Travel

Tempting Treat-ments

Photo by: David Wei

Pick-me-ups. Energy-boosters. A lift. A cure for the stresses of everyday chaos. We all need ’em. Sometimes an aspirin will take care of our minor aches and pains. But, we all have those days that call for more serious help. And I happen to know just the right prescription for relaxation, happy tastebuds, winding-down after a long week, and a cozy place to leave your troubles behind: Apothecary Cafe & Wine Bar. In case you were wondering, ‘apothecary’ is a classic term for pharmacist; someone who makes and distributes medicinal treatments. According to managing partner, Niraj Mehdiratta, this was the idea behind this local sweet spot; to be a place that cures your ailments.The Austin locale Apothecary is a comfy cafe and wine bar quietly poised on Burnet, just North of 45th Street.

It is just the perfect unassuming setting for tasty bites, thirst-quenching beverages, and getting away from the fast-paced, relentless demands of the daily grind. Pun somewhat intended–the coffee drink portion of the menu artistically scribbled on the mirror makes the statement that Apothecary is just as much a cafe as it is a wine bar.

Like European cafes, Apothecary serves it all, including wireless internet whether someone prefers to work with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. The local art that adorns the walls also leans towards the cafe feel, and coupled with Middle Eastern decor, creates a laid-back atmosphere for gatherings and meet ups that last for hours.

And the food! I am always a fan of happy hour spots (4-7 everyday! and all day Sundays and Mondays!) with a wide variety of filling munchies. It was difficult to choose among the many salads, paninis (which can be made gluten-free), and decadent dishes like the Hatch chili Mac n’ Cheese, but the Gorgonzola and Honey Crostini with walnuts, garlic, and arugula called my name. The dim lighting in the photo below is part of the wind-down experience at Apothecary.

And, Apothecary can be your next late-night dessert spot! They are open ’til midnight, so after a concert or a show, stop by for some sweet delights. I was fortunate enough to be there just as the kitchen was preparing a new dessert they were testing out. The Banana Walnut dessert was incredible (thank you, Niraj!): freshly baked banana walnut bread, topped with caramelized bananas, then topped with Starbucks Caramel Macchiato ice cream. Only a few bites and my sweet tooth was smiling. The mocha from the ice cream was a very welcome and well-thought out bitter compliment to the sweetness of the bananas and the 2-inch thick banana walnut bread slice base.

Pay a visit to Apothecary for lunch, a casual late afternoon meeting, happy hour, a light dinner, and of course, dessert!  It’ll be just what the doc. ordered and you’ll leave feeling happy, healthy, and ready for another dose! Check their website for hours and location.





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