Today, I met my good friend and fellow agent Alan Kirkpatrick for lunch. It wasn't hard for me to decide where to 
get together. My first choice was Down the Alley Bistro on the square in Georgetown.
Located at the corner of 8th Street and Austin Avenue (on the SE corner - facing the courthouse), the Bistro has become one of my new favorite places for a casual lunch in that area. The physical address is 118 W. 8th Street, #101.
Alan had the tomato bisque soup, which he described as "terrific", and I had the Tuscan turkey panini, which has provolone cheese, fresh spinach, and a pesto which is delicious. Let me preface my next statement by explaining that I have never considered myself to be a "foodie", nor do I usually rave about good meals. Today's sandwich was likely the best one I have had this year!
They have a nice variety on the lunch menu, including a few other paninis (Italian grinder, pepperoni, etc.), soups, salads, and some light desserts. The primary drinks are various teas and water, and you serve yourself with an ice scoop in the large 
wooden-covered cooler.
There is seating both downstairs and up in the loft area overlooking the main part of the restaurant. The building is very old, and the layout is somewhat reminiscent of a saloon. There is a quirky gift shop located in the front half of the space if you enter from 8th Street.
Perhaps most importantly, the owner, Ralph, always seems to have a smile on his face and a ready handshake. He is truly friendly.
I have been to the Bistro four times, and I have never had any food that was less than superb. One thing I really like is the fact that I get enough food, but I don't feel sluggish or overstuffed.
The bottom line is that I highly recommend Down the Alley Bistro. I have had some meetings with clients there to review paperwork, and I have met our pastor a couple of times. I have never felt rushed by the staff, which is refreshing.
This great place is also open at breakfast time, so I would imagine that it's a relaxing place to enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry.
Give it a shot sometime - you will NOT be disappointed. Great place!
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Hi Jason! I love old Bistros! What a great post for Localism--you and I share that passion for reviewing and sharing our favorite restaurants! Have a great weekend...
Yours is about the 5th blog I've read about a restaurant today. Was everyone collectively hungry? LOL!
OK. So why are you not posting this to my Things to Do/Places to Visit group? o.O
Jason, Down The Alley Bistro sounds like a great place to have lunch! Bit far for me though. ^_^
mmm the panini sounds wunderbar! great restaurant review (*do you send it to the owners when you do one?) AND I miss Austin - so much more to see and enjoy! :-)
Jason,
My bet is the Down the Alley Bistro serves Texas-sized portions too! Sounds yummy.
Lisa - I will post it there today! Just didn't remember -
Liz - I was planning to send this to the owner. :)
Jason - Ony 4 times - sounds like the kind of place I'b visit on a weekly basis. I enjoy these business posts, Karen
I love the name! Sounds like a great place. It's a good thing I've had my lunch because you would have me drooling otherwise! Great local business post!
Jason, many of the old dinners of all styles are the best. And when the owner is there and greeting you, makes for a very personal visit!
I love a place where I can have a good time, good food and not feel rushed by the staff!
mmmmm....Jason.
Tomato bisque sounds delicious right now....
I'm so hungry!
What a great name for what you've reported to be a great place!
You've written the perfect local business blog my friend.
Well done!