Jack Allen’s Kitchen original Oak Hill location
In Round 2 of Battle of the Brunches, Jack Allen’s Kitchen proves to be a major heavyweight when it comes to serving up some of the best, most locally-sourced options for brunching Austinites.
When asked who deserved to make the cut for the BOTB series, Austinot readers pointed to Jack Allen’s as their favorite brunch spot more often than any other restaurant.
Hill Country Vibe
Prickly Pear Mojito in a mason jar…delicious and charming
The first incarnation of Jack Allen’s Kitchen is tucked off Highway 71 in a mid-century building, just past the Y at Oak Hill.
Over the last few years, Jack Allen’s has grown to include two more locations in Round Rock (off Hoppe Trail and at the Dell Diamond) and is expected to open its newest location in Westlake this fall.
I’m partial to the original location, which boasts a quintessentially Hill Country atmosphere that walks the line between laid-back casual and let’s-celebrate special.
The dark, wood-planked walls are brightened by tons of natural sunlight by day and twinkling strings of lights by night. Local artwork hangs throughout the restaurant, and the vast expanse of windows show off beautifully wooded views of Williamson Creek.
Prickly Pear Mojitos are served in mason jars, and Moscow Mules are presented in copper mugs. In other words, Jack Allen’s knocks it out of the park when it comes to creating an inviting atmosphere.
Let’s Talk Food
Wooded views and a welcoming feel at Jack Allen’s Kitchen
Many are familiar with the lunch and dinner menu at Jack Allen’s, which includes favorites like House Made Pimiento Cheese, the Fat Jack Burger, and Chicken Fried Beef Ribs. Maybe even more popular is Jack’s happy hour, which is easily one of the best deals in town for drinks and appetizers. If you haven’t experienced Sunday Brunch, though, then you haven’t really gotten to know Jack.
Brunch is served from 10 AM until 2 PM on Sundays only and includes an impressive buffet of old Southern favorites and slightly offbeat creations. No boring, run-of-the-mill scrambled eggs here (unless, of course, you really just want scrambled eggs, in which case your server will bring you some).
In fact, many of the brunch dishes are created based on what’s available that week from the local farms who support Jack Allen’s, including Central Texas favorites like Richardson Farms, Hillside Farms, and Quality Seafood Market.
Despite the variety Sunday Brunch provides, there are several familiar, reliable appearances each week, including Green Chile Pork and Eggs, Migas, Mama’s Sunday Chicken, and Fresh Tomato and Basil Pie.
Since brunch isn’t complete without a fancy drink, try one of their fresh Mimosas, Bloody Marys, or (and?) their Famous Pomegranate Sangria, all of which are just $3.50 until 2 PM.
Keeping It (Really) Local
Jack Allen’s bar serves local wine, beer and spirits
Even more impressive than a great atmosphere and incredibly delicious brunch is Jack Allen’s commitment to supporting the local community. Executive chef-owner Jack Gilmore and partner Tom Kamm show their dedication through fostering partnerships with an ever-expanding list of local farms, breweries, wineries, and distilleries, all of which play an integral role in helping them live out their mantra of “cultivating a healthy community through charity and comforting them with food that puts a smile on their face.”
@theAustinot wants to know:
Got any other Austin brunch favorites we need to include in the series?
Battle of the Brunches Round 1: South Congress Cafe
Battle of the Brunches Round 3: Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill
Battle of the Brunches Round 4: Magnolia Cafe
The Jack Allen’s building was built in the year 2000 for the Y-Bar. It is most definitely not mid-century. The food however, is great.
You’re right, @Welshdog:disqus . That should read mid-century-style building, not mid-century, since the building was completed in 2001. Thank you!