Cover Story
Best of Austin 2019
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Hawaiian trio takes the Downtown stage for an improv-fueled joyride
What’s on the Agenda for Tomorrow’s City Council Meeting
A new shelter strategy, Cap Metro’s Red Line expansion, and more
The Future Is Transhuman
Inside GenEnCo’s new production The Future of Ismael
SXSW Music Rolls Out Second Artist List
Wire, Jucee Froot, plus 207 real acts and one Hollywood contrivance
Top 20 Austin Breweries
Gird your liver for our annual Central Texas brewery power rankings
Austin Horror Anthology Scare Package Comes Home For Other Worlds
Laughs and screams in Under Worlds center piece film
Next Waltz Affiliate James Steinle Premieres “Without You”
Small-town South Texas soundtracked a la Robert Earl Keen
Roger Waters and Erin Lee Carr to Keynote SXSW 2020
Also appearing: Phoebe Robinson, 50 Cent & Bon Appétit Test Kitchen
Day Trips & Beyond: Santa Fe, N.M.
Art and food in the enchanting city of Santa Fe
Nolan Potter Becomes the Sorcerer’s Apprentice in New Video
Prog-psych composer battles creepy reaper in “Caberfae Peaks”
Levitation Live Shot: Wolf Eyes Music, Shit & Shine, Skeleton, King Coffey
Atemporal accents and random acts of aggression and oblivion
Levitation Live Shot: Third Man Records Showcase
John Brannon stream rolls Vegas with his negative approach
Levitation Live Shot: Flipper
More sociable than sociopathic, more celebratory than cynical
Levitation Live Shot: Chelsea Wolfe, Ioanna Gika
Americana gothic: sinister prophecy v. angelic melancholy
Levitation: John Cale, Black Angels
Velvet Underground in the house!
Levitation Live Shot: David J
Bauhaus bassist delivers far more than mid-level rock stardom
Levitation Live Shot: Black Mountain, Kikagaku Moyo, Stonefield
Sci-fi stomp with hair blowback
Levitation Live Shot: Brutus, Russian Circles, Deafheaven
Like a hurricane
Levitation Live Shot: Lingua Ignota, Emma Ruth Rundle
The sound of violence stuns Levitation
City to Open Investigation into Alleged Racism Atop APD
Accused assistant chief retired abruptly earlier this week
Sexual Assault Survivor Files Temporary Restraining Order Request Against Travis County D.A.
Filing seeks to stop Moore, Montford from discussing survivor’s rape
Listen: Media Roundtable With Journos From KUT, The Texas Observer, & the Chron
Talking shop on this week’s The Austin Chronicle Show
Austin Film Festival Announces Audience, Jury Awards
Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain takes top award in both
Levitation Live Shot: Pink Mountaintops, Ryley Walker, Christelle Bofale
East Sixth trifecta reckons the heart of psych weekend
Patrick Murphy Granted Second Stay
The Texas Seven member spared within days of execution
Levitation Live Shot: Kikagaku Moyo, Stonefield, Minami Deutsch
True psych sandwiches Aussie sisters between Tokyo wizards
Levitation Live Shot: High on Fire, Power Trip, Devil Master, Creeping Death
Sold-out metal four stack kept widening the mosh pit
Levitation Live Shot: Angel Olsen, Devendra Banhart, Vagabon
Opening night triple bill of song enchanters brings the weather
UPDATED: Texas Craft Beer Turf War Erupts Between Anheuser-Busch and Shiner Bock’s Spoetzl Brewery
Ads by Karbach’s global distributors fire shots in Shiner, Texas
Interview with JNL Barbecue Pitmaster: “A Lot of Fire and A Lot of Meat”
Former Franklin BBQ cook opens his own trailer at Buzz Mill Shady
Best Home Decor Heaven
Decorating the 2019 home is a tricky business. You want the sleekness of West Elm without the yawn factor, and the funk of your favorite vintage store without the dust. Naturally, you also want candles. And plants. As the welcoming name would suggest, Clarksville home goods stop Open Invite checks all the above boxes with…
Best Styles for Your Head
The human head is a fine contraption, but even the most resplendent locks or shiniest dome can do with a little high-quality augmentation – and the Hatbox is exactly the place to find it. Can’t tell a fedora from a Dirted Hank? Fascinated by fascinators? Can’t decide between a pillbox and a headband? After 45…
Best Authentic Japanese Curry Experience
The Tatsu-ya brand is king around Austin, so it’s no surprise that their bar, Domo Alley-Gato, has some of the most authentic and unique Japanese curry this side of the Pacific. From traditional options like their katsu curry with a perfectly fried pork cutlet, to their fusion option called Texas Mud, which comes with a…
Best New Reason to Exit Slaughter Lane
In February, the team behind campus eatery Hopfields debuted cocktail bar Nicolaza’s at 8504 S. Congress. With help from veteran booker Lawrence Boone, they’ve since rebranded as the Far Out, a dive bar with on-point local music four nights a week. The redo evolved the 100-year-old structure’s former lives as the Red Shed Tavern, Beverly’s,…
Best Tool in the Civic Toolbox
Our city leaders aren’t flying blind as Austin makes its dramatic, systematic efforts to flat-out end homelessness. Among their most valuable guides are the members of AHAC, a group of people with diverse life stories to tell, all of which include lived experience with homelessness. These volunteers came together in 2017 to inform the city…
Best String Theory
One could spout an entire verbal essay on how spectacular the UT String Project is, and plenty has already been said by experts like the National String Project Consortium and the American String Teachers Association, which named this Butler School of Music youth string instrument developmental program as the national String Project of the Year.…
Laundromat
