Suelo Nuevo: A Lake Travis Dad's Take

Full disclosure: I'm not a mom. I'm also pretty sure I'm not a woman. However, I am a Lake Travis area resident, and I am a dad, so hopefully I bring enough in the way of shared perspectives and common experiences--you know, changing diapers, reading to the children most nights, telling the kids to stop it, I mean it, stop whacking the blankity blank dog with the fly swatter this very instant--to justify my guest appearance on Lake Travis Moms today.

How this dad came to post here is best left unuttered. Said dad may or may not have run into Kim, the co-founder of Lake Travis Moms, at a neighborhood gathering. Said dad also may--or may not--have claimed that particular evening that he was a better writer than Joseph Heller, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Billy Shakespeare, and that deceased hack who wrote about the girl and the dragon tattoo. And it's possible, but not probable, that this same dad, several cocktails into the night, first asked, then whimpered and whined, and finally implored Kim to let him, pretty pretty pretty please, write a restaurant review for Lake Travis Moms, a blog he visits daily. "Fine," Kim may or may not have said, sighing deeply. "You can write a restaurant review. Just please stop crying and get up off the floor."

However it happened, I'm here, and I'm honored to be so. Lake Travis Moms is the coolest and best resource for family goings on in the Lakeway/Bee Cave/Hudson Bend area. But you know that already. You're smart people, you Lake Travis Moms' readers. You know what's going on.

I'm writing today to tell you about a restaurant with a play scape that you might not have heard of unless you live in Steiner Ranch. It's called Suelo Nuevo, and it's on Quinlan Park road, just off FM 620 behind the under-construction Randalls.

As a dad of two amazing and particularly active boys, I look for two things in a restaurant:

1. Space for my kids to howl and race and climb like freed monkeys.

2. Booze. Gallons and gallons of sweet, sweet booze.

The other stuff--friendly service, agreeable atmosphere, edible food, seats, forks, flush toilets--is nice, too, but as long as the boys are free to range and daddy has a cocktail, daddy is plenty pleased. Same for mommy. Serve her a margarita and the long day at the job and the toddler who keeps somehow finding the fly swatter and terrorizing the dog with it seep away.

Suelo Nuevo has both a plays cape and a bar, which means my wife and I were predisposed to approve of the joint before we slipped in there on a recent Friday. The play scape is standard--think ho-hum slide and crummy climbing wall--which does the trick, but what separates Suelo Nuevo from most other kid-catered places is the big yard that's fenced and adjoins the covered outdoor tables. When we were there, a huge game of chase erupted in that grassy yard, and my kids--ages 7 and almost 3--ran and ran and ran and didn't want to leave.

The food is typical Tex Mex, and the prices are reasonable. We were taken with the stuffed avocado, which was filled with chicken, lightly fried, and served with a choice of sauces to drip over the top. The borracho beans, flavored with an abundance of bacon, were especially flavorful, if not heart healthy, and the tacos and stuffed chile rellenos were fine but forgettable. The salsa was fresh but mild.

Our kids were pleased with their quesadillas, and my wife and I were pleased with the price: 3.99. Mac and cheese, chicken tenders, and tacos are other notable children's meal options. A drink and choice of sides is included with them all.

Suelo Nuevo boasts a full bar with respectable selection of beer on tap, including a couple of microbrews in addition to Shiner/Bud Light/Dos Equis blah blah lagers. Suelo Nuevo's large margaritas really are large--16 ounces, I'd wager. They're potent, too, and at a six bucks a pop, relatively cheap.

Suelo Nuevo doesn't offer the best Tex Mex in the Lake Travis area, but with extensive play space for children, nice prices, full bar, and good food, we'll be going back. Keep your eyes open for us. I'll be the zoned out one with the large drink and the goofy grin. My wife will be the pretty one who loves me anyway. And our kids will be the ones chasing each other with the fly swatter.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

There is a lot to be said about Craig Lesley. As a friend and neighbor, I could certainly dish up a few fun stories, but this may not be the right place for that.

Here are the basics, in his own words, taken from his blog Bad Chemicals:

We’re a family made up of two smelly dogs, one damaged cat, two good boys, one nice lady, and one goofy man. We live in Texas.

Also, if you want to read a truly moving essay that was recently published, check out his more of his writing here on Story Bleed Magazine.

Halloween Events this Weekend

There are some great Halloween events going on in the Lake Travis area this weekend!

