Communal dining is a unique experience at Sway (Credit: Jody Horton)
Sweet, spicy, and aromatic–only a few words that come to mind when I think about dining at Sway.
Before I left the restaurant for the first time, I was already picking out what I wanted to try
next. It was that good.
Starting with Thai favorites, the chefs at Sway enhance the menu by incorporating locally-sourced ingredients and Western techniques into their cooking. Sway stands out to those who favor tradition, as well as those who crave something unique. Since opening its doors in 2012, Sway’s ingenuity has made the restaurant a staple in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood.
Shared Experience Through Communal Dining
Large tables fill the warm interior space (Credit: Jody Horton)
I have always felt that food brings people together. Sway’s communal dining room does just
that by uniting family, friends, and even strangers. Diners are seated at tables where they are
encouraged to explore the menu and share with each other. The dishes are then served
family style.
Sway also has outdoor seating that includes large tables, for the same experience inside and out. I highly recommend the outdoor patio, which is particularly beautiful at night.
Sway Menu Highlights
Housemade mango-chili drinking vinegar and coconut-lime soda
Sway’s menu is diverse, with options including hot and cold appetizers, salads, curries, grilled entrees, and stir fry options. Daily specials are also offered.
The beverage menu is creative. While it offers beer, wine, and sake, it also includes an array of non-alcoholic beverages. The mango-chili housemade drinking vinegar and the coconut-lime housemade soda are delicious additions to the menu.
While you’re there, be sure to try a little of everything. Striking up a conversation with your server is the best way to get to know the menu. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about what they’re
serving you, and are happy to walk you through some of their favorite dishes.
Keep in mind, there are many dishes on the menu that include chili peppers, so you may experience quite a bit of heat and spice.
In my opinion, here are some of the menu highlights:
- Prawn Miange: Betel leaf, toasted coconut, toasted cashews, lime, fresno chili, grapefruit, dried shrimp
- Satay: Charcoal grilled pork, shrimp and tofu with kewpie mayo, red chili peanut sauce
- Tiger Cry: Char-grilled hanger steak with red chili nahm jim, thai basil, fresno chili, toasted rice,
nahm prik pao (Thai chili paste) - Brussels sprouts: Served with fermented bean and garlic
- Baby bok choy: Served with toasted garlic
- Thai tea affogato: Condensed milk ice cream, black tea tapioca, macadamia crumble, Thai tea
Tiger Cry dish with char-grilled hanger steak
I tried the dessert on special and it was fantastic. It was a poached pear with goat cheese ice cream,
papaya, berry, blood orange, and ginger streusel. Don’t miss Sway’s daily specials, as there may be a
limited quantity available.
Poached pear with goat cheese ice cream
Dining Options
Dinner service is not the only option at Sway. Group dining is offered for parties of 10 or more, and
specials menus are offered to these groups. Choices includes two different chef tasting menus, plus the
Moo Sway. Moo Sway is only available to two groups per day, but the off-the-menu Thai-style pork
shoulder is sure to impress.
Brunch is offered on weekends. You’ll find dishes such as the Thai basil waffle and chicken, mussel
omelette, and mapow biscuits and gravy. If you prefer take-away, you can place to-go orders through the restaurant’s website. Sway will also be expanding soon with two locations in The Domain and West Lake Hills.
Sway only accepts reservations for group dining.
Lasting Impressions
Outdoor communal dining in Sway’s garden
I am sure anyone who has treated themselves to the culinary masterpieces coming out of Sway’s kitchen can agree the dishes are as beautiful as they are delicious. The atmosphere is perfect for a
group lunch or dinner with friends and family, or an adventurous night out with a loved one. The space can also be rented out for your next event. I’m looking forward to going back soon to try even
more of the menu items.
1417 S. 1st St. – Website
@theAustinot wants to know:
What is your favorite dish at Sway?
Disclosure: My meal was comped for the purposes of this review. All opinions are my own.
