in which symmetry and traditional forms are standard, Modernism encourages function over form. In the realm of architecture, the objective of Modernism is to focus first on the way the home will function in terms of the physical site as well as the homeowner’s lifestyle.

Matt states that rather than conforming to a specific design style, he, his partner Sarah Johnson, and their team apply Modernism and sustainability to each of their projects, with their overall approach being to “suit the needs of what’s there and let the form emerge from it.”

To do this, they focus on a number of factors,

Class is in Session.

In addition to leading

Matt Fajkus Architecture alongside principal architect, Sarah Johnson, Matt is also a tenured professor at UT Austin School of Architecture as well as the director of the school’s graduate program in Sustainable Design.

the main one being site context. After examining elements like the slope of the lot, surrounding trees, solar angles, and even the neighborhood at large, they work with these parameters—rather than against them—to build a framework for the final form.

Take the Hewn House, for example. Designed to imitate a cabin, the original inspiration for the house was the homeowner’s rustic home state of Maine. Similarly, the aptly-named project is a reference to the term “hewn” which means to chop wood into a certain shape or angle. In order to fit in with the physical parameters of the lot as well as the context of the neighborhood, Matt notes that the home was nicknamed Hewn House because they saw it as “somewhat of a wood block that had been carved in a specific way to fit within the trees and the lot.” While the firm took the homeowner’s desired style into account, what ultimately informed the overall design was the site itself.

On the lot of the Hewn House sit two structures: the main house and an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in the back. One challenge the design team had to tackle was determining a way to fit both structures into the allotted space while retaining enough privacy for each. This is when the context of the site guided their design choices. “The trees made it very clear that there was an obvious place

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17

where the two structures needed to fit,” Matt says. He adds that though the structures are meant to be separate spaces, they wanted to make sure there was a relationship between the two units, “as though they were part of the same family, but still different enough to feel like their own space.”

The cabin motif is also present in the interior of the main house, seen in the vaulted wood ceilings which follow the slope of the roof and the brick fireplace that acts as an inviting centerpiece. But while the wood that wraps the body of the house is knotted and rustic, the interior elements are smoother and more refined, with brighter walls and polished cement floors. “The lighter interior design choices represent an intentional effort to maximize the amount of natural light available,” Matt explains.

“Because there are neighbors close by on all three sides, including the ADU, you can’t open up [the space] or else you compromise privacy.” To work around this, the team employed the strategic use of clerestory windows that overlook a canopy of trees—another cabin-like element that not only adds privacy but also makes the house feel tucked away within the density of its surroundings.

With all projects the firm takes on, as evidenced by the Hewn House, any obstacle a site throws their way is just another chance to get creative. Matt smiles, “We like to see challenges as opportunities.”

Contact:

(512) 432-5137 mfarchitecture.com info@mfarchitecture.com @mf.architecture

APlace to Retreat The main house and

detached guest house are only connected by a small courtyard, allowing each of them a greater sense of privacy and the ability to maintain their own outdoor space.

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19

Erica Heroy Architecture & Design After graduating from UT Austin’s School of Architecture and honing her chops at firms like Houston’s Glassman Shoemake Maldonado, Erica launched her private practice in 2012. Since then, she’s worked out of her home, though the Chestnut Bungalow’s large backyard has plenty of space for a studio: Erica’s next design challenge! In the meantime, she’s accepting new clients. Erica’s design work includes “mostly remodels and additions to old Texas homes.”

The Giving House “Once there was a house” WORDS BY Jess

Hagemann Woods

PHOTOS BY Casey

Architect and homeowner Erica Heroy compares East Austin’s “Chestnut Bungalow” to Shel Silverstein’s beloved children’s book, The Giving Tree. “I think the kid was mean to the Giving Tree,” she clarifies, “so it’s not about that. It’s just, this house has such good energy and keeps giving and giving. If it’s the only project I ever get to do for myself, I’ll keep loving it to the end.”

Erica and her husband bought the bungalow that they and their daughters now call home in 2015. Although Erica was initially looking for a midcentury fixer-upper, when the real estate agent showed them the 1916-era house, Erica says, “We both just had that yes feeling. We knew this was our home.”

It took a year or so to renovate, including the whole-kitchen remodel, moving a hall bath, and a master suite addition that turned the 2-1 house into a 3-2 home. The first big change was switching a front door and window to create a better flow from the porch into the home. Next, the Heroys added a wood-burning stove and new window treatments and removed several layers of wallpaper

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21

UT Austin and Hillside Farmacy Connection The Chestnut Bungalow was originally built on what is today the site of UT’s Texas Memorial Museum. In 1934, as the university was expanding, the house was auctioned and sold to Viola Young and then relocated to its current East Austin address. Her husband was “Doc” Young—Austin’s first African American pharmacist and former owner of Hillside Drugstore (now Hillside Farmacy).

22 EASTside | Spring 2020

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and sheetrock to expose pine shiplap walls. Almost everything else, from the wood floors to the dining room’s pocket doors and built-in bench seat, is original.

“The house was never overly remodeled or added onto poorly,” Erica explains as a bonus to purchasing such an old home, “and that’s why it was such a good candidate for our budget-conscious project. It already had such generous spaces, good light, good flow.” She did opt for fresh paint—a playful palette featuring white walls and moss-colored trim, plus a striking gold ceiling and navy hutch in the kitchen—and new light fixtures throughout the home.

As for the addition, an airy master suite now abuts the rear hall bathroom. Erica explains,“In preservation architecture, you want to show the changes to the original structure.” So here, a new window layout and a siding change on the exterior demarcate the otherwise invisible line between new and old.

