Austin Way Magazine - GreenGale Publishing - There is a place beyond the crowds, beyond the ropes, where dreams are realized and success is celebrated. You are invited.
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/787203
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHASE DANIEL (PICNIK) left: Vivid dragon fruit helps make the Pitaya Margarita at Picnik irresistible. right: The natural sweetness from the cucumber and orange keeps the calories low in True Food Kitchen's Citrus Skinny Margarita. HAVING FRUITS AND VEGGIES HAS NEVER BEEN MORE FUN THANKS TO INNOVATIVE SPINS ON FAVORITE COCKTAILS AT AUSTIN'S NEWEST HEALTHY HOTSPOTS. BY TOM THORNTON THE NEW SALAD BAR While eating healthfully is its own reward, a cocktail can be a nice boost. Three of Austin's newest, healthi- est restaurants offer drink programs inspired by the other half of the menu. PICNIK The Scene: The paleo- friendly, gluten-free offerings at the new brick-and-mortar version of Naomi Seifter's food truck are all about flavor. The Drink: The Pitaya Margarita is a bright showcase for dragon fruit (pitaya), Dulce Vida Tequila, Goodflow honey and lime. "[Dragon fruit or pitaya] is bright pink, high in riboflavin, high in magnesium, and it is simply stunning," raves Seifter. 4801 Burnet Road, 737-226-0644; picnik austin.com VINAIGRETTE The Scene: Vinaigrette packs them in at lunch with the New Mexico-based concept's menu of more than 35 creative salads. The Drink: The Kale Mary features Tru organic vodka, fresh-pressed kale, celery, lemon, and grape tomato juices, and Thai bird chile. Says bar manager Erin Wade: "The drink is savory and full of Vitamin C, carotenoids, and salts for rehydrating after an overindulgent night!" 2201 College Ave., 512-852-8791; vinaigrette online.com TRUE FOOD KITCHEN The Scene: This health- conscious chain's innovative offerings like kale guacamole have found many fans in the buzzy Seaholm District. The Drink: The Citrus Skinny Margarita is a refreshing combination of Ixa tequila blanco, muddled citrus, mint, cucumber slices, and orange segments. "We use less simple syrup and more natural sweetness from the cucumber and orange," says beverage director Jon Augustin. 222 West Ave., 512-777-2430; truefood kitchen.com/locations/ austin . SCENE CHEERS! 52 AUSTINWAY.COM