Rocco’s Italian delivers tastiness to Lakeway

When in Lakeway, Mr. and Mrs. Yum prefer Rocco’s Italian over Ciola’s Italian. We discovered that the meat seemed fresher, the sauces were more vibrant, and the pasta was more, well, pasteriffic. The battle for Lakeway dominance will continue. Check out the select half-priced appetizers for a daily preview 4:30 – 7 PM. Give it a try and enjoy the view!

900 RR 620 S. A106. 512.263.8204.

Los Cucos Arrives in Austin

A long, long time ago, Mr. and Mrs. Yum lived in Houston. Clearly, we traded up in moving to Austin. However, one of the sore points of living in Austin is not having a Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant right around the corner. Well, that soreness is cured with the arrival of a seemingly “new kid on the block.” The Katy, Texas original Los Cucos has expanded into the Bee Cave Metropolis. After El Arroyo vacated their post across from the Bee Cave H-E-B, it wasn’t long before the Cucos brothers had their eye on the spot, opening their operation last Thursday. Just as expected, it really hit the spot. The delicious tomatillo and sour cream green sauce delivered with hot tortilla chips was a sight for sore eyes and a taste for sore lips. Try the beef fajita queso with thick white cheese while you enjoy a cold margarita. We can’t believe it’s back! Show them some love and visit today!

12432 FM 2244.

The Taste of Austin is Upon Us!

Wednesday, January 27, 2010… Have plans? You do now! From 5:30 PM until 8:00 PM, take a casual walk inside the Palmer Events Center and experience dozens of different restaurants. Mr. and Mrs. Yum will be there… Will you? Get discounted tickets at tasteofaustin.org.

Go get some Buca di Beppo with a nice discount

Like Planet Hollywood’s Buca di Beppo? If so, the next time you’re on the north side of town, hit them up and get $10 off $20 with this coupon.

A glorious return to Ciola’s

As promised in our September 18th posting, we’d be paying another visit to Ciola’s. This took place during the third full week of October. Once again, a delightful and tremendously amiable waitstaff was there for our every need. I’m pleased to report that the pasta was better cooked this time around. The fetuccini alfredo was tasty, and we even got to try the Calamari Alla Fabbio – a delicious appetizer. Overall, I’d say the food improved a full Yum since our last visit. We truly want Ciola’s to be at a full 5 Yums. It’s got a bit farther to go yet before we can make that claim.

512.263.6966. 1310 Ranch Road 620 N.

A new burger joint: TerraBurger

All-aboard! Jump on the organic bandwagon! It’s the 21st century now, and I suppose it’s high time we started giving back everything we’ve been taking for so long. TerraBurger takes this to the next level. The new shop is “Austin’s Original Organic Burger Place.” Fathered by George Walas, a fellow Austinite, this place embraces everything that is deliciously Austin. Ironically, the location is not downtown or in the infamous 78704 of South Austin. They’re bringing organics to the ‘burbs. Positioned in front of the antithesis – Costco, this location is prime for maximum viewing along Research Blvd. Alternatively, they’ve got a shop near the UT campus. As far as we can tell, the “green” movement hasn’t hit the restaurant industry quite yet. Someone had to be first! The burgers, handcut fries, and pure sugarcane Coca-Cola were delicious. Despite the fact it was quite noisy along 183 and outdoor dining is all that is available, we still enjoyed our meal. The menu is simple, so you shouldn’t have any trouble picking a good burger – as long as it’s built around a beef patty.

512.436.8570. 10611 Research Blvd.

The Spicy Pickle does not disappoint

Out of nowhere, there’s been a sandwich shop pandemic. Most restaurants have something truly different and unique to offer. The Spicy Pickle is no exception. They’re a delicious alternative to the Subways and Quiznos of the world. Based out of Denver, this start-up turned franchise has pizza, paninis, and of course, sandwiches. The Italian Panini was quite tasty and the Santa Cruz Sub was even better. I’d recommend this shop for an occasional change of venue during your lunch hour.

512.528.9900. 1335 E. Whitestone Blvd.

Try the shakes at Carl’s Jr.

Carl’s Jr. is new to the area. There aren’t many of their restaurants around town, but you’ll find about four of them around the Austin area. Click here to get a coupon for a buck off a shake.

Estancia Churrascaria: Tasty Brazilian Steakhouse

We recently reviewed Fogo de Chao. You’ll remember how we discussed the origin of the word “churrascaria.” This place is extremely similar to Fogo de Chao. However, who was in Austin first? You may be surprised to find out it was none other than Estancia Churrascaria. This is a great place to get your fix on delicious meats ranging from cordeiro (lamb) to my favorite, picanha (seasoned sirloin). It may be worth mentioning that the salad bar is a bit smaller at Estancia Churrascaria (as compared with Fogo de Chao), but props to Estancia for recognizing that we’re here to enjoy the main attraction: the meat.

512.892.1225. 4894 Highway 290 W.

Happy Hour on the Lake

Did you catch our Carlos ‘n Charlie’s review? Check out their cool happy hour.

Who: Carlos ‘n Charlie’s
What: 5 Apps for $5 each
When: Mon-Fri: 2:00pm – 7:00pm
Where: 5973 Hiline Road. 512.266.1683
Catch: Not all appetizers qualify