In June 2016, the Heroys officially moved in, right around the house’s 100th birthday. Today, Erica’s favorite family tradition is eating nightly dinners together around the dining room table. “It’s such a gracious room,” she says of the well-lit, six-windowed dining area. But they make easy use of the whole house, because it’s a ‘Giving House.’ Each room offers something beautiful and comfortable.

“Sit down and rest,” it seems to be saying.

And the Heroys did.

And the house was happy.

Erica Heroy Architecture & Design (512) 516-0131 ericaheroy.com erica@ericaheroy.com @ericaheroyarchitect

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23

eastside | local

junior high school for African American students.

After his retirement from the Austin school district in 1954, Hurdle continued his advocacy alongside Colored Teachers State Association of Texas (CTSAT) and other organizations championing racial equity in education.

In addition to his involvement in education, Hurdle had a lifelong dedication to his faith as he was head of the 12th Street Christian Church and served as president of the Texas United Christian Missionary Convention in 1943.

Today, Hurdle’s legacy is most visible through a year’s long restoration effort that has been underway at his former home at 1416 East 12th Street.

Restoring History

Honoring the Home of I.Q. Hurdle WORDS BY

Sean Saldana Will Bowling

PHOTO BY

The former home to African American education advocate Isaiah Quit Hurdle had fallen into disrepair. The home was purchased with the agreement to restore and relocate it, according to the former owner. Since that purchase, the restoration had stalled—until recently.

24 EASTside | Spring 2020

B

orn in 1886 in Greenville, Texas, about 50 miles northeast of Dallas, Isaiah Quit (I.Q.) Hurdle would become instrumental to the establishment and growth of the African American education system in Austin during the first half of the 20th century.

The son of runaway slaves, Hurdle was among the early generations of African Americans to attend school in the United States, and he would go on to head the Northeast Texas Christian Theological and Industrial College in Palestine, Texas, and earn a graduate degree from The University of Colorado.

In 1920, Hurdle moved to Austin to teach at L.C. Anderson High School, also known as the Old Anderson High School, for five years. From 1927 to 1930, he served as principal of the Gregory Town School which was later renamed Blackshear Elementary, and in 1930, he then became principal of the newly-founded Kealing Junior High School, Austin’s first find more at eastsideatx.com

In 2016, after sitting in years of disrepair, the house was purchased by Dallas-based firm Eureka Holdings. According to former-owner Irving Henry Allen Jr., the home was purchased with “arrangements for the buyer to fix it up and move it.” But after a few years with little progress made on the house's restoration, the Historic Landmark Commission came together in April 2019 to open a demolition-byneglect case on the property: an attempt to expedite the repair process by setting a timeline for owners to make necessary changes.

However, before the meeting could take place, Eureka filed a Certificate of Appropriateness, a request to ensure that the proposed changes were in line with the historic status of the building.

And thus, the restoration process has accelerated at a noticeably faster pace.

The graffiti and boarded up windows that once covered the home’s facade have been replaced with a fresh coat of paint and a new set of windows have replaced the plywood that once held out the light. Another noteworthy addition to the property is the large sign out front commemorating I.Q. Hurdle’s contributions to the community.

PROMOTION

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PROMOTION

PATRICE RIOS TROO DESIGNS

CONTACT

Patrice Rios, a talented designer, is making her way to the top of this high-end industry where her work simply speaks for itself. A virtuosic eye for color, an adventurous sense of style, and a fierce ability to multi-task are all synonymous with her success. Her work reflects what she values in design: acute attention to detail and a love for combining materials, colors and textures influenced by her clients’ style. Clients are a major part of her inspiration. “When I meet a new client, I dive in, get to know them, and learn about their vision which then translates into a personal design that is as usable as it is stylish,” says Patrice. “I love the mix of having many different projects at the same time, all with a unique style. There is constant crossover with creativity in my studio.”

(512) 810-3730 4646 Mueller Blvd., Ste. 1050 Patrice@TrooDesignsKBI.com troodesignskbi.com

PROMOTION

ED HUGHEY

REALTOR , MORELAND PROPERTIES REGISTERED ARCHITECT, AIA As both a Realtor and Architect, Ed understands the value of a home's function, quality, and comfort. His architecturally trained eye, paired with a deep knowledge of residential real estate, elevates his level of service for first-time and experienced homeowners alike. Ed's ability to offer real-time property assessments, design consultations, and insight into construction costs or city regulations are invaluable tools when purchasing or selling a coveted property. He also enjoys helping his clients discover the intangible attributes, such as great day-lighting or well considered flow of space, that make a home feel 'just right.'

CONTACT

A longtime resident of East Austin, Ed lives in the energetic East Cesar Chavez/Holly neighborhood where he and his wife found, redesigned, and renovated a classic 1930s bungalow. In his downtime, you’ll probably run into Ed on the hike and bike trail, getting a caffeine fix, or grabbing a bite at one of his favorite Eastside restaurants. ed@moreland.com (512) 940-0950 (512) 480-0848 ext. 183 edhughey.com

PROMOTION

LINDSAY HARRIS BROKER ASSOCIATE COMPASS REAL ESTATE

CONTACT

I bought my first home on the Eastside in 2004 and have weathered a few economic storms since. We are a strong community of creatives, innovators, and entrepreneurs in the center of a thriving city, and I have complete confidence that we will rise above this stronger than ever. We need each other more than ever right now, and everything is manageable with community.

Together we can beat this, and in each day, we must look for our own blessings. When it comes to real estate and financial needs, please feel free to reach out anytime with questions. I have a knack for problem solving and enjoy strategizing. I'm always here to help!

