Surf and Turf, Travis-Style

Helen's at Yacht Harbor

Daily, 11am until "the last customer leaves"; closed Monday

Only in its third month of existence, Helen's has already gone through its first Lake Travis flood. It remained closed for a week for cleanup and remodeling, resulting in a fresh and funky seaside décor. The place is now open for business and a must-visit for those looking for a friendly, laid-back place to have a drink and a bite to eat while enjoying a day at the lake. Helen's is the perfect place to relax, outside on the covered deck overlooking the lake or inside enjoying the air conditioning while playing a game of pool. Since Helen's is more a bar than a restaurant, the menu is simple, but everything is fresh and very tasty. They serve grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, and sandwiches made on seven-grain bread, dressed with the house chipotle mayonnaise, garnished with Helen's mom's own delicious sweet 'n' spicy pickles, and served with chips and a cookie. The chicken salad is wonderful, with a classic homemade taste. As far as drinks are concerned, they make excellent Bloody Marys for "breakfast," there are many choices of ice-cold beers, and their signature frozen blue margaritas keep the local regulars coming back for more. They feature live music outdoors every Friday and Saturday night, often to a packed house. Helen's is a cute, fun little party place with an old-Austin atmosphere.