Recommends

timbersuga

Joined 7 years ago

Unassuming spot for wine lovers & foodies on a budget. This place is the perfect marriage of laid-back Austin cool with great food and wine. Not into wine? They have beer, too, and the prices are very reasonable.

I originally heard of this place because Restaurant Jezebel was my favorite Austin restaurant before it unfortunately burned down, and Parind Vora had started Simplicity. Now that Simplicity is out on its own, it's remained an amazing little spot for casual dates or a night out with friends, away from the crowds of downtown. The outside patio is a great draw in warm weather and there's plenty of seating indoors for large groups.

Their biodegradable eco-friendly attitude is refreshing, but not imposing. Wine is served in glass tumblers that look like plastic cups, and food is served on biodegradable plates to eat with biodegradable utensils. Yet, somehow it maintains an air of sophistication and refinement thanks to the foodie-friendly gastronomic offerings that range from very inexpensive to slightly-less-than-moderate. The paella, a Friday night special, is out of this world - although note that the last time we ordered, it was $18 a plate. Not that it wasn't worth it- just much pricier than the rest of the menu.

The service at Simplicity is great. I've been 5 times or so, and every time has been an enjoyable experience. The servers are well-versed in wine and have never made a recommendation that my friends and I didn't love.

The menu has changed slightly, but I highly recommend the baked brie with mustard & pineapple salsa, pepper and bacon bruschetta, candied yam purse, and the patate aioli.

Even if you're not there to eat dinner, it's a great place to stop and get your tapas on before heading out to a place with entrees. Enjoy!