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Date Ideas Austin – 20 romantic things to do during day and night!

February 4, 2023 by Eliza Weeks Leave a Comment

Huge List of Unforgettable Austin Date Spots

Date Ideas Austin

Recently I found myself wrapped up in one of those fleeting moments of self-empowerment, tickled by a craving for adventure. Interested in re-entering the dating pool, but also daunted by how exhausting the process can be, I decided the only way to start dating was to cannonball in. So I created a challenge for myself: I would go on 25 dates during my 25th year.

This was invigorating, but when you tell yourself you’re going to go on a date, you have to have some destinations in your arsenal. The problem is that I’m a chronic searcher. I don’t have one favorite place to eat, drink or be merry in Austin.

Add a date to the mix and the decision becomes more complicated. Friends can be forgiving of the loud crowd or a dinner that was too experimental, but dates are often people you don’t know well. With these concerns in mind, I decided the best thing would be to compile a list of fail-safe date destinations in Austin. Because when sexual tension and awkward expectations are in the air, you want everything else to be simple.

If you find yourself searching for ‘fun date ideas Austin’ or ‘date ideas near me’ or ‘places to go on a date near me’ I have you covered! Check out my curated list of the Best Date Night or Day Ideas in Austin! 


Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Also, remember to check out our articles on Romantic Restaurants in Austin, Best Italian Restaurants in Austin, and Best Austin Restaurants with a View! 


Deal Alert – Romantic Tour in Austin

Experience the romantic ambiance of Austin on a tour that is tailored for couples. Take a stroll through picturesque neighborhoods and discover hidden gems that only locals know about. Enjoy a romantic sunset at a secluded spot with a beautiful view. Indulge in delicious food and drinks at some of the city’s most intimate and charming restaurants. Create lasting memories with your significant other as you explore the city’s culture, history, and natural beauty together.

Get more information and book your Romantic tour for couples in Austin TODAY!!!


Date Ideas Austin – Date Night at Not Your Average Dive Bar

A first date over drinks is a time-honored tradition. There’s no big commitment. If after one drink you decide you aren’t right for each other, you simply take a last sip, payout, and say your amicable goodbyes. If you are connecting, you can hit up the inevitable restaurant close by. Either way, with these cocktail lounge ideas, you’ll have a good place to start a date and perhaps find a new favorite bar!

Whisler’s

Austin Date Spots - Whistler's

Image Credit: Whisler’s FB Page

Craft cocktails and a hidden mezcal bar.
Where: 1816 East 6th Street, Austin, TX 78702


drink.well

Constantly changing exotic cocktail menu and tapas-style snacks
Where: 207 E 53rd St, Austin, TX 78751


Midnight Cowboy

Reservation-only speakeasy cocktail lounge
Where: 313 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701


Lala’s Little Nugget

Austin Date Spots - Lala's

Image Credit: Lala’s FB Page

Christmas all year round, the only Christmas Bar in ATX!
Where: 2207 Justin Ln, Austin, TX 78757


House Wine

Extensive wine selection, charcuterie, and s’mores
Where: 408 Josephine St, Austin, TX 78704


Juliet Italian Kitchen

Excellent happy hour, lovely wine and cocktail list, and great outdoor patio
Where: 10000 Research Blvd Building C, Austin, TX 78759


Deal Alert – Private Austin Brewery Tour by Pedicab

Private Austin Brewery Tour by Pedicab

Try out Austin’s craft brewery scene without thinking about transportation on this private microbrewery tour by pedicab. Enjoy Austin’s famously warm weather as your guide pedals you to three of Austin’s award-winning breweries. Choose to pay for beers as you go or opt for the all-inclusive option for a tour without any additional expenses.

Get all the information and book your Private Austin Brewery Pedicab Tour TODAY!!!


Date Ideas Austin – Something is brewing at these coffee date spots

When you grab a coffee in Austin, it isn’t just about the drink, but it’s about the whole experience. Our local cafes often offer more than just something to sip on.

Mozart’s Coffee Roasters

Austin Date Spots - Mozart's Coffee Roasters

Image Credit: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters FB Page

Going to Mozart’s is like having a lake party without the cost of a yacht. Grab a coffee and enjoy the views of Lake Austin. If it’s Christmas time, take in the famous light show. It will definitely add a spark to your romantic evening. Where: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703


Mañana Coffee & Juice

The newest addition to the South Congress Hotel compound is Mañana. The simple but elegant menu, including delectable pastries, makes for a great place to grab a bite and sip when you are testing the water on a first date.

