A Journey to Buc-ee's: The Heartbeat of Roadside Adventures

There’s a unique thrill in the air when embarking on a road trip, a sense of adventure that promises new experiences and delightful discoveries. Our recent drive to the Buc-ee's near Warner Robins, GA, was one such adventure, a journey that transformed a simple drive into an exhilarating experience. As we cruised along the highway, each mile brought us closer to our destination, and with it, the growing anticipation of another checkmark on our Buc-ee's bucket list.

The excitement began to bubble as soon as we spotted our first billboard. There it was, in all its vibrant glory, proudly proclaiming, "Cross it off your Buc-ee's list. 37 Miles." The iconic smiling beaver beamed down at us, instantly bringing a smile to our faces. This was no ordinary road sign; it was a herald of the wonders to come, a promise that our destination was within reach. The playful nature of Buc-ee's branding has always been a favorite of ours, and this billboard was no exception. The 37 miles seemed both tantalizingly close and achingly far, setting the stage for the anticipation that would build with each passing mile.

As we drove further, the second billboard came into view, adding a humorous twist to our journey. "Jerky? Boy Dinner. 5 miles. Exit 144," it read. The witty tagline, combined with the grinning beaver, elicited a hearty laugh. Buc-ee's jerky selection is legendary, and the thought of savoring those flavorful strips of meat added an extra layer of excitement. We couldn’t help but discuss our favorite jerky flavors, reminiscing about past visits and speculating on what new varieties we might find this time. The countdown to Exit 144 felt like a countdown to a mini-feast, each mile marker serving as a reminder of the culinary delights awaiting us.

Finally, the moment we had been eagerly awaiting arrived. The last billboard loomed ahead, a beacon of joy and excitement: "Exit Now. Buc-ee's." There was something immensely satisfying about those simple words, a culmination of our journey's anticipation. The beaver's cheerful face seemed to echo our elation. We took the exit, our car seemingly moving faster with the magnetic pull of Buc-ee's drawing us in.

As we pulled into the parking lot, the sight of the sprawling Buc-ee's store was a feast for the eyes. The sheer size of it was impressive, a testament to the brand’s promise of offering everything under the sun. From the legendary clean restrooms to the walls lined with snacks, souvenirs, and of course, jerky, Buc-ee's was a haven for travelers like us. The energy inside was palpable, a bustling hub of fellow adventurers all enjoying their Buc-ee's experience.

Our visit was filled with delightful discoveries and cherished memories. We stocked up on our favorite snacks, tried new and intriguing jerky flavors, and marveled at the array of unique Buc-ee's merchandise. Each corner of the store offered something new, and we reveled in the joy of exploration. The friendly staff, the inviting atmosphere, and the sheer variety of offerings made this visit a highlight of our trip.

As we left Buc-ee's, bags full of goodies and hearts full of joy, we reflected on the journey. The billboards had not only marked our progress but had also heightened our anticipation and excitement. They were more than just signs; they were milestones that turned a simple road trip into an adventure.

For anyone planning a road trip, we wholeheartedly recommend adding a visit to Buc-ee's to your itinerary. The journey is as delightful as the destination, each mile bringing you closer to a unique roadside experience. And if you see those billboards, let them add to your excitement, knowing that Buc-ee's and its smiling beaver are waiting to welcome you.

Food and Flame readers, if you haven’t yet visited a Buc-ee's, we encourage you to do so. Whether it's for the mouth-watering jerky, the expansive selection of snacks, or the overall experience, Buc-ee's is more than just a pit stop; it's a destination in its own right. Cross it off your list, and let the adventure begin!

Buc-ee's Opens Largest Location Ever in Luling, Texas

The largest Buc-ee's location in the U.S. has officially opened its doors in Luling, Texas, marking a significant milestone for the beloved chain.

Known as the "home of the world’s cleanest bathrooms, freshest food, and friendliest beaver," the new Buc-ee's welcomed customers starting at 6 a.m. local time on Monday. The grand opening included a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12:00 p.m. CST, with local government officials in attendance to commemorate the event.

Spanning an impressive 75,000 square feet, the new Buc-ee’s in Luling is the largest in the country, bringing the brand back to where it all began. This new location replaces the city’s original Buc-ee’s store, which opened in 2003 as the brand’s first-ever family travel center.

