Austin has an awesome steakhouse. And its name is Fleming's. It's across from the Convention Center on 2nd St. I've been there twice recently. The first time I was enthralled with their appetizers and sides. I really loved everything, especially the steaks. The second time I went with friends for wine and spirits. They are known for their large selection of wines (over 100, I'm told) and the superb martinis. I can attest to the martini.
To start, the baguettes of bread were delicious. Fresh, crisp, with sweet butter. Always a good sign for a restaurant. And the Wicked Cajun BBQ Shrimp was beyond wicked. It was wickedly delicious. Every bite is redolent of garlic, butter, and wonderful Cajun spices. But it's NOT in a conventional BBQ shrimp sauce that I'm used to seeing. No roux here or any hint of red. Served with a huge crouton in the middle, this is use the bread and lap up the sauce delicious. They should make it an entree it's so good. Also, the scallops, seared and served with an orange tarragon vinaigrette. Wonderful.
We then split a really nice Tomato and Mozzarella cheese salad in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Great balance to this dish. And very flavorful.
And then, again, we ordered steaks. I had a 16 oz. ribeye that was moderately marbled, tender, juicy and very good. My companion had the NY strip, which she also greatly enjoyed. We got onion rings, thick and delicious, served with a chipotle chili mayo, and really tasty and delectable sauteed mushrooms in butter and garlic. Perfect accompaniments.
For desert, we split the Cinnamon Apple Haystack, which reminds me greatly of a dish my grandmother used to make. Sauteed apples and cinnamon crisps over vanilla ice cream topped with caramel sauce. I defy you to leave any amount of this treat uneaten.
So there you have it. The mood is upbeat and the decor on the sophisticated side, but not overly so. All in all, very comfortable. I think you should try Fleming's on your next visit.