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Lift Café - CLOSED
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Restaurants Sandwiches Coffee & Tea, Sandwiches [Edit]
215 S Lamar BvdSte A
Austin, TX 78704
Neighborhoods: 78704 (South Austin), Bouldin Creek
(512) 472-5438
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street, Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Breakfast
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
122 reviews for Lift Café
Review Highlights
"I had forgotten how much I love Taco Deli breakfast tacos."
(in 4 reviews)
"...Elvis- almond milk, banana, nut butter, raw cacao powder."
(in 3 reviews)
"...with smoked turkey added, rockadoodle, thai chicken wrap."
(in 4 reviews)
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122 reviews in English
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Review from Abby L.
Austin, TX
4/3/2011
Lift is another staple in my life that I'm happy to have. Everytime we walk in Tom and his crew are so friendly and accommodating. The way we're treated when we come here has made us return each time, but it's the package as a whole that makes us regulars. The smoothies are awesome, their sandwiches are great, and their coffee is really enjoyable. I love heading there when I have spare time and things to get done with my computer. I could also hang outside and enjoy my book with some nice weather and tea for hours. Free parking makes this easy :)
The environment of this place is great, I've never had a bad experience. It's been routine to take the dogs to Lift, grab coffee, head to the shores for a swim, and everyone heads home happy.
The only thing that may bring me down when I'm at lift is how much I pay for my smoothie or sammy. Sometime's I'm a bit surprised when I get my total and I don't feel like I got enough to justify the price.
Other than that I can't say enough good things about it. We just love going to Lift. -
Review from Mr G.
TX
Updated - 6/17/2011 1 photo
Looks like they're closed. I'll say this .. it was a good cafe for a while. I worked there a great deal during the days when J Voss was there as manager.
Got to know him and a few of the other folks there, as well as the owner.. a nice guy from what I remember. Too bad they're closed.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/1/2008
Coffee and smoothies are very good. People are nice. Close to the Hike/Bike trail. Free, working… Read more »
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Review from Kelly S.
1/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
Does everyone else feel like wraps are the most boring food ever? I just dont get them. They're like tacos but not as good. The weird thing is, I ordered a wrap today. On this new health kick I've decided to let other people make better decisions for me since I'm obviously incapable of doing it on my own..
"Pick the healthiest thing on the menu for me" I asked the whippet thin thing behind the counter. And she chose this vegtastic wrap with added turkey and in a shocking turn of events, it was actually good. Packed with veggies, hummus, tightly wrapped and nom nom nommy.
Not super psyched about the price (wrap + diet coke for $10 seems a bit much) but they were incredibly nice, the wrap was good and the wifi was strong with this one. Great spot for a little lunch, some internets & a super friendly staff.Listed in: High Five For Wi Fi(ve), Souper Sandwiches, Coffee. It Happens
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Review from Lisa M.
2/6/2011
5 different wraps on the menu-- including veggie, chicken, and tuna choices. YUM.
4 sure: the counter guy who waited on me and then made my richly delicious espresso drink the first time I went to Lift is *THE* friendliest person in town. Maybe even on the planet.
3 = the number of strides (hop, skip, & jump) it takes to get from the trails of Lady Bird Lake to Lift.
2 go? You can get beer and wine for carry out.
1 more place In Austin that features live music.
LIFT...off -
Review from Kimberly K.
Austin, TX
10/5/2010 ROTD 12/31/2010
"Lift" can be defined as the component force PERPENDICULAR to oncoming Flow and "Drag" can be defined as the component force PARALLEL to oncoming Flow.
It has oft been debated, who's correct about Lift, Bernoulli or Newton? AND, what do you do when Lift becomes Drag? AND, what do you do when new theories arise, new owners join forces kicking out a bad manager, and new staff kicks ass?
Newton said that Lift occurs when flow is deflected and to every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Newton's Laws of Motion irritate me and remind me of the PAST and Newton's theory on Lift (deflection of flow) caused an equal and opposite reaction in me... like, I never wanted to return. That was in December of 2009.
Bernoulli said that Lift occurs when flow is celebrated, incorporating changes in velocity and pressure, transferring momentum and streamlining energy. Bernoulli's Principle creates space for previous ownership and new ownership to join forces in the best fashion, kicking out all that didn't work and allowing new staff to flourish, smile at you as you walk in and make sure all is good.
Newton is about the apple falling.