Buc-ee's is the perfect place to refuel not just your car but also yourself with its wide array of mouthwatering food options. Sink your teeth into their famous chopped brisket sandwiches, savor the deliciousness of tortilla-wrapped sausages on a stick, or indulge in their decadent fudge. For those long drives, their meat and cheese cups make for a great snack, and their jerky selection offers more choices than you can shake a stick at. Whether you're craving something savory or sweet, Buc-ee's has got you covered.

Stay tuned to Food and Flame for more updates on exciting new openings and the latest in food and travel news!

Discover the Largest Buc-ee's in Georgia with Food & Flame

Get ready for another epic culinary adventure as Food & Flame heads to Buc-ee's #51 in Warner Robins, GA! Located at 7001 Russell Parkway in Fort Valley, this massive 53,000 square-foot Buc-ee's is the largest in Georgia and boasts 116 fueling positions. It’s a must-visit destination for travelers and food enthusiasts alike.

We’re diving into Buc-ee's renowned breakfast offerings, including the much-anticipated sausage on a stick in a tortilla. We'll be sampling a variety of breakfast delights and sharing our honest reviews, tips, and recommendations to help you make the most of your Buc-ee's experience.

Food & Flame is your ultimate guide to discovering the best culinary spots and hidden gems. Our Buc-ee's articles are packed with detailed insights, mouthwatering descriptions, and helpful tips to enhance your visits. Whether you're a dedicated Buc-ee's fan or a first-time visitor, our blog has everything you need to know to make your trip unforgettable.

Don't miss out on this exciting journey! Visit www.foodandflame.com to read our latest Buc-ee's articles and stay tuned for our upcoming review of the Warner Robins location. Follow us on social media for real-time updates and join our community of food lovers as we explore the delicious world of Buc-ee's.

Join us at Food & Flame and be part of our culinary journey. Let’s discover the magic of food together!

Discovering Buc-ee's: A Culinary Adventure at Calhoun, GA

If you're a food lover on the go, there's no better pit stop than Buc-ee's, and their Calhoun, GA location is a must-visit. Nestled at 601 Union Grove Road, just off I-75 in northern Georgia, this massive 53,200 square-foot convenience store and gas station, which opened its doors on Monday, August 23, 2021, is more than just a place to refuel your car. It's a culinary haven for travelers, offering an impressive 120 fueling positions and thousands of snack, meal, and drink options.

My wife and I recently had the pleasure of visiting this location, and we were blown away by the variety and quality of the food. From Texas barbeque to homemade fudge, the offerings at Buc-ee's are sure to satisfy any palate. Here's a detailed account of our gastronomic adventure at Buc-ee's in Calhoun.

A Taste of Texas in Georgia
One of the standout features of Buc-ee's is its dedication to serving up authentic Texas barbeque. We couldn't resist trying the chopped brisket sandwich, a hearty and flavorful option that's perfect for a quick meal. The brisket was tender and juicy, with a smoky flavor that was simply irresistible.

For breakfast lovers, Buc-ee's has you covered. We sampled the Beast Breakfast Burrito and the Brisket and Egg Breakfast Taco. The burrito was aptly named – a monster of a meal packed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and potatoes, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. It was incredibly satisfying and kept us full for hours. The Brisket and Egg Breakfast Taco was another hit, combining tender brisket with fluffy scrambled eggs for a delicious and protein-packed start to the day.

Sweet Treats and Signature Snacks
No trip to Buc-ee's would be complete without indulging in some of their famous sweet treats. We couldn't resist trying the homemade fudge, which was rich, creamy, and available in a variety of flavors. Each bite was a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
We also sampled the Beaver Nuggets, a Buc-ee's classic. These caramel-coated corn puffs are addictive and perfect for snacking on the go. Their sweet and crunchy texture made them an instant favorite.

Coffee and More
To wash it all down, we enjoyed Buc-ee's signature coffee. I opted for the dark roast, which was exceptional. Rich and robust, it provided the perfect pick-me-up for our journey. Buc-ee's coffee selection is impressive, catering to all tastes with a variety of blends and flavors.

A Community Gem
Beyond the food, what makes Buc-ee's in Calhoun truly special is its role in the community. "Calhoun is an ideal stop for folks making their way from central Georgia up through the gorgeous foothills of the northern part of the state, then on to Chattanooga in Tennessee and beyond," said Stan Beard of Buc-ee's. "It's a vibrant region, full of history and beauty, and Buc-ee's is thrilled to join such a special community."

Final Thoughts
Our visit to Buc-ee's in Calhoun, GA, was more than just a pit stop; it was a culinary adventure. Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through, this location offers a diverse range of delicious options that are sure to please. From savory Texas barbeque to sweet treats like homemade fudge and Beaver Nuggets, Buc-ee's has something for everyone. And with their exceptional coffee, you'll be ready to hit the road refreshed and satisfied.

