18 Jul Two Austin Restaurants in Historic Landmarks

A work trip took me back to Austin, Texas. I knew that there is an exciting food scene in Austin and I hoped to find some time to try a few new places. Time was limited as I only had two nights but we managed to find two cool spots that both happen to be located in historic landmarks. Freedmen’s Bar 2402 San Gabriel St Austin, TX 78705 We arrived into Austin on a Sunday evening and I was with a group of Australians. So the top of the list was to eat Texas barbecue. Our options were limited based on the time and day but it was recommended that we head to Freedmen’s Bar. Located near the University of Texas, Freedmen’s is a popular spot among college students. Freedmen’s is located in the building also known as the Franzetti Store. It was built in 1869 by a former slave named George Franklin and became one of Austin’s freemen’s settlements after the Civil War. Over the years, the building has served as a residence, a church, a publishing house and a grocery store. The restaurant is named Freedmen’s in honor of those who established a tradition of community there. Brisket, House-Made Sausage, Pulled Pork Horseradish Potato Salad, Grilled Cabbage Slaw, Baked Beans Housemade Pickles (dill, red onion, jalapeno) Smoked Banana Pudding and Smoked Chocolate Mousse Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill 303 Red River Street Austin, TX 78701 After a long day of events, we snuck out for a quick break and walked a few blocks from the event venue and happened upon Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill. Built in 1952, it was originally a trading goods store known as the “Waterloo” compound. Later a saloon and domino parlor were added. In 2003, Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill opened, serving an innovative take on classic American comfort food. Popcorn Daily Deviled Eggs The Original Moonshine Corndog Shimps, honey mustard, blueberry swirl Texas Akaushi Beef Meatloaf with brown gravy Fried Chicken with chipotle cream gravy Beeler’s Pork Porterhouse with pig neck gravy With food as good as these two places, I am working on a list of other places to check out in Austin. Next trip to Austin, I will need more than two days!