Don’t forget there are half-price pastries daily from 5-7 p.m!
Where: 1603 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704


Easy Tiger

Austin Date Spots - Easy Tiger

Image Credit: Easy Tiger FB page

This Sixth Street bakery and beer garden is easily one of the top first-date spots in the city, so it certainly warrants a mention. Easy Tiger can serve as the background for a date at any time of day. Meet for coffee and pastries in the morning, pretzels and ping pong in the afternoon, or a beer to start off a night on the town. After your treatment, you can hit up some of the other bars around or just go for a walk down Sixth Street.
Where: 6406 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd Suite 1100, Austin, TX 78752


Deal Alert – Texas Hill Country and LBJ Tour – 2 adults for just $109!

Hill country and LBJ tour from Austin

Experience Texas Hill Country while exploring the life of U.S. President and Texas native son Lyndon Johnson. After a convenient hotel pickup, visit Johnson’s “Texas White House,” his reconstructed boyhood home (now a national park), and the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. Learn about the cowboys and German immigrants who shaped the region, stop by historic Fredericksburg and visit the legendary country music town of Luckenbach.

Get more details and book your Texas Hill Country and LBJ tour from Austin TODAY!!!


Date Ideas Austin – Best dinner options to cook up some romance

Patrizi’s

Austin Date Spots - Patrizi's

Image Credit: Patrizi’s FB page

I’m a sucker for any place that has outdoor seating, twinkling lights, and food trucks. Throw in incredible handmade pasta, live theatre, trivia nights, and classy cocktails, and you’ve got the perfect date destination. This Manor Road complex makes it easy to customize your date. If you don’t know the person well, stick with drinks under the moonlight. Want to impress them, but not dent your wallet too badly? Throw in dinner from Patrizi’s. Ready to explore the avant-garde?
Where: 2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722


Lenoir’s Back Garden Patio

Behind the Lenoir dining room (which serves a delicious menu nightly) sits a fenced-off back patio that screams date night. A giant oak tree strewn with paper lanterns stretches its arms over wood and stone picnic tables. Stay for a glass or wine or share appetizers, like a thick slice of bread covered in heirloom tomato bruschetta with feta and basil. It feels like a little-known secret tucked away right off First Street.
Where: 1807 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

Deal Alert – Food Tour of Downtown Austin – 2 adults for just $87

 

Date Ideas Austin - Food tour of downtown Austin

Stroll through the streets of downtown Austin on a guided urban gastronomy experience. Explore the city’s central and historic area and sample numerous foods—from BBQ brisket to Austin-style breakfast tacos. Along the way, you’ll discover some of the city’s popular sights and attractions. This tour is ideal for foodies and hungry visitors. The tour departs from a convenient location in the middle of Austin.

What’s Included

  • Austin-style breakfast taco
  • Central Texas pit-style BBQ brisket
  • Authentic Italian cannoli with a twist
  • Chicken and potato tamales with black bean dip
  • Gourmet doughnut
  • Our delicious Secret Dish

Get more information and book your Food Tour of Downtown Austin TODAY!!!


Date Ideas Austin – Entertainment Date Ideas: No Need for Small Talk

Paramount Theatre

Austin Date Spots - Paramount Theatre

Image Credit: Paramount Theatre FB Page

If you need a break from Alamo Drafthouse, then head to Paramount Theatre to take in a classic movie on the big screen. The summer movie series boasts classics like “Casa Blanca” and “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” Who doesn’t want to do a little time travel on a date?
Where: 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701


Radio Coffee & Beer

Radio Coffee & Beer took three of Austin’s favorite things and combined them: good coffee, craft beer and live music. This South Austin treasure has a little something for everyone. Each night of the week features a new music genre or activity, including Bluegrass Mondays, Trivia Tuesdays, Movie Wednesdays, and Folksy Sundays. Take your pick. Where: 4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Deal Alert – Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour for 2 at $29.99!

Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour

  • This two-in-one option includes a ghost tour and pub crawl
  • Learn all about the city’s spookiest ghost stories from your guide
  • Visit a number of the city’s hippest bars and drinking dens
  • Have the chance to order drinks as you go (own expense)

Get more information and book your Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour TODAY!!!


Date Ideas Austin – Let your hands do the talking at these art & craft spots

Cafe Monet

Austin Date Spots - Cafe Monet Art Studio

Image Credit: Cafe Monet Art Studio FB Page

Paintings are nice, but sometimes you want your art to be a little more utilitarian. At Cafe Monet, you and your date can each decorate something that will last. If the date goes well, you can trade creations. If it doesn’t last, at least you got a cool mug out of the deal!
Where: 4477 S Lamar Blvd #560, Austin, TX 78745


CRAFT

The recently-relocated giant crafting studio, CRAFT, makes for a great date destination. Keep your hands busy and channel your inner goofy finger-painting kid as you create something to commemorate the evening. You can dive into the craft world on your own or sign up for a workshop, which offers a more structured crafting experience. Best of all, you’re crafting, not painting the Mona Lisa, so no pressure to create an incredible piece of art.
Where: 4477 S Lamar Blvd #560, Austin, TX 78745

Deal Alert – Hill Country BBQ and Wine Shuttle 

Leave busy Austin for a half-day barbecue and wine tour in the Texas Hill Country. Your driver takes you to the outskirts of Austin to visit three different venues. Driver/Guide and Air Conditioned Vehicle are included. Food and wine tasting costs are NOT included.