Next time you're traveling along I-75, make sure to stop by Buc-ee's in Calhoun. It's not just a convenience store – it's a destination.

Happy eating!

Mingo's Snow Cones in Villa Rica, GA

Beat the Heat at Mingo's: Now Open in Villa Rica, Georgia

A fantastic new spot to beat the Georgia heat celebrated its grand opening on July 20th. Mingo's has officially opened its doors, welcoming crowds eager to enjoy a cool and refreshing treat.

Located at 451 W Bankhead Hwy STE 151, Villa Rica, GA 30180, Mingo's is easy to find. Just follow the group of delighted customers to this oasis of flavor. Whether you have a favorite flavor in mind or are open to a surprise, Mingo's has something to satisfy every palate.

The friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere are sure to bring a smile to your face as you savor what many are calling the best snow cone in the world.

With rave reviews like that, you can't go wrong. Visit Mingo's any day of the week, as they are open Monday through Sunday from 12 PM to 8 PM.

Don't miss out on this delightful new addition to Villa Rica!

Here's their menu.

Beef Rib in the Char-Broil Big Easy - Follow-up

Several years ago, I wrote an article about cooking beef rib in the Char-Broil Big Easy and I had promised to let you know how it turned out. Well, they turned out nice and tender and very delicious. 

There are a couple of things to remember. Don't overload the Big Easy. It isn't a large pit smoker. I was able to hang the beef ribs in small sections around the basket in groups of two to three ribs. Any larger than that and the hooks will not hold them. So, you risk the ribs falling to the bottom of the Big Easy. The other part is using the lid. The lid isn't designed to keep smoke in the Big Easy. I tried using a bundle of wet wood chips wrapped with aluminum foil. It did give off some smoke, but no enough to build a great smoke ring in the meat.

So, I can say that it worked, but not like a pit smoker. If you are looking for that type of flavor, you won't find it here using this product. 

Austin Beerworks Goat Roast + Tailgate Season

Goat Roast at the Austin Beerworks Brewery - Sat 8/29

What is better than cold Austin Beerworks Beer, Live Music, and a spread of food from Contigo?

If you don't have an answer, that means you need to join us on Saturday, August 29 at the Austin Beerworks Brewery for a goat roast.  There will be music from Conjunto Los Pinkys.  ABW will be pouring Einhorn Berliner Weisse and Super Awesome Helles (you get to keep the glass).  Contigo will serve a menu of:

APPETIZERS

banh mi sandwich, grilled mushrooms, traditional garnish

beef tongue pastrami reuben, beer mustard, sauerkraut, russian dressing, rye

MAIN COURSE

whole roasted goat, kimchi, einhorn beer reduction

braised pork shoulder, eggplant puree, leek salsa verde

smoked oyster, fennel, lemon

SIDES

grilled corn

romaine, honey lime vinaigrette, pepitas, cotija, chili, cherry tomato

johnson's backyard garden purple potato salad, scallions, aioli

________________________

Saturday, September 29:  7:00 - 10:00

Austin Beerworks Brewery

$55 includes all food, beer, and glass

TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE

olive & june's Nathan Fausti Named Best Sommelier By TEXSOM

olive & june’s Nathan Fausti Named Best Sommelier By TEXSOM:

Fausti Just One of Many parkside projects Wine Experts

to Receive Recent Accolades

The sommelier at olive & june, the popular Southern Italian-style restaurant in Central Austin, has earned the most prestigious wine honor in the Southern United States. Nathan Fausti has been named the 2015 TEXSOM Best Sommelier, beating out a strong field of 22 other competitors from five states. The coveted distinction is one in a list of several wine-related honors recently received by sommeliers in the employ of restaurant icon Chef Shawn Cirkiel.  

The 2015 TEXSOM Best Sommelier Competition took place in early August, during TEXSOM, the most prominent and influential wine-education conference in the United States. Fausti competed in a meticulous and uncompromising three-part wine exam that included service, blind tasting and wine theory elements, and was judged by an elite panel of Master Sommeliers and Masters of Wine. Previously only open to Texas-based sommeliers, the TEXSOM Best Sommelier Competition upped the ante this year, allowing sommeliers from Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Mexico to enter, providing a much larger talent pool against which Fausti had to compete.

