Nestled inside the impressive Austin Central Library, Cookbook Cafe serves up a menu inspired by recipes from cookbooks in the collection, offering a breezy patio vibe and an inviting space to snack and sip while soaking up literary goodness.
"The Austin Central Library restaurant’s patio faces Shoal Creek and the Colorado River for a pretty dining experience." - Nadia Chaudhury
"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
"Cookbook Cafe is celebrating Texas cookbooks through the month of October with events, dinner specials, and more. The kick-off party honors the late Chronicle food editor Virginia B. Wood and her personal cookbook collection. The events include cooking demonstrations with chefs like Jesse Griffiths, panels featuring Texas wine, beer, and booze makers, and Saturday night prix fixe dinner specials with steak, mussels, and cookies." - Nadia Chaudhury
"After being open for nearly a week, downtown restaurant Cookbook Cafe is closed today along with the Austin Central Library because of what it stated is a 'city maintenance issue.'" - Nadia Chaudhury
"Cookbook Cafe, located in Austin Central Library, offers a menu inspired by the library's cookbook collection. The counter-service restaurant features dishes from famous cookbooks and chefs, a variety of beverages, and a design by VeroKolt and Lake Flato. It includes both indoor seating and a patio overlooking Shoal Creek and provides a unique dining experience intertwined with literary and culinary education." - Nadia Chaudhury