Get more information and book your Hill Country BBQ and Wine Shuttle TODAY!!!


Unique Date Ideas Austin – Off the Beaten Path

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Austin Date Spots - Hamilton Pool Park & Nature Preserve

Image Credit: Kelsey Benson for Hamilton Pool Preserve FB Page

Sometimes a drink or dinner won’t cut it. For those going on a third or fourth date, Hamilton Pool is an incredible escape close to the city. Go for a swim or hike and marvel at each other and a cavernous water hole that looks like it dropped straight out of a fantasy novel. Don’t forget that advance reservations are now required to cut down on crowds.
Where: Travis County, TX, USA

Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnell’s Westlake lookout is another tried and true romantic spot for couples on a date. Pack a picnic to reward yourselves for climbing all those stairs.
Where: Austin, TX 78731

Pub Crawling in Austin

Austin Date Spots - Pubcrawler of Austin

Image Credit: PubCrawler of Austin FB Page

Have you seen the bars on wheels creeping along the streets of downtown, propelled by peddlers sporting Koozied drinks and toothy grins? These peddle pubs are absurd, but sort of incredible. I think all dates should involve a level of goofy, carefree fun. We spend so much time sitting in bars sipping cocktails and putting our best foot forward that we forget to just be ourselves. When you’re peddling a massive bar with strangers and blasting music, you can’t help but laugh at yourself. The sort of laughter that can be pretty attractive and break the ice.
Where: 1607 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

Motown Mondays at The Highball

Sometimes all you want to do is dance, but Dirty Sixth may not be where you want to take a date. Doo-wop your way over to The Highball and dance your heart out to the ballads of Motown, performed by The Night Owls and other local bands. If your feet get tired but you don’t want to say goodnight yet, catch a movie at Alamo Drafthouse next door or pop over to Lick’s for a refreshing ice cream cone.
Where: 1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Browsing at BookPeople

Want to engage your inner nerd and get to know your counterpart’s more intellectual side? Take your date to dinner at 24 Diner or get ice cream at Amy’s, then head over to BookPeople and peruse the aisles of the largest independent bookstore in Texas.

You can learn a lot about a person based on their favorite genres and authors. And if the date goes well, maybe you can get lost in the stacks.
Where: 603 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78703


Stay up to date on the events, activities, and entertainment in the Austin area through our weekly updates to Things to do in Austin this Week, Things to do in Austin this Weekend, and Things to do in Austin with Kids this Weekend!

And to get these updates delivered directly to your feed, give us a follow on Facebook by clicking the …next to the search lens icon.

Filed Under: Culture, Discoveries, Entertainment, Food & Drink, Local Business, Things to do

St Patrick’s Day 2022 in Austin – Verified, Local Food Deals & Drinks Specials!

March 17, 2022 by Clarett C. Leave a Comment

St Patrick's Day Couple at Jack & Ginger's in Austin
Austin St Patrick’s Day 2022 – Food Deals & Drinks Specials – Image Credit: Jack & Ginger’s Facebook Page

Happy St Paddy’s Day 2022! If you are looking for the best St Patrick’s Day Food Deals and Drinks Specials in Austin, you are in the right place!  We have you covered with our curated and Verified list of discounts and special offers. 

St Patrick’s Day Food

The most famous food for St. Patrick’s Day is the corned beef and cabbage dish along with shepherd’s pie. There’s also Irish Soda Bread, Irish Stew, Irish Coffee, Colcannon, Crubeens, Irish Seafood Chowder and more! For a full list of traditional Irish foods for St. Paddy Day check out this link from the Oprah Daily.

Remember to Check Out Our Post On – St Patrick’s Day 2022 Events & Parties in Austin

The Venue ATX Girls Dancing on St Paddy's Day
St Patrick’s Day in Austin – Image Credit – The Venue ATX Facebook page

St Patrick’s Day 2022 in Austin – Verified Food Deals & Drinks Specials 

VerDay at Trudy’s Tex Mex

Located at: 8820 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757

Trudy's St Patrick Day Green Baggiachis

Trudy’s Tex-Mex is going “Verde” this St. Paddy’s Day to celebrate Austin FC! Wear your verde and get lucky with $6 House Margs, Jameson Mexi-Marts, a Game Ticket raffle, “Baggiachis” (mariachi/bagpipe duet), and great prizes and giveaways including AUSTIN FC shirts! Drink specials run all day on Thursday, March 17th. Baggachis play at Trudy’s North Star starting at 5:30pm, and Trudy’s South Star at 7:30pm

Nosh & Bevvy

Location: 8440 Burnet Rd Austin, TX 78757

A neighborhood pub that brings old Austin Back, with some down home hospitality! Come and join us for an exciting event opening at 2 pm for some St. Patty’s fun!

