For most of my adult life, I've lived within a block or two of what Brooklyners would call a bodega - a little general store that probably makes most of its money on beer, but can be counted on in a pinch for things like key cutting, light bulbs, diapers, milk, etc. When I bought my first (and only) house here in east Austin, it seemed only logical to be within a block from such a store. Bread Basket would be like my extended pantry, if I were the type to be able to use the word 'pantry' without laughing like a 12 year-old.
With the exception of the instant-hot-chocolate-with-tiny-marshmallows I went without one night, Bread Basket has never failed me. What makes it even better is a surprisingly eclectic beer section, and an array of wine that I find remarkable even after I am done being surprised that they have wine in the first place.
Last and certainly not least, the Jordanian guys who run the place are fantastic. Sure, the one with the mustache always seems a little grumpy, but in an endearing way. And one time he let me come in and get a beer even though he was about to pull the roll up down for the night.
In a nutshell: lots of weird big beers, wine (at all?), an impressive selection of little grocery items (including a bunch of dynamic-looking Mexican snacks that I can't read but I'm sure are delicious), and - wait for it - moon pies. Like, five varieties. Plus great service! read more