Bernoulli incorporates Newton (derived from the Second Law and in conjunction with the Third) - a bit of the past - but is really all about the future and possibility and excellence... is all about the apple flying. It is all about the best apple pie.
faceLIFT:
Includes new furniture inside and outside, new smoothies (Peaches with maca added!), new breakfast items - avocado croissant with egg, cheese and avo all on fresh warm croissant, new freshly baked goods, diverse salad options, bar seating facing Lamar, HH starts at 3pm includes wine and beer specials, music events in the courtyard ... awesome, homemade breakfast tacos (try the New Mexican or the Frenchman!), healthy and diverse salad and sandwich options (vegtastic with smoked turkey added, rockadoodle, thai chicken wrap! also, all salads can be "wrapped"), soft pumpkin muffins, ginger snap cookies...
In summary, the LIFT COEFFICIENT is worth debating but don't get caught up in the past. Lift is finally taking off... Flow is important; don't deflect it. -
Review from Gabriel H.
Austin, TX
Whats the quickest way to get me to pitch a tent?
Offer anything Italian to me
Whats the best way to get me to put out?
Offer anything Italian to me served by a sexy Italian (read: not Giada de Forehead the size of a airport)
Unfortunately only scenario A happened when I went into Lift Cafe (no offence to the homely American girl behind the counter)
Luckily, the Fred's Vito sandwich far exceeded me expectations for this place, which I initially shucked up as, "just another fucking restauraunt shop in Austin".
The vito had just the right amount of pesto so that one could have the warm flavors from the pepperoni, salami, ham permeate through your taste buds. All of this topped off with some red peppers and a toasted baguette? Sign me up Americana.
I also procured the Jack's generic club, which was also delectable though severely lacking in the meat department despite its rough and tumble description.
All in all this place impressed me, I walked in because the 1/8 Jewish blood line in me could not walk away from a great deal on Groupon, but I inevitably succumb to the succubus that is Lift Cafe.
I'm still waiting on those Italian models
Gabriel -
Review from Jaime M.
8/17/2010
Not my idea of a pleasant place to linger alone, which is what I want out of a drink shop. It's neat looking, but not comfy looking.
Last time I was in here I was subjected to multiple angles of mockery from the young staff. I tried to banter back, thinking they might just be being silly, but no, this was definitely a case of laughing-at, not laughing-with. Oh, well. Kids will be kids.
The smoothies themselves are consistently delicious, though just about the only place I've been that dares to charge this much is Whole Foods. I haven't ordered food here, though I sampled some wares elsewhere and was less than impressed, flavor-wise.
Their menu board (and this is a problem I have many places) is difficult to read but full of cool choices once you stand, squint and stare for a bit (but not too long, or you'll be made fun of by the three unoccupied employees).
My feelings about this place are pretty much no fault of the place itself, I just don't dig the vibe any more than a place like Starbucks, which is to say it definitely lends itself to a quick in-and-out visit. -
Review from Ed U.
So Jamie W. and I were wondering where all the hip, young Austinites go during the daytime? Well, we still don't know, but I think Lift is where all the skinny, dweebish ones go. Located near the Lady Bird Trail in what appears to be the ground floor of a condo building, it's a pleasant hangout place for the laptop brigade and for the rest of us, too. Nice patio seating except when it's too humid like it was for us. Air-conditioning was a must-have for us, and we actually liked the coolness of the stained concrete floors even if it did make everything echo like the enthusiastic kids that would run up and down the place.
The menu is what you would expect in a health-conscious cafe - lots of smoothies, salads and sammies. The smoothies - most at $4.95 for a medium - are lusciously sweet and fruity (see photos). Jamie went for the Hill Country Runner (actually $5.55) which was made of passion fruit juice, blackberry, peach, maca, and flax seed oil. I went a more tropical direction and had a Pineapple Express (apple juice, coconut nectar, pineapple, raspberry). Both quenched effectively on a hot Austin day. We shared Willy's BLTA, bargain-priced at $5.25, which was a BLT with a California touch of avocado slices (see photo). Perfect in-between afternoon snack. Easy to spend a couple of hours here for the free WiFi coarsing through your iPad.
FOOD/SMOOTHIES - 4 stars...perfect antidote for a hot, humid Austin day
AMBIANCE - 4 stars...relaxing when you find a place to chill and browse your email
SERVICE - 4 stars...friendly and casual
TOTAL - 4 stars...for that break in the day when you don't want the pressure to be weirdListed in: Big Ol' Texas Tease
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Review from Amelia W.
Austin, TX
4/7/2011
I was not overly jazzed by Lift.
It has a really clean and modern look, which goes with the surrounding apartment complex, but not so much with SoCo Austin.
The food was good - but I feel like I could have made it myself for MUCH cheaper. I ordered a salad, which was purely vegetables - I don't think there was any dressing - which is fine, because that's healthy - but... not for like $7. Also, I ordered said salad because the sandwich I wanted was apparently no longer on the menu - despite it's being crossed out on some menus and not on others (and still on their website). I am always annoyed by inconsistencies like that.
