QUICK INFO - BLUE STAR CAFETERIA
Location: 4800 Burnet Rd.
Phone: 512.321.0123
Type: American + Comfort Food
Parking: Small Lot
Kid Friendly: Yes
Suggested Order: Crispy Artichoke Hearts

By Gina Ross

Driving down Burnet Road lately, you can’t help but notice that the area is undergoing a rebirth. Classic Austin landmarks blend seamlessly with exciting new restaurants, shops, and businesses. And nestled in the new brick Rosedale center is one Blue Star Cafeteria.

Blue Star’s owner, Eddie Bernal — a “star” on the restaurant scene since 1984 — is an Austin classic himself. The owner of longtime favorites 34th Street Café and Santa Rita Cantina, Eddie felt that Austin diners were ready for something hip and stylish while still relaxed and familiar. Set in a building with 20-foot ceilings and large, bright windows, Blue Star’s brick exterior is inviting, while the interior is surprisingly modern and chic. Boasting “comfy” food, the menu effortlessly blends simplicity with sophistication.

Walking into Blue Star on a scorching hot summer afternoon, I was immediately comforted by the cool décor, in mocha, ivory, and silver tones. The restaurant was bustling with a vibrant lunch crowd including mothers with children, businessmen, and ladies lunching. While the sleek stools at the counter overlooking the kitchen were appealing, I chose a booth by the lofty windows. My server presented me with a tall glass of iced tea and left me to study the menu while I waited for my friend to arrive.

Deciding what to order was no easy task. After agonizing over the grilled cheese with fruit chutney, the shrimp cocktail, and the fried chicken tenderloins, we finally decided to start with an order of the Crispy Artichoke Hearts. The crunchy crust with a hint of rosemary was a perfect complement to the lemony flavor of the artichoke hearts. Accompanied by a tangy anchovy dipping sauce and mixed field greens tossed with balsamic vinaigrette, they made a perfect light but satisfying starter.

Getting into the comfort food spirit, I decided to do something I never do and order a cheeseburger for lunch. I was rewarded with a peppery, juicy burger oozing with cheddar cheese and presented on a buttered bun. The burger is normally served with coleslaw, but I opted to substitute the crispy fries, generously sprinkled with a sweet and spicy blend of seasonings. My lunch buddy went for another classic, the chicken salad sandwich. Served on soft white bread, the chunks of chicken breast were accented by a creamy basil pesto mayonnaise and presented with fresh leaf lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onions. As if we hadn’t had enough, we were enticed by our server’s recommendation of the toffee cheesecake, one of many tempting homemade desserts. The chocolate crust was more like a brownie and was the perfect contrast to the creamy cheesecake and crunchy toffee topping.
In the tradition of an old-school cafeteria, Blue Star has a little something for everyone. Diners looking for lighter fare will be pleased by the collection of main dish salads, imaginative sandwiches, and focaccia pizzas. Homey favorites like meatloaf and spinach lasagna are served all day. The dinner menu features innovative interpretations of old favorites such as chicken-fried quail with cheese grits and glazed carrots, or honey-glazed pork chops with macaroni and cheese and green beans. The restaurant boasts a weekend brunch as well as an extensive wine list and a unique selection of beers. You can even have homemade chicken and stars soup!

Blue Star is a refreshing combination of new Austin flair and old Austin charm. Whether you have lunch at the counter, dinner on the patio, or get something to go, you’ll soon forget that this modern classic hasn’t been in the neighborhood forever.