(512) 784-2163 lindsay.harris@compass.com lindsayharrisrealestate.com

PROMOTION

TIFFANY HENTRUP

UFCU MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER As a local, knowledgeable, experienced resource, Tiffany makes mortgage lending a breeze. From first time homebuyers to luxury clients, time and time again her borrowers are amazed at how easy the process is.

CONTACT

As a homeowner herself, Tiffany is intimately aware of the importance of financing a home and therefore works to understand borrowers’ specific needs to ensure that they are supported throughout the homebuying process. From offering advice, helping clients research financing options, and even attending closings, Tiffany makes it her mission to go above and beyond. Her goal is to make sure that clients not only get their dream home but find the entire process smooth and efficient.

(512) 789-8778 | thentrup@ufcu.org 8303 N MoPac Expy., Austin, TX 78759 Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS# 509718 UFCU Mortgage Services NMLS# 441215

PROMOTION

DEBORAH WHITBY & TEAM ,

AUSTIN PLUMBERY

CONTACT

We are Austin Plumbery. Built upon a family legacy of service, we are more than a plumbing company. With a woman at our helm, we are changing the conversation and redefining what plumbing means with a fresh approach for today’s homeowner and business. Community is at the forefront of everything we do. By providing confident living in healthy and well-functioning homes, we enable our neighbors to focus on the things that really matter to them: less worry, more living. We get you because we are you. We are homeowners, neighbors, and parents. We are true entrepreneurs taking plumbing services & solutions to a different level. With sleeves rolled up, we are ready to go, because pipes, machines and tools are only as good as the people behind them.

JUAN PABLO HISSE ,

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INTOWN HOMES SPRINGDALE CREEK Have you seen the beautiful growth happening in the MLK area: community gardens, neighborhood preschools, and the beginning stages of one of the largest parks in Austin?

A collection of charming farm homes outline the skyline as you drive down Springdale Road.

There is a quaint little neighborhood nestled between Mueller and the William Morris Golf Course waiting to be discovered.

CONTACT

Almost as charming as the houses, Juan Pablo Hisse’s warm welcome will make you feel right at home. You’ll find yourself lost in the excitement of neighborhood news, East Austin’s history, and all things real estate. Stop by to take a peek at the homes and meet your neighbor.

30 EASTside | Spring 2020

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(512) 640-9985 4926 Springdale Rd. JuanPabloH@intown-homes.com intown-homes.com/springdale-creek

Go+ do

May +Spring 2020

32 go grow

DISCOVER HOW ONE LOCAL RESIDENT GREW A BACKYARD GARDEN INTO A 186-ACRE FARM

34 go eat

GET YOUR TEX MEX FIX AT ONE OF THESE SIX EAST AUSTIN TACO JOINTS

eastside | go&do

Get Out in the Backyard Johnson's Backyard Garden offers space to grow in community.

WORDS BY

Jessi Devenyns

PHOTOS BY

Scott David Gordon

Brenton Johnson, East Austin resident behind Johnson’s Backyard Garden (JBG), has always enjoyed plants, but he didn’t always know how to grow them.

32 EASTside | Spring 2020

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Native Knowledge JBG has an annual transplant sale in the spring to help jumpstart smallscale produce cultivation for home gardeners who want the freshest produce that Mother Nature can provide.

Support a Farm & Eat Fresh community of neighbors and volunteers. “When I first started, I put an ad on Craigslist, and I ended up getting two volunteers,” Brenton recalls.

“And those two volunteers ended up having a really long relationship with JBG.”

I

t was in college that the future farm owner discovered his knack for cultivating houseplants, which set a domino effect into motion that led to him abruptly switch majors from mechanical engineering to agricultural engineering in the hopes of working one day on an organic farm on the West Coast. Instead of leading him immediately to life on the farm though, Brenton got a 9-5.

Working a desk job never stopped Brenton from getting his hands dirty. While working for the government in early 2000, Brenton began transforming his yard into a vegetable garden, which, in addition to growing produce, sprouted a

That relationship flourished as Brenton’s farm grew from an overflowing backyard full of chickens and vegetables in the Holly neighborhood to a 20-acre site in East Austin to now a commercial enterprise that is located outside the city limits, but still east.

Nearly 20 years later, JBG is a far cry from the neighborhood Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program that it started as. Today, Brenton’s vegetable patch is a sprawling 186 acres in Garfield, Texas, with 100 employees who range from greenhouse managers and farmhands to operations directors and delivery drivers. One thing that has not changed, however, is Brenton’s dedication to teaching agriculture to Austinites and developing gardeners out of volunteers.

Despite operating at a scale that allows for the provision of fresh

produce to local restaurants and markets, volunteers are still a core force of the operations at JBG. Dozens of local residents trek to the organic farm on any given day to exercise their skills in gardening, preparing CSA boxes, or working at the markets. Besides the satisfaction of absorbing fresh air and sunshine alongside the plants, each volunteer has the option to indulge in the fruits of their labor with some veggies. Not only that, but the 20-minute drive to Garfield has the ability to transport Austin-dwellers into another realm: one that provides a purposeful connection to nature and neighbors.

Brenton says that’s exactly what makes time spent on the farm so idyllic. Vegetables require long hours of tending, but that careful attention allows for a thriving business and community to be built from the seeds of crisp rainbow chard and sun-ripened tomatoes.

Contact:

(512) 666-3460 4008 River Road Cedar Creek, TX 78612 jbgorganic.com

{the resilient side of austin}

Austinites looking for fresh produce can join the farm's Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program where they can select from a variety of box sizes and delivery schedules to suit their culinary needs. However, it’s grown so popular in these last few months that they’ve had to begin a temporary waitlist.