Revelry Kitchen and Bar

Location: 1410 E 6th St Austin, TX 78702

Be sure to come out for our Big St. Patty’s day party! Lots of drink specials all day and of course we have green Jell-O Shots. Open at 12pm for all the March Madness fun. Take off of work or take a long business lunch. The streets will be packed with good times.

$5 Saintly Sips at Applebee’s

Applebee’s is starting St. Patrick’s Day early with its latest $5 Saintly Sips. They also have their Tipsy Leprechaun, their take on a L.I.T. with a St. Patrick’s Day twist, and the Pot O’ Gold Colada, a frozen piña colada made with Captain Morgan and mango. Plus, guests can enjoy Saintly Sips To-Go at participating locations.

Shamrock Macchiato from Dunkin’

Shamrock Macchiato from Dunkin

Available now for a limited time, the new Shamrock Macchiato layers bold, smooth espresso atop rich and creamy Irish Creme flavor, with notes of sweet cream and vanilla that capture the unmistakable flavor profile of Irish whiskey. Featuring a bright green hue, this festive and seasonal drink captures the experience of spring with every sip.

Shamrock Shmear from Einstein Bros. Bagels

Shamrock Shmear from Einstein Bagels

On Thursday, March 17 (for one day only), guests can add a Shamrock Shmear (special green plain cream cheese) to any fresh-baked bagel for a festive breakfast. The Shamrock Shmear offer is available for in-store orders (not available in Order Ahead) and can be added to any of the variety of fresh-baked bagels available in the bagel case.

Barbarella Austin

Located at: 611 Red River Street Austin, TX 78701 –

Tomorrow St. Patty’s Day, @nowy2k presents 𝑺𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝑺𝒐 𝑳𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒚 a Y2K Bangers All Nite! Doors @ 9pm | $5 for first 50 | $10 after | $20 @ midnight. VERY limited capacity so come early.

Happy Hour Specials Through the Week at Kona Grill

Kona Grill St Patrick Day Specials

Book your reservation for our week of St. Patrick’s Day specials at Kona Grill, available Monday, March 14th through Friday, March 18th. Enjoy Happy Hour Specials like $6 Corned Beef Sliders ($19 on Dinner Menu) and $3 Green Beer, Saké & Seltzer.

Green Donuts for St Patrick’s Day at Krispy Kreme

Image for Pot O' Gold

For two days only on 3/16 and 3/17, our Original Glazed® doughnut will go GREEN! Don’t risk being pinched, bring a limited-edition box containing a dozen green O’riginal Glazed doughnuts with you to your celebrations. Pre-order on 3/14 and 3/15 and secure your St. Patrick’s Day luck.

Deal Alert: 79% Discount on 15 pack of Fruity & Slightly Sweet Wines!

76% Off Fruity and Slightly Sweet Wines from Splash Wines

Pack of 15 wines features up to eight different whites that are slightly sweet and perfect for the spring and summer season.

St Patrick’s Day 2022 in Austin – Verified Food Deals & Drinks Specials – Continued

Jack & Ginger’s Irish Pub

Location: 11500 Rock Rose Ave Austin, TX 78758

St Patrick's Day Couple at Jack & Ginger's in Austin
Image Credit: Jack & Ginger’s Facebook Page

Back bigger & better than ever! Mark your calendars for Thurs, March 17th for an all-day street festival on Rock Rose! Get your fill of green beer, Irish & American comfort foods, live music, and bagpipes to celebrate our favorite holiday.

Shamrock Shake® & OREO® Shamrock McFlurry® at McDonald’s

Shamrock Shake at McDonald's

Shamrock Season Is Back! The wait is over—the creamy, dreamy Shamrock Shake® and OREO® Shamrock McFlurry® are back, but not for long. Get them before they’re gone.

Saxon Pub

Located at: 1320 S Lamar Blvd Austin, TX 78704

If you are in Austin come get your Irish on at The Saxon Pub at 6pm with Andrea Magee and her full band “Belfast Girl” band Dave Scher, Michael Anthony Davila & Josh Arredondo. We are looking forward to celebrating with them! We have your green beers cold and ready!

Grasshopper Shake at Ruby’s Diner

Grasshopper Shake at Ruby's Diner

Shake it up! March’s special at Ruby’s is the Grasshopper Shake, which features creamy vanilla soft serve blended with refreshing mint and tasty Oreo cookie crumbs – we’re drooling just thinking about it!

St. Paddy’s Day Costume Party & Irish menu specials  at Twin Peaks

St Paddy Costume Party at Twin Peaks

Tops off for the first day of our St. Paddy’s Day Costume Party. We’re feeling extremely lucky to have such spirited fans and menu features like the Irish Trashcan and Irish Car Bomb. What’s more Irish than that?

