The Salty Tom or Pepe’s Hibiscus Paloma—the choice is yours! (Credit: @dollarsaenz)
The name Salt Traders Coastal Cooking was inspired by the most crucial ingredient used in the kitchen. It’s also a reference to a precious commodity that brought work to the American (and specifically Texas) coastline, as far back as the 1800s.
And while the sister restaurant to Jack Allen’s Kitchen may not be selling salt or seashells by the seashore, its team members are cooking up seafood for the residents of Austin, inspired by some of the most memorable meals they’ve eaten by the sea.
I recently pulled up a chair at one of the tables in Round Rock to sample the fare. I was so impressed by what was served and how many of the ingredients were made in-house–from the sauces to the bread to the pickled veggies–that I just had to tell you about it.
Here are a few of the meal highlights.
Thank you to Salt Traders Coastal Cooking for hosting me for the purposes of this review. All opinions are my own.
Salt Traders Cocktails
Salt not only balances and enhances food, but drinks, too For this very reason, Salt Traders created five unique salt blends to accompany the cocktails in its beverage program. The citrus flavors instantly come alive when paired with a salty rim. And two standouts on the Salt Traders menu that fit the bill are Pepe’s Hibiscus Paloma and The Salty Tom.
➡ Keep reading: “10 Refreshing Citrus Cocktails to Try in Austin Right Now”
The paloma features a citrus salt made from the zest of fresh grapefruit, lemon, and lime. It perfectly highlights the drink’s liquid ingredients: Z Blanco Tequila, hibiscus liqueur, fresh grapefruit and lime juice, and grapefruit soda.
The Salty Tom’s crystal crown is ground down from a Himalayan salt block, then mixed with lime juice. It’s the perfect garnish to the mixture of Ford’s Gin, Paula’s Grapefruit, fresh grapefruit juice, and rosemary.
Both cocktails were bright and refreshing on the gloomy winter evening I tasted them. I suspect they’re that way year ’round.
Appetizers
Chowda Fries
Try not to get drool on the screen as you stare at these Chowda fries! (Credit: @dollarsaenz)
Clams, leeks, bacon, and french fries. What more could you even want on your plate? I’ll admit: I don’t eat much seafood. But it was hard to resist this appetizer. And it was harder to stop eating it once I started. You’ll definitely want to share with someone. But whatever you do, don’t skip it.
Entrees
Flat Top Fish Tacos
Savory fish tacos tantalize the taste buds! (Credit: Resplendent Hospitality)
The only thing fishy about these tacos is the cooked-to-perfection tender strips of Flat Top fish nestled between two crispy tortillas. Candied jalapeños, fennel slaw, cilantro, and avocado mousse add layers of tantalizing flavor.
These noteworthy tacos were served with street corn-inspired salad. Just like the type you’d find in Mexico City, except in a bowl for your eating enjoyment. It’s definitely a lot of bang for your taste buds.
Dessert
Warm Dark Chocolate Brownie
Score literal brownie points with this chocolate brownie (Credit: @dollarsaenz)
The next time someone asks me what I want my last meal to be before I die, I’m going to say Salt Traders’ Warm Dark Chocolate Brownie (available seasonally). Only because it’s one of the best things I’ve ever eaten. The brownie goodness is topped with Heath toffee ice cream and Ritz Cracker crumbles, and it’s practically dripping with butterscotch sauce.
Key Lime Meringue Pie
This Key lime stunner is worth every single calorie (Credit: @dollarsaenz)
This stunning dessert will instantly transport you to the southern coast of Florida with bright notes of fresh lime and cream, and delicately blow torch burnt top layers. Order one for yourself to see what all the fuss is about. Sunscreen sold separately.
2850 N Interstate Hwy 35, Round Rock, TX – Website
@dollarsaenz wants to know:
What’s your favorite menu item at Salt Traders Coastal Cooking?
