One of the first things I wanted to do after moving from the great white north of Alaska to a "real city" in Austin, Texas, was to find my home away from home. Either a really good restaurant or bar where I could be a local, and enjoy great food and good company. Since I didn't know anyone in Austin, this was important to me, and lucky for me my boss took me to Cypress Grill in South Austin my first day at work-otherwise I might never have found out about this gem!

The Cypress Grill is a Cajun restaurant that has been around for about 20 years. The owner is originally from Louisiana, and you can see the influence inside. Aside from having great TVs for sports events, there is a classic bar against the back wall, and paintings and decorations cover the walls with the kind of colorful flair you would expect from New Orleans. Several banners brag about recent awards declaring them the best Cajun place in Austin.

The first meal I had there, and every meal since, has been exquisite. Bourbon steak, Cajun catfish, rattlesnake pasta, or good old crawfish-I have never had a meal here that wasn't excellent, and I haven't even tried one of their "Po-boy" sandwiches that they brag about. The waitresses and bartenders are all friendly and easy going, and if you're willing to listen you'll hear some great yarns. The selection of locally brewed beers are fantastic, especially if you are a fan of smooth dark beer, and if you're not in an adventurous mood, their chicken fingers, fries, and cheeseburgers are just as good.

The ambiance is exceptional, as is the service and food. If you're looking for great Cajun food around good people, this is the place, and the regulars always seem eager to get to know any new faces that keep showing up. In addition, if you ever get a chance to go there for Fat Tuesday, you can buy fresh crawfish by the pound, and the party and live music is top notch.

After six months of going there once or twice a week, I simply have nothing bad to say about them. Everyone seems to love their job, and I feel better and happy every time I just walk through the door. If you're ever in South Austin and you like Cajun food, the Cypress Grill is your place. It's a great restaurant, great bar, and a friendly home away from home all in one.

Learn more about this author, Shane Dayton.
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