It’s not February yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate your strong desire for that special someone, or re-kindle the flame that seemed a little bit hotter during the ‘honeymoon phase’.  Anniversaries are special occasions that should be celebrated and, as some men have learned the hard way–definitely not forgotten. But, for an occasion that comes up every month if your relationship is in the beginning stages, or every year for seasoned lovebirds, somehow we still struggle with ideas for what to do for that special guy or girl.  As for anniversary gifts–you’re on your own on that one for now. But, of course, Loyal Reader, I would never leave you hanging. If you are celebrating an anniversary in Austin, I Rebeccammend you keep the twinkle in your eye entertained with a night out on the town to commemorate your love –your smokin’ hot love–for eachother with a toasty pairing: dinner at Lambert’s on 2nd street, then tableside s’mores down the street at Halcyon Coffee Bar Lounge.

 This idea organically formed when Ben, my brother-in-law, came in town for a business trip. I was planning our dinner destinations for the two nights he would be in town, but plans shifted a bit when Julie, my sister and his wife, surprised me and came along for the trip too! (Thanks, Jules). Their anniversary was the day they were going to head back to the West Coast, so she came to celebrate their exciting 2nd year of marriage, and to see me of course! The first night, we ate at one of my consistent favorites, South Congress Café–which they loved. 

For the second night, and what we designated as their anniversary dinner, Julie made reservations at Lambert’s at 401 W. 2nd Street for the three of us, since Ben is a major BBQ fan. I was excited to finally try this frequently raved-about restaurant. And, it was delicious!  Local ingredients made our dishes fresh and flavorful. The family-style sides are hearty and a great way to supplement your main meal. My appetizer of Warm Baby Beets was fabulous, with watercress, a slice of grilled St. Francis cheese, and a fresh lemon drizzle. My entreé was the Oak Smoked Half Natural Chicken with Achiote and lime rub, charred red onion, cilantro, and salsa verde (that had a creamy kick!). Paired with sauteéd lemon spinach, macaroni and cheese, and Ranch-style beans, my tastebuds were happy and my meal was complete….

but not entirely complete until we finished off the anniversary celebration at Halcyon Coffee Bar Lounge  for tableside s’mores. Romantic, cute, private, a great way to keep that flame burning bright.

It wasn’t until later that I realized the theme for the evening, since both our delicious BBQ fare and the s’mores were cooked in some heat. Whether smoked, grilled, or roasted, from the chicken to the marshmellows, adding heat to the night is a sure-fire way to feel the love…

Jules and Ben, Happy Anniversary!

Rebeccammended Austin Anniversary Idea: Fancy BBQ dinner at Lambert’s, then tableside s’mores at Halcyon.