“Love EcoClean’s wash & fold service. When I’m too busy with work to deal with laundry, I can take them all my stuff and they handle it with care and everything comes back smelling clean (and NOT chemically) and nicely folded.” – Leslie Thetford Finalists: SpinZone, Washatopia
Spa
“Milk + Honey is magic. This spa strikes the balance of being super clean and nontoxic while remaining 10/10 luxurious.” – Andrea M. Finalists: Dream Spa, Viva Day Spa
Furniture/Accessories
“My apartment is pretty much decorated from this store.” – Natali Lytch Finalists: Austin’s Couch Potatoes Furniture, Four Hands
Actress
“Amber is able to find the heart, the mind, and the body in every character she creates. Every one of them is whole and human.” – Rudy Ramirez Finalists: Lee Eddy, Stephanie Thoreson
Movie Theatre
“I’m so so so glad that so many options exist for film, but Alamo runs this bitch.” – Aron Taylor Finalists: AFS Cinema, Moviehouse & Eatery, Violet Crown Cinema
Chef
“Dude’s got a creative vision and the energy and talent to back it up.” – Rose Hawkins Finalists: Todd Duplechan (Lenoir), Bryce Gilmore (Barley Swine, Odd Duck, Sour Duck Market), Fiore Tedesco (L’Oca d’Oro)
Noodles/Ramen
“They’re the reason I can’t keep kosher.” – Steven Yaffe Finalists: Daruma Ramen, Michi Ramen, XIan
Dive Bar
“Legit dive bar. Ice cold beer mugs, nice and dark inside.” – Lauren Bishop Finalists: Lala’s, Nickel City
Kids and Family Wild Card
“It’s an incredibly fun establishment geared for the entire family.” – James Emley Finalists: Austin Allies, tuneBugz!
Sports Bar
“Those HABANERO pickled eggz doe!!!! Slim Jim in yo BLOODY MARY?! COME ON NOW! The ONLY choice.” – Elizabeth Liddell Finalists: Cover 3, Lavaca Street Bar
Politics and Media Wild Card
“Texas finally caught up with the rest of the nation to become the last state to allow beer-to-go sales. This is a huge step in supporting local businesses across the state.” – David Wiechmann Finalists: #Bonnenghazi drama, Campaign against the Texas Voter Purge
Personal Trainer
“JJ Pepper is part comic part Zen mobility master. His classes embody the exuberance, humor, authenticity, and unabashed weirdness that make our city great.” – Jillian Finley Finalists: Erica Nix (Workout! with Erica Nix), Brandon Phillips (Fit and Fearless), Brett Smith (Krav Maga)
Best New Spot for a Book and a Beer
We love independent bookstores, and even more so when we can enjoy a pint with our paperback. Lark & Owl was opened by a group of women in downtown Georgetown in April of this year, and in August, they debuted a bistro inside of the store, serving sandwiches, salads, and breakfast, plus beer, cocktails, and…
Best Biennial Bazaar
Neither quiet, dusty, nor dry, these Central Texas archivists and librarians collaborate to curate a bigger and better gathering every even-numbered year. The Austin Archives Bazaar is a noisy and well-lubricated social affair, with speaker presentations punctuating the browsing of more than 25 booths. History starts with yesterday, and thus you’ll find zine archives and…
Best “I’ll Drink to That!” Collaboration
With the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots this June, it seemed like every business and their guncle jumped onto the rainbow (capitalism) bandwagon for Pride Month and just as soon sashayed away. But here in Austin, Circle Brewing Co. teamed up with Equality Texas for a pro-equality collab that was hard not to cheers…
Best Party for Lovers of Steers ’n’ Queers
If you’re a country-loving queer who frequently (and not-so-secretly) wants to hang with your friends in welcoming places, you best take yourself to the Red River road and dance ’til you can’t no more at Neon Rainbows. DJ GirlFriend’s semiregular hoedown at Cheer Up Charlies has two-stepped into many a queer’s heart with both DJ…
Best Utility Player (Activist League)
“Utility player” sounds like a dis – like something other than a star player – but in sports as well as in civics, it really means someone who’s multitalented and incredibly useful. And Chris Harris is certainly that: an impassioned and also pragmatically effective advocate for criminal justice reform, for the rights and dignity of…
Best Vitamin D Boost
Established in 1928 as a response to the community’s then-significant threat of tuberculosis, Austin Sunshine Camps in Zilker Park was intended to help local, economically disadvantaged youth spend time outdoors. After all, exposure to sunshine – and all its vitamin D glory – was believed to promote healing from the disease. The camp is still…
Lawn Care/Landscaping
“Been using them for years. Reasonably priced, effective, and safe for the good critters.” – Brandi Bennu Finalists: Fertile Ground Organic Gardens, Seedlings Gardening, Urban Landscape Group
Tailor/Alteration
“Reliable and reasonable.” – Amy Creed Finalists: Gassane Tailors, Nelda’s Tailors
Game/Gaming
“We visit this place as much as possible! It’s an Austin staple for gamers and collectors alike.” – Lindsay Garrett Finalists: Emerald Tavern Games & Cafe, Game Over Videogames
Art Gallery
“Carefully and thoughtfully curated contemporary art by an organization dedicated to uplifting women artists.” – Kay Marley-Diworth Finalists: Ao5 Gallery, grayDUCK Gallery, Mondo Gallery, Wally Workman Gallery
Muralist
“The most talented young people making culturally and socially relevant public art in Austin! Nothing inspires me more.” – Corinna Archer Kinsman Finalists: Federico Archuleta, Eleanor Niz, Chris Rogers
Coffee Shop
“Their cold brew will have you tweaking, but that’s exactly what we need!” – Pedro Berlanga Finalists: Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden, Epoch Coffee
