News you can eat
Austin's new Jell-O shot tasting room breaks the mold, plus more local food news
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A staple of college ragers now has a classy rework courtesy of Austin entrepreneur Dee Dee Bryant. Ethyl Ambrosia, specializing in upscale vegan Jell-O shots, made its debut August 24 with flavors like mojito and Moscow mule packaged in unique push-up custom cups. The fancy creations are available by mail order and at a tasting room at 12440 Trail Driver St.
After 17 years in business, 290 West Club at 12013 Hwy. 290 had its last dance on August 13, but the building didn’t stay empty long. Last Chance Bar & Dancehallscooted in August 16 with a similar focus on live roots music. According to the new watering hole’s Facebook page, the switchover happened more quickly than anticipated. Although the place secured a liquor license quickly, it gave away sodas during its first show because the liquor had yet to be delivered.
In related news, 290 West’s on-site restaurant has moved to a new spot as of August 24. Gabrick Barbecue owner Mark Gabrick tells CultureMap that his new home at Last Stand Brewery fits better with the company’s long-term goals. Current hours are noon to 8 pm (or until sold out), Saturday and Sunday, but Fridays are coming soon.
North Austin hidden gem College Roadhouse is undergoing some changes of its own. The eatery shuttered August 25 and will be reborn as a new concept on August 28 after a few renovations. The new business, Seoulju, will be a soju bar with many of the same menu items as its predecessor, including the popular Korean fried chicken.
An Austin food truck known for its outrageous sweets opened a new location on August 24. Churro Co. No. 2 is now parked outside Thunderbird Coffee on 1401 W. Koenig Ln. offering the same menu as the original.
Downtown’s She’s Not Here has redone its lunch service with a menu focused on Hawaiian fare. The offerings, available Tuesdays through Fridays from 11:30 am to 2 pm included Mongolian beef with wild mushrooms, garlic soy, and fried onions; sticky coffee pork with lotus root, and a tuna poke bowl with kiwi, cilantro, and sushi rice.
The Austin Chronicle’s annual Hot Sauce Festival wrapped up it 29th year on August 25. Among the restaurants receiving awards for red, green, and special variety sauces were TacoDeli, Eldorado Cafe, Posse East, Serranos, Sazón, and the University of Texas Golf Club. Among the judges taking antacid afterwards was yours truly. See the full list of winners here.