10 Best Things Critic Matthew Odam Ate and Drank At Austin Restaurants in July
Though renowned food critic Matthew Odam has been in Austin throughout July, his taste buds have traveled far and wide exploring delectable dishes and drinks from across the city’s restaurants. This article reveals the top 10 items Odam relished at various Austin eateries in July. Follow his Instagram @matthewodam to keep up with his food adventures.
Gnocchi alla vodka arrabbiata at Bufalina ($18)
Just like a late spring night in Rome, the dish features silky ricotta dumplings disrobed in a mild sheen of arrabbiata sauce and generously topped with Parmesan cheese to amplify the umami. Bufalina is situated at 2215 E. Cesar Chavez St. and can be contacted at 512-394-5337 or through their website bufalinapizza.com.
Paradise City at Drink Well ($14)
This tropical cocktail, packed with rum, bourbon, apricot, and pineapple, will surely leave you scratching your head, forgetting if you’re on your second or third glass. Head over to 207 E. 53rd St. to try it for yourself or call 512-614-6683, or visit drinkwellaustin.com.
Chocolate chips and ice cream at Emmer & Rye ($14)
A haven for sweet and salty lovers, the dish incorporates thin slices of potatoes fried and tossed in cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. As for the finishing touches, blackened koji ice cream is drizzled with a pecan miso butter chocolate sauce. To visit, go to 512-366-5530 or their website emmerandrye.com.
Strozzapreti at Epicerie ($24)
This Italian-inspired dish is ingredient-driven and seasonal, bringing out the simplicity and authenticity of Italian cuisine. The pasta is cloaked with a lusciously tangy and creamy Point Reyes Toma cheese sauce. Try it at 2307 Hancock Drive or contact them at 512-371-6840, epicerieaustin.com.
Ceviche at Ezov ($18)
Preparations of raw cuisine such as this ceviche reveal culinary and cultural influences. With pistachios, pomegranate, and orange blossom, this dish is an ode to Israel and the Levant region. Visit Ezov at 2708 E. Cesar Chavez St. or call them at 512-305-1118, ezovatx.com.
Duck risotto at Intero ($42)
While some dishes may not be as visually appealing, their taste is simply outstanding. This is the case with Intero’s duck risotto, which is simple in presentation, but enthralling in flavor. Visit 2612 E. Cesar Chavez St. Suite 105 or call 512-599-4052, interorestaurant.com.
Pulled barbecue lamb at Interstellar BBQ ($34/lb.)
With slow-smoked shredded lamb seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic, folded back into their juices with a sprinkle of seasoned rice vinegar, it’s sure to leave you wanting for more. Find them at 12233 FM 620 N, Suite 105 or call 512-382-6248, theinterstellarbbq.com.
Rabbit roulade at Olamaie ($45)
With a crunchy finish and glazed carrots with pickled mustard seeds in a brilliant mustard sauce, Olamaie truly presents a divine combination of flavors. Visit them at 1610 San Antonio St. or call 512-474-2796, olamaieaustin.com.