Be sure to check their website for updates and availability.

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eastside | go&do

6

best

Taco Joints

Finding the Perfect Taco in Austin WORDS BY

Mallory Lehenbauer

PHOTO BY

Vegan Nom

There is no shortage of delicious tacos on the Eastside, but finding the best spot is just as important as finding a favorite flavor combination.

Each of these taco joints have something special to offer cravings for a fresh breakfast, a hearty lunch, or even a vegan taco selection, too.

1

El Mana

El Mana is owned by a local family who take the word ‘homemade’ seriously. Salsa is made fresh every morning, and the homemade flour and corn tortillas are the perfect base for every taco.

Each item on the menu is as fresh as it tastes, and at just $2 for a breakfast taco, they’re hard to beat. Try their chorizo taco, an Elote cup, and a Bionico to complete the meal. facebook.com/El-Mana-Taqueria-y-Fruteria | 1402 E 38th 1/2 St.

2

The Vegan Nom

The Vegan Nom brings a new meaning to vegan quesadillas, tacos, and queso. All salsas and sauces are homemade, and there’s really no way to go wrong with such a diverse menu. Tacos

34 EASTside | Spring 2020

come fully loaded, and it’s hard to believe they are all vegan, especially when served with their creamy nut-free, dairy-free, and soy-free queso. thevegannom.com | 2324 E Cesar Chavez St.

3

Veracruz All Natural

The Migas taco at Veracruz is one of the best in Austin, with the perfect ratio of egg, tortilla, and avocado. If it’s too late for breakfast, their fish taco hits the spot for lunch or dinner. Lines can be long at this food truck, but the tacos are worth the wait. veracruzallnatural.com | 2505 Webberville Rd. | 4209 Airport Blvd.

4

Brazas Taco House

With more than a decade of experience, Brazas Taco House is a local, family-owned business. Their tacos

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are made with fresh vegetables, including cactus. Try the Lamar breakfast taco, a homemade flour tortilla filled with cactus, egg, pico de gallo, and refried beans, then topped with queso fresco. brazastacohouseaustin.com | 6801 Airport Blvd.

5

La Fruta Feliz

La Fruta Feliz opened in 2008 by a husband and wife team. And though they have since expanded their offerings, this family-owned restaurant has managed to stay true to their Mexican roots. The Barbacoa de Chivo (shredded goat) taco is a favorite among customers, or try the Huevo con Nopales taco for breakfast (egg and cactus) with one of their fresh fruit juices. lafrutafeliz.com | 3124 Manor Rd.

6

Vamonos!

Vamonos! offers ranch-style Tex Mex cuisine. They cook with local ingredients and serve breakfast tacos all day. Their staple ranch tacos are served with a choice of picadillo beef, carnitas, adobo chicken, skirt steak or seasonal vegetables, topped with pickled onions, Oaxaca and jack cheeses.

Each meal is served with various salsas, lending the perfect heat to whichever taco suites the taste buds. vamonos-texmex.com | 4807 Airport Blvd.

Home + away

May +Spring 2020

36 home

STEP INSIDE A HOME THAT BLURS THE LINE BETWEEN OUTSIDE AND IN

40 away

MAKE YOUR WAY TO MEMPHIS TO EXPLORE THEIR BARBECUE STYLE AND BLUES MUSIC SCENE

eastside | home

Seeing the Light

An Eastside Gem Shines

WORDS BY Christopher PHOTOS BY

Ferguson, AIA Leonid Furmansky

36 EASTside | Spring 2020

A narrow lot featuring a protected pecan tree became an ideal canvas for architect, Jen Brannon, and client-contractor, Nathan Button, to realize a humble, spacious, and daylight-filled single-family home. A rich material palette of locally sourced finishes lends an air of permanence within a rapidly changing neighborhood.

A

midst the backdrop of a mature neighborhood pockmarked by all-too-many clumsy residential developments, it’s forgivable to initially overlook Jen Brannon’s East Third.

“The goal was to design a comfortable home for entertaining with a contemporary and youthful vibe,” Jen explains. The 2,300 square foot home became defined by its clean lines and modern aesthetic, but its sensitive siting and attention to detail yield a home that is exceptional for its

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poise and modesty, making it the unassuming stand-out of the block.

With a unique partnership between Jen and her client, Nathan (who happens to be a contractor specializing in high-end residential construction), the home’s interior and exterior spaces are shaped by the combination of a rugged, yet sophisticated, material palette and a masterful approach to daylighting. Unlike its new-construction neighbors, its volume shies away from maximizing the potential building envelope,

instead favoring a restrained approach set back from the street and in-line with the original scale of the neighborhood.

Inside, the airy layout is derived from balancing three driving ideals: blurring the line between outside and inside, defining public and private spaces, and protecting a 19-inch diameter pecan tree, centrally located within the 5,440 square foot lot.

The home takes its first cues from the location of the lot’s proud pecan. By accommodating its substantial dripline, Jen creates an intimate and well-proportioned courtyard flanked by the main, two story residence and a generous, detached garage that Nathan plans to convert into an additional vacation rental suite. A small, hardscaped limestone patio, hot tub, and freshwater lap-pool sit adjacent to a shady seating area that enjoys dappled light filtering through the leaves above. Tall stalks of bamboo add an extra sense of privacy between the courtyard and the neighbors.

With over 20 years' experience designing spaces for commercial, institutional, and residential clients, Jen’s ability to shape light is a common thread throughout her work.

