The Last Concert

There's a little road just under I-10, right where it meets 59. And on that road is an old house with a red door. It's so close to the street there's barely a sidewalk. There's no sign,  just "Knock To Enter" written in Sharpie on the red. This is The Last Concert Cafe.
I've been there a few times. I have friends who's kids used to sneak out there when they were in High School and College. And I just recently met someone (my age) who's mom confessed to having gone there in her younger days..
There's a small bar area that is always full of  the regulars who check you out when you come in. Are you worthy? Then there's a small dining room which is really out back. Every time I've had dinner here there's been live music in the dining area. I always feel like they're guys from the neighborhood  who've wandered in to play their guitars and sing a little. It's never disappointing.
The food is good, nothing exciting. If your Mom was from Mexico and you came home from college, this is the kind of cooking you'd be craving.Not gourmet. Home made with love. I recommend the Enchiladas. There are so many choices!! Four kinds of cheese enchiladas, all named after someone. Then you really have to squint to read the descriptions. After the sun sets, it's pretty much mood lighting. But the margaritas are cold, and sour, and satisfying.
But now the real reason to go to The Last Concert (Besides atmosphere!). What used to be the back yard of the house is now filled with sand- like a beach volleyball court- and picnic tables, and tonight: gas heaters. There's a stage to the back and here's where the magic happens. Almost every night.

 TR3 Warming Up

 If you don't know Tim Reynolds, you MUST have heard of The Dave Mathews Band. Tim is Dave Mathews' guitarist. www.timreynolds.com  Dare I say, his talent far exceeds the talent of Dave? He tours as TR3 when not touring with Dave. His guitar skills are the best I've ever seen in a live venue- this includes my many go-rounds at Madison Square Garden. And to see him at a little place with less than 100 people! I wonder if he prefers the intimate places once in a while to the huge concerts he usually plays?
The audience was very casual. One guy came in on his bicycle. There was the dancer with the lighted hula hoop. And plenty of beer. It's outside, so the smokers (of all types) are happy. I can see us coming back for a little Jazz with a cigar and cognac at our side. I really could go on and on about this place- but I won't. It's hard to describe the feeling you get there. It's like a secret part of Austin has come to Houston. Or maybe it was here longer. And it's not "in your face". Just a little oasis- if you can find it.