Stay up to date on all fun things going on in Austin with our weekly updates to Things to do in Austin this Week, Things to do in Austin this Weekend, & Things to do in Austin with Kids this Weekend

And to have these updates delivered directly to your feed, give us a follow of Facebook by clicking on the …next to the search lens icon

Filed Under: Drink, Entertainment, Food, Food & Drink, Local Business, Music, Nightlife

Super Bowl Food Specials in Austin – Verified Local Deals on Pizza, Wings & more

February 12, 2022 by Austinot Contributor 1 Leave a Comment

Super Bowl Food Specials in Austin:  Photo by Elevate on Unsplash

Looking for Super Bowl Food Specials in Austin? We have you covered!

Are you ready for the big game? Everyone knows that the Super Bowl is about more than watching football. It’s time to gather your family and friends and pig out on some mouth-watering food. Super Bowl 2022 pizza and food deals in Austin are boundless. Check out our verified list!

And if you still wondering how to watch the game on NBC without cable, there are some cheap and even free options to stream! 

Check out fuboTV’s 7 day free trial offer and stream Super Bowl and all other content you ever wanted!!!

fubotv sports

Super Bowl 2022 Food Specials in Austin – Pizza Deals

Pizza is the cornerstone of a Super Bowl watch party. Whether you’re a plain cheese lover, or like to incorporate as many toppings as you can, here are some great pizza deals to take advantage of this Super Bowl Sunday in Austin.

And by the way, you don’t have to miss a second of the Super Bowl day action because you can order from the convenience of ANYWHERE using Instacart!!!

Home Slice Pizza

With Sunday just around the corner, make sure to get those large orders in by calling ahead or placing your order at homeslicepizza.com! The last day for ordering online is Saturday, February 12th. All orders placed on Sunday, February 13th must be done by calling in or walking in!

Pieous

As a rare treat…pieous & pie-e-tea will be open this Sunday, SuperBowl Sunday, from 8am – 2pm.

World famous pastrami by the pound with fixings.Shareable Cookie/Brownie Platter. Crowd pleasing party plate, authentic, Neapolitan pizzas.

Toss Pizzeria & Pub

For Super Bowl takeout pre-orders right now you can get our XL 20” pepperoni pizza 🍕 for only $15!!! Get your pre-orders in fast.

Domino’s

Mix & Match Deal: Choose any 2 or more for $5.99! 2-item minimum, Handmade Pan Pizza, Bread Bowl Pasta, and Bone-in wings will be extra.

Pizza Hut

$10 TASTEMAKER™ – Large Up To 3 Toppings. Choose your favorite 3 toppings on a large Pizza Hut pizza and get it any way you want it: delivery, carryout, online, or over the phone. Additional charges apply for extra toppings, extra cheese and Original Pan Crust.

Little Caesars

$7.99 Hot-N-Ready: The Batman Calzony LARGE • 8 SLICES | Pepperoni pizza with a Parmesan and buttery-tasting, calzone-like crust filled with Garlic White Sauce, Cheese and Julienne Pepperoni Plus Crazy Sauce®.

Other Super Bowl Food Specials in Austin For 2022

Of course, there are other things on the menu besides pizza. Other game day treats include chicken wings, Mexican, and alcohol. Let’s look at some of the deals Austin offers its residents. 

Main Street Food Hall

Saturday and ALL PINTS for just $3! Got the munchies? You can also grab a beer and your choice of BBQ Nachos, Brisket Fries, or Queso for just $8!🤯

Tumble 22

Just $16 for a pound of chicken wings!

Hopdoddy’s

From Wednesday, February 9 – Sunday, February 13, you can enjoy a Hopdoddy Kernel Tender Bucket, a delicious order of 10 hand-breaded crispy chicken tenders served with a pound of hand-cut fries! You can try the tenders in interesting flavors like the Nashville Hot, Buffalo Blue, Garlic Parmesan, or Honey Mustard. 

If wanting a drink as you watch the Super Bowl from home, try Hopdoddy’s Roadie — a half-gallon bag of frozen house margarita made with fresh, hand-squeezed juice — so you can enjoy and easily celebrate with friends!

Among our top picks for Super Bowl Food Specials for 2022 in Austin! 

Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant

Enjoy the game. Delivery is Free at Abuelo’s! 

BJ’s Brewhouse

Enjoy happy hour specials throughout the game including $3 domestic bottle, $3 chips &dips, $4 BJ’s handcrafted signature beers and more.