Her humble demeanor has the ability to set her clients at ease, and the unique architectclient relationship that formed through Jen and Nathan’s partnership benefited the project given Nathan’s contracting experience operating Button Custom Homes.

Jen aligned the main circulation of the home on a central axis that echoes the dimensions of the narrow lot, one that

{the resilient side of austin}

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37

eastside | home

maintains a visual connection between the pecan tree and the front entry. Along this axis, a substantial limestone wall creates the boundary between public and private spaces, a gesture that Jen refers to as the home’s “spine.”

Aligned with the entry, an informal game room spills into a lofty kitchen and living room centered on a robust steel fireplace hearth.

Oversized, full height sliding glass doors connect the living room and courtyard, reinforcing the idea that the courtyard is another room in the home.

On the other side of the “spine” lies Nathan’s master bedroom and private bath, which each enjoys a degree of privacy without sacrificing the visual connection to the outdoors. Upstairs, Jen has arranged an array of bonus rooms that anticipate a growing family or simply more long-term rental options, including a second bedroom, half bath, a guest room featuring four built-in bunk beds,

38 EASTside | Spring 2020

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a living room, and a large, second outdoor patio overlooking the courtyard.

The project also benefited from early discussions of key details that could leverage Nathan’s fabrication expertise without blowing the budget. Notably, a dramatic, floating steel stair connects the two levels of the home, held off from the split-faced limestone walls grazed by daylight that spills into the foyer from generous north windows above.

In a moment when Austin’s residential development can often seem overwrought and indulgent, Jen and Nathan have achieved something special: a bright, sensitive, and inviting home imbued with the spirit of its creators.

Contact:

(512) 633-2931 jen@jenbrannondesign.com jenbrannondesign.com @enbrannondesign

SEE THE EXHIBITION

HANNAH SUTHERLAND LOVES SMILING

♥’s Jogging around Lady Bird Lake & Movies at Alamo Drafthouse ♥’s Travel, Cooking & Entertaining Occupation: Real Estate Advisor@Compass Instagram Hannah_On_Homes SMILE MAKEOVER BY MARK SWEENEY, DDS

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39

breath, and the Civil Rights Museum preserves and celebrates his legacy.

Elvis's Graceland in all its sublime gaudiness of America's first rock star is truly unforgettable.

Check the schedule for the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies' home schedule at the FedEx Forum or the minor league Red Birds stadium.

To really get a flavor of the town, book a river cruise on the Memphis Queen, which leaves from Mud Island.

eastside | away

missed, there is much more to Memphis that makes it a fascinating city to visit.

A Weekend In

Memphis River Town WORDS BY PHOTOS BY

Ben Haguewood Craig Thompson

Texas is known for its beef brisket, but Memphis is all about the pig. From pork shoulder, pork ribs, pig tails, & pig ears, tail-to-snout cooking is on the menu.

On paper, Austin and Memphis have a lot in common. Both are medium-sized towns with a musical legacy, delicious BBQ, and both sit on the banks of a river.

The Mississippi River, into which Memphis seemingly threatens to slide, in comparison to

Austin's Colorado, is the broadest basin geographically in the U.S.. The river spans the length of the country, making it the fourth longest river in the world. It drains 32 states, runs over 2300 miles and is deeper, wider, and dirtier than any other. Though the river is massive and can’t be

40 EASTside | Spring 2020

There are plenty of museums and tours.

But if time is of the essence, it's best to hold off on more cerebral impulses, and let your mouth and ears do the learning. You'll soon see what the town is all about and hit the most important contemporary cultural spots in the process.

Friday Visitors could spend months or years exploring all the offthe-rack BBQ and soul food joints across town, but it's hard to imagine anyone being disappointed with a first stop at Payne's.

Brisket aficionados love to talk about the 'bark' on a good Texas brisket, and at Payne's, patrons will find the same crack-

ly, charred crust on their pork shoulder, chopped and mixed into a heaping pile of dripping pork onto a cakey white bun. (Local tip: Get the slaw on the sandwich, and don't forget to ask for a fork.) Every list of best Memphis BBQ will include The Rendezvous, of Food Channel fame and prominently featured in early John Grisham legal thriller, The Firm. It's a memorable meal, but be advised—it is its own unique dryrub, charcoal grilled preparation. Give it a shot, but don't make it your only BBQ stop while in Memphis. There's always Cozy Corner, Central BBQ, various Tops BBQ locations, and many more.

Saturday With a replete stomach, now it's time to soothe the soul. Blues

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tones scream from the famous clubs on Beale Street, like BB King's Blues Club and Mr. Handy's Blues Hall. Think of Beale Street as a cross between Austin's 6th Street and New Orleans' Bourbon Street. But for a true step-back-in-time blues experience, check out Wild Bill's.

The raucous juke joint has a revolving band made up of musicians who have backed up legendary R&B artists past and present on any night of the week. Grab a 40, sit back, and relax. You'll be treated to a mix of classics you'll know by heart and new tunes that sound like you ought to know.

Sunday What else is there to do in Memphis?

Plenty. This is where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. took his last

There are so many great ways to spend the weekend in Memphis. But if you only do blues and BBQ, don’t feel bad.

It’s an experience all its own.

All Ears

For something a little saltier— in every way imaginable— try the pig-ear sandwich at Big Apple Inn. Think of it as chewy bacon, and if you don't love it, it will only set you back a couple of bucks. And wherever you go, if you see bologna or tamales on the menu, it's no joke—give them a shot.

Sip+ taste

May +Spring 2020

42 taste feature

CREATIVE DISHES, INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS, AND COLORFUL

INTERIORS DEFINE

THIS HOTEL DINER.

