 Arts and EntertainmentAlamo South LamarIf Austin was to be defined in cinematic terms, Alamo Drafthouse would be it. Yeah, they have popcorn, but oh so much more: burgers, bruschetta, beer. And yeah, they show all the new movies just like the big boys, but do the big-box theatres have their own Iron Chef contests or show Spike and Mike cartoons? Didn't think so. 1120 S. Lamar, 707-8262 map www.drafthouse.com Artz Rib House Cozy wood-floored rib joint with red-and-white checked tablecloths, a lush courtyard, music most nights, and some of the best barbecue in town. 2330 S. Lamar, 442-8283 map www.artzribhouse.com Aussie's Grill & Beach Bar One of the few sports bars where you can get off your duff and actually spike a few between sips of your fave lager. Aussie's is Austin's beach/beer volleyball headquarters. 306 Barton Springs Rd., 480-0952 map www.aussiesbar.com Austin Art Glass Aaron Gross has been blowing glass for more than 17 years. Obviously a master at his craft, he now offers classes and demonstrations by appointment. He can design pieces in colors that match interiors, but please don't drag your 8-feet-by-10-feet oriental rug into the gallery. 1608 S. Congress, 916-4527 map www.austinartglass.com Austin Java Cafe & Bar When walking in, expect to see at least one laptop per table. This local fave invites you to make it your office away from the office, with great coffee, breakfast all day, terrific light fare, and some of the best desserts this side of grandma's icebox. 1608 Barton Springs Rd., 482-9450 map www.austinjava.com Austin Playhouse Whether it's The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas or The Threepenny Opera, the Austin Playhouse Acting Company keep classics in their repertoire. Discounts available for season subscribers. 3601 S. Congress, Bldg. C, 476-0084 map www.austinplayhouse.com Austin's Pizza Loved for their pies and prompt delivery (Best Pizza & Delivery, Restaurant Poll '07), this is Austin's pizza. 1817 S. Lamar, 795-8888 map www.austinspizza.com Avenue Gallery A little wisp of a shop, Avenue Gallery is one part photo gallery, featuring the black-and-white work of local artist Kip Holm; one part gift shop, specializing in candles and picture frames and the like; and one part custom picture framing. And somehow it feels like there's still a lot of space in there. 1510 1/2 S. Congress, 442-3600 map www.avenuegallerysoco.com Barton Springs Saloon This seminew kid on the corner of the block sports a nice lounging area outside to watch the hustle and bustle along Barton Springs and South Lamar. 424 S. Lamar, 482-9673 map www.bartonspringssaloon.com Botticelli's Italian, Chicago-style – but with the emphasis on the Italian. Calzone, chianti, and more from the Botticelli brothers. 1321 S. Congress, 916-1315 map www.botticellissouthcongress.com Broken Spoke While waiting for your chicken-fried steak and home-cut fries, check out their museum showcasing this boot-scootin' paradise's 43 years in Austin. With pictures ranging from W himself (ummm, Willie) to Clint Eastwood, proprietor James White's collection is amazing. 3201 S. Lamar, 442-6189 map www.brokenspokeaustintx.com Cafe Caffeine Free WiFi, poetry readings every Wednesday, Unemployed Democrats merch, and Los Armadillos coffee are just a few reasons why Austin loves this energetic coffee shop. 909 W. Mary, 447-9473 map www.cafecaffeine.com Continental Club Rockin' South Austin since 1957, this is the happenin' music club that sports the Elvis sign atop and slick roadsters out front. Where it's really at is inside, where the best of the Austin live music scene can be found any night, including happy-hour shows featuring Toni Price. Celebrity sightings happen with almost monotonous regularity, if you believe there are such things as monotonous celebrities. 1315 S. Congress, 441-2444 map www.continentalclub.com Dee & Jim's Lounge Pickle with that beer? This is the place to stop for an after-work, on-my-way-home brewski. 3808 S. Congress, 444-7788 map Diaz Gallery, Plantscape Gardens This mother and son owned and operated gallery is a nursery as well. Its cozy atmosphere houses an impressive selection of plants, candles, and gorgeous art. 3507 S. First, 444-0013 map www.diazgallery.com Dominican Joe Lunch by Cafe Brix, (for cheap!), free Wi-Fi, and sleek setting with a lot of beautiful woodwork … best of all, they have a fair-trade-like mission by sporting the Dominican Republic's fine coffees. 515 S. Congress, 448-3919 map www.dominicanjoe.com Ego's In the front of an apartment building, in the basement of an office building, resides this legendary lounge – complete with dim lighting, a big-screen TV, big hair, slam poets, the occasional rollergirl, and all. Live music, seven nights a week. 510 S. Congress, 474-7091 map www.myspace.com El Sol y la Luna The people-watching patio is only one of the features that bring diners back again and again. Located next to the Austin Motel, El Sol y la Luna serves interior Mexican and Latin cuisine, as well as a fabulous breakfast menu all day! Try the Omelet del Sol (mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and cheddar), the Omelet de la Luna (with spinach, onions, tomatoes, and jack cheese), or the Omelet del Eclipse (with all of the above). 