Schlotzsky's -- Viva I'talia

In case you think I just go to fine dining events, think again! I was invited to a preview of the new Schlotzsky's menu items at their flagship store at 218 South Lamar.  This homegrown Austin chain welcomed local food and mom bloggers with open arms, and presented us with a huge amount of tasty new foods. And the new items are available in almost all locations, not just here in Austin!

The "funny name, serious sandwich" folks are now embracing their inner Italian food lover, with new pasta and even more specialty sandwiches. Here's a look at their Viva L'Italia menu.

The oven-baked pastas include Bayou Chicken, Chicken Pesto Carbonara (my favorite!), Tomato-Basil (vegetarian), and Sausage with Peppers and Goat Cheese (my very close next favorite!). They sprinkle cheese and breadcrumbs made from their signature sourdough buns on top and run them through the oven so they get nice and crispy on top, just like homemade, and if you're dining in at Schlotzsky's they're served in actual dishware, not disposable. These were impressive; you do not feel like you're dining at a "fast food" establishment.

The new sandwiches are all done on a tender ciabatta bun (as opposed to their signature muffalata-esque sourdough). My favorite was the Caprese, a vegetarian option (yes, me the pork-lover loved the vegetarian!). Stuffed with tomatoes, lettuce, mozzarella, and basil pesto this sandwich was absolutely packed with flavor. The other two (and still quite good) are the Sicilian with lots of meats, and the Tuscan, with turkey.

The Caprese

L to R: the Sicilian, the Tuscan and the Caprese

There's also a chicken alfredo pizza and Italian chopped salad if you're looking for something healthier. Plus, Schlotzsky's also does catering, and these new pasta dishes are certainly perfect for a crowd. A big grazie to the Schlotzsky's team for an outstanding evening, and for providing gift cards that I sponsored a giveaway on Instagram.  So if you need some fast casual food for lunch or dinner or have an event, head on over to Schlotzsky's for their new menu. #hoorayitaly

I was invited by Schlotzsky's to try their new menu items; I was not paid for my opinions or any social media posts. 

Catering options!

Salt and Time

About a month ago, I had lunch at the new Salt and Time Butcher Shop + Salumeria at 1912 East 7th Street. A long time staple at the area farmer's markets, the owners used a Kickstart campaign to help fund their brick and mortar mecca to all things meat. When you walk in, you're on the butcher side of the place, with fresh and cured meats staring at you. To the right is the bar and eating area, where the daily specials are posted on the wall. Sorry, but this is not really a place for vegetarians!

My friend had the Roast Beast, which she proclaimed to be one of the best sandwiches she had ever had. 

I had the Pulled Pork,which I thoroughly enjoyed, however, my one critique is that the menu says caramelized onions, and this is clearly cole slaw with maybe an onion or two in it. But it was delicious and I ate all of it! The bread is perfect for the sandwiches, as it's just chewy enough, yet tender and strong enough to hold up to its contents. They have an in-house baker who also sells the breads.

I took some pancetta (top) and bacon home..... yeah, both are fatty, but fat equals flavor, right?! They slice these nice and thick.

And that night, I had a lovely carbonara dish with the pancetta, which renders up very nicely.

Check their website for butchering classes, meat specials, and monthly menus. If you appreciate the art of meat, whether fresh or cured, go check out their offerings!