Brisket, Pulled Pork, and More from The Salt Lick BBQ

As we say goodbye to Austin and head home today, we knew we had to end on a true Texas note: breakfast barbecue! We ventured into the Austin International Airport and found The Salt Lick BBQ, a classic Austin barbecue spot.

The Salt Lick BBQ inside Austin International Airport

We opted for the two-meat combo, allowing us to try all their offerings: brisket, pulled pork, turkey, and sausage. The sausage was decent, but Cooper's definitely takes the crown there. The pulled pork was a bit dry, unfortunately. The surprise of the meal was the turkey – surprisingly juicy and flavorful, even surpassing the pulled pork. But the star, as always with Texas barbecue, was the brisket. Tender, perfectly seasoned, and with just a hint of juiciness, it was fantastic. The Salt Lick's barbecue sauce gets a thumbs up, too, offering a nice flavour boost compared to Cooper's.

Pulled Pork and Turkey from The Salt Lick BBQ

The meal's sides included the usual suspects: beans, potato salad, and coleslaw. The coleslaw was definitely the winner in this round.

Brisket and Sausage from The Salt Lick BBQ

Overall, The Salt Lick BBQ was an excellent way to end our barbecue adventure in Austin. However, after trying three different spots, LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue remain our top picks in the city.

Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich from Chick-fil-A

After devouring some melt-in-your-mouth barbecue at Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, we took a leisurely stroll along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. When we reached the Rainey Street Historic District, the sun had set, and a cool Austin breeze made for a perfect walk.

Rainey Street lived up to its reputation as Austin's "party capital." Upbeat music spilled out from converted bungalows lining the street, and the air buzzed with the energy of people enjoying the nightlife. Food trucks were everywhere, offering a mind-boggling variety of options – from tacos and mini donuts to gyros.

Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich
Our original recipe for almost 60 years: a boneless breast of chicken seasoned to perfection, freshly breaded, pressure cooked in 100% refined peanut oil, and served on a toasted, buttery bun with dill pickle chips.

Walking down a closed-off 6th Street was an experience in itself. The air crackled with excitement as people hopped between bars and live music venues. Bachelorette parties added to the celebratory atmosphere while stand-up comedians and bands vied for our attention. It was a sensory overload in the best way possible!

Cookies & Cream Milkshake
Our creamy Cookies & Cream Milkshakes are hand-spun the old-fashioned way each time and feature delicious Chick-fil-A Icedream® dessert, topped with whipped cream and a cherry.

Finally, we decided to cool down at Chick-fil-A, a fast-food chain we were eager to try since it's unavailable in Canada. We opted for the classic Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, paired with a Cookies and Cream Shake to beat the Texas heat. The chicken reminded me of KFC, but the waffle fries and Chick-fil-A sauce were definite highlights. The sauce itself was like a mild barbecue chipotle sauce, adding a smoky-sweet kick to the sandwich.

Brisket, Sirloin, and More from Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

The Bullock Texas State History Museum completely captivated us! We spent a surprising six hours engrossed in the exhibits.  Afterwards, we took an Uber to Saint Mary Catholic Cathedral for Mass.

Feeling famished after our museum adventure, we decided to take a detour for some legendary Texas barbecue at Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, conveniently located downtown just a few blocks from our hotel.

Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

True to its name, Cooper's offered a classic Texas BBQ experience. I dove in with a trio of meats (quarter pound each): brisket, sirloin, and jalapeño and cheese sausage. The sides - coleslaw, mac-n-cheese, and boiled corn - were all winners. The sausage had a nice kick, and the sirloin, while a bit dry, was still well-seasoned.

Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

The real star, however, was the brisket. Tender, juicy, and flavorful, it held its own, though LeRoy & Lewis Barbecue still reigns supreme in my book.  This unplanned stop at Cooper's was a delicious reminder that Texas barbecue boasts a range of styles, each with its own unique charm.

Chipotle Pork Chilaquiles from Corner (Flavors of Texas)

Good morning! We planned to grab breakfast at Foreground, a food hall near our hotel. Unfortunately, they don't open until 11:00 am, which was too late for our rumbling stomachs and plans. So, we ended up at Corner (Flavor of Texas) in the JW Marriott lobby.

I opted for the Chipotle Pork Chilaquiles, hoping for a taste of Texas with a Mexican twist. It came as a bowl of tortilla chips smothered in chipotle pork, ranchero sauce, pico de gallo, cotija cheese, and a perfectly over-easy egg. While the pork itself was tender and flavorful, the ranchero sauce was overwhelmingly salty. I could only manage the pork on its own.

Chipotle Pork Chilaquiles from Corner

Hubby went for the All-American breakfast: toasted bread, fluffy scrambled eggs, filling breakfast potatoes, and crispy bacon. It was a classic done perfectly.

All American from Corner

To cleanse our palates from the salty chilaquiles, we shared an order of churros. They arrived warm, with a darker exterior than expected. Despite the colour, the inside was soft and delicious, especially with a dip in the chocolate sauce. Yum!