1224 S. Congress, 444-7770 map www.elsolylalunaaustin.com Exposé Boobies, steaks, and beer. This truly is a man's world. Sometimes. 3615 S. Congress, 447-5353 map www.exposethemensclub.com Flashback Whoa! Déjà vu! For more than 16 years, Flashback has been outfitting Austin's clotheshorses and fashion slaves with the best in vintage apparel and dancing duds. Particularly good shoe section and long but discreet list of celebrity customers. 1805 S. First, 445-6906 map Flipnotics Coffeespace Above the store, this crimson-walled spunky spot is the ultimate stop for an awesome lunch on their lovely shaded deck or a cup of joe on the go. Our fave part? Live music almost every night. 1601 Barton Springs Rd., 480-8646 map www.flipnotics.com G & S Lounge Blink and you'll miss this windowless bar that has a handsome selection of beer, a great jukebox, and some kickin' air hockey action behind its walls. 2420 S. First, 707-8702 map Gallery Soco This gallery on the Avenue specializes in limited giclee and serigraph prints, plus original paintings by artists like Lisa Fittipaldi (who happens to be blind … whoa). 1714-A S. Congress, 442-5144 map www.gallerysoco.com Horseshoe Lounge This cubbyhole might look a little iffy from the outside (no windows), but from the inside, you'll feel as though you're in the middle of the desert with your horse with no name tied up out back. 2034 S. Lamar, 442-9111 map Hyatt Regency Austin One of the original/early SXSW locales, the Hyatt on Barton Springs is known for its lush open-air pool, sizzling fajitas at Lavista, and a view of Lake Austin and Downtown. Whether your stopping in for a drink at the lounge or a weeklong stay, you'll be sure to feel at home … if your home is a large hotel-like mansion with a waitstaff, stiff drinks, and fabulous restaurants. 208 Barton Springs Rd., 477-1234 map www.austin.hyatt.com Hyatt Regency Austin Riverside with room service at the gateway to SoCo. Perfect for bat-spotting (if your room faces the right way). 208 Barton Springs Rd., 477-1234 map www.austin.hyatt.com Jo's Coffee This unique little joint, housed in the parking lot of the Hotel San José, offers the best people-watching spot in the whole 78704 ZIP code, hands down. Cappuccino, espresso, lattes, and teas are all available, as well as a selection of baked goods that make perfect midday nibbles. 1300 S. Congress, 444-3800 map www.joscoffee.com Jovita's Jovita's isn't just a Tex-Mex restaurant with live music on the side. Far from it; this modern day cantina has had Latin music legends against the murals of Cesar Chavez. Pop in, grab a cerveza, and groove to la musica de la raza. 1619 S. First, 447-7825 map www.jovitas.com Kerbey Lane Cafe Famous for their gingerbread pancakes, Kerbey Lane makes sure to display their specials at just the right angle to assure they look as appetizing as possible. "I'll take the special, please." Oh, yes, and breakfast all day. 2700 S. Lamar, 445-4451 map www.kerbeylanecafe.com La Feria Restaurant Hombres can live by quesadilla alone. For a light snack, a fun atmosphere, and margaritas, make La Feria your destination for Happy Hour in South Austin. 2010 S. Lamar, 326-8301 map www.laferiaaustin.com LaBare Where Austin ladies hang with the hung. (Think Chippendales, only naughtier.) Temporarily closed, the sign says. 110 E. Riverside Dr, 586-BARE map www.austinlabare.com Little Mexico Restaurant Traditional south of the border hospitality and authentic Mexican cuisine. Not to mention some of the hottest salsa this side of the Rio Grande. Live mariachi every Thursday and Friday and happy hour specials fit for a fiesta. 2304 S. First, 462-2188 map Long Center for the Performing Arts This much anticipated art and architectural wonder will be a true community effort, embracing all walks of Austin and is slated to open in spring '08. 701 W. Riverside, 482-0800 map www.thelongcenter.org Maria's Taco Xpress Some call it church; they call it gospel brunch … every Sunday. Oh yeah, they have tubular tacos, as well. 2529 S. Lamar, 444-0261 map www.tacoxpress.com Mi Casa Gallery This mazelike shop is the most enticingly fragrant emporium of Mexican and Central American furnishings in town thanks to the citrus/spice potpourri made on site. Regular trips south of the border result in an ever-expanding and ever-changing array of goodies. 1700 S. Congress, 707-9797 map www.micasagallery.com Mr. Natural Wholesome vegetarian goodness with a Hispanic flair! Mr. Natural has smoothies, sweet treats, a buffet, a cooler of yummy sodas, and healthy lunches on the go. 2414-A S. Lamar, 916-9223 map www.mrnatural-austin.com Natural Ear Music School Semester classes, semester-break sessions, and summer day camps for your budding rock star. 103 Krebs Ln., 447-5910 map www.naturalearmusic.com Night Wing Bat Sculpture This beautiful chunk of public art graces the small triangle across from the Statesman's complex. It spins gently in the breeze, honoring the little mammals that live under the bridge. corner of S. Congress & Riverside map wikimapia.org Opal Divine's Penn Field Just like her Downtown cousin, this Opal Divine's offers more than 30 