Like this list above? Stay up to date on deals on Food & Drinks in the Austin area by bookmarking our Food & Drink section

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Filed Under: Food & Drink, Local Business

Best Desserts in Austin: Top 10 Dessert Places For Your Sweet Tooth

September 30, 2021 by Brittany Ballard Leave a Comment

Meringue drops, macarons, and more from Fluff Meringues & More
Enjoy meringue drops, macarons, and more from Fluff Meringues & More (Credit: Leonid Furmansky)

Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you I’ve got a big sweet tooth. Luckily, Austin has plenty of options to help with that. If you’re looking for best dessert in Austin like ice cream, cookies, pies, or more, keep reading. Although I can’t offer a full list of all the delicious treats available in Austin, here are 10 businesses that I recommend you check out. 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Discoveries, Food, Local Business Tagged With: bakery, cake shop, cookies, dessert, pie

10 Best Snow Cone Shops and Shaved Ice Places in Austin

September 4, 2021 by Mirella Gonzales Leave a Comment

Austin snow cone and shaved ice
Image courtesy: Sarah Sizemore

Ice cream is a beloved dessert but, sometimes Austin snow cones and shaved ice are better to beat the heat. If you have been searching for where a snow cone shop near me is – you’ve come to the right place. Check out where you can find some of the best shaved ice in Austin.  

Best Snow Cones and Shaved Ice in Austin

Shaved Ice Island

Shaved ice is a refreshing dessert. And at Shaved Ice Island, it’s taken up a notch. This island-themed food truck serves creative shaved ice recipes. Try their signature flavor, the Moscow Mule!

Where: 2701 W William Cannon Dr, Austin, TX 78745

Sno.Co

Sno.Co is another snow cone food truck in Austin. It serves up Flattop Shaved Ice. Sno.Co also serves their treats in cool cups, so get your fill today.

Where: 2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Sweet Caroline’s Snow Shack

austin snow cones
Image courtesy: Sweet Caroline’s Snow Cones

This local business has over 50 flavors of syrups to choose from! Not only does this Austin snow cones and shaved ice shop has many flavors, but it also serves New Orleans-style snowballs. Their special machines absorb the syrup instead of it sinking to the bottom. 

Where: 11220 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753

Las Mangonadas Ice Cream Parlor

This ice cream parlor serves more than the traditional dessert. With mangonadas and raspaditos, you might feel a little spicy on your way to cooling off.

Where: 1144 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX, TX 78702

Sno Mo

shaved ice
Image courtesy: SnoMo

Sno Mo is fluffy like snow but creamy like ice cream. We know it might be confusing, but when you take a bite, it’ll all make sense. Wait Sno Mo for good snow cones!

Where: 13497 N Hwy 183, Austin, TX 78750

Hula Cowgirl

austin shaved ice
Image courtesy: Hula Cowgirl

Hula Cowgirl serves shaved ice out in Georgetown. It isn’t too far from Austin. What’s great about this shaved ice company is that you can order a catering package if you’re holding an event like a birthday or corporate gathering!

Where: 103 N Austin Ave #305, Georgetown, TX 78626

Snowball’s Chance

Snow cones are overlooked often as a dessert. But The Snowball’s Chance will make you rethink that. Because this isn’t the ordinary snow cone stand, it’s one with epic snow cones. We’re talking vanilla wafers, strawberries, and more.

Where: 408 Main St, Buda, TX 78610

Casey’s New Orleans Snowballs

snowballs
Image courtesy: Casey’s New Orleans Snowballs

New Orleans-style snowballs are popular because they’re made with fluffy shaved ice. Casey’s is one of the best places to find snow cones in Austin. Take a trip to their truck today.

Where: 808 E 51st St, Austin, TX, TX 78751

Snowbowla

Another shaved ice truck! We’re sensing a theme here. Austin likes to cool off as easily as possible. Snowbowla prepares its syrups with vegan sugar and has dye-free flavors!

Where: 5801 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756

Woody’s Shave Ice

snow ball
Image courtesy: Snowball’s Chance

At Woody’s, the shaved ice comes in one size. Each creation is made with fresh fruit, no dyes, and no artificial flavors. After all, shave ice is on the lighter side, so it should be healthier too.

Where: 1158 Lost Creek Blvd, Austin, TX 78746

The shaved ice truck in Austin is abundant. But don’t forget about the local snow cone shops in Austin. Make a trip to get a snow cone today, you deserve it!

Want some dinner before your dessert? Check out these Austin Thai Food Restaurants.

Filed Under: Discoveries, Food & Drink, Local Business

Shrimply the best – Top 10 Seafood Restaurants in Austin

August 15, 2021 by Mirella Gonzales Leave a Comment

austin
Best Seafood Restaurants in Austin – This image courtesy: Cafe Blue Downtown Austin

With many lakes in Austin, you might be reminded of the ocean and how far away good seafood is. We get it. With the ocean far, it can make you hesitant. So, if you’ve yet to dive into some of the seafood restaurants in Austin, now is your chance, because these are some that are shrimpy the best!