To add insult to injury, when I asked the cashier if it was no longer available, his response was: "Uhh... um, we have a menu. Over there." Then when I told him it was on there, he remained dazed and confused. I found his lack of knowledge off-putting, considering the relatively small size of the menu.
However, my dog was welcome here. And the cookie I had was to die for.
So, 3 stars. -
Review from Yolanda G.
Austin, TX
9/4/2010
Sometimes being an after thought isn't a bad thing. Yelpers Darla A. and Monica O. and I had planned a dinner outing but were quickly let down when the place we had initially planned to visit was closed on Monday and relocated. Backup plan ended up being Lift Café which is a place I had never been.
Walking in the quiet café, I was warmly greeted by a friendly woman behind the counter who graciously chatted about their fresh sandwiches and smoothie options. While their veggie wrap is their #1 seller, I opted for the spicy Thai chicken wrap which came with a side garden salad drizzled with their homemade herb vinaigrette. Happy to discover that all of their wraps are made fresh and not prepackaged. My wrap was stuffed to the max which made me happy for $7.
I wasn't in the mood for a smoothie so the lady pointed out that they have a water station with plastic tumblers. Awesome, you can tell that the business owners are committed to green initiatives as the plates, silverware, and cups were all real and not Styrofoam plastic trashware which gave me a sense of peace.
Wow, I didn't expect a coffee and smoothie place to have happy hour, but sure enough there was a sign that read $3.95 for a glass of wine or $16 for a bottle. Lift and Darla know the way to my heart and that is through Prosecco! Thanks for actually having wine glasses on hand as well Lift as there is another wine bar in town that shall remain nameless who serves theirs in a little plastic cup. That's a no go in my book.
As if I wasn't in love with the charming establishment already, owner Tom chatted with us and offered everyone in the café a generous sample of this new wine served over ice with a fresh squeezed lemon wedge. Delicious, followed by a sample of their secret orange Julius concoction which almost tasted like the old school Orange Julius found in the mall.
I'll so be back! -
Review from Michelle T.
Austin, TX
12/4/2010
I really don't understand all the good reviews. It defies logic. I had a groupon that was going to expire so that was the reason for my visit and I've been curious as I pass the shop regularly.
I'm glad I had the group. The portions were small, the food and drink way overpriced, and it just wasn't that great.
First of all, they charge $3.00 for a large regular iced tea but with unlimited refills. I'm expecting a Mickey D's large and what I get size-wise is equivalent to a Mickey D's medium. I'm not a flavored tea person, so I asked if they had regular black tea. They did, but I'm not sure if that is what I received. If it was, it was the foulest tasting black tea that I've ever had. I'm not sure if they brew it in the same pots as all the other teas and the flavors from everything else got infused in the plain tea. But the tea was just wrong. I didn't get refills, so that was $3 for one order of foul tea mostly ice (in this case, thank you!).
The sandwich sounded promising. I got the Bahn Voyage. The sandwich was flavored well and the chicken was tender. However, the bottom of the bread was hard as a rock. The salad lettuce was extremely bitter as well.
The only saving grace was the pumpkin bread. The portion, flavor, and texture were really good. It's the reason why this place is getting two stars instead of one.
Even though I only shelled out $7.00 for a $12.00 meal, I decided that the value, portions, and taste weren't worth even that amount and I won't be back. -
Review from Darla A.
8/23/2010 3 Check-ins Here
I did not know what to expect when I walked into this cafe at the base of the Bridges on the Park condo building on S. Lamar.
In this upscale pricey strip of stores, Lift is a unique find.
They have a healthy menu (but not too healthy) of affordable salads, wraps, sandwiches, soups and breakfast items. They specialize in smoothies and have a full barista coffee bar that will even please the double soy, almond milk, half caf, no caf, with a triple lutz triple loop, bla bla bla crowd. All that to say, Hippies, Hipsters, Republicans, Democrats, Vegetarians, Vegans, Carnivores, Cowboys, etc... anyway, they can all do a "Group Kumbaya" and find something on the menu to please anyone in the crowd.
I ordered the "Fricken Schmidt" salad that had greens, feta, raisins, cranberries, candied pecans and a fig vinaigrette. The vinaigrette was a little light on the pour, but surprisingly, the items in the salad made me not miss it.
The staff was pleasant, the service exceptional (for a walk up and order counter place), and the food was definitely priced well. They offer free wi-fi and definitely get bonus points for best wine prices in town - all glasses between 3-10 pm $3.95 and all bottles $16. Extra bonus points for having Prosecco on the menu.
All in all, the company, the food, the wine, and the great value provided a definite "lift" to my evening.
I'll have to drive by on a weekend some time to check out the espresso action.Listed in: Prosecco rules!