Pastry Chef
“I’ve never had dessert on this level before. I cried.” – Jake Galgon Finalists: Melissa Carroll (Le Politique), Amanda Rockman (New Waterloo)
DJ
“Does life get better than Neon Rainbows Nineties country night at Cheer Up Charlies with DJ GirlFriend?” – Mandy Gauld Finalists: DJ Chorizo Funk, DJ Mel, DJ 2DQ
Kids’ Clothing
“I love to buy and sell here. I’m getting sad that my kids are about to be too old for this awesome store.” – Barbara Goutelon Finalists: Kid to Kid, SparkleKids
Trivia Night
“The hosts at the HighBall really go the extra mile to bring something special.” – Shaun Hadfield Finalists: Get It Gals, Pluckers Wing Bar, Trivia 512 at Radio Coffee & Beer
Publication
“Thank God for a free weekly crossword.” – Holly Phillips Finalists: Austin American-Statesman, The Texas Tribune
Place to Camp
“Y’all, it’s literally right here in Austin. You don’t have to go far for a great experience.” – Rachel Morgan Finalists: Inks Lake State Park, Pace Bend Park
Best Nightmare in Time for Christmas
For some of us, The Nightmare Before Christmas isn’t just a movie: It’s a way of life. So for anyone in your life who likes their tinsel black, their wreaths ready for the tomb or the front door, and their centerpieces with a carnivorous plant, Horror for the Holidays is the ideal place to pick…
Best Campy Rasslin’ Clashes
Hail Mother Worm, amirite? If you’re confused by this phrase, you obviously haven’t been to the best vision of camp and wrestling lore in Austin: Party World Rasslin’! PWR is a masterpiece of free Saturday night party violence and is set in a lore-filled multiverse unlike any other, where forest nymphs, ruthless Dallas magnates, sentient…
Best Bite Out of the East Coast
Bagels might not be the most contentious debate here in the capital city, but don’t tell that to an East Coast expat. Be it the minerals in the water, the method of cooking (briefly boiled then baked), or what items should top the most famous of breads in Jewish heritage, the cognoscenti know a fake…
Best Violet Crown Serenade
What good is a swanky rooftop bar in Austin if it’s not hosting live music? Production company White Light Exposure teamed with Eberly this year to launch their intimate new music series on top of the South Lamar restaurant, with proceeds going to benefit the SIMS Foundation. So far, the sessions have wrangled special sets…
Better Than “You Get a Car!”
As the commencement speaker at Morehouse College’s class of 2019 graduation ceremony, Robert F. Smith (the principal founder, chairman, and CEO of Austin-based Vista Equity Partners and ranked by Forbes as the richest black man in America) stunned those assembled by announcing his intention to pay off the student loans of all 396 graduates. Wildly…
Best Way to Party Like It’s 1899
In a world fixated on all things fast, disposable, and mass-produced, Letterpress PLAY wants you to take it slow. Opened in May, Kyle Hawley’s South Austin studio and shop is home to a collection of vintage printing presses. But these beautiful behemoths are no museum curios. They get a regular workout producing elegant, zero-waste cards,…
Lawyer
“She has the family law reputation that all you have to whisper is that she’s repping you and the settlement notebooks come out.” – Erin McArthur Finalists: FVF Law Firm, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch (Lincoln-Goldfinch Law), Adam Reposa (Law Office of Adam Reposa)
Tattoo
“They do really good work, personable work, and I love how they made me feel so at home. We will be back.” – Jathan Desir Finalists: Golden Age Tattoos, True Blue Tattoo
Garden Store/Nursery
“They know their stuff. They have steered me clear of huge mistakes and tipped me off to really good gardening practices, saving me money, time, and agony.” – Jeanine Christensen Finalists: The Great Outdoors, Shoal Creek Nursery, Tillery Street Plant Co.
Arts and Entertainment Wild Card
“Seeing this festival grow over the years is really cool. Where else am I going to find a slightly used copy of Battle Arena Toshinden?” – Joseph Poenisch Finalists: Givens Swims, I♡KPOP!, Me-Mer-Mo Monday, Team Goodtimes
Museum
“B Scene, Jeffrey Gibson, SoundSpaces … What’s not to love?” – Meera Chandy Finalists: Bullock Texas State History Museum, Thinkery
Delivery
“Ahh … that smell making its way through the cubicles at work!” – Liz Canales Finalists: East Side Pies, Tso Chinese Delivery
Patio
“So open & inviting, it’s like you’re in your neighbor’s backyard.” – Rebekah Omahen Finalists: Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden, El Alma Cafe y Cantina, Matt’s El Rancho, Shady Grove
Escape Room
“Best in Austin.” – April Strub Finalists: The Escape Game Austin, Lockout Austin
Party Place
Ring ring ring … my childhood is calling.” – Eva Rodriguez Finalists: Epic Fun, High 5
Activist
“Emily is fierce and relentless as a voice for victims of DV/SA in our community.” – Laura Sovine Finalists: Chas Moore (Austin Justice Coalition), Marci Purcell (Support Texas Adoptee Rights), Heidi Sloan (Genesis Gardens)
Radio Program
“Hands down the most consistent, well produced, informative radio program in Austin.” – Benjamin Burdick Finalists: Dudley & Bob + Matt (KLBJ), Jason and Deb in the Morning (101X)
Place to Hang With Your Pet
“I don’t have a dog, but I hang out at Zilker to watch dogs run around on the reg.” – Alana Riddle Finalists: Auditorium Shores, Red Bud Isle, Walnut Creek Park
Playing With Fire
There’s no spark in this joke-free firefighters-versus-kids flop
Best Non-Traditional Musical Instruments