beers and 60 Scotches. And don't forget about their great pub food, live music, and beautiful outdoor patio. Oh, and Sunday brunch is a must. 3601 S. Congress, 707-0237 map www.opaldivines.com Palmer Events Center For every conference/concert/celebration need in Austin, this ample, recently renovated venue serves her city and sits at the heart of some of the best views of our beloved town. 900 Barton Springs Rd., 404-4500 map www.palmereventscenter.com Polvos Family owned and operated, Polvo's is one of the best choices in Austin for authentic Mexican food. Tasty tamales, amazing enchiladas, and don't forget your margarita. Polvo's also has a lovely porch area for enjoying a cerveza on those hot Texas days. 2004 S. First, 441-5446 map www.polvos.citysearch.com RED Texture Studios A true gem at the end of South Congress, Red Texture houses Kathleen Grandfeld’s jewelry collection. Trained in London and a one-time designer for Chanel, she takes her inspiration from vintage jewelry and creates reasonably priced, beautiful pieces. This studio also holds some of the most interesting gift cards and accessories, along with the ever-popular chili-cinnamon chocolate bats. 2002 S. Congress, 434-0101 map www.red-texture.com Resistencia Bookstore "Viva la raza! Viva la causa! Viva la revolucion!" were rallying cries during Cesar Chavez's farm workers strike of the 1960s and carried on by this South First purveyor of Chicano literature and music. With live performances from local musicians and artists, Resistencia continues the flow of ideas proffered by Chavez and his like. 1801-A S. First, 416-8885 map www.resistenciabooks.com Roadhouse Relics Rare, vintage neon signs and brilliant, original art from Todd Sanders. 1720 S. First, 442-6366 map www.roadhouserelics.com Rockin' Tomato Darned good pizza, darned good music, and a darned good vibe. 3003 S. Lamar, 447-3351 map www.rockintomato.com Ruta Maya This ain't no bohemian, bebop, black beret, bongo-bangin', beat-generation box in a basement. Along with really great coffee, Ruta Maya also offers live music from some of Austin's finest musicians and one of the best stages in town. 3601 S. Congress Ste. D-200, 707-9637 map www.rutamaya.net Saxon Pub About as British as B.B. King. This ain't no place to nibble crumpets and chat politely about the Royals (although, the huge suit of armor out front seems to imply otherwise). Live rock, country, and blues seven knights a week. 1320 S. Lamar, 448-2552 map www.thesaxonpub.com Shady Grove Enjoy a Shady Thang – Shady Grove's specialty marg – at restaurant row's signature outdoor cowboy lounge, where the visuals are almost as rich as the food. The shaded dining area is wrapped in rock walls, wagon wheels, and sprawling oak trees. 1624 Barton Springs Rd., 474-9991 map www.theshadygrove.com South Austin Museum of Popular Culture Enjoy a drive-through experience or c'mon inside and ponder the array of local artists and nationally recognized works. Check out their exhibit, "Puttin' on the Ritz, Then and Now," through the month of September 2007. 1516-B S. Lamar, 440-8318 map www.awhq.com The Stash Über-proprietess and SoFi cheerleader Yvonne Beltran offers local handmade art for truly unique gifts. Part gift-shop, part gallery, part performance space, the Stash is an ever-transforming headquarters for all things beautiful … and transformative … and South Austin. 2209 S. First Ste. J, 448-7707 map www.austinstash.com Summermoon Coffee Bar Proclaimed the only wood-fired coffee here in AusTex, Summermoon boasts a beeeee-utiful setting in addition to some serious brew. 3115 S. First, 804-1665 map www.woodfiredcoffee.com Threadgill's World HQ Eddie Wilson's Austin cornerstone of home cooking and located mere yards from the original spot of Wilson's legendary Armadillo World HQ, the launchpad of Austin's ol' cosmic cowboy scene. 301 W. Riverside, 472-9304 map www.threadgills.com Tree House Italian Grill It's not really a treehouse: It's named for the impressive Live Oak that anchors the popular, cozy patio. The emphasis here is on comfort, in atmosphere and cuisine, with elegant and friendly decor and a menu that says, "Mama mia!" 2201 College, 443-4200 map www.treehousegrill.com Trophy's The glass brick, blue tile, and stucco exterior belie the smoky, big-screen, pool-table-and-a-longneck atmosphere that is Trophy's. Well known for their Tuesday night open mics, they also claim to serve the best burgers in Austin. 2008 S. Congress, 447-0969 map www.myspace.com Yard Dog Folk art reigns at this petite yet select store offering home and, well, yard art. The collection includes beautiful portraits of classic country artists, drawings by rock gods Daniel Johnston and Mekon Jon Langford, handcrafted furniture, religious and secular folk art, and all the coffeetable books that celebrate it. 1510 S. Congress, 912-1613 map www.yarddog.com Zach Theatre This venerated Central Texas theatre institution prides itself on the best to the stage and reflecting back the best of our Austin culture and beyond. Coming soon, Speeding Motorcycle, a play from the mind of Daniel Johnston. 1510 Toomey, 476-0541 map www.zachscott.com |
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