With satisfied bellies, we're off to explore the Bullock Texas State History Museum!

Costco Food Court Menu and Prices | South Austin Warehouse

I'm weird. I visited Costco near Austin to compare their food court menu to the one in Los Angeles and Canada.

Below is the food court menu in the South Austin Costco warehouse. All prices are in USD and don't include taxes. This menu was taken on May 24, 2024, and is subject to change without prior notice.

South Austin Costco Warehouse food court

• Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie - $2.49
• Ice Cream Cup (Vanilla or Strawberry) - $1.99
• Ice Cream Sundae (Vanilla ice cream. Strawberry or chocolate topping) - $2.49
• Fruit Smoothie - $2.99
• Cold Brew Mocha Freeze - $2.99
• 1/4 Pound Plus All Beef Hot Dog and 20 oz Soda (with refill) - $1.50
• 18-inch Whole Pizza (Cheese or Pepperoni) - $9.95
• Pizza Slice (Cheese or Pepperoni) - $1.99
• Turkey Swiss Sandwich - $6.99
• Chicken Bake - $3.99
• Rotisserie Chicken Caesar Salad - $6.99
• 20 oz Soda with refill - $0.69

South Austin Costco Food Court Menu

Here is a list of Costco warehouses we have visited so far and a link to their food court menu.

• Richmond, BC Warehouse
• Vancouver, BC Warehouse
• Willingdon Burnaby, BC Warehouse
• Hawthorne Los Angeles, CA Warehouse
• South Austin, TX Warehouse

Whataburger in Austin: A First-Timer's Experience

A trip to Whataburger is a must-do when visiting the state of Texas so after an exciting (but bat-less) evening watching for the Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony, we ventured to our first Whataburger experience.

Try the unsweetened (or sweetened) iced tea from Whataburger 

What Did We Order?

We opted for the classic Whataburger, their signature offering. This burger features a tender beef patty, layered with tangy mustard, crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, dill pickles, and diced onions, all nestled in a toasted bun.

Whataburger from Whataburger

The Verdict: A Solid Burger, But Not a Revelation

The Whataburger was good. The beef was cooked to a nice tenderness, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. However, it didn't quite reach the level of deliciousness I was expecting and hoping.

Whataburger from Whataburger 

So, Should You Try Whataburger?

Absolutely! While my personal experience didn't result in burger nirvana, Whataburger offers a solid fast-food experience with fresh ingredients and a classic flavor profile. Here's why it might be worth a try for you:

• Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: The use of fresh vegetables and a soft beef patty elevates Whataburger above other fast food options.
• Customization Galore: Whataburger boasts an impressive array of toppings and add-ons, allowing you to tailor your burger to your exact preferences. (Think honey butter chicken biscuit or a bacon & jalapeno cheeseburger!)
• Texas-Sized Portions: Portions are on the generous side, ensuring you leave satisfied.
• A Local Favorite: Whataburger is a Texas staple, and experiencing it allows you to connect with the local food scene.

French Fries from Whataburger 

Overall, Whataburger is a good choice for a quick and satisfying meal. While it may not be the most extraordinary burger you'll ever have, the fresh ingredients, customization options, and Texas-sized portions make it a worthwhile experience.

Brisket, Pulled Pork, and More from LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue

After a fascinating morning exploring the Texas Capitol, we grabbed an Uber to LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue to taste authentic Texas BBQ. With so many options, I chose this spot because their portions seemed manageable (you know, "everything's bigger in Texas"!). My waistline and heart would thank me for avoiding a more meat-heavy experience.

We opted for two meat plates with sides, allowing us to sample four different offerings. We went for the classic sliced brisket, chopped beef, pulled pork, and directly smoked chicken. For sides, we ventured beyond the usual with kale Caesar slaw, beef fat potato chips, a Texas red chilli frito pie, and pork hash rice.

Two Plates from Leroy and Lewis Barbecue

The sliced brisket truly stole the show – melt-in-your-mouth tender, juicy, and bursting with flavour. The chopped beef and pulled pork offered a contrasting texture but lacked the juiciness of the brisket. The chicken, while good, was definitely best enjoyed near the skin.

Sliced Beef and Chopped Beef with Kale Caesar Slaw and Beef Potato Chips from LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue

Now, onto the sides. The Texas red chilli frito pie was a bit too salty for me. The pork hash rice, however, was a delightful partner to the chicken, probably due to my Filipino heritage and love for that flavour combination. The kale Caesar slaw and potato chips were definite winners, and I'd happily order them again.

Pulled Whole Hog and Direct Smoked Chicken  with Texas Red Chilli Frito Pie and Pork Hash & Rice

With a satisfied belly and a newfound appreciation for Texas BBQ, I hope to squeeze in visits to one or two more spots before leaving the state!

Migas Taco from Veracruz All Natural

Happy Friday! We're in Austin, and my husband's event has just wrapped up, so we have the next couple of days free to explore the city.

We started our day with some incredible breakfast tacos from Veracruz All Natural. Their Migas Tacos were terrific - fresh corn tortillas overflowing with fluffy eggs, melty Monterey Jack cheese, crisp tortilla chips, juicy tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and creamy avocado.