If you’re a synth-head and want to spice up your sound, Mickey Delp has been wiring up something just for you. Think of a Wiimote that turns your movement and buttons into bent notes; or the ThunderBell Analog Cowbell, which is as badass as it sounds. Let Delptronics transform your usual knob twiddles and button…
Best Cardboard Recycling
Since moving back to Austin from Arizona, Landry McMeans has set up an art studio in the Mosaic Sound Collective and expanded her palette into ever-bigger pieces. Her cardboard reliefs exhume the brilliant details of natural landscapes and animals, with her new 3D triptychs striking vivid from afar and stunning up-close. Although technically not recycled…
Best Bread You’ll Never Guess Is Gluten-Free
Doughy, moist, and flavorful are not typically words used to describe gluten-free bread, but Tim Elias is raising the bar on gluten-free products to rival their glutinous counterparts. GFY Kitchen (aka Gluten Free Yourself Kitchen) has been producing exceptional baguettes, sliced sandwich bread, hamburger buns, and pizza crust, along with pretzels and bagels (the real…
Best Weekly Queer Clubhouse
In April, a group of leading creatives from Austin’s queer nightlife teamed up to provide an essential component: Consistency. Every single dang Tuesday, this multifaceted dance party takes over the storied counterculture locale of Red River’s Elysium. Cut Up! has free entry before 11pm, rounding up DJ sets, drag-adjacent performers, and local vendors. Their stated…
Best Body-Positive Blacklight Workout
It’s tough to find a boxing gym that doesn’t feel intimidating, but Knockout somehow manages to not only feel inclusive to all levels (from beginner to pro), but also to kick your butt in the 45-minute class time. With its black walls and forgiving red and blue lights, even in a classroom with 23 other…
Most Family Resources in One Place
Over 150 exhibitors, all providing public resources of one sort or another for kids and families: free food, clothing, glasses, and trees; health and vision screenings; rock climbing; housing, utility, and transportation assistance; immunizations and prenatal support; plus pony rides last year, vintage cars this year, and so, so much more. HopeFest is a very…
Locksmith
“It is third-generation family-owned and -operated, and you can expect to be treated as one of their own when in their care.” – Kelly Walker Finalists: Chastity Lock and Key, Sharp Brothers Locksmith
Veterinarian
“Vets are excellent – very competent and caring, and they listen. And the cat waiting room with pheromones greatly relaxes our pets!” – David Boerner Finalists: AM/PM Animal Hospital, PAZ Veterinary
Jewelry
“Simple, beautiful jewelry with great customer service.” – Brianne Trottier Finalists: Eliza Page, Limbo Jewelry
Burlesque Performer
“There’s a reason Ginger Snaps keeps winning year after year. Her burlesque acts are original, funny, and sexy.” – Laura Ozuna Finalists: Roxy Castillo, Chola Magnolia
New Book by an Austin Writer
“Want to get good and mad? This electric, disquieting novel about giving male abusers a taste of their own medicine is just what the doctor ordered.” – Rosalind Faires Finalists: Tears of the Trufflepig by Fernando A. Flores, The Weil Conjectures by Karen Olsson, Whisper Network by Chandler Baker, Why So Much? by Lance Myers
Desserts
“I will spoil my whole meal and diet for an Elvis cupcake. Like seriously I will eat a whole box of these cupcakes and not feel bad about it.” – Juan Wences Finalists: Chez Zee, Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery, Sweet Ritual
Pizza
“Home Slice is the truth.” – Eric Crapnell Finalists: Bufalina, East Side Pies, Pinthouse Pizza, Via 313
Happy Hour
“Best snack and drink prices for happy hour. Sign me up for an Old Fashioned and pretzel with beer cheese.” – David Valenzuela Finalists: Péché, Salty Sow
Playground
“The Central Park of Austin.” – Camille Abbott Finalists: Central Market North, Play for All Park
City Official
“He’s willing to tackle hard issues and to be honest with the community.” – Ann Jinkins Finalists: Greg Casar, Jimmy Flannigan
Radio Station
“KUT is my go-to, all-day news station.” – Claudia Corum Finalists: KOOP 91.7FM, KUTX 98.9FM, Sun Radio
Place to Tube
“Nobody compares to Don’s for floating the river.” – Jillian de la Rosa Finalists: Lions Club Tube Rental, Texas State Tubes
Midway
Roland Emmerich goes all guns blazing recreating the pivotal sea battle
Best Place to Buy Prada for Next to Nada
Fifth Avenue has found its way to the 2ND Street District with this high-end clothing and accessory Southern chain, which boasts 70-90% off retail every day. Brands like good hYOUuman, Gold Hawk, and Billy Reid (for the fellas) fill the racks for under 50 big ones. Even the pricier picks are a fraction of their…
Best Choreographic Carrier of Remembrance
By its nature, movement happens in the now. But it can spring from the then – cultural traditions, histories, memories. That’s what powers the work of Charles O. Anderson, head of the UT Department of Theatre & Dance dance program and founder of dance theatre X. He may derive steps and gestures from African American…
Best Dispenser of Caffeine and Comfort
Arms open to the entire rainbow of Austin, Genuine Joe Coffeehouse has always maintained an atmosphere as delightful as the delicious coffee and treats they serve. Whether you’re writing your masterpiece, reading a favorite novel, or holding a club meeting in Joe’s cozy cellar space, this coffeehouse welcomes anyone and everyone and remains an institution…
Most Aggressively Hip Cocktail Bar