“This year, we opened the competition to sommeliers from adjoining states,” says TEXSOM co-founder and Master Sommelier James Tidwell. “Increasingly, the influence of TEXSOM reaches well beyond the borders of Texas, so we felt it was time to include a potentially larger group to participate. We offer hearty congratulations to Nathan for winning the competition this year, and look forward to next year’s competition.”

As the winner of the 2015 TEXSOM Best Sommelier Competition, Fausti — who has long worked as the sommelier at olive & june and is transitioning to the sommelier position at Bullfight, Chef Cirkiel’s new tapas-style restaurant — received a $2,500 scholarship from the Guild of Sommeliers Education Foundation, which he can apply to the Court of Master Sommeliers certification program.     

Fausti is not the only sommelier in Chef Cirkiel’s parkside projects restaurant empire to gain such notoriety. Last year, Joelle Cousins, previously assistant general manager and sommelier at Cirkiel’s acclaimed Sixth Street gastro pub parkside, won the TEXSOM Best Sommelier Competition. Additionally, Paul Ozbirn, the beverage director for all parkside projects restaurants in Austin, was recently designated an Advanced Sommelier after completing and excelling at the Advanced Sommelier exam through the Court of Master Sommeliers, the lauded nonprofit organization that co-presents the TEXSOM Best Sommelier Competition. A rare designation, Ozbirn’s Advanced Sommelier distinction is one only a handful of Austin wine experts hold.

These wine-related accolades and distinctions further elevate Chef Cirkiel’s parkside projects restaurants as destinations for not only incomparable award-winning cuisine, but also for unrivaled, first-rate wine and beverage programs helmed by the most knowledgeable and acclaimed sommeliers.   

parkside projects restaurants include beloved Sixth Street gastro pub parkside, Neapolitan-style pizzeria the backspace, Southern Italian family-style eatery olive & june and the newest member of the parkside projects family, tapas eatery Bullfight. For more information about Sommelier Nathan Fausti winning the 2015 TEXSOM Best Sommelier Competition and the parkside projects beverage programs, call (512) 474-9898, or visit www.parkside-austin.com. 

Walton’s Fancy and Staple Now Offering Made-to-Order Seasonal Picnic Packages

Walton’s Fancy and Staple Now Offering Made-to-Order Seasonal Picnic Packages:

Gourmet Offerings Include Fresh-Made Walton’s Sandwiches

& Salads, and Fresh, Local Ingredients 

This summer and autumn, Walton’s Fancy and Staple, Austin’s most iconic and cherished deli, known for its fresh-baked daily breads, gourmet meats and cheeses, and decadent sweet treats, is serving up the perfect accompaniment to every outdoor family excursion, office party or relaxing afternoon at home: made-to-order picnic packages. Created with deft attention to detail and highlighting the freshest local and seasonal ingredients, Walton’s picnic packages evoke a sense of epicurean elegance, and offer a truly unique, stylishly arranged and personalized picnic experience.  

With a focus on the best seasonal offerings available from Central Texas farming and ranching communities, Walton’s picnic packages will be available through the fall 2015 season, and include such coveted ingredients as local produce from purveyor Farm to Table and Morsels’ Farm, Walton’s and Bess Bistro’s own one-acre farm, as well as arugula from Animal Farm in Cat Spring, juicy peaches from Pedernales Valley Farms, cucumbers from Buena Tierra Farm, hydroponic bibb lettuce from Bella Verdi Farms, lettuce greens from Bluebonnet Hydroponic Farms, wildflower honey from Good Flow Honey Co., eggs from Happy Chick Farms and Mill-King Market and Creamery’s whole milk. Much of the poultry and cheeses used in the baskets are sourced from area producers, including Pure Luck Farm and Dairy and Wateroak Farm. And all jams, mustards and compotes are produced in-house at Walton’s, as are some of the charcuterie options, like pork terrines and goose pâté.

Walton’s summer and autumn picnic packages, which come complete with a crafty picnic basket and a convenient wine opener, include the Standard ($29), which includes two baguette sandwiches, two bags of “Dirty” Potato Chips, one pound of Southern potato salad, assorted macaroons and two Topo Chicos. The Staple Fromage package ($43) comes with two locally sourced cheeses, two cured meats, one baguette, lavash flatbread, Texas honeycomb, marinated olives, house-made fig jam, assorted macaroons and two Topo Chicos. The Fancy Fromage package ($112) is a gourmet feast that includes three artisanal cheese, three cured meats, house-made goose liver pâté, a condiment trio of peach mustardo, apple compote and fig jam, and one baguette, lavash, Texas honeycomb, pickled farm vegetables, marinated olives, spiced nuts, a large bottle of San Pellegrino and assorted macaroons. The Family picnic package ($85) has something to suit everyone’s taste, and includes four assorted baguette sandwiches, a choice of family-style seasonal salad, two pounds of Southern potato salad, four bags of “Dirty” Potato Chips, four gooey chocolate-chip cookies, assorted macaroons, four Topo Chicos and one gallon of house-made lemonade.    