From 3PM-9PM this Saturday The Hill Country Galleria will be hosting a Trick or Treat event with performances by PAIYH Dance Studio, a bounce house, face painting, live music and trick or treating at participating stores. Check out their website for more information! (By the way- helpful hint for next Summer, when you log onto their website it will tell you if the interactive fountain is open that day!)

Also, the Lake Travis Fire and Rescue will be having their ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday from 1PM-3PM! Bring the kids in their Halloween costumes where they can enjoy the bounce house, photo booth, Res-Q the clown and tour the fire station! They'll have plenty of snacks and safe Halloween candy!

Let's see how many times we can get our kids in their Halloween costumes this year!

We're sure there are more many more events going on, so as always, please be sure to share with us. You can comment below or find us on Facebook too.

Happy Halloween!

Mandola's Italian Restaurant and Market

We enjoyed a trip to Mandola's in Bee Cave at The Shops at the Galleria last weekend with the kids. There is a cute little table and chairs just their size which they loved. The kids meal comes with a scoop of their fabulous gelato too! Next time we hope to try out the Bocce Ball Court.

Update: There is a nice outdoor playscape now!! We are looking forward to enjoying spring evenings on the patio at Mandolas!

beneFIT Bikram Yoga in Lakeway

Yesterday I took my very first Bikram Yoga class (at beneFIT in Lakeway). Wow! To explain the experience is sort of like explaining parenthood to someone. There are these two very distinct, competing voices in my head- there is the one that wants to blurt out, don't do it! it's grueling, exhausting, painful, and there are going to be several times when it gets so intense you will want to quietly escape. Then there is the voice that I actually use that says it is wonderful, inspiring, life altering and completely worth it. Hang in there...take a break when you need to...breath through it when you feel like you can't take it anymore...relax...be calm...be mindful...work on your balance...your flexibility... and you WILL be able to do it. Just like parenting, the Bikram Yoga experience is challenging in every sense of the word, but it is special and exhilarating. I am looking forward to growing in both.

For those of you who are not familiar, here is an explanation taken from the BeneFIT Bikram Yoga web page:

Bikram Yoga is a 90 minute class that works the entire body every time. In 105 degrees and 50% humidity, students do 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises that work all the major systems and force them to work together: cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, lyphatic, central nervous, digestive and musculoskeletal. Postures are done twice and prepare the body for what comes next.

Students sweat, detoxify, lose weight and reshape and restructure their bodies developing strength, flexibility and balance. All kinds of chronic ailments and diseases disappear with regular practice.

Most importantly, students develop their patience, concentration, determination, self-discipline and faith, key elements to a truly balanced life.

The studio is located in the Oak Grove Plaza in Lakeway.

Check out the website for more information.

Free* Michaels Crafts

So we made the trek to Michaels on Saturday despite the lovely rain we have waited months for. And it was absolutely worth it! We went for the pumpkin craft and the kids had a blast! When we showed up, they had plenty of signs that told us what to do. We picked our pumpkin, stood in line and bought the crafting pumpkins at a reduced price (*$5.00). We went to the crafting classroom and my daughter squealed with delight. She is, after all, the one always telling me that she needs to do her "arting". They had feathers, glitter glue, and paint pens, oh my! It was great to see them let their imagination take shape in form of a pumpkin face. They both loved the large selection of supplies they had at their finger tips, and want to go back again very soon! We hope to see you there soon! Were you there? Post your pictures and show us your creations!!

Kid-E-Shack Under New Ownership

We recently interviewed the new owner of Kid-E-Shack (a state-licensed drop in day care) and we are very excited to welcome Claudete Gunsalus into the Lake Travis community! She is passionate about children and it shines through. She has some wonderful new ideas that she will begin to implement, such as planning a new organic food menu. We are certainly looking forward to keeping in touch with her.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

I am a Brazilian-American. I moved to Berkeley, CA in 1983. I have a degree in Child Development. I have experience working with all ages children. My last job before moving to Austin was as a Research Teacher and the Director of the Before and After School Program for 13 years in one of the Elementary School in Oakland Hills, CA. My passion is children. I love to work and make a difference in the children's lives!


Why Kid-E-Shack?

Because I was looking for a business that fits my philosophy of life. I am a giver with a positive attitude. I was so impressed with the Kid-E-Shack playscape being inside and not having to take the children outside during the hot summer days. Kid-E-Shack Lakeway is a drop-in program that fits the needs of the parents and children. The children are safe, happy and entertained by the highest quality childcare providers. I hope the business can grow providing the best flexible and qualified child care program.

