Retail Roundup: North Lakeway Area Shopping, Dining and Entertainment

With such a lovely place to live, it seems fitting that North Lakeway residents also have such a lovely place to shop. The Hill Country Galleria, about 10 minutes from home, hosts more than 100 stores and restaurants.

The beautiful, carefully landscaped outdoor shopping mall features popular retailers such as Banana Republic, Chico’s, Whole Foods Market, a Cinemark multiplex theater, and popular beauty, accessory and clothing boutiques. A few of the popular restaurants in the Galleria include Buenos Aires Café, Iron Cactus Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar, and Schmidt Family Barbecue.

But the Galleria is more than just a shopping center — it hosts community amenities as well, such as a small amphitheater that showcases a variety of live music and free events throughout the year. And in late December, the Galleria brings in a snow machine for youngsters of all ages to enjoy.

Clever Flights of Wine, and Sushi Fusion — Even Soybeans Get Exciting

A number of stellar restaurants that serve everything from fine dining to quick meals are within 10 minutes of the neighborhood. The Grove Wine Bar and Kitchen in Lakeway is a popular destination for fresh, organic appetizers, bruschetta, pizza, pasta and daily specials. The crispy oysters with mango-poblano pico are a delightful first course to accompany a meal of grilled Patagonian salmon or wine lover’s pizza.

Another foodie favorite, Cho Sushi Japanese Fusion serves fresh sushi and seafood, as well as Black Angus beef and every item on the menu is fresh, tasty, and of the highest quality. Cho Sushi offers an innovative menu featuring both traditional and contemporary sushi and Japanese fusion entrees, as well as boutique wines by the glass, premium sake and beer. Even such simple dishes as edamame get a thrilling twist. Cho adds just the right amount of chile and garlic and suddenly edamame are more exciting than ever. In addition to the uniformly good sushi and sashimi, most of the entrees feature fish prepared in various styles, a very popular treat among regular diners.

Classic Burgers, Antique Cars and Artisan Bistro’s Chocolate Croissants

Just down the street from North Lakeway is Sandeez Hamburger Hut. With the feel of a 1950s drive-in, this locally owned eaterie serves up traditional burgers and fries just like the good old days. And as if the classic food wasn’t enough, Sandeez is also the headquarters of the Classic Car Club, a group of antique car buffs who meet every Friday at noon adding to the Sandeez old-school vibe. The Bucket List Burgers are the Sandeez specialty, which, as their name implies, are too good to go without.

For a more formal dining experience, the Artisan Bistro is one of North Lakeway’s favorites. A prestigious French bistro, wine bar and bakery, the Artisan Bistro is an ideal date night destination for a romantic meal with someone special.  A highly recommended favorite at the Bistro is the duck confit, one of its many authentic French dishes. On the bakery side of the shop, customers rave about the macaroons, apple tarts and chocolate croissants.