Truluck's - Austin, TX

Austin, you did it again! Truluck's seafood restaurant provided the perfect meal from the wine, appetizer, main course to the dessert. It's no wonder they are ranked in the top 100 restaurants in the country in 2015. So it's also no surprise it received 5 Valcooks Aprons and the Golden Apron Award - my highest ranking.

Truluck's is located at 400 Colorado in downtown Austin. I knew this was going to be a special treat from the moment I entered the restaurant. The first thing I  noticed was the lively bar in this upscale setting with very talented live entertainment. The maitre'd warmly greeted me and directed me up the winding stair case where the hostess seated me at a table with spectacular view of downtown Austin. The manager, Pedro introduced himself, welcomed me to Truluck's and provides me his card just in case I required his attention. Sean was the server and graciously detailed the menu and specialties.

The wine list was extensive to compliment the meal. I selected a 2013 Chardonnay. The bread was freshly baked and brought to the table. To begin my meal I chose the soft shell crab lettuce cup hot appetizer with gastrique cherries and spicy slaw. It was the perfect combination with hot & cold, spicy & sweet and absolutely divine! My main course consisted of the crab cakes that were chock-full of jumbo lump crabmeat served on top of a very mild, homemade tarter sauce. The table also ordered the Chilean sea bass cooked to a firm, moist perfection that sat atop a bed of specialty crab rice. Are your taste buds tingling yet? Just wait...the desserts! The table couldn't decide on which scrumptious dessert to choose, so the tasting trio of carrot cake, chocolate cake and carmelized topped flan was chosen. Dessert heaven!

Truluck's is the complete package! The restaurant is ideal for romantic dinners, business meetings or just the desire for a memorable night out. The menu is pricy, but well worth the experience. Upscale business casual attire required. Valet service is available.

Truluck's was the "icing on the cake" for my final gastronomical experience in Austin! 

5 Valcooks Aprons/Golden Apron Award

Truluck's

400 Colorado

Austin, TX 78701

(512) 482-9000

www.trulucks.com

"Live life with an exclamation point!"

 

Max's Wine Dive - Austin, TX

I am not easy impressed by many restaurants, but Max's Wine Dive in downtown Austin, truly blew my taste buds! The restaurant came highly recommended and it did not disappoint.

Max's Wine Dive is located at 207 San Jacinto Blvd., in the heart of downtown Austin and just 2 blocks from the Neal Kocurik Memorial Convention Center. 

Gourmet southern comfort food is the best way to discribe their menu. They have amazing wines from around the world. Popular dishes include: shrimp and grits, fried egg sandwich and the "piece de resistance" - Max's Wine Dive's Famous Fried Chicken! 

I sauntered in for Sunday brunch. I walked out with a food savoring smile on my face. I ordered what they are most known for - the fried chicken which is placed on a bed of vegetarian collard greens with a side of creamy grits. This is a meal you will need to share! The plate consisted of 3 large bone out, skin on chicken breasts, pressure fried in a buttermilk, perfectly seasoned floured crust! Simply AMAZING. Yes, the best fried chicken I have ever tasted! The grits were smooth and just melted in your mouth. The greens were fresh, cooked perfectly tender and prepared vegetarian style. Baby, you are in for one heck of a treat! You'll definitely need a take out bag. Not only because you cannot finish it all, but because you will want to experience this pleasurable culinary satisfaction later. Can I get an "amen"?!

Friendly service awaits you at this casual, trendy hot spot. Prices are reasonable and they are open 7 days a week. (Check their website for details.) Valet parking available. Definitely make reservations ahead of time. You'll want to make sure you have a seat at their table.

So on you next trip to Austin, make Max's Wine Dive your very first stop! Your taste buds will thank you. And a special thank you to my friend Nikki for the recommendation. Girrrl, I will be back!

5 Valcooks Aprons/Golden Apron Award

Max's Wine Dive

207 San Jacinto Blvd.

Austin, TX 78701

(512) 904-0111

maxswinedive.com

"Live life with an exclamation point!"