With its unassuming exterior, secreted away inside a former valet ticketing office, Garage remains one of the better-kept secrets of Austin’s bar scene. The transition from the bare cement of the parking lot to the carefully designed, art deco-adjacent space of the bar feels gleefully clandestine, like sneaking off to a rave in an abandoned…
Best Bout Machine
In the squared circle, they don’t come better than Albert Christian Hardie Jr., aka professional wrestler ACH. The globe-trotting, high-flying, hard-hitting, broad-smiling Austin hero has put the hurt on his opponents in every major promotion, from New Japan Pro-Wrestling to Ring of Honor. Now, wrestling as Jordan Myles for the WWE’s NXT brand, the man…
A/C Repair/Installation
“Super commitment to community service as well as customer service.” – Kim Usey Finalists: Service Wizard Heating & Air Conditioning, Stan’s Heating and Cooling
Maid Service
“Great people who run the show over there. They care about having good service and welcome client feedback.” – Erica Visser Finalists: Let Kelly, Purple Fig
Wax/Skincare
“Waxing is not the most pleasant experience, but the specialists at Wax That! are so professional that you’re in and out in a breeze!” – Maggie Pace Finalists: Cute Nail Studio, Blush by Angie Chase
Liquor Store
“Variety and value.” – Alex Cerbur Finalists: The Austin Shaker, Twin Liquors
Classical Musician
“Michelle puts together the most amazing programs and is truly a gifted and charismatic pianist. You feel the emotion as she plays.” – Linda Masters Finalists: Anton Nel, Graham Reynolds, Ammon Taylor
Nonfiction Writer
“What a trip she is!” – Pam Arthur Finalists: Stephen Harrigan, Lawrence Wright
Distillery
“Love Deep Eddy’s. The grapefruit flavor makes the best greyhounds.” – Taylor Ford Finalists: Still Austin Whiskey Co., Treaty Oak Distilling
Service
“I simultaneously feel like family and a VIP every time I walk in the door.” – Taryn Russell Finalists: Uchi, Uchiko
Intimate Live Music Venue
“A classic Austin venue made even better with the presence of Dianne Scott.” – Debby Burslem Finalists: Cactus Cafe, Saxon Pub
Summer Camp
“I love what the Y represents.” – Anne Fletcher Finalists: Camp Paramount, Creative Action, Jump! Gymnastics, Neuron Garage
Film Critic
“Love his reviews – informative and sparky!” – Pamela Ellen Ferguson Finalists: Sean Chandler (Sean Chandler Talks About Movies), Robert Sims (Lights Camera Austin)
Spanish-Language Radio Station
“Pedro is so much fun to listen to. Has so much charisma and you can feel his energy through the radio.” – Liz Guerrero Finalists: 107.1 La Z, Tú 103.1
Pro/Semi-Pro Sports Team
“This is the best family experience in all of Texas at an affordable price.” – Cristina Salima Smith Finalists: Austin Spurs, Texas Stars
The Irishman
Scorsese’s filmmaking excellence can’t mask a flawed retreading of mob history
Best Place to Don Your A(TX) Apparel
Lizelle Villapando’s stalwart and dog-friendly SoCo shop of locally produced clothing (and artwork and gifts) is deeply Austin-centric and Texas-forward, offering a sweet variety of graphic T-shirts among their wares: the sort of comfortable cotton torso-sheathes that let everyone know you’re from these here parts, by damn. Perfect shirt for the relentlessly unemployed: “Grackle Got…
Best Cross-Disciplinary Activism
Who would have guessed that a dinosaur-masked metal guitarist nearly two decades ago would end up as an internationally recognized powerhouse of interdisciplinary art and music? Or that said powerhouse’s exploration of what it means to be a digital citizen would challenge audiences to expand their minds and see the world through unfamiliar lenses? From…
Best Foodie Proof That Print Media is Still Cookin’
Swiping its name from the classic Hecht/MacArthur comedy about tabloid journalists, this new Springdale General spot focuses on what’s best about the lunch hour, all day. From cheeky cocktails (“The Blue Stuff Barbers Put Their Combs In”) to killer sandwiches (Smokey Turkey Sandwich with barbecued turkey, Swiss, spinach, mustard, and tomatillo chutney!), Shafer, Andrew, and…
Most Southern Charm
As Manchaca starts to widen and the green space between strip malls expands, the vibe trends distinctly more chill. At South Austin Beer Garden, that vibe turns positively beachy. Geographically landlocked but spiritually lake-adjacent, this welcoming new watering hole operates out of a converted old house still bearing its original shiplap. Whether you’re hunkered down…
Best College Basketball Tournament
Open to the big boys, unlike Dr. James Naismith’s NAIA, and with a richer history than the newcomer NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament, the National Invitation Tournament dates back to 1938, with the final four played every year in storied Madison Square Garden. And no, of course we’re not just saying this because the…
Apartment Locator
“Super helpful. I was able to find a great apartment in one day.” – Ashley Zapf Finalists: Apartments Now!, Smart City Apartment Locating
Mani/Pedi
“A nail studio with a mission? Hell yeah!” – Jenelle Dronkers Finalists: Embellish Nails & Boutique, Queen Spa
Wedding Venue
“I had my wedding here. Photos were magical.” – Reiko Rogers Finalists: Camp Lucy, Chapel Dulcinea
Men’s Clothing
“Great selections.” – Tamara Hoover Finalists: Capra & Cavelli, Service Menswear
Comedy Club/Venue
“Best of both worlds: Completely supportive of local comics while bringing in some of the finest national acts you could hope for – all while keeping tickets reasonable. Thank you, Cap City!” – Stephanie Molnar Finalists: ColdTowne Theater, Fallout Theater
