If you’re looking for a diverse and well-crafted menu in the heart of downtown Austin, head over to Finn & Porter. Chef Peter Maffei has created the most unique seasonal summer menu I’ve ever tried.

Located at 500 East 4th Street in the Hilton, Finn & Porter is known for its steaks, seafood and sushi. Accessible through the inside of the hotel, the restaurant is modern, bright and airy, with large windows.

Named one of the 30 things you have to eat in Austin this summer by Zagat, I was anxious to try the Grilled Octopus appetizer. Served with fennel, radish, shaved beets and a coriander vinaigrette, the octopus is very tender.

After an appetizer, try the Summer Pre Fixe menu ($38) which offers a wonderful selection. For the first course, choose from an Heirloom Tomato salad made of compressed watermelon, cucumber and basil or the Chilled Beet Gazpacho, roasted beets in a beet puree with dill crème fraiche.

The second course features a Rack of Lamb, the TX Wagyu Ribeye with spring onion sable potato or my favorite, the Buttermilk Fried Chicken with morel gravy and the most decadent creamed corn you’ll ever taste  – it’s made with feta!

The dessert course was amazing. Choose between the Key Lime Tart with an espresso whipped mascarpone (hello!) or the F&P Sundae with house Mil-King vanilla, pecan balsamic and brulee bananas.

With a wine selection as complex as the dinner menu, you’ll find the perfect pairing for each course.

Make a reservation at Finn & Porter today! Private dining rooms are available; the restaurant is closed on Sundays.

By Elaine Krackau