We just love to plan Dine Arounds here in Austin, Texas. The eclectic mix of food options is endless, and the idea that this city’s style is “Austin Chic” makes the experience all the more fun! Of course, downtown will always have our heart, but lately –  North Austin is where the action is at. The Domain is a hot bead of action and with Phase II now open there is just more to choose from. Don’t think that these restaurants are your typical chain staples found in indoor malls…no way! How about some gourmet Slow Smoked Baby Back Ribs (named one of Bon Appetit’s top choices for “America’s Best Ribs”) from Dallas celebrity chef Kent Rathbun mixed with a little Salsa lesson action at Gloria’s. You game? We thought so! Take a look at some of our favorite spots and let us plan your next groups Dine Around.

Gloria’s Restaurant
www.gloriasrestaurants.com

Opened late January. We have been waiting for this restaurant. A staple in North Texas, Gloria’s Restaurant offers a combination of rich and rustic Latin flavors in a colorful atmosphere…plus live Salsa lessons on Saturday nights! This is more than a restaurant, this is a destination. Once you arrive you stay for food, fun and one HOT Latin Night.

Jasper’s
www.jaspers-restaurant.com

Jasper’s is a comfortably upscale restaurant, which features a menu focused on the best of America’s regional cuisine, including prime steaks, rotisserie chicken, fish, salads, and pizza. “Jasper’s serves the type of food you’d get at my house if I were cooking,” says Executive Chef Kent Rathbun. “We want this to be a place where diners can visit whether they’re looking for an inexpensive light meal or a higher-end dining experience – we’ve got it all.” Jasper’s also offers great packages for those of us on a budget, like the Big Daddy Stimulus package where they have four-course tasting menus for $35 and 1/2 price bottles of wine.

Maggiano's Little Italy
www.maggianos.com

Opened March 1st. Maggiano's specializes in serving generous portions of authentic Italian-American cuisine, served family style. They are a scratch kitchen, offering a vast selection of homemade pastas, signature salads, prime steaks, fresh fish and delicious desserts. Come hungry!

Sushi Zushi
www.sushizushi.com

Opened mid-February. A fun and trendy sushi bar. Sushi Zushi has a few locations around Texas and now 2 locations in Austin. Their menu is extensive and have customized rolls to each city. A must-try: LIR Roll.

NoRTH
www.foxrestaurantconcepts.com/north.html

Taking its cue from an Italian trattoria, NoRTH offers a fresh new approach to Modern Italian cuisine. With sleek interiors, a sexy atmosphere, and a menu offering unique antipasti, gourmet pizzas, inventive pasta dishes and many wood roasted and grilled dishes. NoRTH appeals to a variety of guests seeking a casual, hip and upbeat venue with deliciously affordable fare. They also have a FAB patio that opens right up al fresco style facing the live music area at The Domain.

Urban

Located inside the new Westin Austin at The Domain and set to open in April. A modern edge and vibrant menu selection unite at Urban- A New Austin Restaurant. The menu promises freshly prepared dishes that include fresh salads, sandwiches, steak, seafood, local and imported beers, New World Wines, and signature cocktails. The interior is a mix of Austin Glam with luxe fabrics combined with accents found in nature. We can’t wait!

Viva Chocolato!
www.vivachocolato.com

What a way to end a meal..Truffles & Wine – Hello! Viva Chocolato is a premier gourmet chocolate and wine boutique destination featuring a deluxe  collection of fine chocolates, gourmet wines, Italian gelato, specialty coffee, and gourmet gifts. Viva Chocolato is Austin's premier gourmet chocolate and wine bar featuring a deluxe collection of fine chocolates, gourmet wines and specialty chocolate creations. The wine list features dozens of carefully selected 90+ point wines from around the world. Think French sparkles, Italian reds and Napa whites, all paired with the world's finest chocolate. Viva offers the most distinguished wine pairings.

Enjoy all the great food offerings of North Austin. Yum!!

~Tacy