Austin Seafood Restaurants

Clark’s Oyster Bar

Image courtesy: Clark’s Oyster Bar

Clark’s serves lunch, dinner, and even brunch. It’s one of the upscale seafood restaurants in Austin. The menu has a wide variety of oysters to pick from. So, if oysters are your favorite type of seafood, you’ll have to try Clark’s.

Where: 1200 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

Café Blue Downtown Austin

Café Blue is a local favorite for seafood restaurants and oyster bars. There are two locations in Austin, and both have indoor and outdoor seating. On Monday, happy hour is all day.

Where: 340 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701

Turf N’ Surf Po Boy

seafood
Image courtesy: Turf N’ Surf Po Boy

Po’Boy is a common seafood sandwich. But Turf N’ Surf serves up more than that. They also serve salads, chicken, and plates that’ll have your mouth watering for more.

Where: 407 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701

Kasian Boil

Austin seafood boil is hard to come by. But at Kasian Boil, it’s made for you to order. While they do have the traditional seafood boil, they also sell shrimp bowls and offer family-sized meals so everyone can enjoy.

Where: 13717 Mopac Service Rd #250, Austin, TX 78727

Poke-Poke

Poke in Austin
Image courtesy: Poke Poke

Seafood places in Austin that are independent are sometimes the best. Poke-Poke is a family-owned and operated seafood restaurant. They start every poke with fish and promise that nothing is pre-made.

Where: 3100 S Congress Ave Suite A, Austin, TX 78704

Terry’s Seafood and Chicken

Seafood and chicken… Terry’s has the best of both worlds, that is if someone in your party doesn’t like seafood. The place started as a fish market, but since 1976 Terry’s has been frying and serving up good seafood in Austin at a great price.

Where: 1805 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78702

Da Boot Po-boys Seafood & Soulfood

Seafood sandwhich
Image courtesy: Da Boot Po-Boys

Cajun seafood is the best seafood, there are no arguments about that. Da Boot Po-Boys offers Austin a little taste of New Orleans. If you love cajun and Po-boys then you’ll have to visit this seafood truck.

Where: 4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Marisco Grill

Located in a shopping plaza, Marisco Grill is a small and hidden seafood place. If you haven’t guessed by the name, Marisco Grill is a Mexican seafood restaurant. So plan to have a margarita with your meal.

Where: 9515 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753

Salty Cargo

Seafood in Austin
Image courtesy: Salty Cargo

There are a few markets in Austin. Salty Cargo is located in one of them. This casual seafood restaurant takes Hawaiian staples and gives them an Asian twist. It’s also a bonus that there is a market because they have easy access to fresh fish!

Where: 1700 W Parmer Ln #100, Austin, TX 78727

Salt Traders Coastal Cooking

Salt Traders is an upscale seafood restaurant in Austin. Everything is seafood-centric. This place takes pride in sourcing its fish from the Texas coast.

Where: 2850 N Interstate Hwy 35, Round Rock, TX 78681

As you can see, there’s a lot of places in Austin to get seafood. With the option of seafood markets to fancy seafood restaurants, you shouldn’t be as hesitant now. These seafood restaurants in Austin are worth a dive.

Not a fan of the sea? Check out some of the top BBQ spots in Austin here.

Filed Under: Food & Drink, Local Business

Austin’s Best Local Grocery Stores

January 6, 2021 by Erin May 6 Comments

Fresh Plus Grocery Store
Fresh Plus grocery store in Hyde Park

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 list of what I consider the best local grocery stores in Austin.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Discoveries, Food, Food & Drink, Local Business

10 Austin Veteran-Owned Businesses

November 11, 2020 by Brittany Ballard Leave a Comment

Austin businesses
Shop at these local, veteran-owned businesses (Credit: Achim Thiemermann).

This Veteran’s Day, I’d like to shine the spotlight on some of Austin’s Veteran-owned businesses. From cybersecurity protection to coffee roasting to recruiting veterans, you’ll want to check out these 10 businesses and learn about the amazing things that they’re doing.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Discoveries, Local Business Tagged With: veterans

7 of the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies in Austin

November 9, 2020 by Reena Weaver 1 Comment

Austin's best chocolate chip cookies
Some of the best Chocolate Chip Cookies in Austin

A really good chocolate chip cookie just can’t be beat. I would even argue that they are the best dessert of all time! Chocolate chip cookies are classic and comforting, but the coolest part is that they can be made so many ways. Whether you like chewy, bakery-style cookies or giant, thick cookies or crispy and flat cookies, there’s definitely a perfect chocolate chip cookie for you in Austin.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Food, Food & Drink, Local Business

House of ZZ Creates Sustainable and Eco-Focused Swimwear

October 26, 2020 by Brittany Ballard 1 Comment

woman wearing black one-piece swimsuit
Patricia Zajacova shot by Michael Pennick (@therawinstinct) / wearing the Violetta one piece

One of my favorite things about Austin is that there is an almost never ending list of activities to do and events to attend. At the top of that list of activities are all the things that allow one to splash into some water-filled fun: swimming in Barton Springs, paddleboarding in Lady Bird Lake, or even heading out to San Marcos to float the river. Anything to get some relief from the Texas summer heat, right?

