Hidden Gems on Eastside Menus

Words Clarissa Jane | Photo Baptiste Despois

Austin has proven notorious for having some of the best food in the state. With so many fabulous options, our team has divulged some of their favorites and delightfully surprising items on various menus across town.

Micklethwait’s Craft Meats

Satisfying customers with their oak-smoked meats, specialty sides, and fresh made desserts since 2012, Micklethwait’s is known for their barbecue, but what really stands out is their attention to detail and creativity in their menu that’s entirely made from scratch. Their citrus beet salad is no exception when it comes to highlights on their menu. It’s healthy, perfectly tart, and a great excuse to go ahead and get yourself a full meal to go with it. 
1309 Rosewood Ave. | craftmeatsaustin.com

Lutie’s

Come as you are to the beautiful, garden dining experience at Lutie’s. With an elegant approach to their menu and presentation, the Estate Bread is a must-order any time of the day. It’s paired with the most flavor-packed, light-weight, brown cultured butter that melts deliciously in your mouth. Even if you’re trying to cut out gluten, make the Estate Bread your one exception; it’s worth its every mouth-watering bite. 
4100 Red River St. | luties.com

Tamale House East

You might have already experienced the legendary namesake items on the menu at Tamale House, but arrive a little early on a Saturday or Sunday and get a glimpse into their delicious breakfast selection. A notable favorite would have to be the Chilaquiles. The pan-fried corn tortillas and scrumptious, melted cheese make for a top-notch way to start your day. An add-on of their tender shredded chicken will also elevate the meal, providing a little touch of savory, tender protein.
1707 E 6th St. | tamalehouseeast.com

Nickel City

Quaint and feel-good, Nickel City is known for its extensive whiskey selection and coney-dog food truck. Something to known to few is their “Unknown” drink selection, especially their sweet, yet powerful, “The Offering.” It blends notes of vanilla, banana, and bourbon together for your next much-needed, post-work cocktail.
1133 E 11th St. | nickelcitybar.com

Golden Castle

Golden Castle is the perfect little food truck bringing gourmet takes on your favorite fast-food staples. Located behind Shangri-La and open until 1am Thursday through Saturday, end a night out with their mouth-watering Szechuan chicken nuggets. Crispy, perfectly sized, and inexpensive, these nuggets are more than enjoyable whether you’re sitting outside their truck, on the ride home, or cozied up in bed.
1906 E 12th St. | golden-castleatx.square.site

Hillside Farmacy

It’s no secret that Hillside Farmacy is high on the must-go list for Eastside brunch. Their lunch and dinner menus, however,  house a delectable Mac & Cheese that only Hillside can gift. Using all local vendors and proteins from Texas ranchers, a personal favorite add-on to this already perfect side is their pancetta-style bacon. 
1209 E 11th St. | hillsidefarmacy.com

Paperboy

The experience that is brunch at Paperboy is like no other. But did you know they also offer some of the best homemade Rice Krispie treats? They kindly serve a mini version when you get your check but splurge on the full-sized one to take home. No doubt, it’ll be gone by the time your drive is done! With the perfect combination of soft and chewy, these are the kind of sweet treats that will have you craving just one more bite.
1203 E 11th St. | paperboyaustin.com

Team Picks!
Baptiste’s: KG BBQ’s Pomegranate Rice Pilaf
Ashley’s: Salty Sow’s Crispy Brussels & Murray’s Between the Sheets cocktail
Jessi’s: Lutie’s Estate Bread & Cherrywood Coffeehouse’s Kohlrabi Salad
Tanya’s: Lou’s Kale Crunch Salad & Mr. Natural’s Spinach Pineapple Agua Fresca
Deven’s: Paperboy’s Rice Krispie Treat
Clarissa’s: Nickel City’s Frozen Irish Coffee & Golden Castle’s Chili Dog
Will’s: ADP’s J-pups with their housemade dipping sauce