Outdoor Festival
“ACL is a lifestyle, not just a festival.” – Kennedy Engleman Finalists: Old Settler’s Music Festival, Pecan Street Festival, UtopiaFest
Drive-Through
“Honestly, I moved to Austin for work, but I stayed for P. Terry’s.” – Marissa Kobe Finalists: El Tacorrido, Fresa’s Chicken al Carbon, Flyrite Chicken
Steak
“Top-notch food with a fine-dining vibe but with old Austin feels.” – Kara Foster Finalists: Bartlett’s, Jeffrey’s, Red Ash Italia, Vince Young Steakhouse
Jukebox
“This is a pretty epic jukebox.” – Victoria Kline Finalists: Deep Eddy Cabaret, Lala’s, MugShots
Toy Store
“I have a robot on my desk that reminds me that whimsy and mystery and weird are still available in abundance in Austin. I bought him at Terra Toys and it is the place I visit when I want to believe in humanity again.” – Christian Flores Finalists: Toy Dojo, Toy Joy
Food Writer
“The most dedicated and evenhanded food writer in Austin.” – Ryan McElroy Finalists: Addie Broyles (Austin American-Statesman), Jessi Cape (The Austin Chronicle), Matthew Odam (Austin American-Statesman), Brandon Watson (CultureMap)
Sportscaster
“I miss Mike Barnes. His sportscasting was about more than sports, it was about the people.” – Betsy Kirksey Finalists: Bob Ballou (KEYE), Dennis de la Peña (FOX 7), Roger Wallace (KXAN)
Self-Defense Class
“They teach how to really fight.” – Mary Ellen Rozmus Finalists: Fit and Fearless, Master Yi Academy, Tukon Martial Arts
Doctor Sleep
Back to the cinematic hallowed ground of the Overlook Hotel
Best (and Austin’s First!) Hand-Poke Tattoo Parlor
Emily Ng opened No Good Tattoo in Springdale General earlier this year, and thanks to her and a growing community of stick-and-poke tattoo artists, we’ve got a whole new option to add to our permanent ink collection. Even better, Austin’s first parlor of its kind not only boasts both resident and guest artists, it’s also…
Best Fantastical Film Festivities
At the immersive film screenings of Lifted Traces, fandom oozes from every detail. There’s cinematically aligned food, on-theme vendors, and a wonderland of art installations to enjoy around the show. Most centrally, the movies are presented with a new musical score, performed live by local synth-lovers. Hyperreal Film Club founder Jenni Kaye and composer Joey…
Best Nexus of Food and Beer
For too long the modus of the typical American brewpub was to make a passable amber ale and yet blithely underachieve with their food program as well. We don’t know if those days are necessarily over for America, but in Austin, the Brewer’s Table has obliterated those themes of beer and food mediocrity into a…
Best ATX Aural History
Johnny Goudie is the Marc Maron of Austin music. The veteran singer/guitarist – best known for fronting early Nineties pop band Mr. Rocket Baby and, later, his major-label rock act, Goudie – stepped up to the microphone with a new intention in 2011 and launched the How Did I Get Here? podcast. Now 840-some episodes…
Best Dog Walking (or Watching)
Tucked away against the Colorado River, the open field at Commons Ford Ranch offers dog owners and lovers a comfortable spot to lie down, spread out, and release the hounds. Although technically not one of the city’s designated off-leash areas, the combination of location – secluded from busy roadways, ringed by trees, and bordered by…
Auto Repair/Service
“When you ask other mechanics where to take your car in Austin, they say Flamingo.” – Stephanie Potter “I have gone to Gene Johnson for 30 years. They shoot straight; I trust them.” – Aubrey McIntosh Finalists: Juke Auto, Yost Automotive
Massage
“Absolutely heavenly massages here.” – Nellie Summers Finalists: Austin Massage Company, Mantis Massage
Adult Store
“Where customer service is more important than free shipping.” – Daphne Gates Finalists: Dreamers, Q Toys
Neighborhood Grocery
“Wheatsville feels like home.” – Kathy Walsh Finalists: Fresh Plus, Royal Blue Grocery
Comedy Troupe
“Classic yet contemporary humor. So creative!” – Yolanda Torres Finalists: Fuck This Week, Girls Girls Girls, Master Pancake, Y’all We Asian
Performance Space/Theatre
“Visiting the Paramount is like walking into a time machine. It has so much history. Ask about the Houdini hole.” – Leo Sopicki Finalists: The Vortex, Zach Theatre
Established Restaurant
“Bryce Gilmore is still slinging the best-tasting and best-looking food in town.” – Daniel Diffen Finalists: Eldorado Cafe, Suerte
Sushi
“Fresh ingredients prepared with expert precision and a happy hour that cannot be topped.” – Daniel Diffen Finalists: Komé, Musashino Sushi Dokoro, Otoko, Uchiko
Karaoke
“The HighBall has the best themed rooms and puts on some of the best events in all of Austin.” – Haddie Cooke Finalists: Common Interest, Ego’s
Youth Arts Program
“Such a lively community within these theatre walls. I found who I was at Zach, and I am confident in who I am because of the amazing people here. Love you guys!” – Kaelie Douglass Finalists: Creative Action, KidsActing, Mother Falcon Music Lab, Paramount Theatre Summer Camps
Journalist
“Sarah is so proactive and in touch, and consistently features the wide diversity of our queer community. This is so important as we grow and change as a city.” – Stan Wilson Finalists: Gus Bova (The Texas Observer), Evan Smith (The Texas Tribune)
State Official
“Lloyd Doggett is a man of integrity. Longtime public servant. Thank you, Lloyd!” – Carol Austin Finalists: Gina Hinojosa, Donna Howard, Kirk Watson
Last Christmas
This is a movie inspired by a Wham! song, and you know what? It works.
