Keeping Austin Weird...

The second time I went to Barton Springs for a hike, it was still sunny, but a little cooler:
Up the road from the Springs pool, there is an adorable picnic pull-off spot called The Picnic where local chefs have set up shop to feed the ravenous. I decided to see what they offered and get some lunch!
At Trudy's, I got their fish tacos, which came with cabbage slaw and chipotle ranch.
Then I went up to the Acai Hut for a taste of their Brazilian cheese rolls, called pão de queijo, and made locally.
It was warm and cheesy...

That night, I met a friend for dinner, and we caught up on 7 years since we last saw each other on a volunteer trip in Miami. He suggested Eastside Cafe and Elaine's, which are adjacent and owned by the same person. Both restaurants source locally, and there is a garden in the back where they grab fresh produce and herbs. We got a side of their famous jalepeno cornbread muffins and I got a glass of rose. 
Then we ordered the artichoke ravioli which was served with two sides of our choice: squash with tamari glaze and steamed broccoli.
 
The ravioli was creamy and delicious, and it was just the right amount of food. Below is the main dining room of Eastside.


Then we went next door to Elaine's for some dessert. There was a sign out front proclaiming that they had the best buttermilk pie, so I figured we'd try some!
 
This is the buttermilk pie, served with fresh whipped cream and strawberries.
We also got the chocolate pecan pie:
Both were lusciously rich and perfectly-portioned, and the whipped cream on top cut the sweetness of the pies just enough. I'd highly recommend this place!

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