Breana W.
Yelp
I found this on a list of "hidden gems" in Austin - I was expecting a run-down, hole-in-the-wall place but there were chandeliers, open bar, and the atmosphere was bustling but intimate at the same time. Their Instagram page showed Duck Confit as the daily special, but they ran out by 7pm. Come earlier than 7pm for their daily special! Plenty of parking in the lot and the street; Vic and Al's is on a lively street with bars and other restaurants. Order at counter, and your food/drink tab is open until you close it at the end of your meal.
I was greeted by Travis (blue braids and super friendly) and he explained how the seating, ordering, and experience would go. It was quite chaotic getting a seat on a Friday night; the outdoor bar ran out of seats but luckily another party left so we could be seated. It was a free-for-all for seating when I visited, apparently, this is not a common issue.
I ordered the Blackened Catfish and Potato Salad. I've been eating a lot of seafood from oceanside cities, and I was impressed with the catfish! I'm used to getting butter/garlic so this Louisiana / Texas style was pleasantly different - lemony, saucy, nice touch of parsley and veggies. Overall, the food and experience was pleasant! I'd love to come back to try the Gumbo, other entrees, and their daily specials.