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Review from Jeff K.
6/21/2011
Yep - closed and undoubtedly driven out of business by the a-holes who decided to open up a chain Coffee Leaf next door. Btw as of yesterday the place has reopened as a sub shop named Toastie's - they have coffee, but only the absolute most basic hot variety. I'm giving them five stars for effort and for dealing with the onslaught of The Coffee Leaf as long as they did, and also for reopening as a new business so quickly (and apparently keeping most or all of their original staff).
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Review from Scott R.
Austin, TX
2/7/2011
Great joint. Food is better than average. Prices are high which has me rate it down.
Hot chick wrap is really good.
Live that they serve salad on the side. -
Review from Bernadette D.
Austin, TX
6/27/2010
Definitely gave me a lift after rowing. Usually I don't like to eat fast food after rowing. I figure it defeats the purpose of why I have taken up rowing in the first place.
I went there around 11 am and I was surprised it wasn't crowded. There was only two women at the bar and two guys outside. I was glad because I didn't want a big crowd to smell a sweaty, sunscreened woman that just walked in.
I parked in the garage and I walked in the place that had a modern, chic feel to the place. I figure it was a yuppie place since it's located under a bunch of apartments that are worth a lot of money. But there's a difference, this is one yuppie place I would go. I had really good customer service and the food was really good. I ordered the antioxidant smoothie and an egg salad sandwich which came w/ a salad.
Thanks for giving me that lift. Definitely needed it. -
Review from Allison J.
Austin, TX
11/10/2010
What a great establishment. They serve everything from my favorite Chai mix to delicious food. You name it: Smoothies, Coffee, Salads, Sandwiches, Soup, Breakfast tacos, pastries, Yogurt, Wine by the bottle etc...
Yesterday, I stopped in to visit with a friend. She had the veggie wrap which I tasted and from the small bite I had, was very very good. I ordered the Cobb Salad. Ok, I would of liked more but that was only because I was starving after a hard workout and little to eat earlier that day. The Cobb was delicious with all the ingredients. I even mixed the herb vinaigrette with the ranch to make a tasty dressing combo.
I am looking forward to getting my work on at Lift, especially on their spacious but comfortable patio. -
Review from Jessie R.
8/27/2010
Lift has become one of my regular lunch haunts. It is a cozy little spot tucked under the condos just south of the bridge on S. Lamar. There is free two hour parking in the condo's garage, which is always appreciated in this somewhat congested area.
Lift offers a large variety of sandwiches, salads, wraps, smoothies, coffee, and even serves TacoDeli breakfast tacos each morning. Since I whip up my own fruit smoothie each morning, I haven't tried one of theirs, but I am a big fan of the wrap sandwiches for lunch! Right now my favorite is their BLTA wrap on a spinach tortilla. Every sandwich comes with a side salad included, or a cup of soup for $1 extra. The salad is actually really good, with leafy greens, veggies, and a homemade vinaigrette. It isn't the afterthought of a side salad that most cafes will try to unload on you. Add in a friendly staff, and comfortable area to sit and eat my healthy lunch, and I leave each time feeling...well...uplifted. -
Review from Jennifer W.
Austin, TX
8/15/2010
After reading the reviews I was excited to try out Lift. Boy was I let down.
I ordered the Buffalo Bill and a roast beef sandwich. The Bill had little buffalo sauce and almost no blue cheese, it was soggy and just not worth the $$. The roast beef was worse. I read that they use Boars Head or I would not have ordered the roast beef. What I got was most definitely not Boars Head. I t was just plain gross - I had to throw it out. I took the sandwiches to go or I would have had them re-do them.
I will not be going back.
Update 8/16 - the owner contacted me and has offered a replacement meal - very professional. I will re-review next week. -
Review from Emily J.
Austin, TX
9/26/2010
Things I'm obsessed with: The Penguin & Table Topics. Thankfully, both of these can be found at my new favorite hangout, Lift Cafe.
My mom & I visited Lift after purchasing a Groupon the previous week. SO glad we did. We stopped in for a quick coffee, but as soon as we walked in, the menu invited us to stay for breakfast. We placed our order & then took a seat to wait while playing table topics. Our coffees took a few minutes, so I probably wouldn't stop in if I were in a hurry, and then our breakfast a good 10 minutes after that.
My mom had a avocado & egg croissant sandwich, which was nice and crispy and tasted homemade. I had my breakfast staple of oatmeal, which was very yummy and made to order with brown sugar, pecans & steamed milk... mmm. And they don't use quick oats--bonus.
The service we received was above and beyond & super friendly. My Penguin was amazing, due in large part to Lift's unique- but not overpowering- vanilla whipped cream. Mix in free parking, free wifi, reasonable prices, and board games? I'm in. ALL in.Listed in: What's the story, morning…
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Review from Sal R.
