At least once a month, I try to make a Friday reservation at a restaurant I've never tried. During the week, Andrew and I usually fall into the comfort of our couch and eat a quick meal near the TV. So, it's nice to get dressed up every once and awhile to explore the city we fell in love with.
This month we finally tried Este! It did not disappoint! I have been waiting for a restaurant like this to open in Austin. With every bite, I dreamed myself into a little fishing village in Mexico. Sitting along the coast with the sun warming my face, and the salt-air floating through my hair. Andrew and I even spent most of our dinner reminiscing about that magical trip we took to Puerto Escondido years ago.
Este is an upscale, Mexican coastal restaurant on Manor Rd brought to us by the Suerte Team. Located in the former Eastside Café location, this quaint house has been remodeled to a light, coastal and chic interior. We sat outside on their patio, which was comfortably heated in February. The cozy, low-lit ambience made for a perfect night out. The tables are close together, but I didn't notice the restaurant being too loud.
I knew my experience was going to great the minute we were served perfectly crisp tortilla chips with an incredible tomatillo salsa. The salsa had such a beautiful blend of lime and tomatillos. I almost drank it like a soup. My server even brought me my own personal bowl.
For drinks, I started with a Hoja en blanco (gin + pisco) cocktail. I love a Pisco Sour, so anytime I see something similar on a menu, I have to order it. Delicious!
I also had a Margarita Clasica, which was perfect. Exactly how a margarita should taste. I can't wait to sip one of these on their patio in the summer.
Hoja en Blano
Everything on the menu is meant to be shared. Andrew and I ordered 5 dishes and it was plenty for the both of us.
We started with the Oysters on the Half Shell, Fish Tacos and Flautas de Pescado. We enjoyed everything. They oysters had a beautiful ocean taste, and we loved the vinegar/onion sauce they were served with. The Flautas De Pescado were filled with a flavorful whitefish and Oaxacan cream, and topped with cotija and cilantro.
And let me tell you 'bout these fish tacos...
I don't usually order fish tacos. But shit. I thought this masa-battered swordfish was perfection. A sturdy, crispy batter surrounding tender, juicy steak-like fish. Served on a warm, fresh corn tortilla. A little kick. Wonderful.
Fish Tacos
Next we had the Camarones "El Rica" and some classic Pork Carnitas. I definitely recommend both of these dishes!
The Camarones are a little messy, as they're served with the shell on. But they're worth getting your hands dirty. Yummy, buttery and perfectly flavored. These are a decadent treat.
We almost didn't order the Pork Carnitas, but I am so very glad we did. The pork was tender, but had a wonderful crisp on the edges. Served with fresh tortillas on the side. I want to eat this dish every day.
Camarones "El Ricas"
By this time I was pretty full and opted for a cappuccino instead of dessert. Maybe it was the whole milk, or the stoneware mug, but that cappuccino was incredible. The cappuccino hit the spot, but I can't wait to go back and try their Pastel De Elote, a corn cake with braised strawberries.
We truly had a wonderful dining experience. If you're looking to celebrate something special or need a fancy night out, put Este on your list.
I'll be back soon for Happy Hour on their patio. Hasta luego.
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