Blue Dahlia Bistro
(512) 542-9542
1115 E 11th St
Austin,
TX
78702
30.2688
-97.7287
Neighborhood: Central East Austin
What People Are Saying About Blue Dahlia Bistro
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
In a venue that feels more like French countryside than East Austin, students, professionals and gourmands enjoy casual dining and conversation. The intimate interior features tan and oak colors, offset by deep blue hues and warm lighting. The counter's bakery case displays a selection of rich pastries and artisan breads. Chicken salad, brie, hummus, cheese and garbanzo beans are key menu ingredients while cappuccino, latte and espresso complement the small beer and wine menu.
User Reviews
JimTremoz
March 10, 2009
I really enjoy The Blue Dahlia. It's a warm, inviting place to grab breakfast or lunch... or just a coffee and a pastry. The staff is always very friendly and pleasant. You really get a sense that they care about the place, the customers and the quality of food. The outside area in the back is really nice too.
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HoboBunny
January 10, 2009
Not being from Austin and having the impression of Texas eateries being limited to barbeque joints and Pappas chains, we didn't have high expectations of the evening meal. On a tip from local, we decided to try this place. The atmosphere was immediately inviting with heavy wood farm tables dappled with lit candles, soft chatter from families or groups of friends, and a charming back-garden warmed by heat lamps and a roaring chiminea. The food was equally amazing. I see why the owners chose to have family-style seating: you can't help but covet your neighbors meal while magnanimously also wanting to share your own. Between the three of us, we had, loved and devoured the: butternut squash risotto (hands-down the best risotto ever...exciting and still subtly flavorful); some sort of pumpkin spicy soup; and two pasta dishes. Fresh pesto, perfectly al dente, not drowning in sauce, perfectly sized portions. We had appetizers, a glass of wine, entrees and two desserts...all for under $70. This gave me hope that Texas restaurants may be finding their nirvana and no longer following the fat-ball trends of oversized and over-sauced options. Kudos!
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user41
December 24, 2008
With a small and inviting garden like setting out back, additional outdoor seating in front and an indoor dining room, this looks-to-be former house is a great find. I have been a couple of times and my only reservations would be that the service can be slow and they do not have equal for ice tea (byoe). Blue Dahlia offers good food at reasonable prices that appears attractive when served. This could be a nice alternative to hanging out at a coffee house or the like with your lap top or book (they have wi-fi). You may want to look elsewhere though if you are in a time crunch though.
read full reviewThe Details on Blue Dahlia Bistro
When to Go:
Lunch and mornings tend to be busier times, but the full menu including breakfast is available all day.
What to Drink:
Enjoy a casual happy hour from 4pm to 7pm Monday through Friday.
Where to Sit:
On a temperate day, opt to sit on one of the patios in front or in back of the cafe.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Discover, Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Quiet, Brunch, Outdoor Dining, Hidden Find, Lunch Spot