Featured 10-inch gourmet baguette sandwiches, prepared with fresh-baked “baguettini,” Walton’s version of the traditional French baguette, include the Salumi Biellese with Grafton cheddar, watercress and a Dijon aioli; the Grafton Cheddar & Provolone, served with an apple saffron chutney; the savory Turkey & Gruyere, stacked with avocado, roasted tomato and grain mustard; the Country Pâté & Cornichon with wild arugula; the decadent Prosciutto & Pears, served with blue cheese and horseradish; and the House-Cured Salmon & Farm Egg with a caper compote and goat’s milk cheese. Of Walton’s 10 Local Farm Salad Options available as part of the picnic packages, highlights include the bright Kale salad with roasted cauliflower, seasonal squash, a sherry vinaigrette and sea-salted sunflower seeds; the Sweet Potato & Little Gem Lettuce salad with almond butter dressing, dried dates and cranberries; the Avocado Salad, a rich combination of grapefruit, honey tangerine, red onion, toasted oat croutons and a buttermilk-Bulgarian yogurt emulsion; the Local Greens Salad of snap peas, watermelon radish, sunflower seeds, ricotta salata and a preserved lemon vinaigrette; and the Arcadian Green Salad with sheep’s cheese, squash, a hard-cooked farm egg, red onion, avocado and a honey-tangerine vinaigrette.

Picnic package orders must be placed 48 hours in advance by calling Walton’s direct catering line at (512) 391-9966.

To add to your basket for an extra special outing, ask about Walton’s selection of wines perfect for pairing with the ideal picnic, such as the light rosé from Texas’ own McPherson Cellars.

“Austin has so many natural attractions and areas for its residents and visitors to enjoy an outdoor culinary experience,” says Walton’s Chef Phillip Anderson. “We want these baskets to encourage people to get out to the park with their friends and loved ones and enjoy this wonderful city and its surroundings. Walton’s, we feel, is tailor-made for providing Austin eaters and drinkers the opportunity to do just that.”

Walton’s Fancy and Staple is located at 609 W. Sixth St. in downtown Austin. This unique and historic deli offers a variety of meats, cheeses, fresh-baked breads, pastries, and organic teas and coffees. Walton’s is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information about Walton’s Fancy and Staple, and the new summer and autumn picnic packages, call (512) 542-3380, or visit www.WaltonsFancyAndStaple.com. Ask about delivery (baskets with wine selections are available for customer pick-up at Walton’s, only).

Visit Walton’s Fancy and Staple on social media:

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/WaltonsFancyandStaple

Twitter: @WaltonsAustin

Instagram: @WaltonsAustin

Pacific Rim Sushi & Yakitori Lounge, Austin's Only Yakitori and Japanese Sports Bar, Now Open

Pacific Rim Sushi & Yakitori Lounge,

Austin’s Only Yakitori and Japanese Sports Bar, Now Open 

Festivities Kick Off With Grand Opening Party 

and Viewings for Women’s World Cup 

Hungry Austinites looking for a completely unique dining and game-day experience are discovering an ocean of Japanese delicacies, yakitori specialties and sports-bar amenities at the recently opened Pacific Rim Sushi & Yakitori Lounge in North Austin.

The only yakitori lounge in Austin, Pacific Rim specializes in serving sizzling, charcoal-grilled, bamboo-skewered seafood, meat and vegetable yakitori—scrumptious dishes traditionally eaten alongside beer or cocktails after a hard day’s work. Perfect game-day fare, Pacific Rim’s yakitori highlights include mouth-watering small plates of escolar ($5.50), bacon-wrapped shrimp and scallops ($6.50 each), salmon ($5.50), lamb ($5.50), pork belly ($5), beef tenderloin ($5.50), shitake mushroom ($4) and chicken ($5.50).

