Austin
City Guide
Austin TX, you will alwayshold a special space in my heart. Leaving home and heading off to college, I can’t imagine a better place to land. Music, fashion, food, art . . . it’s hard to pick a favorite part. I love it ALL, and so does everyone else. People flock to the city, especially for ACL and SXSW. What the locals know is that the party doesn’t end when the festival does, and even though I no longer call Austin home, I can still find my way around town! Hipster hangouts, boozy brunches, perfectly curated shops and restaurants, treasure troves of handmade and homemade, and vintage everything. Austin is a bit of a playground. This SX there was just enough time to hit up some old favorites and discover a few new ones.
Here’s how – Austin my way . . .
Great stop for a cocktail time-out! The longhorn margarita’s cooled us down while we people watched from the porch. (Pro tip- vodka subbed for tequila makes for an extra refreshing beverage!)
French pastry and creative Vietnamese. We shared the wonton soup and fried spring rolls — both amazing, and I had the cauliflower and bok choy PHO, crazy delicious! We were totally charmed by the quaint patio and signature pink door.
EVERYTHING, seriously we ordered it all. Cookies and cream pancakes, homemade biscuits with pimento cheese, brussels, Irish coffee, French fries with soft serve and grilled cheese with tomato jam and avocado!
Three visits this trip because I absolutely love everything about this place. I’ve worked my way through the seasonal menu more than once, but my current favorite is the Shaved Veggie Quinoa Bowl with Tumeric Vinaigarette. Next best options include- the Beet Toast with Spiced Pecans and Whipped Goat Cheese, a Kouign Amann, and Ricotta Hotcakes.
One of the best wine lists in town! The outdoor seating has a cool European vibe and the food is simple, but super tasty. I had the Boston Lettuce Salad with Black Truffle Vinaigrette and was tempted to lick the plate clean.
By far the best breakfast tacos in town and my sister has a dangerous habit of having a dozen delivered to the house to serve with coffee while people prep for the day (and recover from the night). Locals call this in and hardly every visit the shop. Must-haves include- Freakin Vegan, Jess Special, and any of the Fundido tacos.
Within walking distance of each other and carry some of the best independent and hard-to-find labels. I left in new leather leggings and a boy shirt I bought for Madison (and stole immediately, obviously).
Treasures to be had include- perfectly weathered denim, amazing suede and leather, and cheap-thrill accessories. I scored a $15 of sunnies that I love!
We spent the afternoon walking South Congress snapping pics and vintage shopping. Highly recommend spending a few hours exploring this street!
Necessary run! Great way to detox at one of Austin’s most beautiful locations. The trail by the lake is my favorite… Definitely had me missing Miles & Allie, because there are SO many dogs here!
Great spot to grab a few day drinks! It’s a street of old homes all converted into modern bars. SO cute and a really fun afternoon activity.
Gorgeous. I relaxed at their outdoor lawn a few times to do some editing. Rooms are spacious, location is amazing, and the staff is incredibly friendly!
This hotel is too gorgeous to ignore, and their lobby is major home interior inspo! I love staying on South Congress – Easy access to all of the vintage shops!
Right on Rainy St! Beautiful exterior and interior, and I loved laying out on their rooftop pool. Their restaurant (Geraldine’s) is also amazing for brunch or dinner!