El Breakfast Taco from Veracruz All Natural 

We also tried the El Breakfast Taco, a heartier option packed with savoury bacon, refried pinto beans, and tender potatoes. As a big fan of beans and potatoes, this one was a winner.

Migas Taco from Veracruz All Natural

After breakfast, we're fueling up for some sightseeing with a one-kilometre walk to the iconic Texas Capitol.

Gyro and Chicken Shawarma from The Heart of Texas Smokehouse food truck

After a day at the pool, I wandered through Downtown Austin on a food quest. Without any cravings, I jumped at the sight of an open food truck on West 3rd. After all, Austin's food truck scene is famous! I eagerly ordered from The Heart of Texas Smokehouse (T.H.O.T.S.) food truck along 3rd Street near Congress Avenue.

Combo Plate over Rice from The Heart of Smokehouse food truck

My choice? The Combo Plate over Rice. Gyros and chicken shawarma nestled on fluffy basmati rice, with a fresh side salad and their signature white and red sauces. Back at the hotel, I devoured it all. While a tad saltier than expected, the rice and salad provided a fantastic counterpoint. Plus, that spicy red sauce was a flavour bomb! Now, I'm happily stuffed and ready for a nap.

Miso-Honey Glazed Salmon from Koriente

In my previous post, I mentioned that I had no plans for the day and was carefree. After breakfast at Forthright, I decided to explore the University of Texas at Austin. The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library was my first stop, and I spent a fascinating three hours immersing myself in the life and legacy of the 36th president.

Afterward, I strolled around the beautiful UT campus and stumbled upon The Stark Center for Physical Culture and Sports. The vast collection of photographs dedicated to sports history was truly impressive!

Lunch plans changed course — instead of Costco, I treated myself to some delicious Korean food at Koriente, a highly recommended spot I found during my research. Apparently, La Condesa and Koriente are must-tries in Downtown Austin!

My Miso-Honey-Glazed mahi mahi order had a little twist — their supplier didn't have the fish, but the salmon they offered as a substitute was incredible. The flaky fish on perfectly cooked rice and fresh greens, drizzled with a spicy-tangy sauce, was a flavour explosion!

Miso-Honey Glazed Salmon from Koriente

I couldn't resist adding an order of pork dumplings to the mix — the chives really elevated the flavour of the filling. Feeling incredibly satisfied, I walked the short distance (about 1.2 kilometres) back to the hotel under the Austin sun. My trusty umbrella provided much-needed shade, but it was hot to the touch.

Pork Dumplings from Koriente

A peek inside the Pork Dumplings from Koriente

I'm back in the room, charging my phone, before heading to the pool for a relaxing dip.

Texas Pastrami Hash from Forthright

Good morning from sunny Austin, Texas! Having a leisurely vacation morning is a rare treat — I usually pack my days with activities. But not today! My husband's busy with his conference (the whole reason we're here), which means I have a free day to explore at my own pace.

Slept in until 8 am without an alarm, a real luxury! After a relaxing shower, I strolled down to Forthright for breakfast.

I was torn between my usual Chicken & Waffles and the tempting Avocado Toast, but the Texas Pastrami Hash ultimately stole the show.

Texas Pastrami Hash from Forthright 

Seriously, the smoked pastrami is insanely juicy and tender. It complements the medley of veggies perfectly, and the creamy egg yolk ties it all together. What a phenomenal start to a beautiful day!

Texas Pastrami Hash from Forthright

The funny thing was I had to remind myself to slow down and savour the moment. My first few bites disappeared in a flash! Thankfully, I caught myself and started to truly enjoy the delicious food and the peaceful atmosphere. Thank God for all the good things.

Queso Flameado and Huarache de Huitlacoche at La Condesa

We arrived safely in Austin, Texas, and after settling into our hotel, we walked straight for La Condesa, eager to experience the city's food scene.

Our first choice was the queso flameado, a delightful symphony of black beans, rajas (roasted poblano peppers and onions), Dos Lunas cheese, and a vibrant avocado salpicón (relish). The corn tortillas perfectly complemented the rich melted cheese.

Queso Flameado from La Condesa

While the queso flameado was a tempting shared starter, my main course stole the show. I opted for the Huarache de Huitlacoche, featuring a bed of black beans and Dos Lunas cheese topped with earthy mushrooms and fragrant epazote, all nestled in a beautiful oval-shaped corn tortilla. It was a vegetarian masterpiece, bursting with flavour in every bite.

Huarache de Huitlacoche from La Condesa

La Condesa's ambiance surprised me. While I envisioned a cozy, hole-in-the-wall eatery, the restaurant boasted a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere. The prices leaned a bit upscale for the portion sizes, but the quality and taste of the food absolutely justified it.

Inside La Condesa 

This delicious first meal has me incredibly excited to explore what else Austin's culinary scene has to offer. Stay tuned for tomorrow's food adventures!

P.S. Blogging from my phone – who knew it could be so easy?