Garrett’s Sneak Peek

Well fellow foodies, this week for Lunch Bunch, the Team had an extra special treat. Working in the thriving downtown area of the vast Waco metropolis, we can walk to approximately…three…places for lunch. But seriously, downtown Waco has some really exciting developments happening, including another local restaurant for us to review!

Coming in May there will be a new place on Austin Avenue called Garrett’s. It’s where the old Green Room used to be (insert awkward turtle). We have an “in” with the current manager (aka Megan’s hubs is his frat bro for life) and he offered to let us come sample some of the chefs cooking from a lunch menu put together just for us! While they plan on initially only serving dinner, they may offer lunch in the future. So while we can’t tell you exactly what to order when you go there, we can tell you that the chef has some serious street cred.

We all got to pick from a variety of sandwich options, all of which were delicious. I ordered the Grilled Salmon Sandwich and, as with most things in life, the sauce totally made the meal. I drenched it in the lemon-caper aioli and ate every crumb on my plate. Megan ordered the Pan Seared Yellowtail Sandwich with asian slaw and siracha mayo. It was a giant sandwich but she soldiered through and ate the whole thing while simultaneously carrying the entire conversation — Lunch Bunch pro. Daniel and Casey ordered the Roast Pork Sandwich, thinly sliced pork tenderloin with caramelized onions, greens, and a strawberry-habanero preserve that they raved about. They had terrible breath all day but they thoroughly enjoyed their selection.

They also offered us a couple of delicious looking salads which made choosing very difficult! All in all, the Team feels confident that whatever the chef decides to roll out, it will be delicious and we will be regulars. The plan for Garrett’s is to be that chill place you can go for a quality dinner in your local market. No more trips to Dallas for a great meal and a reasonable price! With a dinner pricing in the range of $20-25, you can have a lovely, quiet dinner with excellent service, expertly prepared for you, right down the road. Can I get a “Hallelujah!” We wait for their May arrival with baited breath.

And just in case any of you are wondering, this glowing review was not produced as a result of a bribe in the form of a sandwich. We aren’t against being bought but that would take some serious cash.

Here’s what the team had to say:

“Was the Strawberry-Habanero preserve harvested from Unicorn souls?!? Because that stuff was magical!” ~ Daniel – 4.5 Dean-Os

“Someone please hint to my husband for me that I would like to go to this place regularly…oh, wait, I think I just did.” ~ Megan – 4.5 Dean-Os

“I’ve now decided to take all my meals in private with a personal server. It’s the only way to dine.” ~ Daché – 4.5 Dean-Os

“Not only did we get our first official invitation to review a meal but it was awesome food! All in all a good day for us food junkies.” ~ Casey – 4.5 Dean-Os

Insider’s Tip:
Garrett’s is tentatively opening sometime in May, but keep on the look out for their facebook page. They might be having Sunday brunch for Easter and Mother’s Day. 

Address and Directions:
725 Austin Avenue
Waco, TX 76701-2019

Falling Behind

Sorry we have been falling behind blogging to you about the fantastic food in Waco. We have been super busy around the office, and might I also add that today we got the most comfortable, new furniture an office has ever seen.

So while you might be thinking we are probably breaking in the new office furniture and taking power naps, we promise that we still have been eating at some great local places.

We recently went to Real Deal Soul Food and Jaspers BBQ, which were both fantastic! Be looking out for those reviews in the next few days and while you’re waiting check out our new review on What About Cupcakes?

What About Cupcakes? Waco,TX

THERE’S NEVER TOO MUCH ICING

Standing at the counter of What About Cupcakes and having to choose just one of their many delicious flavors can by a very painful and trying experience. Being the equal-opportunity eaters that we are, we decided to have one of each. But no worries, to maintain our svelte figures we ordered the adorable mini versions.We like to think that eating multiple mini cupcakes is somehow healthier than eating a regular one, and certainly more delicious.

Try one of each strawberry, oreo, german chocolate, peanut butter, lemon, and many more. What About Cupcakes has favorite flavors which they always keepon hand and a variety of special flavors that changes daily.

After we sat down with our colorful arrangement of different cupcakes Daniel let us in on his brilliant, childhood invention. Lets just say we are about to let you in on the best kept secret in cupcake eating techniques.

1st: Unwrap your cupcake and hold it side ways with both hands.
2nd: Separate the top section (with the icing) from the bottom cake section.
3rd: Place the bottom cake section on top of the icing section.

VOILA! You have now just created the perfect, no mess (maybe a little) cupcake sandwich.

