7 Global Eats from the Corners of East Austin
Global Food Experiences to Tantalize your Tastebuds
Words Tanya White | Photos by Baptiste Despois
Taunt your tastebuds this summer with global eats from the corners of East Austin. Regardless of summer travel plans (or lack thereof), Eastsiders can enjoy global cuisine close to home at one of these authentic international culinary destinations.
1. Casa Colombia
This establishment brings fresh ingredients made in the classic Colombian tradition. Think chimichurri flavors with extra sauce atop a sizzling steak and crispy empanadas with a hint of spice. It’s no wonder this Eastside staple has been around for decades. Es muy rica!
casa-colombia.com | 2409 E 7th St.
2. Thai Fresh
Alas, Thai Fresh has not yet opened an outlet in East Austin, but it has earned its spot as a truly authentic and fresh destination for Thai food. It made our list not only because of the quality of food but also because Chef Jam runs Gati ice cream, making her a de facto Eastsider.
thai-fresh.com | 909 W Mary St.
3. Buenos Aires Cafe
For almost 20 years now, Buenos Aires Cafe has brought a taste of Argentina to the Eastside. Often cited for having the best empanadas in town, don’t pass over their provoleta especial (charred cheese with spices and chorizo) and hand-rolled gnocchi. Tucked away underneath diners is their speakeasy, the Milonga Room, serving up South America-inspired cocktails and wines.
buenosairescafe.com | 1201 E 6th St.
4. Llama Kid
Somewhat new to the Eastside is this Peruvian gem. Diners will be delighted to sip a pisco sour that will have them feeling like they’re in the Andes. There’s no misstep with any of the ceviche options, and the Malaya Frita short rib is just yum.
llamakidatx.com | 4620 E Cesar Chavez St.
5. Julie Myrtille Bakery
Flaky pastries and fluffy quiches will have guests dreaming they’re in Paris. Having left the Farmer’s Market stand for the permanent Eastside home almost five years ago, this bakery has become a staple for scrumptious lunches and delectable hostess gifts.
juliemyrtille.us | 1023 Springdale Rd., Ste. 1D
6. Tony’s Jamaican Food
This is the place to visit for anyone craving perfectly flaky meat pies with just the perfect amount of spice. Their Jamaican patties, whose golden color comes from the turmeric, will have patrons dreaming of the white sandy beaches of Jamaica.
tonysjamaicanfood.com | 1200 E 11th St.
7. Oye Taquito956
This taco trailer took over the original Vera Cruz location, and it is 100% worthy of its predecessor with its flavor-packed taquitos. Rio Grande Valley style “mini” tacos are cooked up with bistec or al pastor options. Grab a Mexican Coke, and act like you’re south of the border. www.instagram.com/oyetaquito956 | 1704 E Cesar Chavez St.
But Wait. There’s More!
Aster’s Ethiopian has been around for decades, and it’s no secret they have Ethiopian cuisine down to a tee. Their African hospitality and large platters served with injera to sop up the wott and traditional spices are what keep Austinites coming back for more.
Shirley’s Trini Cuisine is a Trinidad food truck that has Eastsiders dreaming of the weekends when they can make their way to Shirley who makes doubles on Saturdays. Dhalpuri and Paratha Roti can be ordered by the dozen and half-
dozen, but guests would be remiss if they don’t order the Charra or Barra with chickpeas to go alongside.
Kebabalicious is not founded by anyone with Turkish heritage, nor do their recipes strictly follow the Middle Eastern approach, but their Turkish-style meats and wraps are mouth-
watering. Ingredients are locally sourced, and the lamb is Texas-raised and grass-fed. After one taste, visitors never visit a chain kebab shop again, and the line at lunchtime says Austinites certainly agree.
