Best Place for Before-Meal Prayer

Luby's

Some of us were raised to think Jesus isn't all that impressed with public displays of devotion outside of the church hour. On the other hand, what harm is it doing the Lord or anyone else? None. More than any other Austin eating establishment we can think of, the place to spot hands-around-the-table, heads bowed, is Luby's. Admittedly, Southern cafeteria cuisine is probably something you have to grow up on to appreciate. Fewer of our mothers and grandmothers tackle the once-typical family meal, and demand for a lunch of meat, two vegetables, and a white roll is declining. Aware of this trend, Luby's has been cooking to keep its praying customers loyal as it tries to reel in Yankees and food snobs. More offerings of baked fish, fresh vegetables not cooked to a paste, and salads are evidence of the company's attempts to bridge the gap. Grace is optional, as always.

Luby's
1410 E. Anderson, 512/835-9454
5200 Brodie, 512/892-0297
1616 E. Oltorf, 512/442-3785
8176 N. MoPac, 512/346-6040
Sky Ridge Plaza, Round Rock, 512/388-4068
13817 N. Hwy. 183, 512/335-6646
415 Slaughter Lane, 512/590-7540
www.lubys.com