Good eats near airport, along 71, in Bee Cave or Lakeway?

[sophielou]

Hey there, 'hounds!

I'll be driving to Lakeway this Thursday for a wedding, and I'm looking for a tasty place for dinner -- ideally somewhere between the airport and the lake. Can you recommend any yummy and decently-priced restaurants near the airport, along (or near) 71, in Bee Cave, or Lakeway? I'm willing to venture off-course, too, but I'd like to avoid the SxSW crowds.

I'd love to hear your comments about the following places or other suggestions. Thanks so much!

Hai KY Vietnamese
Craigo's Pizza and Pastaria
Yaghi's Pizza (in Bee Cave)
Pao's Mandarin House
Hill Country Pasta House
Magnolia Cafe South (any good for dinner?)

[groovinpinky]

Ronnie's Real Food Bistro was a treat. It was extremely secluded and they have a 4 course $25 prix fixe menu. The portion size was great, and it was romantic, if you are looking for that sort of thing. I really enjoyed it.

[amykragan]

He does a different menu every week and you can get on his mailing list to be notified in advance.

[amykragan]

Pao's is great and highly underrated. You can ask for the chinese menu if you want to be adventerous. This is probably your best bet due to traffic and location.

Hill Country Pasta house isa good place for out at the lake, but more of an Olive Garden type deal. HOWEVER, they have instigated several "bargain's. Kids eat free, 1/2 price wine, 2 for 1, etc. so might be worth a call.

magnolia is not anywhere close to where you want to be but definitely the "hippie' vibe austin canbe known for.

Some others to consider:
Tony C's in the Galleria (just a pizza place at the mall, but full bar an coal stoves)
Ciola's upscale Italian, closer and fancier than Pasta House
Hudson's on the Bend-very upscale Texas game, but very Austin $$$$
Rocco's-also Italian and ranked between Pasta House & Ciolas

[sophielou]

Thanks so much, Amy! This is really helpful. I love authentic Chinese -- I've had some great meals in the Bay Area -- and especially appreciate it when the food isn't overly greasy. How would you rate Pao's on that score?

[amykragan]

Pao's is top notch.They do a huge spread for Chinese New Year. If you ask for the authentic chinese menu, you'll get even better since they'll know you're serious!

I haven't tried it yet but Coso Nova (not sure on spelling) is supposed to be great martini bar and even some tapas in the Lakeway entrance shopping center by Rocco's.

Lakeway Inn also does some HH specials and gives a great view of the lake.

[sophielou]

Hey, Amy: We ended up going to Pao's, and really enjoyed it. I ordered spicy scallops and long beans with pork -- both were delicious. Very reasonable, too, and great service. Thanks again!

[amykragan]

Awesome! So glad you liked it!