Since Daniels cupcake sandwich creation got us in the creative mood, we started to think about some new flavors that could be added to the menu. Here’s what we came up with…

• Strawberry cupcake with chocolate icing
• Vanilla cupcake with bavarian cream filling
• Chocolate cupcake with mint icing
• Funfetti cupcake with sprinkles (what Megan really wanted was a cupcake that made unicorns and bunnies appear, but this was more realistic)
• Peanut butter  cupcake with chocolate filling

Oh and don’t forget that What About Cupcakes also offers icing shots. Think of it as their version of the five-hour energy shot, just better tasting.

So whether you go the safe route for with vanilla or try something different like pecan praline, we can promise that you will be left satisfied. And, because we were left with a satisfied sweet tooth, we are giving What About Cupcakes 3.5 Dean-O’s!

Don’t forget that What About Cupcakes delivers too, so if you’re feeling generous our address is located on our website.

Here’s what the team had to say:
“Perfect pick me up when you hit the afternoon slump.” ~Dache – 3.5 Dean-O’s

“I like to get the mini cupcakes, they’re like bunnies and rainbows, everything great in one bite.”~Megan – 4 Dean-O’s

“I like the minis because you can eat them by the handful.”~Daniel – 3.5 Dean-O’s

Insiders Tip:
Be sure to check their website for the flavors of the day!

Address & Directions:
Have a sweet tooth? Get directions here.

108 North 25th Street, Waco, TX 76710

Food for Thought, Waco, TX

FINALLY, HEALTHY FOOD WE CAN ENJOY

Walking into Food for Thought is like a fun surprise, because you never really know what you are going to get.

You can find anyone from your local hipsters soaking up their organic food to a mass of girls wearing Nike shorts (sorority sisters). Last time we went we even noticed a new, and somewhat random addition to the restaurant, a fish tank.

Located only a few blocks from thousands of hungry college students, Food for Thought has become a favorite spot to grub among the Baylor bubble.

It is known for having healthy food that actually doesn’t taste so “healthy.” And from all the unhealthy food we have been eating at other dives, going the healthy route was probably a smart choice since swim suit season is upon us.

Some of the things you can find on the menu are sandwiches loaded with avocados and tomatoes, black bean burritos and fresh smoothies.

If you ask our opinion though, the stuffed avocados and pizza are AMAZING!

And, if you are feeling extra healthy you can always request the special organic option for your meal. No matter what though, Food for Thought will leave you walking away with a full stomach without that guilty conscious about what you ate.

Here’s what the team thought…
“I pretty much eat at Food for Thought once a week; actually make that twice a week… it’s just that good!”~Megan – 4 Dean-O’s

“I loved the cheesy stuffed avocado, I could’ve eaten two more!”~Dache – 4 Dean-O’s

Insiders Tip:
Waco locals– after Baylor nation has left for the summer, don’t forget about Food for Thought. It’s a great meal for a hot day in Texas.

Address & Directions:
Feeling healthy? Get directions here.

Fat Ho Burger/Krispy Chicken, Waco, TX

“I-da-hoe? No, FAT ho.”

Well, loyal fans and dive-lovers alike, yesterday was the most dramatic Tuesday in the history of We Only Do Dives. And while we usually let the Intern De Jour help us write up these posts, this one is coming straight from the team in the trenches.

Let’s start from the beginning. As marketing professionals we pride ourselves on being current with all the latest trends and fads. So naturally, when we heard about the controversially named “Fat Ho Burger,” we knew we had to be there opening day. Granted opening days always have a few kinks, but as the Waco Trib so succinctly put it – we were “underwhelmed.” At this point I would also like to note that in the photo, I am flexting (flirt texting), Megan can’t open the ketchup, and Daniel is watching her struggle…winner?

So you walk in to Fat Ho Burger and, like most dives, you aren’t paying for the ambiance. However, Daniel (our resident muscle for the shady dives and cultural educator), was more offended by the mariachi band painted on the wall than the name of the restaurant. In Megan’s words, “At least the ‘ho’ is ‘supa fly!’”

We were all starving so we ordered a variety of entrees – Megan ordered the Supa Fly Ho Burger, I (feeling very uncomfortable saying ‘ho’ or ‘supa’ fearing my otherwise well disguised Suburban-ness would be revealed) ordered the Country Fried Steak, and Daniel ordered the Fried Chicken Basket. We had a very pleasant interaction with the ladies taking our orders, even though they didn’t seem well acquainted with the menu as we had to point a few things out to them.

At this point it is important to note that a photographer at the Trib was stalking us throughout the entire experience. We are pretty used to sticking out at this point, but having paparazzi was not helpful. Megan wouldn’t stop posing, I couldn’t remember what my hands do naturally, and Daniel just kept yelling at him in Mexicanese.

