Discover the Best Things to Do in Austin, Food & Drink deals and more!
Mindy’s Bakeshop creates a plethora of homemade cookies, cakes, and sweets
As a kid, Mindy Sepeti watched her mom bake cakes and pies in the kitchen. During the holidays, she couldn’t wait for her mom to bake a batch of sugar cookies, so they could decorate them together. These moments were ingrained in her memory, but it took her a while to realize they didn’t have to remain in the past. [Read more…]
The people of Austin love supporting the local community and culture with gusto! It’s a trait many of us hold near to our hearts, and try to abide by every day. Love for local artists and makers is evident all year round, at markets and pop-ups. Let’s continue to show support this holiday season by being part of The City of Austin’s Shop Zero Waste program. [Read more…]
Once Thanksgiving turkey and the last bit of pumpkin pie have been eaten, it’s time to put your shopping prowess to work and get cracking on presents! Here at The Austinot, we work hard to put together a local gift guide like none other, with an emphasis on local businesses you may not visit often. Have a foodie in your life? We have that covered. How about furry family members? We’ve got something for them, too!
So let’s get to it, shall we? [Read more…]
Big Top Candy Shop on South Congress Avenue
When I was six years old, my dream was to work in a candy store. I’m pretty sure it’s a dream shared by many kids around the world. My plan ended right after my dad explained to naïve little me that even those who work in a candy store have to pay for the candy. What’s the point, then? Shortly after this frustrating discovery, I switched to dreams of becoming a Hollywood actress.
But even several decades later, I can’t help but envy those lucky, lucky people who get to be surrounded by colorful candy wrappers, listen to the sound of soda hitting glass, and inhale aromas of chocolate and freshly-baked cookies all day long.
Brandon Hodge, owner of Big Top Candy Shop on South Congress Avenue, is probably every kid’s role model, and every adult’s reminder of unrealized dreams. For the past decade, this man has been uncovering the most unique candies all over the country and the world, and transporting them to Austin. [Read more…]
Austin Young Chamber of Commerce is an open organization that connects young professionals and encourages them to create success for themselves through a variety of social activities and learning opportunities
As a young professional in Austin, I love to keep my eye on organizations that can help me with self-development. Austin Young Chamber of Commerce has been on my radar for a few years, especially since it’s one of the major general purpose membership associations in Austin. [Read more…]
Ryan Farnau at F-Stop Farm (Credit: Jaclyn Hubersberger)
What started as a gardening hobby turned into Ryan Farnau farming nearly all the available space in both his front and back yards, with another 6,000-square-feet soon to be tilled and seeded. With a handful of local restaurants sourcing from Farnau’s farm–hardly more than a third of an acre–F-Stop is quickly joining the ranks of Austin’s more well-known urban farms, like Springdale, Rain Lily, Boggy Creek, and HausBar to the east, and La Flaca to the south.
The sustainable agriculture movement is gaining momentum here in Central Texas, thanks in part to these urban farms, the restaurants that purchase their produce, and the patrons who support the restaurants and farmers’ markets around the city. Through the use of small-scale organic growing practices, these farms operate in direct opposition to big agriculture, fast food, and the industrialized food system. [Read more…]
Credit: Diana Ascarrunz
There’s no doubt Austin is full of sellers in every niche, from leather goods to crochet. Of our many local attractions, vintage finds are some of my favorites to stumble upon. If you feel the same way, these four female-owned businesses should be on your radar.
Spokesman Coffee serves coffee, beer, and cider at The Yard (Credit: @dollarsaenz)
The Yard, Austin’s home to the next generation of local movers, shakers, and—above all—makers, makes the quick trip south of Ben White worth it. Whether you crave high quality coffee, award-winning wine, a place for your band to jam, or a beach volleyball haven, you’ll find what you want a mere 10 minutes from downtown. Not to mention whiskey, beer, and Thai food. This is the second installment in my series highlighting the talented people setting up shop at this development in south Austin. [Read more…]
The sun-filled parlor room at Native is perfect for co-working until the sun goes down (Credit: Charles Reagan)
As the market for alternative lodging accommodations continues to grow, many travelers are drawn to the affordable pricing and unique experience that hostels offer. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, looking for an affordable staycation, or welcoming out-of-town guests, local Austin hostels provide not just a place to sleep, but a communal experience fitting a variety of budgets. Some even provide cocktails, food, co-working, or live music for locals who aren’t looking for lodging at all. [Read more…]
Boutique hotel Lone Star Court is a piece of Americana in the heart of The Domain
It’s often said there are two types of Austinites: those who live and play south of the river and those who do so on the north side. Though there may be a clear distinction between The Domain’s high-end sparkle and downtown Austin’s industrial/retro feel, Lone Star Court marries the two quite nicely.
The boutique hotel features 123 rooms, including three suites, and has been open since Christmas Eve 2013. Here you’ll find retro touches paired with modern amenities and convenience, in the heart of The Domain’s residential and commercial district. Recently, Lone Star Court invited me to spend a night experiencing its posh digs, for a staycation and taste of the north Austin life. [Read more…]