415 Burleson Street
San Marcos, Texas
512.396.2665
www.coolmintcafe.com
I recently purchased a house in my beloved Austin. Ah yes, I now know the joys of home ownership and can phase myself out as complete! The joys of a gas-leaking oven, the mysterious branchless tree that is slowly overtaking the house and don’t forget the neighboring Boston Terriers that have ferociously managed to tear out a section of fencing. The American Dream. As I am sure is the case with many first time homeowners, I was confronted by the fact that spending years in five hundred square foot, roofed shoe boxes meant I owned little in the way of furniture or general modern conveniences. So I pursued the other great American Dream: outlet shopping. Somehow, I managed to coerce a friend into making the drive forty minutes south, to the town of San Marcos, Mecca of outdoor outlet shopping. Suffice to say; I am no longer on speaking terms with my Master Card after an entire Sunday afternoon of abuse.
Naturally, all the shopping happened to work up a ridiculous appetite. We managed to find a sweet old place called The Cool Mint Café. Although, they might consider renaming themselves The Greatest/Cutest Café That Ever Was Period. Just an idea.
The Cool Mint is a café housed in a fantastic early century cottage. While respecting the integrity of the structure, the interior and porch still managed to feel clean, bright and contemporary. While Feist played in the background, we sipped water out of mason jars, complete with a faint waif of lemon and a fat mint leaf. Our baby-faced waiter brought us the best mimosas I have ever had the good privilege of tasting. I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed ordering a mimosa to be told it would take several minutes, as they would have to squeeze the orange juice. Pinch me, I must be dreaming!
The food is just as fresh, with all offerings seasonal, organic and locally sourced, including made from scratch breads. We started out with a plate of Manchego style cheese with honey, sliced green apples and rolls to die for. Enjoying an April afternoon on a big porch made the starter that much better.
I ordered the brunch special of rocket salad with a southwestern style quiche. The rocket salad came with this amazing honey vinaigrette that I literally could have bathed in. The quiche was loaded up with shredded chicken, tomato, cheese and hatch green chilies in a flaky tortilla crust. Although it was good, I can’t say it was great. Personally, I like my quiche to be simple; I think this one was just a bit too fussy for my taste.
However, my friend ordered a classic eggs Benedict for the win. No lie; this was one of the most satisfying things I have ever tasted. Ever. Instead of an English muffin, the poached egg and smoked ham sat temptingly on yeasty roll halves, buttered and griddled. Each bite practically melted in my mouth. And the huge chunks of golden pineapple on the side didn’t hurt either. I just love that the food truly seemed lovingly prepared and beautifully executed.
Although I might not be shopping again for a long, long time, the drive is completely worth the gastronomic pay-off. I only wish we had saved room for one of their home baked sweets. For the record: I’m not above driving 40 miles for a chocolate croissant.
by Phyllis Anastasia Gasper
