By Grace Heimsness

Austin ArtWorks Festival intern

These days we’re all eating on the run. I can’t remember the last time I ate breakfast in a place that wasn’t either on my bike or at work, and I know I’m not alone here.

More than once I’ve been passed by a fellow Austinian juggling toast, coffee and the steering wheel. The point being, art isn’t the only thing we need to slow down and appreciate, and this year’s festival caterer wants to make sure we remember to do just that.

Festival committee members were recently treated to a preview of the Holiday Inn’s menu, which features traditional all-American fare as well as dishes inspired by Hawaiian cuisine (e.g., Spam fried rice) — an appropriate spin-off given Hawaii’s close ties with Spam.

Chelsey Walerak, who collaborated with Festival committee member Jeff Baldus in creating the menu, says, “[Our goal] was to have something for everyone. We wanted some items to be light and fresh, and others to fill you up for a long day at the festival.”

Many featured items, including the steak, shrimp, and Hawaiian kabobs and walking tacos, will be served with patrons’ mobility in mind; in other words, you won’t be tethered by your lunch. The menu also includes old standbys like burgers and pulled pork sandwiches. Nearby will be beverages for both kids and adults, so make sure you stop by for a sip between musical acts or gallery visits.

There might be lots going on this August, and let’s be honest, isn’t there always? But we can all stand to be reminded that food, like art, should be a conversation. So please don’t forget to stop and enjoy yourself, and maybe chew for once.

Swing by and “Like” the ArtWorks Festival on Facebook for updates, and, until next week, hold on tight.