Austin, TX
Updated - 7/28/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The day they fired John was the day this started going out of business.
3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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7/20/2010
this used to get Sal's 5 stars but man, it's just going down hill. The quality and service is so hit… Read more »
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Review from Solomon W.
Austin, TX
5/11/2010
Lift Cafe isn't your normal sandwich cafe. They offer beer, wine, a cheese tray, and lots of fresh fruit smoothies. These offerings are pretty unique to a cafe, so I was pretty impressed. It is also really well kept in terms of cleanliness and friendliness.
Another plus was that the food was really fresh, and the menu had some diversity to it. It sounds like the place was really good, so why am I disappointed? They were out of almost everything I wanted on my sandwich!
My wrap had hummus, avocado, tomato, peppers, sprouts, and mushrooms; it also came with a small spinach salad on the side; all of the ingredients were fresh and made a really good wrap. My friend's make-your-own sandwich was also good and fresh. But...when I was ordering, they were out of spring mix, bacon vinaigrette, and fig vinaigrette. I will probably return in the future to try these oily substances, and if I like them, my opinion will probably go up. -
Review from Amber D.
1/6/2010 ROTD 6/13/2010
From the outside he doesn't look like much. Uber-simplistic, uber-modern, and seemingly another one of those "Metro" guys. I can handle it, I appreciate posh, clean aesthetics as much as anyone else, but there's got to be more.
So I look inside, dig deeper... Go... Farther... (previous sentence to be read in late 90's car commercial voice)
He brings me flowers in little vases that are tastefully set around his sleek yet comfortable space. He likes to play games, but adorable board games and not sick, head ones. His kitchen is stocked with wine, beer, coffee, and... just for me... more sugar-free syrup options than any other coffee joint in town. He knows I like the sugar-free almond, and being a girl who's always trying to diversify my cup, he makes sure I have the options of softening it up with more than just "soy" or "skim." I guess I just like almond milk with my almond. He understands. I'm on a kick.
Sometimes he sneaks exquisite salad dressing for me from Paggi House, seeing as they're just next door. When I want delicious locally made teas from Tea Embassy he makes sure to keep plenty on hand, including my favorite, "Almond Cookies." It's not just my obsession with all-things-almond lately, it's more so my appreciation for elegant loose leaf green tea flavored with real nut bits and supporting local businesses. Lift just gets me.
We haven't been seeing each other that long, but i think I want to make it official. Lift, will you go out with me? -
Review from Anita D.
4/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Tried the chicken salad sandwich and hot chick wrap. Both were amazing! Very healthy and fresh tasting. I've also had the Chicken Salad scoop which is on top of fresh greens. Only problem was they ran out of fruit after I had ordered the fruit salad both times I've been here. Also it is pretty slow. Other than that, great!!
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Review from Bec P.
Austin, TX
9/27/2010
I bought the groupon a while back but had been traveling and didn't have a chance to drop in. I drive past it all the time and was excited to try Lift Cafe. Imagine my delight when I looked online and realized it was also Austin Restaurant Week and for that $10 Groupon, I got an entire DELICIOUS meal! I ordered the Elvis smoothie (soo good and made with almond milk!), vegtastic wrap (omg SO flavorful--very good) and the pumpkin bread: delish.
I was impressed with their service, as I called ahead it was ready when I got there, and they were very nice. The atmosphere is great, too. -
Review from Jennie C.
Austin, TX
10/1/2008
Smoothies disgust me. I don't know why. I just don't like them. But, Lift has made me a changed woman.
I went there to for the packing party a few weeks ago, and I was in for a surprise. Parking? In the garage? Holy cow. I'm impressed. That alone gets 3 stars. I parked no more than 3 spaces away from the front door.
I brought Baby Mouse with me as we were going to attend the Pecan Street Festival after the packing party. Lift gets another star for being dog friendly. Yay! Not only that, they tables and chairs outside were sturdy enough for me to attach Mouse's leash. For those who have not met Baby Mouse, he's about 125 lbs, and he can pull up to 3300 lbs. Sturdiness is key.
While we were there, the staff had brought out some smoothie samples, and I was singing a new tune. These had strawberry in them, and were delicious. Somewhat creamy, cool, and didn't have that "watery consistency" that I hate. Even Mouse enjoyed some, though he made a bigger mess than I did. Also, I don't typically lick things off the sidewalk. Mouse is less discriminating than I am. One more star for making a damn good smoothie.
Yay for Lift. I now like Lift smoothies. All other smoothies, subject to testing.Listed in: Keep Austin Dog Friendly
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Review from Michelle C.
Austin, TX
9/16/2008 3 Check-ins Here
I have kind of a crush on Lift.
