Celebrity-Spotting and People-Watching
By Melanie Haupt, Fri., March 15, 2013
Whole Foods Lamar (525 N. Lamar) The flagship store of the international natural-foods grocer is hands-down the best place to spot celebrities in Austin, from Ryan Gosling down by the watermelons to Gwyneth Paltrow possessing every frozen delicacy.
Jo's Coffee/Hotel San José (1300/1316 S. Congress) These two adjacent South Congress stalwarts are hipster and celebrity magnets, whether it's for coffee on the patio in the morning or cocktails in the sleek bar in the evening.
Uchi/Uchiko (801 S. Lamar; 4200 N. Lamar) Tyson Cole's award-winning Japanese joints attract big spenders, curious culinary tourists in search of a one-of-a-kind dining experience, certain disgraced athletes, and those who like to see and be seen.
The Driskill (604 Brazos) Home to both the breezy 1886 Cafe and the more upscale Grill, this is a great place to get a dose of Austin history while peeping the likes of Paula Deen and Lyle Lovett over a plate of tasty American cuisine.
Four Seasons Lobby Lounge (98 San Jacinto) Hunker down in an oversized leather couch, slurp a $15 cocktail, and enjoy the views of Lady Bird Lake alongside folks like director John Sayles and actor Luke Wilson.
Guero's Taco Bar (1412 S. Congress) The margaritas are tart and strong, and the Tex-Mex is passable, but people-watching is the real draw here; famous fans include Spoon's Britt Daniel and Bill Clinton.