What kind of experience do you envision for the kids? What about the parents?

The program philosophy is "Happy Parents = Happy Children." Until you get back... Kid-E-Shack will provide the best entertainment time and safe environment. The parents will feel comfortable knowing about their child being socializing with other children.

There is a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Lake Travis Chamber of Commerce for Claudete today. We will post photos on our Facebook page soon- so be sure to stop by and welcome her. Or, better yet, stop by Kid-E-Shack and meet her in person!

Location: Just West of Randalls, in the same shopping center as Jack Brown Cleaners right off 620.

1508 Ranch Road 620 South Lakeway, TX 78734-6274

(512) 402-0077

Ages 18 mo - 12 Years Old

Check out the website for more info and rates

Papa Murphy's Pizza in Lakeway

It's been a few years ago now, but I remember it like it was yesterday...the day I had my first Papa Murphy's pizza. It was a crisp fall evening and the neighbors were watching a football game on a big screen TV which had been plugged into a long extension cord and placed smack in the middle of the lawn. (This is just one of the many reasons I love my neighbors.) It was about half time, when one of the girls brought out pizza cut up into small bite-sized pieces. We all passed the plates around and commented on what a good cook she was. She fessed up that it was not something she made but that it was actually "take and bake." Take and bake? The concept just didn't make sense to me at the time. Why not just stock your freezer with frozen pizza or why not delivery? BUT once you have fresh pizza, it is pretty hard to compare frozen or greasy delivery pizza. The fresh taste is not the only thing that has kept me going back to Papa Murphy's though. If you have already been to the Lakeway location you will know just what I am talking about- the owners, Michael and Bridge, are so friendly and personable. They will make you remember why we need to support local business owners who put their heart and soul into their work and into our community! Papa Murphy's in Lakeway- We love you! We have fallen in love with your cute little Jacko Pizzas too.

These Jacko Pizzas will be offered for only $6 at Papa Murphy's soon. Like our Lake Travis Moms Facebook page and watch for our post on Friday! A few of our lucky fans will have the chance to win a FREE Jacko Pizza!

Personalized Pumpkins at Michaels

So, I was in Michaels the other day to buy paint for a craft project at home, and I was distracted by the carved craft pumpkins in the floral department. I am a sucker for anything Halloween, and who can pass up a reusable pumpkin? I filled out the order form, brought it to the cashier and then got to wait. I was told I would get a call in 5-10 days and I could pick up my carved name-o-lanterns. I was so excited, and super pleased with the actual product. My kids love them too and they use them as night lights. The best part of the pumpkin pick up was the list of the October free crafts that Presley is excited to attend so she can do her “arting”.

Check out the link below for what’s to come at our local store, located in The Shops at the Galleria.

October In-Store Events.

See you at Michaels!

(FYI for the apostrophe Nazi out there- "Michaels" does not use one.)

October Fun in Lakeway/Bee Cave!

Ahhh it is finally Fall! I'm sure we are all looking forward to some cooler weather. Also exciting are all the great events planned around the Bee Cave and Lakeway area to bring in the season. The Fall Concert Series is starting up at the Hill Country Galleria, there are great themed events at the libraries each week, local businesses have tons of fun offerings and CUTE Halloween decor, and local restaurants are now featuring their fall recipes!

We plan to keep adding to our calendar of events, so keep checking back for updates, OR friend us on Facebook :)

And, if you know of anything we have not featured yet, let us know!

Click Here to see what we have on our calendar so far!

CraigO's Pizza and Pastaria

You know you're a parent when a new playscape catches your eye while driving 50 miles per hour down the road. For the last couple months we've all see the colorful metal, swings, and rings, go up behind the new building on top of the hill by Walgreens. The sign went up the other day- which means CraigO's will be open soon!  Maybe you've been to one of their other restaurants? There are currently 3 locations in Austin and one in San Marcos. They are local and family owned. From the Google reviews online, it sounds like it a great homestyle Italian restaurant. We are anxious to try it out when it opens! We will be back to review it and let you all know what we think...or let us know if you get to it first.

P Terry's

Several months ago, Alison and I shared the same sentiment when we saw the coming soon sign go up across from Lake Travis High School- "another burger stand? humph." We were both hoping for something a little more exciting. But...given its location, it does seem to fit the bill. I'm sure the company did their due diligence and figured they might make some cash serving hungry teens and California transplants who long for, and constantly compare, P Terry's to our beloved In and Out Burger.