45 taste expert

SLOW DOWN AND SAVOR WHAT’S IN SEASON WITH THIS SIMPLE STRAWBERRY CAKE RECIPE

48 dining guide

A CURATED GUIDE ON WHERE TO ORDER OUT IN EAST AUSTIN

50 sip

feature

PREPARE TO CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH THIS FROZEN HIBISCUS MEZCAL MARGARITA

eastside | taste

Welcome to the

Diner’s Club An American Diner with a Worldly Twist WORDS BY

Gigi Hernandez Bella

PHOTOS BY Shelby

Jason Stude is not only a chef who can bring a depth of flavor to guests in a single seating but is also one who adopts a culture of caring for others in his philosophy in leading the creative team at Sixth and Waller.

Easily one of Austin’s newest gems, East Austin Hotel is locally owned and operated right in the heart of East Austin. Guests can check into “mid-century Danish inspired rooms with luxe-to-less offerings” and enjoy sips and eats at their globally inspired rooftop bar, The Upside.

42 EASTside | Spring 2020

find more at eastsideatx.com

“I

am interested in the world, and I like a lot of different flavors. I don’t even know how to describe American flavors because I don't know what that really means. [Meaning], it’s all a melting pot, and in Texas, there is so much inspiration,” Chef Jason Stude says as he dips a coriander pita chip into his famous Muhammara appetizer (containing yogurt, cilantro, candied walnuts, and aleppo peppers). As a native New Orleanian who grew up in his family’s Italian restaurant and later moved to Houston, it isn’t hard to guess how Jason’s passion for international flavors developed.

From chef roles at various well-known restaraunts around town, Jason is now the Executive Chef at East Austin Hotel’s global diner, Sixth and Waller. Needless to say, he brought all his training under some of the best and experience in flavor layering with him.

“We are calling it a diner because, here in America, it is the type of food and feeling that is approachable. It is your neighborhood place,” Jason explains. “We offer food using the same techniques as in fine dining but present it very differently, minus the pretension.” Just one bite of shrimp and truffle grits or buttermilk biscuit beignets covered in powdered sugar with a side of Cafe du Monde caramel, and one would agree.

But that’s not all, walking into the diner is also an experience all its own. Sixth and Waller has a way of submerging guests into its eclectic aesthetic with their Middle Eastern rugs, intricately carved pendant lights, and cozy wicker furniture. At the same time, patrons feel like they’re right at home with warm wood ceilings, deep blue tiled-tables, and the all-American diner stools lined up at the bar.

Sixth and Waller carries three different types of menus, including a “Breakfast All Nite” option. Depending on the time of the day, guests can treat themselves to a variety of global dishes, ranging from Texas Pastrami Reuben, Coconut Jasmine Fried Rice, Queso Benedict, Shrimp and Salmon Ceviche to Spice Lamb Kebabs. “Everything has a lot of herbs, chiles and citrus; it is bright, vibrant food, fun and not heavy,” Jason points out. Luckily for his team, this is the same type of doctrine he applies to his work style. “The world is big and can be scary; you really can’t control much of it at all, but in the kitchen, there can be a form of control.” He adds, “Zero bullying, racism, and discrimination. If you can foster that culture, then you can make the world a little bit better place.”

Contact:

1108 E 6th Street eastaustinhotel.com @sixthandwaller

{the resilient side of austin}

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43

SPECIALIZED SERVICES • Full Charge Bookkeeping • • Payroll • QuickBooks • • Inventory • Invoicing • • Purchase Orders • • Accounts Receivable • • Preparation of Annual & Quarterly Taxes • • Sales Tax • LLC Formations • alitca @ agruedabookkeeping . com

| (512) 963-9387

Stop by: 2823 e mlk blvd. Suite 130

512.351.5632

homeandhanddesigns.com

As an Austin original, it’s in our DNA to be different. Our bold and spirited designs capture the culture and history of generations, past and present. At World Interiors, culture is important to us. That’s why; international looks blend with local vibes, sustainability, eco-friendly practices, and handcrafting to ensure that our products will be part of your home for years to come.

protect what

you love

worldinteriors.com

(512) 222-7925

Kyle Nigro

knigro@farmersagent.com

Farmers Agent

44 EASTside | Spring 2020

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1301 Chicon St. Unit 104 Austin, TX 78702

eastside | taste expert

Mimi's Strawberry Cake

DESSERT FROM A SIMPLER TIME

Recipes are a timeless creation. Once made, they have the power to bring back specific moments in history or forgotten memories. For baker and herbalist Heather Barnes, strawberry cake has the ability to take her back to simpler times.

S

trawberry cake was a popular dessert for many southern families throughout the 50s and 60s.

People would drop off a cake on their neighbor’s porch or have it ready for outdoor picnics. While many had different steps for creation, the dessert seemed to have the power to bring people together.

Heather recalls hearing how much her grandmother’s town was built on community. Without the distraction of phones interrupting conversations, “locals sat in their backyard, and people would stop by with desserts and food to share.” According to Heather, the town still continues to be that way today. It’s not uncommon for neighbors to show up with an extra pie they made or bring dessert over when someone’s grandchild is visiting. Any reason to share baked goods is acted upon.

Heavily inspired by her grandmother’s process, Heather’s recipe focuses on farm-to-table freshness. With homemade angel food cake as the base, a layer of softened ice cream in the center, and freshly picked strawberries on top, it’s easy to see why this southern dessert casserole of sorts is perfect for gatherings.