Offering a whole new game plan for every sports-bar experience, Pacific Rim serves up all the luxuries sports enthusiasts crave, including a comfortable lounge bedecked with plenty of large-screen televisions airing locals’ and visitors’ favorite sports events. Throughout the month-long Women’s World Cup, Pacific Rim is the perfect spot to catch these historic soccer games all the way through to the finals on July 5, in the comfortable sports lounge. Pacific Rim will show the tournament games all the way through to the finals on July 5. Whether it’s the Women’s World Cup, the European Soccer Cup, the U.S. Open, the Tour de France, Formula 1 races, the Beach Volleyball World Championship or some UFC fighting action, Pacific Rim is the ideal sports bar to kick back with luscious Polynesian cocktails and yakitori while toasting your favorite sports and teams.

Co-owned and operated by Benny Leung, one of the proprietors of upscale sushi bar Maiko in downtown Austin, Pacific Rim features a bountiful selection of sushi, from specialty rolls like the Heat of the Moment ($10), a torched spicy tuna roll topped with jalapeño slices, spicy mayo and tobiko; and the Lobster Roll ($15), an unforgettable roll of shrimp tempura, jalapeño, avocado and kani topped with tempura lobster, spicy mayo, eel sauce, scallion and red and black tobiko with ponzu sauce on the side; to classic rolls like the Lump Crab California ($11), with shredded crab, avocado, cucumber and masago; and the Red Dragon ($11), an asparagus tempura, crab stick and avocado roll topped with spicy tuna; to an abundance of fresh nigiri and sashimi.
   
In celebration of its kickoff, Pacific Rim will host a Grand Opening Party on June 24, featuring drink and food specials and all the karaoke guests can croon out.

Raise a glass because every day is happy hour at Pacific Rim, with specials offered from 3 p.m. to closing Monday through Friday, and Saturday, 5 p.m. to closing. Happy-hour specials include $2 off any wine or cocktail, including delicious Polynesian cocktails like the Classic Blue Hawaiian (light run, vodka, blue curacao, orange juice and sweet & sour mix); and the Pac Mule (Tito's, plum wine, Ty-Ku citrus, house-made ginger beer, muddled ginger and lime); as well as $1 off Pacific Rim’s extensive beer or sake selections. Can’t-miss happy-hour delicacies include selections from the sushi, maki, yakitori, shooters and tapas menus, such as baby back rib tapas ($6), shrimp dumplings ($4.50) baked mussels ($6) and the quail egg shooter ($3.25), with spicy, infused sake, ponzu, masago and chives.

Lovers of Japanese cuisine who can’t wait for dinner to gobble up these specialties can head to Pacific Rim for lunch service, featuring a wide array of appetizers, soups and salads, bento boxes, unique lunch specials, specialty sushi rolls, nigiri and sashimi, lunch combinations and indulgent desserts. Must-try lunch dishes include the Wagyu Beef Hot Sizzling Plate appetizer ($18), thinly sliced well-marbled beef cooked tableside with garlic butter and citrus ponzu; the Creamy Japanese Pumpkin Soup ($5), with kabocha squash, brown sugar, togarashi and toasted pumpkin seeds; the Shrimp Yakitori Bento Box ($10), served as all bento boxes are with three pieces of spicy tuna roll, a spring roll, gyoza, soup, salad and fried rice; the unforgettable Saki Mac & Cheese ($11), spiral pasta cooked with white cheddar cheese, a sake reduction, scallions and black sesame seeds; the Texas Monster specialty roll ($13), with shrimp tempura, avocado and jalapeño, topped with sliced tuna and an alluring tequila lime sauce; and the Tempura Banana dessert ($6), delicately fried banana with ice cream, espresso caramel and coffee dust.      

In addition to all of Pacific Rim’s lunch, happy hour, dinner and game-day offerings, Pacific Rim also features karaoke every Saturday night in the lounge, and live jazz music every Thursday night.

Pacific Rim Sushi & Yakitori Lounge is located at 9070 Research Blvd., suite 305, in North Austin. The only yakitori lounge in Austin, Pacific Rim offers an extensive menu of Japanese cuisine, including yakitori, tapas, sushi and sashimi, combinations, Japanese entrées and desserts, as well as a variety of beers, wines, sake and Polynesian cocktails. Pacific Rim is open daily, with happy hour from 3 p.m. to closing Monday through Friday, and Saturday, 5 p.m. to closing, and features an array of sports-bar amenities. For more information about Pacific Rim Sushi & Yakitori Lounge, the Grand Opening Party and the menu specialties, call (512) 458-8881, or visit www.PRSushi.com.

