Portabla's Perfect Lunch

As you sit at your office, at home, or anywhere in Austin you may be consumed with the question, what's for lunch? Hopefully, this may solve the battle of hunger for you. I stopped in at Portabla today for the firt time. I was lucky enough to win a $20 gift certificate from Dishola, so now was the time to use it. I looked at the Daily Specials and immediately knew what I wanted. I ordered them all. I got a cup of the Zuchinni Ginger Soup with Chicken, the Tuna Melt, and glass of Basil Lemonade. For a dreary day and haze of allergies, this was the absoulute best cure. The Tuna Melt was toasted and filled with pickles, veggies, cheese, and plenty of tuna. The soup was the ultimate comfort plus taste in one. There is no need for improvement at all with this one. Delicate yet a punch of satisfaction. To finish it off were sips of Basil Lemonade, which I was a little weary about. It blew my thirst away. Excellent for this rainy day, or completely perfect in the summer. Next time you need a quick bite, pick-up, or catering stop in to the friendly staff at Portabla. They'll make your day.

Portabla
Twitter: @Portabla

Blue Dahlia Bistro

The great thing about Austin is that it continues to revive itself. One of my favorite areas experiencing this is E. 11th street. It used to be The Longbranch that ruled the roost in the area, but now the street is adorned with murals, restaurants, and housing. One of the best hide-away places is Blue Dahlia. It's like stepping into a friend's cottage for something to eat. The small dining area inside has wooden tables and art on the walls. There is a front and back patio that is the place to be on a gorgeous day. The back patio happens to be my favorite. The shaded garden area let's you drift off into a peaceful state with ease. My best friend since childhood, Lauren, her Mom, and of course mine decided to grab lunch this past Sunday there. We sat on the back patio in the sun and discussed details of Lauren's upcoming wedding. We ordered the Roast Beef Tartine, the Chicken Salad Tartine, the Shrimp Tartine, and one of the daily Fritattas. The Tartines (open-faced sandwiches) happen to be one of my favorite things about the restaurant. They are served on long stone platters, and not only look heavenly but taste that way as well. After our great lunches, we decided to try out the flour less chocolate cake with raspberry sauce. It was a good decision. Not too heavy, and very chocolaty. The service can be hit or miss, but the food is always great. Try it for breakfast, happy hour, or dinner when you need a break from the busyness of your life!

Blue Dahlia Bistro