…Soup Yourself: 50 Simple Yet Sublime Soup Recipes from the Eastside Cafe

In 1987, when Eastside Cafe first opened its doors in a charming old Manor Road house, proprietors Dorsey Barger and Elaine Martin made a pivotal decision to utilize the expansive organic garden already present on the property for cultivating vegetables exclusively for their new restaurant. Initially inspired by the exceptional flavors of their homegrown produce, Barger and Martin eventually expanded their commitment by collaborating with other local organic growers. This marked the beginning of their pioneering role in Austin's locavore movement, where they harnessed the vibrant tastes of freshly harvested heirloom vegetables to craft a distinctive culinary identity. Eastside Cafe swiftly gained a reputation for offering high-quality dining, and their cookbook collection now allows enthusiasts to recreate the experience in their own homes.

One notable publication from Eastside Cafe is "Soup Yourself" (by Ruth Carter, Elaine Martin, and Dorsey Barger; Eastside Cafe/Blame Books; 55 pp.; paper), a self-published work from 1992. This slender volume serves as a treasury featuring 50 of the cafe's iconic soup recipes, including beloved classics like pollo tortilla soup, vegetarian black bean chili, corn cheddar chowder, and potato and leek soup. Organized by seasons to align with the garden's inspiration, the book provides a comprehensive guide to crafting soups, covering everything from making stocks to offering gardening and preparation tips throughout.