Visit Pacific Rim Sushi & Yakitori on social media:

Facebook: Facebook.com/PacRimSushi

Twitter: @PacificRimSushi

Instagram: @pacrimsushi

Easy Tiger to Expand to Second Location

A New Tiger Den in the Works

Easy Tiger Bake Shop & Beer Garden to Expand to Second Location

The folks from ELM Restaurant Group, the successful team behind 24 Diner, Arro and forthcoming Italian concept Italic, are expanding into new territory with the second location of Easy Tiger Bake Shop & Beer Garden in North Austin. The popular downtown destination will anchor The Linc (www.thelincaustin.com), the newly rebranded development adjacent to the Austin Community College campus at Highland Mall.

Since opening in early 2012, Easy Tiger has been named one of the best beer gardens in the nation by Food & Wine and in the world by USA Today, as well as one of America’s best new bakeries by Details. The shop has been featured in Garden & Gun, Bon Appétit, Southern Living, Travel + Leisure, GQ, Condé Nast UK and more.

The new 11,500-sq.-foot space, nearly three times the size of the existing location, will include a full commercial bakery that will allow Easy Tiger to immediately meet the great demand for its artisan baked goods and pastries, as well as expand its offerings.

“The wholesale bakery sales at Easy Tiger have greatly exceeded our expectations, and we are producing twice what we estimated would be our overall capacity at the Sixth Street location,” says head baker David Norman. “We currently deliver fresh-baked bread to more than 50 commercial customers, but we haven’t been able to accommodate any additional account requests in almost eight months – and that includes three out of the five local Whole Foods locations.”

The new space will have a similar look and feel to the existing shop, with interior design overseen once again by Veronica Koltuniak of VeroKolt. The site will also include a drive-through coffee bar, 250 outdoor seats, ping-pong tables, a dog park and an outdoor stage that will occasionally host live music – as well as tons of free parking.

“We are excited to include Easy Tiger among our latest tenants,” says Allan Davidov, owner of The Linc. “Easy Tiger is exactly the kind of creative, local, best-in-class operator we are targeting for the re-envisioning of The Linc. ELM Restaurant Group’s decision to expand a significant portion of their operations into this project is a testament to the transformation happening in the entire ACC Highland Campus area – which is about to include Rack Space as a major employer. I’m also pleased because it is my favorite restaurant in Austin!”

Anticipated opening date is late 2015.

Austin Mash Tour Schedule

Saturday, November 15, 2014: 

Eat, Drink & Learn with Chef Andrew Gerson   

What and Who:  Chef Andrew Gerson returns to his roots to bring his beer and food knowledge to the good people of Austin. Armed with some of his favorite pairings from his journeys on the Mash tour, Andrew will speak on the delicate balance of malt and hops and how they interplay with a wide variety of edibles.

·         Where:  Central Market Westgate, 4477 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX

·         When:  Starts at 2:00 PM (Tickets: Free) 

                                                       

Sunday, November 16, 2014: 

Brooklyn Easy Sunday

·         What and Who:  Austin Mash is staying easy like Sunday morning - or, in this case, like Sunday afternoon. The folks at Easy Tiger will have $1 Brooklyn Lager & East IPA cans, plus Brooklyn beers on tap.

·         Where: Easy Tiger, 709 Easy 6th Street., Austin, TX

·         When:  Starts at 2:00 PM

Dinner on the Farm with Odd Duck & Brooklyn Brewery Chef Andrew Gerson

• What and Who:  Our week of cultural happenings gets off and running with this agrarian dining experience. Through roaming culinary events, Dinner on the Farm works to connect people back to the land and to the farmers and artisans who are making our communities a better place to live. There will be a tour of Simmons Family Farm, a feast prepared in collaboration with the Odd Duck chefs and Chef Andrew Gerson (Brooklyn Brewery) and enough beer for all.

• Where:  Simmons Family Farm, 2483 Holz Rd., Lockhart, TX

• When:  Starts at 3:00 PM (Tickets: $55) 

• What and Who:  Brooklyn Brewery co-founder Steve Hindy looks back with his fellow craft beer comrades to discuss the circumstances and ambitions that allowed a handful of individuals across the country to challenge one of the largest corporate dynasties in American history. Then they’ll look ahead to the future of good beer and talk about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for American craft beer.

• What and Who:  Perhaps you've just been turned on to the art of pairing beer and food. Perhaps you're an old hand at joining together the world's most versatile beverage and your favorite dish. Either way, Brooklyn Brewery Chef Andrew Gerson will impart some of the knowledge he's picked up while touring and collaborating with some of the most exciting chefs in the U.S.

