THIS RESTAURANT HAS CHANGED NAMES TRIO Awards

THIS RESTAURANT HAS CHANGED NAMES TRIO Restaurant Review:

Austin's landmark hotel restaurant, perched on sparkling Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake), is a vibrant space with contemporary lines and the striking colors of the sunset. The remake of the former European-style menu by veteran executive chef Elmar Prambs is anchored by the classics: fresh seafood, Prime steaks and fine wine---hence the name TRIO. The seasonally changing dishes feature healthful and locally procured ingredients. Start with a classic like shrimp cocktail or crab cake, or go for the more unique smoky baked squash blossom with ricotta and basil. Filet mignon is tender and properly grilled, though we’re also fond of the Thunder Heart ranch bison rib-eye with tomatillo ketchup. Opt for the interesting side dish of creamer peas and quinoa to go with the potato-crusted Gulf grouper in clam jus. Consult with sommelier Mark Sayre for a wine choice from the 800-bottle collection. Talented pastry chef Javier Franco keeps the theme going with trio plates of inventive ice creams (banana Nutella anyone?), sorbet and chocolates. Sunday brunch is extravagant with a raw bar, carving station and free-flowing mimosas. TRIO’s happy hour features half-priced appetizers and glasses of wine from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.