Best Black Lines in Texas
Austin has its share of talented tattooers, but when it comes to fine black line work, it doesn’t get better than Annie Mess, owner and artist at Golden Age Tattoos. From her tiny, skin-adorning pet portraits to her detailed, dotted, and well-shaded floral designs – oh, and don’t forget the magical ladies, Patronuses, and outer…
Best Gay Giggle Generator
There are few greater portals into another person’s psyche than what they find absolutely hilarious. And there are few better platforms for raunchy, unfiltered, overtly honest retellings than the stand up comedy stage. At roving monthly showcases every third Thursday, The Gay Agenda rounds up all shades of gay storytelling. Launched in March 2019 by…
Best Non-Psychotropic Smoked Mushrooms
It’s a good sign of things to come when, upon entrance, the scent of in-house smoked anything swirls with the familiar musk of the old Haynes-DeLashwah House. Perched atop the hill at 11th and, you guessed it, Rosewood, the restaurant boasts a lovely view of Downtown. And while chef Jesse DeLeon’s menu changes daily, one…
Best Decoders of “Can Trump Buy Greenland?” and Other National Security Topics
From forays into Trumplandia to weighing in on the military prison at Guantánamo Bay, University of Texas Law professors Bobby Chesney and Steve Vladeck dissect the latest legal controversies associated with the U.S. government’s national security activities on their weekly The National Security Law Podcast. Sure, the subject material might be niche to some (okay,…
Best Hotel Pool View
While it’s only open to guests on weekends, Monday through Friday, pool-hungry members of the general public can snag all-day access to this stunning saltwater infinity pool for a mere 25 bucks. Paddle up to the edge and survey their matchless view of the lake with a cocktail from the poolside bar in hand. It’s…
Barbershop
“Sip some beer and get a sweet blowout.” – Vivian Silva Finalists: Barbon’s Barbershop, Finley’s Barber Shop, SHED Barbershop and Supply
Movers
“The little things at the end of a brutal move are huge: connecting washer/dryer, furniture re-positioning. Customer satisfaction is top priority until the very end.” – Jon Cottle Finalists: Army Ant Moving, Square Cow Movers
Arts & Crafts Store
“This place is Candy Land for artists.” – Capri Jentsch Finalists: Austin Creative Reuse, Bead It
Pet Store
“I literally take my dog here for her birthdays.” – Daniel Romers Finalists: Healthy Pet, Paws on Chicon
Comedy/Storytelling Showcase
“Moontower is the obvious choice here. They win the gold, silver, bronze, and tin medal in this category.” – Travis Summers Finalists: BedPost Confessions, Greetings, From Queer Mountain, Punch, Testify ATX
Stand-up Comic
“Has truly kept comedy vibrant in this city. Never gets enough credit. And has made radio funny again, too.” – Dale Dudley Finalists: Jasmine Ellis, Ky Krebs, Carina Magyar, Avery Moore
Fine Dining
“My dream is to live above Uchi so that I can just walk downstairs to find my ultimate happiness.” – Lindsey Walther Finalists: Barley Swine, Jeffrey’s, Otoko
Tacos
“Hillbilly Style Trailer Park is the crown jewel of tacos.” – Zach Martin Finalists: Tacodeli, Vegan Nom, Veracruz All Natural
Sports and Recreation Wild Card
“Fun times.” – Janet Evans Finalists: Austin Coolers Dragon Boat Team, Austin Padel Tennis, Lone Star Curling Club, Rogue Running
Youth Sports Program
“The coaches are amazing, and my shy little bird has really started loving the sport because of this program.” – Amber Dodson Finalists: Life Ki-do Martial Arts, The Mat Martial Arts & Fitness
Local Blogger
“She’s my go-to girl for anything Austin-related!” – Chelsea Goodson Finalists: Ashley Rollins (Swift Wellness), Jason Stanford (The Stanford Newsletter Experiment)
TV Anchor/Reporter
“Who doesn’t love Quita?!” – Jack Cruz Finalists: Robert Hadlock (KXAN), Sally Hernandez (KXAN), Jenni Lee (KVUE)
Acceleration
Inept action flick marks the end of any possible Lundgrenaissance
Best Blast From the Past
There’s history in all Austinites’ lives, and the Austin History Center has dedicated itself to preserving it for the past 60-plus years. The city’s historical archive houses thousands of manuscripts, maps, periodicals, photos, and more, documenting Austin’s history from before its founding in 1839 to the present – almost all of which are available to…
Best Incubator of Musical Sisterhood
Wanna start a band and stick it to the patriarchy at the same time? Femme Rock has you covered, with affordable six-week classes in a variety of musical styles (posted online every other month) and a mission to empower adult women (cis, trans, and nonbinary) through musical collaboration. Self-taught drummer and Femme Rock founder Reece…
Best Onigiri Outside of Japan
Sugar Pine offers a plethora of traditional Japanese options from chilled soba noodles to piping hot karaage chicken, but the shining star here is the onigiri, a Japanese standard where the rice is formed into a triangle around a salty or sour ingredient and wrapped in seaweed. Sugar Pine has an extensive selection of freshly…
Best IG Reporter on Mom-and-Pop Pan-Asian Restaurants
One of the best parts of Austin’s food scene is without a doubt the teeny-tiny family-owned restaurants that largely fly under the radar. Thanks to the genius – known simply as Lenny – over at @eats_n_noods, followers (us included!) are privy to a wide span of specifically Asian fare from spots across the greater metro…
Best Soccer Referee
No contest, really. The Moroccan-born Elfath has moved up from Austin rec leagues, to his first pro experience doing Austin Aztex games at House Park, to become one of the top refs in Major League Soccer and one of only six FIFA-accredited refs in the U.S. This may have been his best year, working at…
