NVM Review

By Warren Rojas

This homegrown Tex-Mex chainlet is perhaps best known for its oversize burritos, brimming tacos and scrape-the-bottom-of-bowl-good chili (see our June/July 2006 review).

But we’d now like t show some devoted love to their firecracker of a tuna sandwich.

The well-grilled medallion of juicy tuna steak arrives lacquered in a terrific chile glaze (deceptively sweet veneer is dotted with telltale red pepper flakes), and is finished with squiggles of chipotle mayo (Southwestern spices kick the inherent heat up a few notches) and creamy avocado slices (buttery buffer helps temper the zesty sauces).

Texas Chili – Top Notch

By Warren Rojas

A regional chain with plenty of down home charm, Austin Grill serves a high-test chili that’s terrific all the way down to the bottom of the bowl.

Beef: Think thick cubes of moist chuck roast

Sauce: A magnificently ruddy tomato sauce packed with secret spices (devilishly zesty)

Toppings: A mound of diced red onions, chunky peppers and shredded cheddar crown the fragrant beef-and-tomato brew

Bonus: The chili is served with a warm, soft flour tortilla ideal for mid-meal dunking or for assembling a super-sloppy chili roll-up