Epicerie Café & Grocery

The trappings are almost spartan and the product selection equally minimalistic, but that's exactly what makes Epicerie such a welcome new addition to the Austin culinary scene. Part café, part market, eating inside this renovated bungalow feels like you're taking a meal at the home of your most tasteful friend, the one who always has a stock of excellent cheeses and baguette fresh from the bakery. Perhaps this friend is Sarah McIntosh, former Olivia sous chef, who opened Epicerie not without protests from residential neighbors -- because who wants to be within walking distance of handmade chocolate and smooth red wine? Quel horreur.