Austin (Veggie) Bites: Crave

Crave Thai and Sushi Bar
Location: 2100 Guadalupe St. [map]
Phone: (512) 482-8919
Cost: Appetizers $3-7, Entrees $7-8, full bar
The 411: Crave's vegan and vegetarian-friendly menu features a large variety of Japanese cuisine (sushi, tempura, miso soup), Thai favorites (pad thai, curries), and pan-Asian stir-fries at reasonable prices.

Many Austinites will remember the Sound Exchange. Since the beloved independent campus record store's unfortunate demise, the ensuing controversy over its iconic graffiti, and the seemingly immediate disappearance of the Mexican chain restaurant that took its place, the corner building has sat sad and empty in what is undoubtedly prime real estate. Luckily, those expecting Crave to present another Baja Fresh-style experience (counter service, bright lights, clanging silverware, screeching chairs) will be surprised.

Stepping inside the airy room, patrons are greeted by waitresses in matching black uniforms and seated at cool, dark granite tables. A sushi bar spans the back of the restaurant, behind which is displayed a collection of hard liquor and sake, and a large dragon mosaic, created by the owner and staff, adorns an adjacent wall. The staff is both friendly and knowledgeable.

The Buddha Sushi, arriving freshly rolled, contains small cuts of fried tofu, daubs of avocado, and tiny sticks of caramelized vegetables. The whole roll is topped with sweet, marinated tofu strips and a drizzle of sesame sauce. The Fried Tofu with Peanut Sauce (suggested by the waiter as a substitute for the Chicken with Peanut Sauce) and the vegetarian Pad Thai with tofu and egg also were good selections, each boasting an unexpectedly complex flavor. The latter can be prepared along a spectrum of spiciness, according to preference. Sushi rolls are priced from $1-2, house sake is a mere $3, and most entrees run less than $10.

While hardcore sushi aficionados might prefer other sushi-centric restaurants, Crave's robust menu, reasonable prices, and comfortably casual environment may help it last longer in this hallowed location than the previous tenant—especially if the rumor that they'll be open until 4 a.m. turns out to be true.