I walked the line by Tymon Hytem

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I walked the line
by Tymon Hytem

Set amidst the rolling ridgelines of Austin’s arboretum area The County Line (on the lake) proves to be the penultimate Texas barbecue. The restaurant and adjoining patio area sit flush against Bull Creek, which flows into Lake Austin. This is a picturesque place for a pint or a margarita on a sunny summers evening while waiting for your table.

I suggest not calling ahead to make reservations just so you can enjoy this most pleasant aperitif out on their beautiful redwood deck while listening to a bit of live music. When it comes time to take your seat and order your food don’t stand on ceremony get yourself the all you can eat barbecue, I prefer “the Cadillac”, and be prepared to “get it all over ya’!” What follows is a Barbe-bachannal of heroic proportions. First they bring out fresh baked, steaming loaves of white and honey wheat bread but with the warning that these are for “soaking up sauces and not to fill up on.” Next faster than you could wish for they bring out chicken quarters, ham, sausage, two types of brisket, moist and extra moist, pork ribs and beef ribs all accompanied by a sweet and savory barbecue sauce that’ll knock your socks off and have you dipping your bread in it. Three sides of beans, coleslaw and potato salad round out the meal nicely and they even finish it off with a nice dollop of Ice cream… That is if you still have room for it.

After you have feasted you might make your way to the bathroom for a bit of washing up, that dang ol’ sauce gets everywhere man. Pay attention to the “how to speak cowboy” CD they got playing in there as it has valuable tips and terms on it. One last bit of advice before you go, wear a Texas Longhorns Shirt. You’ll look like a local and that burnt orange hides barbecue sauce purty darn well!

The County Line has three other locations here in central Texas. One more here in Austin (on the hill) on Bee Caves road as well as two down in San Antonio, out on I-10 and on the River Walk.

Author's Biography:

D.J. Lonaghain is a self confessed foodie who is equally obsessed with live music and wine. He lives in Austin and counts himself lucky to do so. God Bless the Hill Country! You can find some great information on Texas restaurants; destinations and attractions that you would not want to miss by visiting

Posted on: April 2,2007

Email: tymonhytem@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.cuisineofsanantonio.com