"Austin only has a handful of French restaurants, so we’re thrilled anytime a new one opens—especially one this good. Le Calamar is in the shuttered Underdog space in Bouldin Creek, and comes from the same team. It tops yellowfin tuna with silky crème fraîche and bathes velvety Parisian-style gnocchi in brown butter, but the best things we’ve tried thus far are a perfectly cooked cut of wagyu and the herby Vichy carrots with tallow tree honey. It’s not all French—the bistro has many nods to Texas, including Southwestern-themed art hanging on the walls. Put Le Calamar at the top of your date-night list, or invite a friend for cocktails and a catch-up at the stunning bar." - Matthew Jacobs