I stopped in for the first time yesterday, looking for a little lunch. I'd been meaning to check out Lift for a while at Tara M's recommendation, but always thought it'd be a hassle to park here. Not at all - free retail parking in the parking garage for the Bridges. Woo!
So I wander in and start checking out the food selection. And I experienced some of the best service I can remember having in a LONG time. I didn't get the name of the barista who helped me (I just can't compete with Friendliest Guy in Austin, Don P.), but she was perfect - friendly and helpful without being overbearing; sassy without being pretentious; and just nailed the right balance of cheerfulness and attentiveness that literally made me feel better just for having set foot in the place. If I owned a retail establishment, I would have tried my damnedest to hire this woman away from the good folks at Lift.
As far as substantial food goes, Lift offers a nice array of vegetarian wraps and non-vegetarian sandwiches, along with TacoDeli tacos in the mornings. I had a curried chicken salad sandwich ($6), which was quite fresh, despite being pre-made. I love the kick of curry in my chicken salad, and there were raisins and celery in it, too, which gave it just a hint of sweetness (I don't like raisins, but they were good in this context) and a nice, fresh crunch. I have to say...it didn't quite measure up to the chicken salad sandwich at Mambo Berry, I think because Mambo Berry's sandwiches ARE made fresh and their chicken salad has real grapes as opposed to raisins...but still darn tasty.
I wasn't in a sweet-drink mood, so I just had ice water with my sandwich, but I did admire their pretty substantial smoothie selection (many of which include edgy ingredients like pomegranate juice and raw cacao powder) and the interesting menu of "lifted" drinks (The Penguin sounded particularly sinful - cafe mocha with vanilla syrup, oreo pieces, and whipped cream - yum!).
Plenty of room both inside and out on the (dog-friendly) patio, and free wi-fi for those who want to hunker down and work for a while.
If you need a lift to your day, this aptly-named cafe can deliver.Listed in: Who Let the Dogs Out?
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Review from Jackie H.
Austin, TX
4/12/2008 1 photo
Lift recently opened near my home.
First let me say that Brad the owner, John the manager, Risa, Danny, Andrea and the rest of the team at Lift are terrific. From the the moment I stepped foot in the store, they let me know that they wanted feedback on the smoothies and the new sandwiches they were about to start making (the store has only been open for 2 weeks).
The smoothies are delicious with real fruit you can see behind the counter. They have sandwiches made in the store every morning. I recommend the wraps. The baked goods are made somewhere else (since they don't have the facilities there to make their own) but the bran muffin I had was very good.
Their current cups are styrofoam but are temporary until their logo'd paper cups come in.
Overall I love this place and much of it has to do with the customer-focused and friendly staff. They always welcome me and my dog by name.
I would give them 5 stars but they are having a few issues getting their wi-fi sorted out. And I'm hoping they will switch to loose tea instead of tea bags. (I will update my review if they do : )
UPDATE: I'm bumping up to 5 stars as the wi-fi seems to be fixed now. -
Review from Sara K.
Austin, TX
2/23/2010 1 Check-in Here
I was really excited to try Lift, but was thoroughly disappointed. The wait was ridiculously long without even an acknowledgement prior to ordering (does it hurt just to say "hi" and say "I'll be with you in a second" - ?), the service was rude (dude, I know you didn't make the drink, but I just wanted to make sure I didn't take someone else's) and we had to wait forever for OK food and drinks (the soup was very bland and the sandwich was not worth a 20-30 min wait). I'm just all around sad! Even the atmosphere was a disappointment!!! Truth be told, I would actually give Lift 2 1/2 stars after averaging everything out.
I would like to give this place another try one day... Maybe when different people are working... I want to believe that I just stumbled upon a bad day. The smoothies looked pretty good so maybe there is hope. -
Review from Kevin N.
6/29/2009 1 Check-in Here
One of the things about growing up a little picky when it comes to dining is that you miss out on some of the kaleidoscope combinations that sandwich places tend to offer when you grow older. There are many such eats at work here, from the clever to the straightforward, but in a pinch they'll always let those of us who can't make up our mind settle for a build-your-own number featuring some ingredients that you pick yourself.
Enter Lift Cafe today, where the dessert lover and I stopped in for a mid-day respite among the escalating triple digits and hope for a respite from same. Among the first positive signs? underground parking, replete with cracks in the stone facing that let but a little light in. I mean, it's cool in there, but know where you are. Either way, once we made our way inside and sorted sandwich options my turkey number arrived uber grilled and ready for action...sprouts, cucumber, tomato and the main course were all accounted for and all in harmony. I set it off with a Dr. Brown's Black Cherry soda, cause hey, the sweet's gotta come from somewhere other than just the alternate side of the table.
