As I’ve visited local markets and grocery stores in Austin that many neighborhood residents frequent, it quickly became apparent what Austinites value: organic food, local products, and craft beer. Though the atmosphere of these local businesses varies, they all make shopping local convenient and offer easy access to unique foods that are difficult to find anywhere else. Here’s a […]
Inside Books Project Works to Free Minds of Texas Prisoners
It looks like a private library. Shelves of used books line the length of a wall and a U-shaped area across the room. A giant colorful planet is painted on another wall. People are quiet and studious. This is not your average library, however, and people aren’t here to study. This is where a non-profit called Inside […]
Expand Your Taste with These Funky Sweet Spots in Austin
This article is dedicated to the Austin confectionaries that are keeping it weird…that is, the innovative dessert spots that defy your run of the mill snow cone trailers and overused ice cream flavors. From a frozen banana trailer with an attitude to a north side shaved ice shop that offers beautifully glacial treats, these funky sweet spots are a beacon […]
Freshen Up with Snap Kitchen’s Summer Menu
I recently had the chance to sample Snap Kitchen’s summer menu, which will be available through September. During my first exposure to this healthy food shop, I was pleased by the neat lines and colorful aesthetic of the Westlake store I visited. Snap Kitchen’s image and model seems to be serving them well. Although the first store opened […]
5 Favorite Sangrias in Austin
There is nothing better than enjoying a sangria on a summer day. The warmth of the sun is offset by the fruity cold drink in your hands. It may taste delicious and look innocent enough, but don’t be deceived. Sangria can be strong–heightened as it is often is with liquors and liqueurs. Check out my favorite sangrias […]
Alcomar Takes You to Mexican Seaside with South 1st Eatery
Editor’s Note: To the community’s surprise and disappointment, Alcomar closed at the end of May 2018 due to a rental dispute. Back to my old haunt: South 1st Street. When I wrote my neighborhood guide to this rich area, two painters had a ladder propped against what used to be El Chile. With a sinking feeling, I watched […]
Explore Austin Nature at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Wildflowers don’t only line the highways of Central Texas. Although you can find them scattered around town or further out in Hill Country, visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a unique way to learn more about our native blooms and fully appreciate their beauty up close. Originally established by Lady Bird Johnson and actress Helen Hayes […]
Nasha Brings Mumbai and Margaritas to Austin’s East Side
Looking for your next food adventure in Austin? Search no further than East 7th Street and the charming wooden house previously occupied by Casa Columbia. While that east side favorite has moved further down the street, Nasha India has taken its place with a bold attempt at a new food genre: Indian-Tex Mex fusion.
Austin Neighborhood Guide: South 1st Street
South Congress may be infamous for its popular cluster of high-end boutiques, trendy restaurants, and food trailers—but just one street over is a slightly more humble neighborhood with a quirky assortment of shops, food trailers, and murals of its own that just beg to be explored. For those who haven’t dug too far into this south-central […]
OPA! Experience a Greek Cafe That Defies Labels
My title may say this café defies labels, but perhaps it’s more accurate to say that OPA! on South Lamar invites many descriptions – wine bar, café, restaurant, student study haven, happy hour spot and casual hangout. Stone walls outline an extensive front porch perfect for basking in the Saturday sun with a discounted cocktail. Deep in […]