Second Bar + Kitchen is the newest addition to the businesses on the ground floor of the Austonian. Pairing an uber cool interior with “fancy” comfort food that is all the rage these days in the culinary theme, Second seems target squarely at the young professionals living and working in Austin’s Little Dallas… er, I mean 2nd St… District.
That snark aside, Second pretty much guaranteed my patronage by bring on Billy Hankey, of Good Knight fame, to bring his classic mixology revolution to the other side of I-35. I would follow that captain of cocktail to tequila hell and he has delivered yet again. While he assures me that there are some cool new things on the way, I’m estatic to see him bring over some of my favorites, including his signature jams that are featured in his Gin & Jam.
The kitchen part of Second is no slouch either, offering a mix of starters, small plates, entrees and desserts that will meet the needs of pretty much any group. While I did genuinely like everything I tried, I did find that the flavor profile was pretty staid. Not that the food was’t flavorful or delicious, but with the exception of the fried pickles- which rocked my world- I found myself wishing for something to provide a counter point to the pop main flavors of the dish. For example, their avocado fundido (a great twist on Austin’s queso obsession featuring asadero chess, housemaid chorizo, and chipotle masa lavish) needed more heat and acidity to balance the wonderful richness of the cheese and chorizo.
Save room for dessert, Second’s sweets are worth the self control. My favorites are their “bites” which are two small servings of a dessert. The brownie topped with grenache and orange pop rocks. It isn’t just a course, it is a road trip for your mouth.
Overall, Second Bar + Kitchen is a keeper. The prices or on the higher side(about $35 per person- not including drinks for dinner) but it is a good value for the quality and quantity of food. You’ll probably find me there during happy hour with one of Billy’s drinks in hand and an order of fried pickles.
