Emmer & Rye

Emmer & Rye in Austin, Texas, is a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its inventive farm-to-table cuisine and emphasis on seasonal ingredients.

In doing my research of interesting restaurants to try in Austin, one restaurant stood out: Emmer & Rye. After browsing the menu, I excitedly made a reservation. After an afternoon of tour and tasting at Still Austin, then sampling beers at St Elmo Brewing, I took a rideshare to Emmer & Rye for dinner.

Arriving, I was immediately delighted by the design of the restaurant. My waiter, Brandon, was knowledgable, kind and above all – fun.

I will say – my order of the BLACKJACK POINT OYSTER (Grilled Watermelon & Chili Mignonette, Smoked Trout Roe) by Blackjack Point Oyster Company in Rockport, Texas – were interesting. I hoped it would give me the taste of my favorite oyster, the Kumamoto. However, the Blackjack Points were fattier and meatier than I expected.

I appreciated the natural aesthetic of the dish, served on a bed of rocks. It was different from the usual California presentation style of being served on a bed of ice. I also enjoyed the unique crunch of the grilled watermelon. It offered a subtle pop with the trout roe. The dish was distinct, with the taste of the oysters being clean and crisp.  However, I should have asked if I could have ordered just two – instead of the four.

After a short time, I was surprised by a complimentary order of the CACIO E PEPE (Blue Beard Durum Spaghetti, Black Pepper, Chällerhocker).

This was exceptionally delicious and unexpected. I greatly appreciated it – and savored every last bite. The Chällerhocker was rich, nutty and delicious and worked will with the fresh cracked pepper. With every bite, I knew that I was more than likely taking my main course to go.

When the PAPPARDELLE (Smoked Wagyu Beef Ragu, Crème Fraîche, Chive) arrived to my table, I was in sensual dining heaven. The pappardelle was paper thin. The smoked Texas wagyu was melt in my mouth delicious. It was – in Brandon’s words – the best item on the menu. I wholeheartedly agreed. The dish was orally some of the best food I’ve had in Texas.

If you come to Emmer & Rye and just want to order just one thing – order the pappardelle.

I also loved the design aesthetic of the bathrooms. Everything at Emmer & Rye was designed perfectly – from the food to the interiors.

Now, if I returned to Emmer & Rye, I would order the JOHNNY CAKES (Yellow Bolita Corn, Poblano Relish, River Whey Keystone Cheddar) and the Pappardelle. I left Emmer & Rye extremely satisfied and full, pleased for my choice in exceptional dinner in Austin, Texas.

- -