For the Sake of Saké
A hard day’s work
Words by Sommer Brugal Photos by Shelby Bella
At Kinda Tropical, guests can not only find common pantry items like fruit and eggs to grab on the run, but they can also watch an old western at the bar, sipping on colorful drinks and munching on fresh cabana food served on brightly colored dishes.
It’s a little bit of this and a little bit of that. Most of all, though, it perfectly embodies that bodega-like convenience with classic Austin ease, complete with a large, casual patio lit by stringed lights hanging overhead.
Sharable bites feature fried sweet plantains, yucca fries, and spicy green beans. Heartier options include dishes like their jerk chicken plate or the rainbow bowl with rice, kale, cucumber, radish, beets, and other vegetables. The beer taps feature local brews, while the wine list can satisfy just about any palate.
However, one menu item does stand out from the rest: the saké list. With more than ten varieties to choose from, Kinda Tropical co-owners, Kevin Trahan and Ana Klausmann, say choosing to offer such a varied saké list was rooted in their mutual appreciation for the beverage. “Ana and I really enjoy saké. So we thought it would be a cool idea to offer that [since] no one else was really doing it,” Trahan says.
One of the more popular options is the Kiku- Masamune Dry Saké. It’s versatile and easy-to-drink. Trahan says that “while it’s not the highest quality saké the menu has to offer, it’s a good mid-level drink at a great price point.”
For those looking for a sweet saké choice, Trahan suggests the Kiku-Masamune Junmai Nigroni, which features aromas of coconut and steamed rice. Trahan recommends Nigroni as a good introduction for beginner saké drinkers.
Kinda Tropical first opened its doors in May 2017. More than one year later, the restaurant- bodega has become known for more than just its welcoming environment and quality food.
In recent months, the space has garnered attention as a pseudo hub for Austin’s growing electronic music scene. According to Trahan, he and Klausmann consider it a special label since they aren’t a traditional music space. “We’ve turned into a good place for all sorts of events,” Trahan admits. “As long as it’s something within our values, we’re usually keen on helping out.”
In addition to small concerts, Kinda Tropical has hosted pop-ups and fundraisers for causes like RAICES Texas and Casa Marianella, a homeless shelter in East Austin dedicated to serving immigrants.
When Trahan and Klausmann set out to open Kinda Tropical, they had a few requirements in mind. They wanted to create a community-driven environment where neighbors could pop in for a morning coffee, again for a nourishing midday meal, and once more for a drink with friends after a hard day’s work.
Walking into Kinda Tropical, it’s clear they accomplished that goal. Proudly, Trahan says he sees some guests two to three times a day. And just like they dreamed, Kinda Tropical has become a staple in the neighborhood.
Beyond Saké
Kinda Tropical recently received its liquor license. While saké will remain a central focus of the restaurant’s drink offerings, Trahan and Klausmann hope to expand the menu to include other favorites of theirs, like mescal. “We definitely won’t be a cocktail bar,” Trahan reassures, “but we will have more options.”
Contact
3501 E 7th Street
kindatropical.com
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