Austin Restaurant Reviews: Austin Central Library’s Cookbook Cafe - Eater Austin
"Chronicle reviewer Melanie Haupt visited the Austin Library’s Cookbook cafe and bar and was left underwhelmed. Haupt recalled donating books from the library of her mentor and former Chronicle critic, Virginia B. Wood, so she admitted the review is 'somewhat difficult' to write. Run by the ELM Group, the menu from chef Andrew Curren did have promising notes, like artichoke fritters Haupt called 'crispy and addicting' and macaroni and cheese. However, entrees of shrimp and grits and a chicken pot pie fell flat: Haupt also took issue with the chicken croquetas ('bland, starchy mashed potatoes with microscopic bits of chicken flecked here and there') and a California sandwich ('wanted seasoning'). However, the desserts from pastry chef Mary Catherine Curren proved to be a high point, like the chocolate torte that Haupt called 'a scene-stealing bombshell' and a 'pleasantly tart' apple tart. Haupt surmises she would only dine at Cookbook if it were convenient." - Erin Russell
