Amanda Sayers - The Austinot

Lucy’s Fried Chicken: Austin’s Neighborhood Chicken Spot Since 2011

August 27, 2018 by Amanda Sayers Leave a Comment

Lucy’s Fried Chicken has the cool, laid-back Austin vibe we love (Credit: Amanda Gagnon)

When I think of southern comfort food, fried chicken immediately comes to mind. Throw in some biscuits, collard greens, and black-eyed peas, and I’m beyond happy. A meal like this reminds me of the warm welcome that’s an essential part of southern hospitality.

Lucy’s Fried Chicken is all of that and more. The casual eatery has been serving classic fried chicken and its accompaniments since 2011. No matter where you reside in Austin, there is now a Lucy’s near you. [Read more…]

Virtually Tour Austin Central Library’s Impressive Six Floors

August 8, 2018 by Amanda Sayers Leave a Comment

There are six floors to wander through and explore at Austin Central Library (Credit: Amanda Gagnon)

Even though Austin Central Library has been open for a while now, I recently visited for the first time. The building itself is stunning and I was pleasantly surprised by what the library offers to visitors.

Of course, you can check out books and other media. It’s a library. But did you know you can record a podcast from one of the shared learning rooms? Or that there are reading porches and a rooftop garden? How about the newly opened cafe?

I could have spent all day at Austin Central Library and can’t wait to return for another visit. [Read more…]

Slab BBQ & Beer Is Smoking Dope Barbecue at Two Austin Locations

July 25, 2018 by Amanda Sayers Leave a Comment

Barbecue Sandwiches at Slab BBQ in Austin

Why choose one barbecue sandwich when you can have three? (Credit: Amanda Gagnon)

Texans will argue that brisket reigns supreme when it comes to barbecue. If you’re open to being convinced otherwise, visit Slab BBQ & Beer, where the pulled pork isn’t too shabby, either.

Between the slow-cooked meats and hip hop over the speakers, Slab is smoking what it calls “dope” barbecue. This team is extremely passionate about what they do. It not only shows in the delicious food, but also in the hospitality. [Read more…]

Explore Austin Provides Mentorship, Outdoor Adventure for Underserved Youth

July 10, 2018 by Amanda Sayers Leave a Comment

Adventure awaits (Credit: Explore Austin)

Time spent in nature is often the best medicine. Combine nature with mentorship, and get ready for positive change. Austin-area parents and guardians should expect this combination through a local program called Explore Austin. This nonprofit is helping Austin youth make positive choices, develop healthy relationships, and perform better in school.

[Read more…]

Whitestone Brewery Crafts Quality Beer in Cedar Park, Texas

June 27, 2018 by Amanda Sayers Leave a Comment

Whitestone Brewery offers an impressive beer lineup

Cedar Park is finally earning a place on the map as a food and beverage destination. Northwest of Austin, you’ll find quality restaurants, bars, and local businesses setting up shop. Whitestone Brewery is one such business, and business is good. After visiting this neighborhood brewery, I can see why Whitestone is growing a base of loyal customers.

[Read more…]

Skip Traffic for Quality Food at The Rotten Bunch in Northwest Austin

June 12, 2018 by Amanda Sayers Leave a Comment

The Rotten Bunch Wine Bar and Kitchen North Austin

The Rotten Bunch Wine Bar + Kitchen in northwest Austin

When it comes to high-quality restaurants in Austin, many people think they need to head downtown. But they don’t. The Rotten Bunch Wine Bar + Kitchen in north Austin has become—hands down—my favorite restaurant. The food is delicious; it’s in my ‘hood; and I don’t have to pay to park.

I love The Rotten Bunch so much that I’ve gone back countless times and I’ve been telling everyone I know about it. Now it’s your turn to get the scoop.

[Read more…]

Texas 46 BBQ Will Be Your New Favorite Hill Country Pit Stop

May 9, 2018 by Amanda Sayers Leave a Comment

Welcome to Texas 46 BBQ in Texas Hill Country

Editor’s Note: Texas 46 BBQ closed unexpectedly in October 2018.

A drive through Texas Hill Country is always a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Add some good ol’ Texas barbecue to the mix, and it doesn’t get much better. So next time you’re meandering through the quaint towns in the hills, take detour to Spring Branch, a small town nestled close to Canyon Lake. The owner of Freedmen’s, an Austin barbecue favorite, just opened Texas 46 BBQ. This new restaurant is bringing the smoke to all of your favorite dishes. It even has a full bar to quench your thirst.

[Read more…]

Care2Rock Provides Music Lessons and Mentorship to Foster Kids

April 26, 2018 by Amanda Sayers Leave a Comment

Care2Rock Music Lessons for Foster Kids in Austin

Care2Rock provides mentorship and music lessons for children in foster care (Credit: Care2Rock)

For a child, music education can make all the difference in the world. Not only can the experience improve academic performance, but it’s also known to build self-esteem. Music therapy can even help children who have experienced trauma or abuse. For all of these reasons, Care2Rock, a social enterprise business born in Austin, is providing access to music lessons and mentorship for children in foster care.

Kids in foster care often don’t have access to music, but Care2Rock is working to change this. Care2Rock allows anyone, nationwide, to take online music lessons. When you purchase a music lesson, you are providing a child in foster care at least one year of mentorship and music education. With over 400,000 children in foster care across the United States, Care2Rock stands to make a huge impact.

[Read more…]

Latinitas Empowers Austin’s Young Latinas With Media and Technology Skills

April 11, 2018 by Amanda Sayers 1 Comment

Latinitas serves girls ages 9-18 through after-school clubs, camps, conferences, and workshops
(Credit: Josie Hughes)

In this day and age, media and technology impact nearly every moment of the day. Though new jobs are constantly being created, women struggle to find their voice. Especially within the Latina community.

From a cultural perspective, Latinas have a powerful voice and important perspective to contribute to all creative sectors. This is where Latinitas shines, and why it’s become such a valuable part of the Austin community. Latinitas is empowering young Latinas to innovate through media and technology, find their voice, and let it be heard. [Read more…]

Houndstooth Coffee Embraces Neighborhood Vibe at 3 Austin Locations

March 28, 2018 by Amanda Sayers 3 Comments

On a recent visit to Houndstooth Coffee, I discovered the concept of a classic, neighborhood coffee shop still exists. Not only did I find delicious coffee, but the vibe was so friendly. I befriended strangers (all local), and we talked about the neighborhood, living in Austin, traveling on the MetroRail, etc. It gave me all the warm and fuzzy feelings a good coffee shop should give.

During my time there, I learned Houndstooth Coffee will be expanding its drink menu, adding cocktails at the newest location in east Austin. Transitioning from day to night never sounded so good.

[Read more…]

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