Eating through Austin-Counter Culture

Austin is a short 90-minute drive away from San Antonio. But, that seems so far for a meal. Even if Austin is the Vegan Capitol of the World. But, when CurlyKate, a friend from high school, told me she was flying in to Houston and was willing to drive 2 1/2 hours to meet for brunch "half-way" in Austin, how could I resist? Although she is not vegan, she is more than willing to go to vegan places with me. So, my job was to find the location. I've eaten at a few places, but c'mon ... there are so many to choose from. I have to find a new place for brunch and I came across Counter Culture. 

Located at 2337 East Cesar Chavez (on the corner of Clara Street), Saturday and Sunday Brunch is served from 11 AM to 3 PM. They are open 7 days a week from 11 AM to 10 PM.

Counter Cultures started in July 2009 as a food trailer. They serve internationally inspired vegan comfort food. They focus on organic, locally grown food and maintain as much of an environmentally friendly impact as possible. 

When we arrived, what we noticed first was the fun artistic pictures of dogs on the wall. Next was the eclectic diners. From earthy to upscale. Singles, couples, and families. And we had to check the chalkboard for daily specials. I'm a fan of specials because it usually means they got something local to use. It was going to be hard to decide what to order. Thank goodness, the Musician came, so I could snack of his plate, too. 

While we waited for CurlyKate to arrive, we sampled the Lavender Lemonade and the Mimosa. We had a mimosa option of orange juice or fresh tropical fruits. We chose tropical fruits. Both were cool and refreshing.

The service was friendly and casual. CurleyKate ordered the East Side Quesadilla with Cashew cheese, Seitan, potatoes, spinach. It was very tasty. Cheesy. The salsa was smooth and full of flavor, but not too spicy. And we liked the extra cashew cheese on the side. This is a winner for breakfast or lunch.

I ordered the Daily Special Omelet. I admit, I have no idea how to make a tofu-based omelet, but they did. It was stuffed with spinach, broccoli, and cashew cheese again, with pesto on top. I had no hesitation finishing it off. I could order a side and my lifetime favorite breakfast item is biscuits and gravy. So, that's what I had. OMG!!! There is another place where I get vegan biscuits and gravy. This is better!!! This will satisfy that desire every time.

The Musician went with Tofu Ranchero. Salsa, black beans, poblanos, avocado. A true Texas breakfast full of amazing flavor. He was undecided about Tempeh Bacun (yes, that's how it's spelled), or Seitan Sausage. The server made a recommendation for sausage and he wasn't disappointed. Omnivores out there wouldn't know the difference.

So, what do I think? I can hardly wait to go back for dinner sometime. We found another winner in Austin. The company was best of all. Thanks CurlyKate for making time in your busy schedule for me. And thanks for making the drive. And thanks for encouraging us to find another great place to eat. Miss you already. Can't wait for the next time we can meet up.