Second Helpings: Dining Fine

Brio Vista

9400-B Arboretum Blvd., 342-2642

Mon-Fri, 11am-2pm; Mon-Thu, 5:30-10:30pm; Fri-Sat, 5:30-11pm; Sun, 11am-2pm; 5:30-9:30pm

Who says all fine dining restaurants have to be downtown? Certainly not chef Stewart Scruggs. Since taking over the reins at this popular northwest eatery more than a year ago, Scruggs’ cuisine reveals that he continues to refine the subtle, sophisticated style he began at Zoot. Seasonal menus reflect the chef’s interest in cooking with fresh, local ingredients as much as possible. The large, diverse wine list offers many good vintages by the glass and compatible wine suggestions are offered for every menu item. Relaxed, professional service in a room with a stunning view makes the whole Brio experience impeccable.

The Cafe at the Four Seasons

98 San Jacinto, 478-4500

Breakfast: Mon-Fri, 6:30am-11pm; Sat, 7-11am; Sun, 7-10:30am; Lunch: Mon-Sat, 11am-2pm; Brunch: Sun, 10:30am-2pm; Light Fare: Daily, 2-6pm; Dinner: Sun-Thu, 6-10pm; Fri-Sat, 6-11pm

Every aspect of the Cafe lifts it a cut above other hotel restaurants. The lovely dining room that looks out over Town Lake is casually elegant, the service professionals are knowledgeable, the wine list inviting, and exec chef Elmar Prambs’ artfully presented cuisine is consistently interesting. What more could you ask for in a vacation repast or a pleasant mealtime escape from life’s harsh realities? The menu features a Texas influence in many dishes, an Asian flair in others, and they’ve added vegetarian and heart-healthy meals for health-conscious travelers. Though it’s pricey, it’s also one of the best places in town for a special-occasion Sunday brunch.

Jeffrey’s

1204 West Lynn, 477-5584

Mon-Thu, 5-10pm; Fri-Sat, 5:30-10:30pm; Sun, 5:30-10pm

Consistently regarded as Austin’s top restaurant since it opened more than 20 years ago, Jeffrey’s is the dining spot of choice for special occasions, visiting dignitaries, and diners who enjoy a stellar evening out from start to finish. They’ve recently added the Josephine House next door to accommodate private events. Chef David Garrido’s eclectic Southwestern cuisine reflects the influence of his mentor, Dallas celebrity chef Stephan Pyles. Look for signature dishes such as crispy oyster nachos and succulent duck confit. Great service and a well-chosen wine list complete the package.

Mirabelle

8127 Mesa Drive, 346-7900

Mon-Fri, 11am-2pm; Mon-Thu, 5:30-9:30pm; Fri-Sat, 5:30-10pm; Sun, 10:30am-2pm

Mirabelle is the new venture from Castle Hill co-owner Cathe Dailey and partner Michael Vilim, one of the most knowledgeable wine guys around town. Though many of Mirabelle’s menu items harken back to the early days of Castle Hill, the new restaurant’s cuisine is not a carbon copy. The dining rooms are spacious and comfortable and the atmosphere more relaxed than that of its downtown sister. The wine list offers many interesting vintages to complement the food at affordable prices. Northwest Hills neighbors seem to welcome a casual fine dining outlet in their midst and were so eager for a Sunday brunch that one was added to accommodate the request.

Zoot

509 Hearn, 477-6536

Sun-Thu, 5:30-10:30pm; Fri-Sat, 5:30-11pm

Twinkling Christmas lights all year long, attentive, non-threatening service, and really outstanding food have made Zoot a favorite choice for an elegant dinner out for several years. With the the current search for a new chef, Zoot will undergo a change but undoubtedly keep such classic favorites as their Chicken in Tarragon Jus over Kale and some of the best lamb in town. An extensive wine list rounds out the menu, and a satisfied diner can finish with a stupendously rich and inspired dessert.

Sardine Rouge

311 W. Sixth, 473-8642

Sun-Thu, 6-10pm; Fri-Sat, 6-11pm

A stained glass window swirls sumptuously across the streetfront window — this is a continental dining establishment in the spirit of the old days, where customers are referred to as “sir” and “madam,” and where the menu departs from the norm in both content and price. Delightful details, like a white grand piano, complement a menu rich with fare exceptional to this time and place. Highlights include Oysters Rockefeller with a Pernod Sabayon, Lobster Cardinal, and English pea cream sauce supporting silver-dollar-sized sea scallops, still soft in the middle.

Hudson’s on the Bend

3509 RR 620, 266-1369

Sun-Thu, 6-9:30pm; Fri-Sat, 5:30-10pm

Behind Hudson’s unassuming exterior is a tradition of casual fine dining with an unassuming atmosphere and one of the most relaxing gardens in the Hill Country. The restaurant focuses on the imaginative use of wild game — water buffalo enchiladas, alligator ribs, and tenderloin of wild boar — in a multifaceted fusion cuisine. Hudsons’ presents an inspired menu, exceptional wine list, and knowledgeable, courteous staff. Look for a self-published cookbook in the fall.

Si Bon

801 S. Lamar, 326-8323

Tue-Thu, 6-10:30pm; Fri-Sat, 6-11pm

Intimate, understated space by Cara O’Brien complements the cooking of Peter O’Brien, formerly of Granite Cafe, the Bitter End, Cafe Azzuro, and Bertram’s. This time out on his own, O’Brien has developed a menu including such stars as Mustard-Crusted Lamb Noisettes, Black Mussels Stewed with Sherry Peppers, and a dreamy mango soufflé, complemented by well-informed waiters, a captain’s wine list, and sweet details, like linen-lined antique trays to replace silverware.

Dining Fine

Castle Hill Cafe

1101 W. Fifth, 476-0728

Mon-Fri, 11am-2:30pm; Mon-Sat, 6-10pm

Castle Hill fuses exquisite tastes from the American Southwest, southern Europe, and the Far East, and offers an extensive list of affordable wines to match just about any of its daring creations. Though the restaurant’s large, single dining room can get noisy, the two-tone interior and tasteful folk art create an enjoyable atmosphere in which to enjoy Chef David Dailey’s decidedly bold fare. The moderately priced menu changes biweekly.