In a pinch, I know I've found a summer hot spot to grab something healthy and head back on my way. And ultimately? Perhaps more. Besides, we each define ourselves as we grow. Why not do that grinning?Listed in: Eating Healthy In Austin, Austin Sandwiches
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Review from Jessica S.
Austin, TX
9/1/2008
I'm always looking for new coffee places. It was too hot (what? in central Texas in August?!) for a hot cuppa joe.
I usually don't get smoothies. And when I do get smoothies, I usually don't get ones with banana in them. And I usually don't buy the pastries, cookies, whatever that are at the counter.
I must have been eager to try new things because I did all those things yesterday.
I had the Elivs (he had me at peanut butter). It had bananas and nut butter and cocoa powder in it. Unlike most smoothies, the banana flavoring was not over-powering. It was delicious on a hot day. And the straw was really big to suck up all the goodness.
I also got one of the cookies that was at the counter. It, too, was delicious.
The guys behind the counter were very friendly and full of good, positive energy.
There are a million smoothies and add-ins and coffees that I'd love to go back and try. -
Review from Tara M.
7/4/2008
This is my new favorite place near Lady Bird Lake to fuel up before a run or refuel after.
In addition to a HUGE selection of fresh fruits and juices to build your own perfect smoothie, they also serve fresh sandwiches and wraps made in house and bagels and muffins purchased locally. And, they recently started serving Taco Deli breakfast tacos! till 11AM or when sold out:(
If I stop here before a run I like to grab a Refried Black Bean and Monterrey Jack Taco and a fresh squeezed orange juice. After a run I go for a refreshing smoothie. My favorite so far is the strawberries, kiwi and banana blended with orange juice - Yummmy!
They have a large covered out door seating area that wraps around from the front to the back with plenty of room between tables and they are dog friendly or at least don't enforce the rules if they are not. And they have a little stand on the outside that you can get coffee refills at - convenient for those of us with dog in tow.
And they have a large covered parking garage - look for the "Retail Parking" sign just before "Lift" heading N on Lamar.
This place is locally owned and buys local and makes you a little bit healthier every time you visit. So check this place out and return again soon to try something different - I certainly will. -
Review from Sandra A.
Austin, TX
10/12/2008
You can't miss seeing Lift on South Lamar ~ and so I kept meaning to get back and check it out. I love coffee places and wanted to go, but I didn't have any idea where I'd find parking.
Finally, after a walk around Town Lake (I abhor the new name, don't make me write it!!!) I made the decision to figure this out. Full of trepidation ~that it looked a little too trendy for a sweaty trail walker~ and I was skeptical about parking too...Well, my hesitancy was unwarranted!! The parking is SO COOL! Under cover, garage parking for FREE in Austin??? WOW!
It's really cool inside and the servers are all so friendly without being phony salespeople. I was greeted, yet left alone enough to read the menu and peek around so I could get a feel for the place and order just what I wanted to.
I got a coupon to come back and buy one get one free...so I came back the next day with my son. It was also a good experience.
I've gone a couple of more times since...still good!
The reason this place is a 4 rather than 5 star in my book is my own picky coffee taste buds. The coffee tastes okay to me...but it's not my number one "comfort coffee" type (flavor wise). I'm weird that way, so don't let it cause you any concern...go check them out! -
Review from Mark C.
Austin, TX
10/10/2008
I did a drive by breakfast taco pick-up this morning at Lift. I pass it every morning on my way to work and am usually in too much of a hurry to stop.
[So I have to preface this review with a disclaimer. I haven't been inside Lift and I haven't tried their coffee. This review is only based on eating two breakfast tacos. I don't even know if they make their breakfast tacos. Therefore, I vow to return to Lift and sample some of their drinks to get a better flavor of the place. At that point, I will review again.]
My rating is really somewhere between 3 and 4 stars. Let's call it, 3.625 stars. I gave it 1.875 stars, just for the easy in/easy out nature of the place. I didn't even shut the scooter off. It's like a drive-thru for scooters. It's a scoot-thru. But even if I had been in a larger vehicle, say, a car, then they have free parking and it's all very pedestrian friendly as well. (Just look out for people in the scoot-thru lane if you're walking.)
These weren't the best b-tacos I've had in Austin. But, these were the best b-tacos that I only paid $1 for. That's right. $1. each. even. not $1.08, just $1.
That's value, Aristotle. -
Review from Elben S.
Austin, TX
8/14/2010
Lift is a YAASS: yet another Austin sandwichy shop. Is this a bad thing? Absolutely not. I love places like this. But for me, YAASSs must differentiate. And Lift does differentiate, kind of.
