food-o-file

Lunch for Mama and Baby

Central Market, 4001 North Lamar, 206-1014

Monday, July 24, 10:30am-1pm; $25

Considering that a healthy diet is the most important building block for a healthy kid, this innovative class seems like a great idea for new or expectant Moms. Sherry Smith, soup chef extraordinaire at the Kerby Lane Commissary, will be teaching Moms and their kids the general guidelines for using healthy, seasonal, farm-fresh produce to feed infants and toddlers. In addition to her cooking skills and years of restaurant experience, Sherry is a mother of three who is certified in the Bradley Method of Childbirth Education. Seems like she'd be the perfect person to give the kids a great nutritional and culinary start. Make reservations by calling 206-1014. Babies and toddlers are invited.

New and Noshworthy

Bertram's Restaurant & Bar

1601 Guadalupe, 476-2743

Open Sunday-Thursday, 11am-11pm; Friday & Saturday, 11am-midnight

Located in the historic 130-year old building that housed Austin's original general mercantile, this new Texas-style bistro has a lot going for it. We're talking potential top-10 material here: The rooms are simply decorated, comfortable, and relaxing; the staff personable and well informed; there's an extensive wine list and well-stocked bar; and chef Craig Sullivan's menu is a delightfully well-rounded melange of grilled dishes, composed salads, creative and satisfying vegetarian offerings, hearty soups, and sandwiches. There is a small cellar room for romantic dining a deux, a private wine room for small dinner parties, plus a conference room and banquet facility upstairs. Here's hoping all these good things can overcome the complete lack of off-street parking!

Milieu

314 Congress Avenue, 472-1021

Lunch Monday-Friday, 11am-2pm

Dinner Monday-Saturday, 6-10pm This tony new Avenue eatery is quietly building a clientele. Chef/owner Lee Hankins (formerly of the Paggi House) presents a small menu that ranges in price from $3.25 to $9.75 at lunch and $9.75 to $21.50 at dinner. Try the Pan-Seared Polenta with Gorgonzola ($5.50) or the Oven-Roasted Wild Mushrooms with marinated seasonal vegetables, grains, and citrus aioli ($9.75) to get a taste of the fresh, light summer fare. Decor and service are both very pleasant in this stylishly refurbished room with a beautiful antique bar.

- Virginia B. Wood