Ocho Awards

Ocho Restaurant Review:

The historic Hotel Havana has been resuscitated by Austin hospitality queen Liz Lambert, and the revitalized space that houses Ocho is one of its highlights. The glassy, conservatory-like room flanks the River Walk, sports chandeliers and “Tiffany blue” color accents, and features loads of lounge-like seating --- both its strong suit and its Achilles heel. As a result, the place is more suited to imbibers who want a little something to eat than to diners who want an accompanying cocktail. (Note that both upstairs at Ocho and downstairs in the almost dauntingly dark Havana Bar, some very good drinks, including a house margarita, can be made, but don’t ask for anything too complex.) Breakfasters, who don’t have the option of alcohol, actually receive the most fully developed menu with items such as toasted banana bread and the Havana breakfast torta with scrambled eggs, chorizo and more. At lunch and on into the evening, a very good huitlacoche quesadilla and pork posole rojo are typical of small plates. (We would avoid the overly fussy papas bravas.) Among the tortas, consider the Havana Cubano. Unfortunately, the more substantial pan-roasted snapper plate has failed to excite in the past. Stick to the snacks.