And when you’re swimming, you’re going to need something to wear into the water. Enter House of ZZ. They are a local brand that sells sustainable swimwear for women – so you can feel and look fabulous while out in the water.

Diving Into New Adventures

woman wearing blue bikini
Polina Volynets shot by Sean Neil / wearing the Anniston x Murphy set

Owners Morgan and Michael Rizzuti started their careers in fields much different from where they’ve ended up. They both attended the University of Texas in history and engineering, respectively. While their educational journey didn’t teach them the inner workings of running and operating a business, there was something about Austin’s creative pull that made them realize that this was the place for them to start House of ZZ.

Morgan initially joined the corporate world after finishing college at UT. Over time, she knew that she wanted to leave her corporate job for something more, but wasn’t sure what the future held for her. It was her love of water that eventually inspired her to look into starting a swimwear brand. She had no design experience at the time, but wasn’t going to let that stop her. Morgan loves the power a good outfit – or bikini – has on a person and wanted to share that feeling with the world. 

A Focus On Sustainability and Fair Trade

While a love of water was a big part of the business idea, the other reason that Morgan and Michael decided to dive into House of ZZ was the sustainability aspect that they could incorporate. Their initial research on manufacturers and fabric suppliers opened up a whole new world to them. They learned about the (non-)sustainability practices being used in the fashion industry. So instead of using nylon and contributing to all the pre and post-consumer materials that find their way into the ocean and landfills, House of ZZ is using recycled materials to create their bikinis. Their fabrics are derived from industrial plastics, unused fabric scraps, fishing nets, and more – which also results in a stronger, higher quality material. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by HOUSE OF ZZ Swimwear (@houseofzz__) on Oct 8, 2020 at 4:00pm PDT

But Morgan and Michael didn’t want to just focus on sustainable products. They planned to work with an overseas manufacturer and wanted to ensure that they found an ethical facility that cared about the employees who worked for them. After doing the research, they made the trip overseas to visit the facility they’d chosen. They learned that not only was this facility the right choice, but it was also more transparent than the U.S. companies they had considered. The bonus perk about the facility they had chosen? Their manufacturers donate a percentage of profits back to ocean conservation initiatives. 

“All of this comes with a price, of course, but I’m not doing this because it’s easy. It’s hard, more time intensive, and significantly more expensive,” Morgan said. “But I don’t care. Making a quick buck isn’t the point. Doing something bigger than ourselves is.” 

Now that’s a brand message that we can all stand behind.

Behind the Design

Miranda Harrison shot by Carianne Older (@peggyshootsfilm) / wearing the Shaw one piece

House of ZZ draws its inspirations from a multitude of things: places that Morgan and Michael have traveled, swimwear and models from the 80s and 90s, and current trends from influencers. But whether they are worn on a casual day out or a fun vacation to the beach, all House of ZZ pieces are made with one intention in mind: to make the wearer feel good about themselves. 

As Morgan explains, none of the suits are worn to cover up bumps or curves or what people misdefine as “flaws.” The female body is like a piece of art. Morgan loves to show it off and complement and accentuate every square inch. All bodies are beautiful and she wants her customers to feel that way when they wear her swimwear. 

The 2020 collection includes both bikinis and one pieces. They feature colors like black, white, bronze, and Maya blue as well as a cute floral print called Orange Blossom. 

Tackling Challenges Together

Launching is an adventure within itself, but to do so during a pandemic is a whole new battle. Morgan and Michael have been able to face these challenges together while providing support to one another. This means that arguments over bikinis might happen in the kitchen every now and then. But it also means that they have each other’s backs when talking strategy and operations. The Rizzutis understand that they cannot ignore any business-related problems. They are open about providing feedback to each other and accepting constructive criticism.

One of the big challenges that they’ve had to face is learning to take advice from others with a grain of salt. As any new business owner will find out, there will be many people that decide to share their ideas of how you should operate or what you should do with your business. The Rizzutis learned over time that following the advice of others – no matter how experienced they were – can sometimes lead to wasted time and money spent on something that just doesn’t work for your business. 

“Soak it all up like a sponge,” Morgan shared with me, “but take it with a grain of salt. Trust your gut – always. Most of the time, it’s probably right.”

From providing an engineer a ton of bikini knowledge to giving a corporate employee the satisfaction of starting her own business based on her passion, the House of ZZ has been quite an adventure for the Rizzutis. I, for one, can’t wait to see what comes next.

Learn more about House of ZZ and shop their bikinis on their website.


@theAustinot wants to know:

What’s your favorite water activity in Austin?

Filed Under: Discoveries, Local Business

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