WORDS BY

Alison Bryce

RECIPE & PHOTOS BY Heather

The combination of the light and fluffy angel food cake with strawberries on top make it a showstopper as sunshine begins to fill the days. The dish does require patience to properly make though.

Mixing all the egg whites until they form stiff peaks is key to the recipe.

Barnes

Though the world moves at a much quicker pace than it did in 1950, strawberry cake still holds the power to pause time and reinforce community just as it always did. Heather insists, “It just brings people together.”

Whether you are planning a dinner party with friends and family or bringing a cheerful gift to a neighbor, celebrate living in community with others with a slice of homemade strawberry cake. {the resilient side of austin}

eastsideatx.com

45

eastside | taste expert

Mimi's Strawberry Dessert

Angel Food Cake Ingredients: 1 c. flour 12 egg whites 1 t. cream of tartar 1 t. vanilla 1 1/2 c. granulated sugar pinch of salt Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an angel food cake pan or two 9 inch rounds.

Sift together flour and salt.

46 EASTside | Spring 2020

In a bowl, mix 12 egg whites with a standing mixer, or handheld mixer, until soft peaks form.

Add cream of tartar and a teaspoon of vanilla. Slowly add in sugar and mix on low to medium speed.

Fold a quarter cup of flour at a time into the egg white mixture, but be careful not to deflate the eggs!

Divide the mixture into two rounds or an angel food cake pan. Bake for 25-28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

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Ingredients: 1 angel food cake 1 pkg. cheesecake instant pudding 1/2 c. milk 1 pint vanilla ice cream 1 lb. fresh strawberries, sliced Directions: Mix pudding and milk with whisk for two minutes until thick. Add softened ice cream and whip until well blended. This will be the middle and top layer of the cake.

Assemble the layers with the pudding mixture, and top with sliced strawberries.

YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD BREWERY CURBSIDE PICK-UP HOURS: WED - SUN, 12 - 10PM

EDITOR’S CHOICE, BEST BREW PUB 2019 AUSTIN BEER GUIDE

BEER, WINE, PIZZA, SANDWICHES, ARCADES, & BEER TO GO

www.oddwoodales.com | 3108 Manor Rd. Austin, Texas 78723 {the resilient side of austin}

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47

O U R FAV E R E S TA U R A N T S

Pick 20

FOR THE EASTSIDE

eastside dining guide Bento Picnic

When the craving for Japanese bento hits, Bento Picnic has you covered. There’s nothing like a fresh and delicious bento box to comfort the soul while indulging in a well-balanced, healthy meal.

2600 E Cesar Chavez St. | bentopicnic.com

Colleen’s Kitchen

Celebrate any occasion—big or small— at a neighborhood favorite. The southern hospitality and down-home inspired menu includes fried chicken, smoked fish, savory biscuits, and warm chocolate chip cookies.

1911 Aldrich St. #100 | colleensaustin.com

Artessano Eden East

Under the wizened oak trees of a 4-acre farm is an unmarked trailer whose plain façade belies hyper-seasonal, farm-to-table dishes. Whether it’s a farm-fresh breakfast on market days where patrons can sit-down prix fixe dinner under the stars, Eden East reinvents the idea of eating local.

Be sure to visit during their market days on Wednesdays and Saturdays for farm fresh veggies and more.

755 Springdale Rd. | edeneastaustin.com

The fresh tropical fruit juice and the arepas are why you need to visit Artessano. As a food trailer specializing in Colombian food, expect dance music and lots of friendly conversation when you visit. 1211 E 6th St.

S-H Donuts

This unassuming store-front houses an outstanding array of fluffy-light donuts, a variety of kolache flavors, and savory breakfast croissants. Even if the food wasn’t enough, the warmth of the owners Sochea and Sarong make the trip to S-H worth it every time. 5313 Manor Rd.

Flyrite Chicken

Disrupting the fast food industry one sandwich at a time, Flyrite is a drive-thru with all-natural, antibiotic-free chicken as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options.

2129 E 7th St. | flyritechicken.com

Intero Restorante

Intero, meaning “whole,” is dedicated to the thoughtful use of every ingredient in their dishes. Homemade pastas, farm-totable plates, and artisan chocolates make up their bold, yet intimate, Italian menu.

2612 E Cesar Chavez St. | interorestaurant.com

El Sunzal La Fruta Feliz

A happy place where breakfast is served all day. Of course, you can also get lunch, but why would you when you can have chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and authentic breakfast tacos at 8PM? 3124 Manor Rd.

48 EASTside | Spring 2020

El Sunzal is a quintessential hole-in-thewall that makes up for its bare-bones appearance with its exceptional El Salvadorian fare. Make sure to sample the fried yucca, seafood soup, and the pupusas.

642 Calles St.

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Cisco's

The menu at Cisco’s provides flavorful TexMex options for any meal of the day. Order favorites like their mouth-watering breakfast tacos or comforting cheese enchiladas for dinner. Either way, the food and the service will have you wanting more.

1511 E 6th St. | ciscosaustin.com

eastside | dining guide

TAKE-OUT OR DELIVERY OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Mum Foods

This local shop serves up deli-style sandwiches and is most known for their pastrami. Be sure to try The Original, which is made with hot pastrami, house mustard and served on sourdough from Swedish Hill Bakery. 2113 Manor Rd. | mumfoodsatx.com

Poké Me Long Time

Expect to find vibrant dishes that match the food truck’s colorful personality. With cuisine that’s fresh and packed with flavor, the establishment offers a JapaneseHawaiian fusion menu that includes poké bowls, soba noodles, and dumplings. Catering options available NOW, call (512) 790-0093. 88 Rainey St.

