East Austin - New Restaurant - East Side Show Room

Last night my hubs and I went out with some friends to celebrate his birthday. We made plans to meet friends at the Shangri-La on East 6th for drinks... but when we got there it was closed. (I know I don't get out much anymore, but I thought the under 30 set still went out on Sunday nights? What's up with that?)

Quite serendipitously, East Side Show Room, this new bistro - lounge - gallery - venue recently opened up at 1100 East 6th Street, and they were open for business. We popped inside and found a wonderfully quirky part French bistro part 19th century curiosity shop inspired scene.

This picture makes it look a bit like just any other bar... but trust... the place was gushing with ambiance and character. Exposed brick walls all around. The specials were written in chalk on the iron beam overhead.

I ordered from their specialty drink list and had a "Pink Pony" which (if I remember right) was a type of gin, crushed ice, cucumber liqueur, and grapefruit juice. It was yummy. The food menu uses only locally procured ingredients. We had a cheese plate that was excellent. Next time we'll stay for dinner.

East Side Show Room is just another addition to the lovely East 6th dining destinations popping up these days. Hope there are many more to come. Oh, and there's a quaint patio out back for dining or siping.