Unforgettable Creamy Cheese Soup: The Driskill Hotel’s Legendary 1886 Cafe & Bakery Recipe from Austin, TX
There are some culinary experiences that linger in your memory long after the last bite, and for me, one stands out above all others: the Cheese Soup from The Driskill Hotel’s 1886 Cafe & Bakery in Austin, Texas. Hands down, this is the BEST cheese soup I have ever tasted. It’s not just a dish; it’s a creamy, perfectly balanced masterpiece that has earned its place as one of the top must-try recipes when visiting this iconic Austin establishment.
An Unforgettable Culinary Journey to Austin, TX
My incredible journey to discover this soup began during a recent BlogHerFood conference held in the vibrant city of Austin, TX. Conferences like these are a fantastic opportunity for food bloggers to connect, share insights, and, of course, explore local culinary delights. It was a whirlwind weekend filled with engaging discussions, networking with both cherished old friends and exciting new acquaintances, and countless exchanges of stories and innovative ideas. But let’s be honest – it wasn’t *all* work. When a group of food bloggers gathers, the quest for exceptional food is always a top priority, and Austin certainly delivered.
Discovering Austin’s Flavors with Fellow Foodies
We were particularly fortunate to have Samantha from Five Heart Home as part of our group. Not only is she an absolute delight to be around, but as a local Austin resident, she possessed invaluable insider knowledge of the city’s best culinary spots. Her guidance proved indispensable, leading us directly to the places we simply *had* to experience. On a side note, Samantha’s highly anticipated cookbook was released just that day, and it is truly phenomenal! I had the chance to flip through it during the conference and was so impressed that I ordered it on the spot. If you’re looking for fantastic slow cooker recipes, you absolutely need to check it out.
Above is a picture of her amazing “Real Food Slow Cooker Suppers” cookbook, and here’s a direct link to her cookbook on Amazon. It’s packed with fantastic slow cooker recipes that I’m confident you’ll adore as much as I do. Now, back to the main event: the food!
Savoring the Flavors of Texas: From BBQ to Gourmet Soup
Our culinary adventure began on Friday night at the legendary Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood, Texas. I’ll admit, I’m not typically a fervent devotee of barbecue, but Salt Lick truly made me a believer. The atmosphere was buzzing with authentic Texas charm, and the food was nothing short of sensational. We indulged in a family-style feast, complete with all the traditional fixings. The smoky, tender meats, coupled with the rich sides, created an unforgettable meal. I left not only thoroughly impressed but also proudly sporting an “AwesomeSauce” t-shirt, a souvenir for both my husband and myself to commemorate the experience.
The Driskill Hotel: A Culinary Landmark in Austin
Saturday brought us to another iconic Austin destination for a much-anticipated lunch excursion: The Driskill Hotel and its renowned 1886 Cafe & Bakery. From the moment we stepped inside, the historical elegance and charm of The Driskill were palpable. It’s a truly beautiful place, steeped in history, offering a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance. Our group had a wonderful time soaking in the surroundings, but the real highlight was, of course, the food. We eagerly ordered the three “must-try” items from their menu, each one having a sterling reputation: the famous Cheese Soup, the hearty Hangover Burger, and a decadent slice of Chocolate Cake. And I can confidently say, none of them disappointed.
While the burger was satisfying and the chocolate cake was a delightful indulgence, it was the cheese soup that truly captured our hearts and taste buds. We all raved about it! The soup was perfectly creamy, rich without being overly heavy, and boasted a subtle hint of heat at the finish that elevated every spoonful. It was an exquisite balance of flavors and textures, making it an utterly amazing culinary experience that solidified its status as the best cheese soup I had ever encountered.
The Secret Revealed: Obtaining the Driskill Cheese Soup Recipe
In a stroke of pure luck and culinary daring, one of the bloggers at our table playfully quipped to our waitress, “Psst… you should really give us the recipe.” To our collective surprise and delight, she replied, “Okay!” A few moments later, she returned, not with just a verbal instruction, but with actual printed copies of the recipe for all of us! It was an incredible moment, and I immediately knew I had stumbled upon a true gem. So, consider this your fair warning: the internet is about to be wonderfully inundated with this sensational cheese soup recipe, courtesy of The Driskill Hotel’s generosity.