After a roughly seven minute and 43 second wait, my meal came out…alone. The Fat Ho oven was broken so my cornbread was missing and the rest of the meal was chewy, cold, and lacking gravy. Megan’s came next. Her tater tots were pretty good (as you can tell by the photo there were only three left by the time I reached in my bag and pulled out my phone) but her burger was straight out of a freezer bag. This was a far cry from the “made in front of you” greasy deliciousness we are used to inhaling, and definitely not “supa fly.” Daniel’s came out about 10 minutes later and as you can see, it was more like a kid’s meal. We picked at our food for a few minutes before Daniel had the genius idea to try a dive that was right down the road.

Here’s what the team had to say:
“I walked in and thought I saw three of my uncles, turns out it was a mural of Mariachis” ~ Daniel  – 1 Dean-O (Because they didn’t have kool-aid)

“I wish there was a little more Supa Fly in my Ho burger.” ~ Megan – 1 Dean-O

“No gravy and bad mashed potatoes – aren’t fat people supposed to appreciate good food?” ~ Daché  – 1 Dean-O

Insider’s Tip:
Don’t be offended when people start yelling insults, they aren’t talking bad about you, it’s just all the items on the menu.

Address & Directions
Corner of 11th and Ross

Enter, Krispy Chicken. The kind people of Krispy Chicken were very friendly and entertaining. We learned that they have been open since 1978, that they are family owned and operated, and that you can eat the tails of chicken and these “South Waco Shrimp” are quite delicious. They saved the day with their amazing food for three very unsatisfied bloggers.  The rolls were heavenly, the fried okra was fresh, the fries had the ideal amount of crunch, the chicken was krispy perfection and the gravy was just the cherry on top.

Going to two different places for lunch… $31
Having my mom read in the paper that I frequent a “Fat Ho” burger joint…awkward
Finding a new favorite chicken place…definitely up there
Megan and I increasing our street cred…priceless

Here’s what the team thought of Krispy Chicken:
“Krispy Chicken is way better than Bushes…like way.” ~ Daniel – 4 Dean-Os (The Jalapenos were really hot)

“I’d do something illegal for the fried okra.” ~ Megan – 4 Dean-Os

“I’ve always been scared to go to Krispy Chicken, but it was totally worth it.” ~ Daché – 3.5 Dean-Os

Insider’s Tip:
Be careful pulling in. Megan almost hit the curb at 35 mph and that would have been the end of Krispy Chicken as we know it.

Address & Directions
601 South 11th Street
Waco, Texas 76706
Here’s the google listing, but again, be careful driving up….click here

Shorty’s Pizza Shack, Waco, TX

KICK BACK, RELAX AND ENJOY THE PIZZA

Restaurants near the Baylor campus tend to be either hit or miss. Shorty’s Pizza Shack is the latest “new thing,” and so far,  the restaurant has done great.

With TV’s, high wooden tables, great pizza and a good selection of beer, Shorty’s is what we would describe as the perfect college kid hang out. The menu also includes wings, salads and even a brownie sundae. We like to think of it as a mix between Cricket’s & Food for Thought.

The New York style pizza at Shorty’s doesn’t fall short of its already great reputation either. Authentically made by a real New Jerseyan, the pizza at Shorty’s will be sure to leave you full and satisfied. Be sure to try the wheat crust pizza, it’s our favorite!

With a slice of pizza starting at only $1.99 and the pizza, salad and drink combo for $5.50, Shorty’s is the perfect place to come hang out with friends, grab a few drinks and watch the game. Don’t forget to check out the great patio as well.

Because the great atmosphere and food impressed us so much we are giving away 4 Dean-O’s to Shorty’s Pizza Shack!

Here’s what the team thought…
“I’m not sure who owns this place, but if they made me that pizza everyday I’d be their shorty.”~Dache (4)

“Might be my new favorite place to eat. Oh, and their wheat pizza is great!”~Megan (4)

“A pizza place that sells by the slice in Waco?!? This is EXACTLY what I asked Santa for!!!!”~ Daniel

“I like that they had different kinds of pizza (bbq chicken/mushroom & italian sausage). It’s nice to have something other than pepperoni and hamburger to choose from.”~ Casey

Insider’s Tip:
Check out Shorty’s Facebook page for the slice board and special of the day.. check it out here.

Address & Directions:
Feeling like eating some pizza and enjoying a good game? Get directions here.

Beatnix Burger Barn, Waco, TX

DON’T LET THE OUTSIDE FOOL YOU…TOTAL HIPSTER HAVEN

After driving around in circles and looking for the parking lot our search for great dives brought us to Beatnix Burger Barn. The half burger joint, half coffee shop is what we would call your typical “hipster haven”.