Sour Duck Market

An offshoot of Odd Duck, Sour Duck Market is bringing the same custom approach to the fast-casual dining scene. With a menu packed with local flavors, Sour Duck so deliciously captures the spirit of Austin.

1814 E MLK Jr. Blvd. | sourduckmarket.com

Xian Sushi & Noodle

Cherrywood Coffeehouse

With an expansive patio and a continual rotation of events, you’ll find yourself frequenting for the community as often as food, which is an inviting array of tacos, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and smoothies.

1400 E 38th 1/2 St. | cherrywoodcoffeehouse.com

Austin Daily Press Designed as a cozy neighborhood pub, Oddwood Ales provides a variety of flavorful ales, home-made pizzas, and Italian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with arcade games and a pet-friendly patio.

3108 Manor Rd. | oddwoodales.com WORDS BY

This Southern-inspired menu features family-raised beef that comes directly from the Jacoby Ranch, served with heaping sides of veggies to match its freshness. Enjoy their signature chicken fried steak or a juicy burger on their cozy patio overlooking the Colorado River.

3235 E Cesar Chavez St. | jacobysaustin.com

Micklethwait Craft Meats

Fresh, hand-pulled noodles are the star of the show at Xian. Enjoy a bowl of Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry or the Dan Dan where noodles are pulled to guest’s preferred thickness then drenched in authentic Asian flavors. Visit for happy hour to enjoy their $5 menu.

1801 E 51st St., Ste. C370 | xianfresh.com

Oddwood Ales

Jacoby’s

Although known for their ribs, brisket, and smoked lamb, if you’re headed to Micklethwait’s, you can’t forget about the sides.

Your meal won’t be the same without a scoop of the jalapeño cheese grits, beet salad, or lemon poppy seed coleslaw.

1309 Rosewood Ave. | craftmeatsaustin.com

Blenders & Bowls

From smoothies to organic bowls of açaí, Blenders & Bowls has healthy grab-n-go items and nutritious meal options. No matter the dish, the natural ingredients serve as an excellent source of energy in which each meal will leave you feeling great.

1625 E 6th St. | blendersandbowls.com

Austin Daily Press has spent the last five years honing their craft, and it shows! The ADP team, led by Chef Reed Faitak and co-owners Dustin Knef and Chase Rushing, have found their voice through creating incredibly flavorful experiences sandwiched between locally baked telera.

1900 E MLK Jr. Blvd. | 4620 E Cesar Chavez St. austindailypress.com

Jessi Devenyns {the resilient side of austin}

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49

eastside | sip

Community Spirit

Authenticity in a Glass WORDS BY

Contact:

(512) 215-9949 2500 E 6th Street Cantinaholly.com @cantinaholly

Chris Ferguson PHOTO BY Summer Maulden

La Holly isn’t just another trendy Eastside watering hole. With an affordable and highly curated cocktail menu, owner Simon Madera has carefully crafted an intimate venue inspired by their Tejano neighborhood.

“W

e call it ‘La Sancha,’ which basically means ‘mistress,’” Simon Madera flashes a grin as he places a violet colored frozen margarita on the table. “Honestly, it was a joke name while we were testing out different recipes. It’s a little vulgar, but everyone loved it when they tasted it, so it stuck.”

At first glance, La Sancha is striking, a little mysterious, and definitely mouthwatering. Before even taking a sip, it seems to radiate with summertime energy.

Its frosty, ten-ounce glass

Native Knowledge

is filled with a blend of Kimo Sabe mezcal, triple sec, lime juice, and housemade hibiscus syrup that gives the drink its deep, velvety color. A black, rocky rim provides a sharp color contrast, complementing the frozen mix with a blend of lime salt, sugar, and powdered ancho chili. A small handful of roughly chopped candied hibiscus and a thick wedge of lime complete the garnish.

La Sancha’s flavor profile is as good as it looks, making it especially easy to drink. The hibiscus avoids overpowering the over-

all blend, instead pairing elegantly with the smoky and aromatic notes offered by the mezcal and spiced rim. It has the complex, smoky aftertaste one would expect of quality mezcal but is tempered by a subtle sweetness that tastes almost like cranberries. Most importantly, the drink packs a punch without falling into the trap of tasting overly boozy.

Simon boasts that its simplicity and authenticity are exactly what makes it one of their most popular drinks. It’s one of the few premium drinks in Austin that won’t break the bank if one just isn’t enough. “This is the best frozen margarita in the city because nobody

can make it all in-house like we can, especially at the price we offer. It’s important for us to keep our menu affordable so that the community can keep coming here.”

By “here,” Simon is specifically referring to La Holly’s location at the corner of East 6th Street and Pedernales, in a building that was once home to Kellee’s Place, a relaxed and affordable Tejano bar and lounge that operated in the same building since 1991. To those who remember, it was a neighborhood institution: a legacy that Simon intends to honor.

After assuming ownership of the property, Simon

made it a point to maintain as much of the heritage of the place and its community as possible. In addition to offering hardto-find spirits from Mexico, a shaded outdoor patio adjacent to nearby homes provides a comfortable space to nosh on Mexico City-style street tacos. A bright and intricate mural by renowned visual artist Curiot (Favio Martinez) unfolds across the longest side of the building.

La Holly’s drinks are delicious and well-balanced just like La Sancha—a simple, affordable frozen margarita that deserves to be on every Austinite’s summer shortlist, much like La Holly itself.

While La Holly is temporarily shuttered due to COVID-19, La Sancha is available with any to-go order at various locations of its sister company, Taco Flats.

50 EASTside | Spring 2020

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