Aug 26 2008: Austin is a city that strongly supports its local businesses. Many local stores, restaurants, and bars proudly sport the logo “Keep Austin Weird,” and adorn their merchandise with this phrase. Although not a weird place necessarily, Satellite Bistro and Bar is an off the beaten path gem that is locally and independently owned and operated by the same owners of Flipnotics Coffeespace Café, an Austin icon.

Hours and Location

Satellite Bistro and Bar is located in south Austin, near the Circle C Ranch development. If you are headed south on MoPac, you will turn right on Slaughter Lane. Take a right on Escarpment, and then take your first left into the first shopping center. For many Austinites, this location is far from the hustle and bustle of downtown, which lends to its appeal as an out of the way play to sit back and enjoy a fantastic meal. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11AM to 9PM, Friday and Saturday from 11AM to 10PM, and opens early for brunch on Sundays at 9AM and closes at 9PM. Brunch runs from 9AM to 2PM.

Selection

The restaurant offers a Mediterranean-American infusion style of cuisine and successfully marries these two seemingly different approaches to food. Some great appetizers to try when you visit the Bistro are the Tuna Tar Tar, which was recently added to their eclectic menu, as well the Cosmic Crab Cakes.

Each day, lunch and dinner specials are made with the freshest ingredients available, and often feature homemade breads and sauces created by the chefs on duty that particular day. Popular entrees, like the Cognac Scallops and Orchid Chicken are touted as customer favorites, and steaks as well as vegetarian options are available daily.

In addition to the larger, pricier entrees, burgers, wraps, and sandwiches are also available each day at lunch. Several of these make it to the dinner menu as well, so if you are interested in a lighter alternative to a large meal, look on the back of the menu.

Satellite has a full bar and a fantastic beer and wine selection as well. Ask one of their knowledgeable servers about what will complement your meal. Happy Hour at the Bistro runs from 3PM to 6PM Monday through Friday and includes draft beers, martinis, margaritas, and half-price appetizers.

Price and Overall Value

Prices at Satellite Bistro and Bar can range from reasonable to expensive. Depending on what is ordered, a meal for two can cost anywhere between $25 and $100. Naturally this all depends on what food and drinks are ordered.

The overall value of the Satellite experience is well worth it, however. The quasi-futuristic atmosphere, great food, and top-notch service make this independent, local Austin restaurant a must visit.


This post was contributed by Heather Johnson, who writes on the subject of green and organic shopping. She invites your feedback at heatherjohnson2323 at gmail dot com.