• Where: School House Pub, 2207 Manor Rd., Austin, TX

• When: Starts at 6:30 PM (Tickets: $6)

• When: Starts at 8:00 PM (Tickets: $6)

Thursday, November 20, 2014:

• What and Who:  The Found Footage Festival celebrates its tenth anniversary with a brand-new show and DVD (Volume 7). Hosts Nick Prueher and Joe Pickett, whose credits include The Onion and the Late Show with David Letterman, are excited to show off their new lineup of found video clips and live comedy. They love Austin so much that they've decided to host two shows: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. 

• Where: Alamo Drafthouse Ritz, 320 E 6th St., Austin, TX

• What and Who: This pop-up dinner party, hosted in a unique, non-traditional location, embodies The Mash. The curated evening brings people together around a common table to share cuisine crafted by Brooklyn Brewery Chef Andrew Gerson in collaboration with Dinner Lab’s Chris Bailey to bring you playful, seasonal fare paired Brooklyn beer styles both familiar and rare.

• Where:  Surprise location, announced day-of

• When:  Starts at 7:00 PM (Tickets: TBA)

Tuesday, November 18, 2014:                                                                     

Craft Beer Revolution with Brooklyn Brewery

·         Where: TBA

·         When: Starts at 7:00 PM (Tickets: $6)

Wednesday, November 19, 2014:

MASH EDU: Beer & Spice, Making Nice

Brooklyn Ha Ha: NYC Stand-Up with Josh Gondelman & Jesse Popp    

·         What and Who:  In true Brooklyn style, Brooklyn Ha Ha introduces some of the NYC standup scene’s best under-the-radar talent and brings their act to the looser, more freewheeling environment of The Grackle. Co-headlining will be Josh Gondelman and Jesse Popp.

·         Where: The Grackle, 1700 E 6th St., Austin, TX

Found Footage Festival  

·         When: Starts at 7:30 PM & 9:30 PM (Tickets: $12)

Friday, November 21, 2014:

Slow Supper with Dinner Lab

Saturday, November 22, 2014:

Mash EDU: Homebrewer Edition

·         What and Who: Homebrewing: the art of conjuring magic in liquid form. Whether you are a learned veteran with more brewing equipment than living space a brewing novice, this is the event for you. The pros in Austin will guide you through the process of making beer from the comfort of your own home, and clone a Brooklyn Brewery beer.

·         Where: TBA

·         When: Starts at 2:00 PM (Tickets: TBA)

Mash Bash with Marnie Stern, Feral Further & Ghetto Ghouls

·         What and Who: At the end of the day, The Mash is a festival. And what festival is complete without a soundtrack? Certainly not this one. That's why after a full week of feasting on good food, expanding our minds at panels and classes, and filling our bellies with delicious brews, we celebrate our last evening in town with a Bash; a Mash Bash. We're bringing the noise with Marnie Stern, Feral Future and Ghetto Ghouls.

·         Where: Red 7, 611 E 7th St., Austin, TX

·         When: Starts at 8:00 PM (Tickets: Free)

Brookly Brewery Events Return to Austin Nov. 15-22

BROOKLYN BREWERY MASH EVENTS RETURN TO AUSTIN

Award-winning craft brewery visits Austin to celebrate neighborhood culture, emerging artists and local food scene in week-long series of food, beer and

community events

The second annual Brooklyn Brewery Mash tour hits Austin, November 15 – 22, 2014 to celebrate what’s next in food, film, comedy, music, books and beer. The Mash tour is the largest traveling food, beer and arts festival, stopping in ten US cities as well as London and Stockholm in 2014. Brooklyn Brewery has collaborated with Austin chefs, artists and craft brewers to create one-of-a-kind entertainment experiences for the whole community to enjoy.

In partnership with Slow Food USA as well as select event partners and performers from both Brooklyn and Austin, the weeklong series features exclusive dinners, concerts and lots of craft beers. Austin Mash partners include: Central Market Westgate, Easy Tiger, Simmons Family Farm, School House Pub, The Grackle, Alamo Drafthouse Ritz and Red 7.

Various spokespeople and Mash tour partners, including:

• Steve Hindy, President and Co-Founder of Brooklyn Brewery, who will discuss his new book, The Craft Beer Revolution offering insight and perspective as a pioneer of America’s craft beer movement.
• Brooklyn Brewery Chef Andrew Gerson has joined forces with Austin’s chefs to offer unique community dining experiences that celebrate local flavors and explore alternative eating spaces in Austin. 

Check out the Mash video trailer, link here.

Mash tickets are available at BrooklynBreweryMash.com