So when I heard that one was opening in Austin at the new Triangle at 47th and Lamar, I was very pleased. I was one of the first ten people through the doors last night. Actually, I had to stand outside for about twenty minutes while the staff put the final finishing touches on the place. For those familiar with The Flying Saucer, you will feel right at home when you walk in. The same signature tap display filled with shiny copper pennies greets you with a very impressive selection of brews. The staff is very friendly and educated in all things beer. The menu, which changes seasonally, includes pairing suggestions with various meats and cheeses next to their malty matches. There are several nice leather couches and big cozy armchairs scattered around the back room where the plates are proudly displayed on the walls. It’s all there, including the servers in too short catholic schoolgirl skirts.
While I will always welcome a new establishment in town that promotes the consumption of good real beer, this place is still a little too polished for my taste when compared to the Draught House just down the street. The selection is fantastic. I love the way they are trying to elevate the art of beer to the same level that wine has enjoyed for years. I won’t lie, I even grew rather fond of the snappy leather sofa I claimed as my own while I enjoyed a glass of 90 Minute IPA. That said, it all feels a little too calculated to me. I’ll probably stick to the old wooden benches of the Draught House, or a rickety old table on the sloped floor at the Dog & Duck. I like the grouchy goth girl dressed in black that serves me my pint with a scowl at the Dog & Duck. My server last night, while very friendly and knowledgeable, looked like she might be solicting Johns on Congress after the Flying Saucer closed. I’d rather enjoy a game of darts or pool than stare blindly at one of three big screen TV’s. Call me strange, but that’s the way I feel.
