In the heart of Austin, Texas, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Congress Avenue Bridge, lies the bustling and ever-inviting Magnolia Cafe. Famous for being open 24/7, this funky diner offers a diverse menu that keeps the locals and tourists coming back for more. Recently, Guy Fieri stopped by to explore what makes this hotspot tick, and he was not disappointed.
A Staple in Austin’s Culinary Scene
Nestled in the vibrant streets of Austin, Magnolia Cafe stands as a culinary beacon, attracting food lovers day and night. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a favorite spot for both breakfast and late-night eats. “This place is packed,” Guy notes, highlighting the diner’s perpetual buzz.
The Star of the Show: Blackened Salmon
One of the standout dishes that caught Guy’s attention was the blackened salmon served with jambalaya-stuffed red peppers. Chef Eric Westfall starts by preparing a classic dry rub consisting of paprika, cayenne, black pepper, white pepper, garlic, granulated onion powder, thyme, basil, and kosher salt. This mixture gives the salmon a vibrant color and robust flavor without overwhelming it with heat.
Don't lose this list! Drop your email and we'll send it to you, so you've got it handy next time you're hungry or planning a trip.
Guy is particularly impressed with the cooking technique. “Are we going to turn that over?” he asks, only to learn that the salmon is cooked upside down to trap more heat and achieve an intensely hot sear. “You need one of those NASCAR hazmat suits,” Guy jokes as he marvels at the high-temperature cooking method. The result is a perfectly charred exterior with a moist and succulent interior. “It’s actually perfect,” Guy raves. “Extremely flavorful and very succulent.”
Jambalaya Stuffed Red Peppers
To accompany the salmon, Eric prepares jambalaya-stuffed red peppers. The dish begins with a dark roux made from oil and flour, followed by the addition of garlic, green bell peppers, jalapeños, shallots, green onions, and andouille sausage. After adding rice, tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, and a rich stock made from shrimp shells and chicken, the mixture simmers until it reaches the perfect consistency. Crawfish and crab are added just before serving to provide a light seafood touch.
“The stock is money,” Guy exclaims. The final touch is stuffing the mixture into red bell peppers and topping them with breadcrumbs before giving them a quick bake. “The red bell pepper makes that,” Guy notes, appreciating the added crunch and flavor.
A Diverse Menu to Satisfy All Cravings
Magnolia Cafe is not just about blackened salmon and jambalaya. The menu is as eclectic as it is extensive, featuring everything from Texas Benedict with grilled sausage and homemade Chipotle Hollandaise to various types of pancakes, including gingerbread pancakes with bananas.
Guy gets a taste of the gingerbread pancakes, prepared with coffee, buttermilk, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, brown sugar, and flour. “Wow, that ginger is popping,” Guy notes, impressed by the vibrant flavors. Topped with bananas, the pancakes strike a balance between sweet and savory that Guy can’t get enough of.
A Culinary Landmark
Magnolia Cafe is more than just a diner; it’s an Austin institution. With its welcoming vibe and diverse menu, it’s no wonder fans keep rolling in. “We drive an hour from San Antonio just to eat the food here,” says one loyal customer.
Guy’s Final Thoughts
As Guy wraps up his visit, he’s thoroughly impressed by what Magnolia Cafe has to offer. “That’s Magnolia magnificent,” he concludes, giving high praise to the diner’s ability to deliver outstanding dishes around the clock. From the perfectly blackened salmon to the unique gingerbread pancakes, Magnolia Cafe proves that it’s not just any 24/7 diner—it’s a must-visit destination in Austin.