Discover the Best Things to Do in Austin, Food & Drink deals and more!
Texas vodka has become a thing, and I’m not just talking Tito’s. Everyone is trying to get in on distilling this clear liquor. While vodka is traditionally made with potatoes in Russia, most vodkas made here are corn-based. These four in particular are all made in or close to Austin, and are sure to quench your thirst.
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If Dripping Springs is the gateway to Texas Hill Country, then Belterra Village is the gateway to Dripping Springs. Located halfway between Austin and Dripping Springs on Highway 290, Belterra Village is a booming community that continues to grow.
It’s called a village for a reason. It’s a 93-acre mixed use development with residences and retail space. In other words, it’s one of the Austin area’s newest adult playgrounds. You can spend a whole day exploring, or stop for a bite on your way to Dripping Springs for a day trip.
In this list, I highlight some of the Austin-based businesses that have found a home at Belterra Village.
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Did you know Dripping Springs is designated the wedding capital of Texas? Austin’s quieter neighbor–which also happens to be growing rapidly–is a popular destination to tie the knot. I’m presuming it’s because the rolling hills make for unforgettable scenery, and the numerous wineries and nature parks make for an adventuresome getaway.
Lucky Arrow Retreat, a boutique resort and event venue, is located right in the midst of all the romance and adventure. It’s a beautiful place for a gathering, but you don’t have to get married to plan an event here. The facilities are also ideal for yoga retreats, corporate events, family reunions, and more.
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Flight of Family Business Beer Company’s core lineup (Credit: Bill Tucker)
When an actor with a rabid cult following opens a brewery in Central Texas, it’s not just local news. It becomes a national sensation.
Within a week of opening the doors, Family Business Beer Company, co-owned by Jensen Ackles of “Supernatural” fame, exploded in popularity. It also drew the ire of a small, but vocal, corner of the Austin beer scene.
The narrative was silly one: how dare some tiny brewery in Dripping Springs get more popular than Jester King, all because it has a celebrity owner? Could this upstart brewery in a market full of them possibly meet the expectations set by its social media reach? [Read more…]
Amy Milliron, founder of The Hills of Milk and Honey in Dripping Springs
Guest article by Michelle Lozano
Farmer Amy Milliron of The Hills of Milk and Honey wondered about the intrinsic value of beekeeping, when she discovered livestock guardian dog Bo’s favorite place to nap: 10 feet away from the bees he protects, where the humming lulled him to sleep.
As a farmer on an educational mission, Milliron brought a glimpse of beekeeping to her educational programs using an observational hive, which gave her students a closer look into the lives and work of bees. “Bo loves the sound of the buzz, the kids are connecting…there is something awesome about that. And they will not view bees the same again.” [Read more…]
The League Kitchen & Tavern serves American comfort food at its finest
Not everyone has the luxury of dining downtown, which is why The League Kitchen & Tavern has three locations. All of them have 2nd Street District vibes, but without the hassle.
I recently made the short drive to The League’s newest location in Dripping Springs‘ Belterra Village. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by the food, atmosphere, and plethora of parking. You will be, too.
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Tasting the Experimental Collection at Treaty Oak
Editor’s Note: As of October 2018, Ghost Hill has closed, but Treaty Oak has opened a new restaurant concept named Alice’s Restaurant.
Treaty Oak Ranch opened in 2015 with a focus on creating the best locally-distilled whiskey our area had ever experienced. The Dripping Springs establishment spans 27 acres and takes pride in creating small batch, craft spirits from the best ingredients. As a happy side effect, the distillery brews beer with malts and ingredients from whiskey-making. The Fitzhugh Ale gets its name from Treaty Oak’s location on Fitzhugh Road, and serves as the perfect mid-afternoon glassful of fresh.
As if you needed another reason to visit, Treaty Oak has a new eatery called Ghost Hill Restaurant. It serves up snacks, BBQ, and a full selection of the distillery’s spirits and beers. With a focus on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, the 3,500-square-foot space boasts a minimal interior full of warm woods and a fully-stocked bar. The Texas-inspired food lives in the casual, friendly home it deserves. [Read more…]
Crepe Crazy customers order by pointing to large menu posted on the main counter (Credit: Jaclyn Hubersberger)
Upon entering Crêpe Crazy’s South Austin location, I was transported to a quaint European cafe. My senses were delighted by the scent of freshly-made crêpes, melted cheese and the occasional waft of espresso. The mid-century modern inspired decor boasted sleek lines, a warm color palette of mustard yellow and orange hues, marble white table tops, and spherical copper pendant lighting. At this point I was already smitten…and I hadn’t even ordered yet.
It doesn’t take long to realize there’s something unique about Crêpe Crazy, beyond the sophisticated decor and carefully-curated menu featuring a number of tantalizing options to satisfy cravings of both savory and sweet. As I glanced across the counter into the open kitchen, I noticed the kitchen staff was silent. Their preferred method of communication? Sign language. [Read more…]
Vintage Soul captures the spirit of Dripping Springs, TX
Dripping Springs, also known as the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” is only 25 miles southwest of Austin. It’s a growing city with a bright future, sans an ego of any kind. It seems to be attracting people who truly appreciate a big Texas sky, rolling hills, a slower pace, and a healthy appetite for music and good eats.
It’s the sort of place you go to catch your breath and fall in love with Texas for the first or hundredth time. Below you’ll find a list of places that make Dripping Springs so special. It isn’t exhaustive, so make sure you comment with your favorite go-to! [Read more…]
Jester King is just one of the many breweries that call Dripping Springs, TX home (Credit: Jester King)
The Austin beer scene has been exploding for years, and there’s no sign of it slowing down. Over 30 breweries make their home in the greater Austin area. It seems like a new one opens every month.
As a result, it’s not enough to visit one brewery. These days, you can make a day trip out of it. With four breweries in close proximity to each other, it’s possible to take a beer-drinking day trip to beautiful Dripping Springs, TX. Trekking around the Hill Country while sampling a wide variety of Texas brews? Your ticket to a perfect afternoon. [Read more…]