New David Bull Trio Tops For Food and Drink
David Bull’s triple-threat opening – Congress, Bar Congress and Second Bar + Kitchen -- was a widely anticipated and noteworthy event, especially among those who populate the ever-growing foodie scene in Austin.
Bull is the chef who once ruled the kitchen at the Driskill Hotel Grill in Austin. He has been a nominee for the James Beard Best Chef of the Southwest, an Iron Chef America contestant and has been recognized as a top chef by Food and Wine Magazine. So his latest cooking venture is something food lovers were waiting for, and Congress, Bar Congress and Second Bar + Kitchen don’t disappoint.
Connected, and sharing a kitchen, the three distinct spaces on the ground floor of The Austonian high-rise residential tower are sophisticated and as forward-thinking as they come, but the aim is to be welcoming, not pretentious.
Congress is a special-occasion restaurant with inspiring menu items for sophisticated tastes. Bone marrow Brule, lobster ricotta fritter, braised oxtail and black truffles have been among the always-evolving and adventuresome offerings. Diners choose between a three-course prix-fixe menu and a seven-course chef’s tasting menu. Bull calls it “Natural American” cuisine, and it consists of the best seasonal and local items paired with a premium and expansive wine list.
Second Bar + Kitchen serves more casual fare, but continues to focus on innovative flavors .Sample sandwich: Fried egg and avocado with escarole, sweet onion relish and black pepper aioli. It’s the only place in Austin to serve house wine on tap; there is a fine selection of both wines and craft beers and cocktails are made using fresh fruit, preserves, and herbs as well as the standard ingredients.
Bar Congress serves as both a destination, and an elegant place to wait for meals at The Congress or Second Bar + Kitchen. A gorgeous marble bar serves as the focal point for serving premium spirits and wines. Classic cocktails are available, as well as inspired concoctions that will be new to many (candied pear squares, poached pear reduction, gin and Prosecco, anyone?).
Bar Congress serves a hybrid selection of foods that reflect the two restaurants. If you can get a seat, the place to be is sunk into one of the comfortable chairs and sofas outside on Congress Avenue in mild weather.
HelloAustin Tip: Reservations are highly recommended, but those who are operating more spur of the moment can call ahead to get on a wait list.
Posted on Mar 11, 2011 by Julie Bonnin