The moment I shared a picture of this magnificent soup on my Instagram, my daughter was instantly captivated and couldn’t wait to try it. Her excitement mirrored my own, so the very first day I returned home from the conference, I rushed to gather all the necessary ingredients. The next day, I meticulously followed the instructions, eager to recreate that unparalleled taste. We served it garnished with some crunchy Texas Toast Croutons, which added a perfect textural contrast, and eagerly dug in. The result? Pure bliss. It tasted just as incredible as I remembered from the 1886 Cafe & Bakery.
This recipe, I must warn you, falls squarely into the “Treat Yo’ Self” category. It’s unapologetically rich and definitely not a low-calorie option, but every single spoonful is worth it. One ingredient might even surprise you a bit, but trust me when I say it’s essential for achieving that signature Driskill flavor and texture. This is, without a doubt, the absolute best cheese soup I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. So much so that I’ve declared it “life-changing.” It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with expert technique, can create something truly extraordinary. Don’t be intimidated by the recipe’s restaurant origins; it’s surprisingly accessible to recreate at home, allowing you to bring a piece of Austin’s culinary excellence directly to your own kitchen.
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Print Recipe
Cheese Soup ~ The Driskill Hotel/1886 Cafe & Bakery Austin, TX
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter
- 2 carrots
- 1 large onion
- 3 stalks celery
- 1 cup flour
- 1 quart vegetable stock
- 3 quarts heavy cream
- 1 1/4 pounds Velveeta Cheese Cubed
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
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Blend vegetables in a food processor set to puree.
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Melt butter in a stock pot. Add vegetables. Sweat vegetables in butter for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Sprinkle with flour and stir to create a roux.
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Add vegetable stock, whisking to combine. Add cream and simmer 5-10 minutes, taking care not to scorch.
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Remove from heat and blend with a stick blender. Gradually add cheese cubes by handfuls and blend in.
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Blend in Salt, Pepper, and Cayenne.
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Serve topped with big croutons.
Notes
Nutrition
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More Culinary Delights at The Driskill and Beyond
For those planning a visit to Austin, I highly recommend stopping by The Driskill Hotel’s 1886 Cafe & Bakery. Beyond the legendary Cheese Soup, make sure to try the Hangover Burger and the Chocolate Cake. You absolutely won’t leave hungry – that’s a personal guarantee! The combination of historical grandeur and delicious, comforting food makes it a truly memorable dining experience that epitomizes the best of Austin’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these iconic dishes are worth seeking out.
Love Soup as Much as I Do?
If you’re a fellow soup enthusiast, I invite you to explore some of our other creamy soup favorites. There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup, especially on a chilly day or when you’re craving something deeply satisfying. From hearty and wholesome to rich and decadent, these recipes are designed to bring joy and warmth to your table. Each offers a unique flavor profile and a creamy texture that makes them truly special. I’ve curated a selection of my family’s most beloved recipes, hoping they’ll become staples in your kitchen too.
This Potato, Green Bean and Bacon Soup is a robust and incredibly satisfying meal in itself. It’s packed with tender potatoes, crisp green beans, and smoky bacon, all swimming in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s the kind of soup that wraps you in a warm hug, perfect for those evenings when you need a hearty and comforting dish that appeals to everyone.
Forget the canned versions – our Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup is a revelation. Made with fresh mushrooms and a rich, velvety base, it’s an elevated take on a classic. This soup is perfect as a standalone lunch or as a sophisticated starter for a dinner party, offering deep, earthy flavors that are both comforting and elegant.
For something truly unique, try our Cabbage & Bleu Cheese Soup, a delightful recipe inspired by Taxi’s Omaha. This soup combines the subtle sweetness of cabbage with the pungent, creamy notes of bleu cheese, creating a surprisingly harmonious and utterly delicious blend that will intrigue and satisfy your palate. It’s a wonderful option for those who enjoy bold and distinctive flavors.
And finally, our Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food. It takes all the beloved toppings of a classic baked potato – crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and fresh green onions – and infuses them into a rich, creamy potato soup. It’s a filling and flavorful option that’s perfect for a cozy night in, guaranteeing satisfaction with every spoonful.