We felt a 70’s vibe when we walked in, with all the pictures on the wall and the grunge style decorations. There is also a stage in the back room for open mic nights and concerts.

Beatnix’s menu offers a variety of things including… burgers, cheesesteaks, veggie burgers, oh and our absolute favorite sweet potato fries and onion rings. What we found so great about Beatnix is the fact that they make all their food from fresh produce.

A reader of the blog suggested we try the Guacamole Bacon Burger, it wasn’t horrible, but it definitely didn’t live up to its hype.  Also, the fact that the server had to go get the Diet Coke we ordered out of his car didn’t really impress us either.

Good thing the sweet potato fries and onion rings were good enough to sustain us for the rest of our lives. We would go back again just to be able to eat them! Because the fries and onion rings left us with a good taste in our mouth we are giving Beatnix 3 Dean-O’s!

Here’s what the team thought…
“Definitely could’ve gone with the burger basket instead of the mushroom swiss burger. I absolutely loved my sweet potato fries though!”~Megan (3)

“Even though grease is one of my main food groups, this place made me rethink my ordering choices”~Dache (3)

Insiders Tip:
Get the burger basket (burger, fries, and sweet tea) it’s only $5.50, which is a great deal!

Address and Directions:
To bring out your inner hipster and enjoy a burger while doing so, get directions here.

Amelia’s on the Avenue, Waco, TX

“SHOPPING + GOOD FOOD= GIRL HEAVEN”

Not many restaurants can make you let out a little girly, “Aww”. But, if you happen to find yourself shopping inside the store Sironia, you might find yourself doing just that.  Almost as adorable as everything in the surrounding boutiques, Amelia’s on the Avenue is definitely the perfect get away for any girls day out.

The waiters, make you feel like you’re in a Paris cafe in their white button downs serve up all those delectable food combinations that never seem to fail. Just to name a few that we can’t get enough of… the chicken salad sandwich, the vermicelli salad, and the homemade muffins we would be happy to live off of. And, although the meals are a little pricey, trust us, the food is totally worth it! Oh, and don’t forget your glass of wine with your meal too. Because of the delicious food and great service we are giving Amelia’s on the Avenue 4 Dean-O’s!

And, if you’re feeling a little too tempted to buy everything around you while you’re eating, don’t forget Amelia’s also has a great porch to eat out on.

Here’s what the team said…
“Whatever they put in their muffins are probably illegal, it’s so good!!”~Dache (4)
“My favorite part is the carrot muffin…oh wait, maybe it’s the chicken salad…or it’s the vermicelli salad…or the poppy seed dressing. Either way, I definitely cleared my plate.”~Megan (4)

Insider’s Tip:
The poppyseed dressing is to die for!

Address & Directions:
Want to get away for a fun afternoon? Get directions here.

Captain Billy Whizzbang’s, Waco, TX

“TATeR TOTS, ENOUGH SAID”

How do you think up a name like Captain Billy Whizzbang’s? Well whoever it was, they must have either liked comic books or just really wanted customers to remember their name.

When you first walk into Captain Billy Whizzbang’s, there is a plaque that tells the story of how the restaurant came to be. The story tells Captain Billy Whizzbang’s adventure on his hot air balloon that leads him to a frightful landing. However unlikely, the fun little story adds to the quirky charm of the place.

Going into this dive we were really hoping for a die hard good burger. However, what impressed us the most were the tater tots. I mean who doesn’t love greasy, fried, potato chunks covered in melted cheese? So, in honor of good, greasy food we are giving Captain Billy Whizzbangs 3.5 Dean-O’s!

Captain Billy Whizzbangs is also known for having a great selection of Blue Bell ice cream and shakes. We really wish we would have left more room for those, they looked so delicious.

Here’s what the team said:
“I love tater tots.”~Megan
“I wish I had left room for a shake and corn dog.”~Dache
“Easily one of the better burger restaurants in town, little greasy but that never hurt anybody.”~Colton
“Yup! That’s a burger!”~Daniel

Insiders Tip:
Make sure you get extra cheese on your tots, the extra calorie’s are totally worth it!

Address & Directions:
In the mood for some good greasy food? Get directions here.

Oh, Meredith

We usually do a guest post for anyone who joins us on our lunch bunch outings, but somehow we missed a post about one of our favorite interns ever. Meredith is a senior at Baylor University from Dallas, TX. While working with us, she was definitely the driving force behind this awesome blog you love so much. She was always willing to go above and beyond and most importantly, she’s hilarious. As an example, she just posted this video that she made with a sorority sister for a “Dad’s Day” event. Enjoy!

Number One Dad from Keith Lindley on Vimeo.