I couldn't comprehend their ambiance on my first (and only) visit. I liked the clean-cut nature of the shop, but was completely surprised by their offerings of cheese and other oddities. I like it; it's fun.
My hummus warp, however, was bland. But it's is a hummus wrap, you say! They are SUPPOSE to be bland! No, I say, no food should be bland. Add some salt and it would have been perfect.
So why the four stars? Because of the soup. Oh, the soup was hearty yet surprisingly light. It was a sensation.
I will come back, that's for sure, even if just for their soups. -
Review from Kristen C.
Astoria, NY
6/27/2008
Lift puts the "oo" back into smoothie...
My eyes were as big as saucers as I glanced in the chilled refrigerator case which housed a plethora of brightly colored fruits of normal and tropical varieties. Mangos! Strawberries! Blueberries! Kiwi! The choices are endless. And these fruits were real, not some slimey puree that other shops serve. Mix it with apple juice, orange juice, any juice you want.
The healthy side of me screamed yes, go for it Kristen. The unhealthy side of me rejoiced in unison ("good fruit tastes like candy anyway") Oh this was win-win. With this 100-degree weather, there is no better get-a-way then this little oasis off of Lamar. Parking is great too - and shaded.
The only downside - careful when you order anything darkly colored (such as my personal fave, strawberries whirled with blueberries). Your smile may show traces of the berry seeds and stains on your teeth. But after such a quenching drink, you'll not really care. -
Review from David P.
Austin, TX
1/2/2009
This place takes smoothies and coffee to the next level- and in some cases, combines them. Lots of fresh (and frozen) ingredients to choose from and a solid ice-brewed coffee, but I think what keeps people coming back is that it is so far from the corporate garbage that keeps popping up in town. The owner is cool and the service is always solid- a classic example of what makes the '04 special.
I'd deliver 5-stars if they would bring a veggie juice menu (they have a very nice juicer going unused). If you build it, they will come. -
Review from Diana D.
Austin, TX
7/7/2009
When you learn a thing or two about nutrition, one of the saddest things to discover is that most smoothie joints hide horrific amounts of sugar in their "healthy" drinks. So when I walked into this cute little joint in this awesome location, I was overjoyed to learn that they do smoothies the way they should be. They only use juice as a base (unless you want other stuff in it) and they just add fruit. YAY! Plus, they have a great variety of delicious frozen fruits to add like pineapple, mango, and all sorts of berries! And for those who like traditional smoothies, they still have bananas!
Also, one morning, I dropped my Pineapple Express smoothie with Passion Fruit juice and they were kind enough to replace it for me free of charge when I attempted to buy another one. Service, as always, is a huge plus for me. I now make it a point to go there if I am in the area for work.Comment from John V. of Lift Café 7/14/2009
Dropping a Pineapple Express is illegal in some countries.… More » -
Review from Yvonne R.
5/6/2008
Been here a few times already and have only had the smoothies. They rock! All the smoothies are made with real fruit, no added sugar, no ice, so you know you are getting the good stuff. The decor inside is nice and the people working there are very helpful and cordial too.
The coffee drink options look real interesting, but I have yet to try them because everytime I go here it is after a workout or run and I need a little something more than caffeine. Unfortunately it is not a place by my work where I can grab coffee to go in the mornings...soon enough though! Only con...is that the smoothies are a little pricey, but it is a small compromise for the quality you are getting!Listed in: Where I go to avoid breaking…
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Review from Meredith D.
Somerville, MA
9/13/2009
Awesome smoothies and coffee! I really like the Antioxidance (pomegranate, mango, and blueberry). I like that they use biodegradable "plastic" cups. I haven't tried the food yet, but it looks really good. I normally come here after a day in the park or on the trail. The inside is full of serious, quiet people on their laptops... so I sit outside and laugh out loud to The Onion.
PS - Employees are really funny and friendly... and just as excited about their awesome, massive juicer as I am! (its really big! and bright orange!) -
Review from Jaye J.
Austin, TX
Updated - 8/8/2008
Since I don't drink blended coffee drinks, but stick with regular coffee, I can only speak to the regular, brewed coffee at Lift. And it's fine. Not the best, but not the worst by any means.
I stopped by today for a Taco Deli taco (YUM!) and a cup of coffee on the way to work. The service was friendly, and the taco was awesome. I had forgotten how much I love Taco Deli breakfast tacos.
I've yet to try the smoothies or anything else at Lift, but I like the fact that I can run by on the way to work and grab a taco and a fine cup of coffee for under $5. Actually, I think the taco is a little pricey at 1.99, but that's for all the tacos, no matter the ingredients and there was avocado on mine! Yum!Listed in: Wake up, wake up...
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/7/2008 First to Review
I wasn't real pleased with my first experience at Lift, but Brad's review and post is really cool.… Read more »
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