As I sat there taking in the cool retro architecture, I was transported to the future of my two girls as teenagers: there they were, both sisters sitting side by side in a booth, laughing with friends after a victory LT football game, wearing their boyfriends Letterman jackets, and watching their iPhones closely to make sure they were home well before curfew. A mom can hope, right?

Then back to reality, I have an energetic two year old by my side taking off her flip flops about to head straight toward the large toy filled sand pit on the patio. I really would have rather she waiting until after she ate, but what the heck, it is kind of nice to sit and talk with no interruptions until our food is ready.

Our numbers are called fairly quickly and Alison goes to get our lunch. We both ordered the chicken sandwich which we thought was mediocre. (I know, I know, it IS a burger stand and the burgers are probably the best thing to order- but school just started and that is when all us moms make our new years resolution to shed a few pounds, right?) We did end up splitting the kids uneaten veggie burger which we agreed will make us return to P Terry's again. It was voted "The Best Veggie Burger in Austin" and now we see why. Plus, all of their food is fresh, all natural, and the tomatoes are locally grown. They give back to the community too, which is another big plus!

Sno-Cones

Komana-i-wana Sno-cone!  Get it?  Come on I want a Sno-cone! Yeah, it took me a minute or two to get it too.  Hurry up and get one before they close for the season, September 18.  Gary and Mary are two of the sweetest people my family knows.  The sno-cones are a great texture too.  Not that thick chunky kind of sno-cone, but the ones you think are pure snow with flavor.  I can't get enough of them!  And coming from my family that says a lot.  I can get my husband to do anything if I just get him a sno-cone first.  Don't believe me?  Come look at my new couches :)  Hurry in and get one, and while your there, check out the pictures on the wall.  My son, Will, was the first customer, and you can see him each year since with his first sno-cone of the season!  PS - it is a cash only place, so make sure to bring cash.  And as an extra bonus, drive thru and get a spill stopper for your icy treat.  No spills in the car, they really do work!!  See you there!

Location: Between Debba and General Williamson by the Texas Chopper Shop.

Capital City Running

I'm not going to pretend that I'm a runner. In fact, I am envious of anyone on the street that I see with perfect running form or with one of those cute sporty running watches. I do, however, like to walk and have recently joined Gold's Gym in Bee Cave (which I plan to review as soon as Alison commits to joining the local gym by her house). So, being a more frequent exerciser, I decided it was time to invest in some new "workout" shoes. I drive past Capital City Running in Lakeway everyday, but being a non-runner, I was a bit intimidated to go inside. I looked them up online first, read about the CCR "fit process" and I knew I needed to make a visit. I have a high arch and a narrow foot so comfy shoes have always been super hard to find. Flip flop season usually lasts until we get a hard freeze.

The visit to CCR was well worth it! I love my new shoes (Brooks Ghost). It feels like I am not even wearing shoes- which the man who fit me said was how a shoe should feel. I highly recommend paying them a visit if you are in the market for a new pair. The service is super friendly and there is a great selection to choose from too!


Location:
1700 Ranch Road 620 N., #102
Austin, TX 78734
Click here for Google Maps

Hours of Operation:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday - Friday: 11am to 7pm
Saturday: 11am to 5pm
Sunday: Noon - 4pm

About us and why we decided to start this blog

Kim: "Hey, have you tried that new Mexican restaurant on 620 yet?"

Alison: "Yes! If you go, you have to try the margaritas. You can even order the fruit ones on the rocks. AND, they are made with real fruit, so technically they are good for you."

Kim: "Awesome. We need a date night soon. We may have to try it out this weekend."

Alison: "Well, if you can't get a babysitter- you should go to Flores in Lakeway. They have a playscape that is small and close to the tables."

Kim: "Ah- yeah, we love that place. We want to try the other restaurant across the way that has a playscape too."

Alison: "I think I have a buy one entree, get one free. We should do lunch there this week."

It was after a particularly similar conversation like the one above when we both realized that we have started to compile a lot of information in our heads about the Lake Travis/Lakeway/Bee Cave area. We thought it would be fun to put our "mom files" to good use and share with other local moms.

We both have two young kids- so like all of you- we love finding good deals, kid friendly restaurants, fun free things to do with them, and of course, finding a little free time for ourselves.

We are just starting out so check back often as we will expand on why we love the places we do and share what we've learned from trial and error. Please feel free to share with us too! We'd love to hear more about you, the places you love, and what is going on in our community.

See y'all at Target.