After a flurry of babysitter, bottles, phone numbers, instructions, and finally kissing the little one goodnight, the stars aligned and I finally relaxed into the evening like a real person out on the town. The atmosphere on Sixth Street was truly charming, accompanied by a pleasant breeze. It was late enough to feel adventurous, but not so late that I was dodging any staggering partygoers. I patted myself on the back for making the decision to get out, and the evening was off to a lovely start.

Just off of Congress, Mekong River could be overlooked among the countless signs and awnings covering the historic downtown buildings, but once inside it’s impossible to miss the welcoming smiles at the door. My first impression was a positive one. We were greeted at the door and promptly seated at a well-placed table under the warm glow of the lights, among the deep, rich wooden decor and the beautifully high painted tin ceiling.

To begin, we selected two promising appetizers. The Banh Xeo is an exquisitely plated Vietnamese crepe with mushrooms, bean sprouts, shrimp and chicken, served with fresh basil and cilantro to add to suit your taste. The rice flour crepe is beautiful, delicate and flavorful. At $5.25, this starter is delicious, and there’s plenty to share. We also chose the traditional Thai beef Satay. Presented on four skewers, it was tasty, though the hands-on method of enjoying it definitely takes it out of the “what-to-order-on-a-date-dish” category.

I knew I couldn’t resist trying the Saigon Mistress. Labeled on the menu with the familiar “spicy” stars, this signature dish can be adjusted to your level of comfort, but I thoroughly enjoyed a little kick from the dried chilies. Flavors from onions, fresh cilantro and mint, with a hint of lime juice, danced among the lightly grilled New York strips.

Also worth noting is the Pho Tai Nam Gau. This wonderfully aromatic Vietnamese beef soup is poured over fresh rice noodles and served with coriander and mint leaves. For a reasonable $5.50, the large bowl is a meal by itself.

The Vietnamese Café Sua, or Café Sua Da (iced for hot evenings), was a relaxing way to finish the meal. We enjoyed it with the Che Nep Than, a delicious sweet black rice pudding with coconut milk.

Following an absolutely satisfying meal, I had the privilege of visiting with owner Son Le. In 1994, he came to Austin with family recipes in hand. By 1998, the restaurant once known as Cong Ly opened under its new name and ownership as Mekong River. It is a family business that he is proud to share with his manager and brother-in-law, Larry Nguyen. When asked how he competes with other Vietnamese and Thai restaurants in town, Son smiles gently and says, “We do it better.”

A successful family business, with wonderful cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Thumbs up to a fabulous evening. Words from an everyday mom and food connoisseur… even if it means a little planning and a babysitter, it will feel wonderful to indulge and let a place like Mekong River take your mind away from it all.