Bike Shop/Repair
“They take better care of my bike than I do!” – Dean Phillips Finalists: City Limit Cycles, Clown Dog Bikes, The Peddler Bike Shop
Music Services/Equipment
“Strait Music built Austin’s music scene 50 years ago. Best products and outstanding service.” – Rick Ingraham Finalists: Rock N Roll Rentals, Switched On
Austin Gifts/Souvenirs
“Always have cool, unique items and goods from local artisans.” – Leah Werner Finalists: Austin Gift Company, Parts and Labour
Record Store
“Still the best and always will be as long as John Kunz is the man with his sidekick, Martin!” – Ted Branson Finalists: Breakaway Records, End of an Ear
Comic Creator/Graphic Novelist
“Her graphic novels are a sheer joy to read, and her prose absolutely sings.” – Paul Benjamin Finalists: Donny Cates, Becky Cloonan, Drew Edwards, David Tarafa
Theatre Director
“Lisa is all about access and pushing boundaries. She is a great asset to Austin theatre.” – Simi Denson Finalists: Rudy Ramirez, Dave Steakley
Food and Drink Wild Card
“Dive bar heaven.” – Liz Gray Finalists: Enchiladas y Mas, Peace Bakery & Deli, Utopian Shift, Vigilante Gastropub & Games
Vegan/Vegetarian
“I am awaiting cauliflower bites while I write this …” – Austin Kaplan Finalists: The Beer Plant, Counter Culture, Mother’s Cafe & Garden
Sports Venue
“Nothing is better than some Longhorn Football at DKR.” – Talia Milan Finalists: Circuit of the Americas, Dell Diamond
Youth STEM Program
“Girlstart has a great variety of events exposing girls to STEM careers and highlighting the fun of science and exploration.” – Samantha Marcellus Finalists: Hello World, Latinitas, Neuron Garage
Local Controversy
“This isn’t a controversy; it’s a win for a more humane Austin.” – Tandera Louie Finalists: Boil water notice, Convention Center expansion, D.A.’s Office accused of lack of support for sexual assault survivors
Weatherperson
“Feels like Dad is telling you to take a sweater.” – Lauren Bernick Finalists: James Greenhaw (“Pflugerville Weatherguy”), David Yeomans (KXAN)
Best of Austin 2019
A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: Thirty years ago, when my Chronicle forebears first sprouted the idea of an annual compendium of the best restaurants, stores, public places and personalities, et al. in Austin, they didn’t get cute with the name. They called it the “Best of Austin.” A little on the nose, but effective branding…
Cyrano, My Love
The true (possibly) tale behind the writing of the French classic
Best Borrowed Nautical Adventure
Making a splash is this nautical startup, co-founded by Austinite Matt Woods with his twin brother Adam, which democratizes the yacht charter industry by making it easy to track down the perfect vessel for your next on-the-water excursion using a peer-to-peer digital window-shopping service. Essentially an Airbnb platform for boats, Skipper My Boat pries the…
Best Moves to the Edge
In dance, there’s physical and there’s physical. There’s rigorously pushing the body to its limits in service of grace and beauty, and there’s … whatever Frank Wo/Men Collective does. Racing. Whirling. Squirming. Twitching. Hurling themselves to the ground. Rolling over one another. Sliding on wet plastic. Enduring blasts of water from a pressure hose. At…
Best Purveyors of Citywide “Irasshaimase!”
For Japanese-born Kayo and Takehiro Asazu, Japanese comfort food not only means home but also an experience best served shared, which is why the couple, who also started the (since-closed) Sushi-a-Go-Go trailer, opened their izakaya-style, aka family-style, restaurant, Komé, in 2011. But the Asazus didn’t stop there. They’ve since opened Daruma Ramen; teamed up with…
Best Media Power Moves
In a shifting media landscape where a lot of stories don’t end well, these two women taking the reins at two of Austin’s most important media institutions – KUT-FM and the Texas Observer – is worthy of celebration. After a career laboring at and then leading the Statesman, Hiott jumped into broadcasting at just the…
Best Training for the Inevitable Apocalypse
You may not think you need to know how to build survival tools or navigate by nature, but Buzz Mill’s Lumber Society is determined to save you despite yourself. Consider it non-paranoid prepper training, or Scouts with beer. Hosted by the local coffeehouse, Lumber Society camp master Chris Hyde leads workshops on everything from archery…
Computer Repair
“Great service, great prices.” – Dina Peridi Finalists: Austin MacWorks, Happy Mac
Pet Grooming
“I utilize both the professional groomers and the self-service wash there for my dog, and she loves both.” – Lisa Leary Finalists: Clean Critters, Pamper Ur Pet
Bookstore
“A unionized independent bookstore?! THIS is what Austin’s about.” – Kim Varela-Broxson Finalists: BookWoman, Half Price Books
Shopping Wild Card
“Arcane forever. Keep Austin Witching.” – Virginia France Finalists: Card Traders of Austin, Melanated Marketplace, State Surplus Property Store
Dancer/Choreographer
“Stephen is making the most interesting ballets in the country.” – Chris Tomlinson Finalists: Allison Orr & Krissie Marty, Stephanie Patrick
Visual Artist
“His artwork makes me smile. Very happy art!” – Kanako Ishihara Finalists: Cindy Elizabeth, Chris Rogers, Mila Sketch
Food Truck
“Migas on corn at Veracruz is the best meal in Austin don’t @ me” – David Swartz Finalists: Arlo’s, Garbo’s Fresh Maine Lobster
Weekend Brunch
“Unlimited. Mini. Pancakes.” – Kheirajoy Ardjani Finalists: Bouldin Creek Cafe, Counter Culture
Swimming Hole/Lake
“Make the reservation. Not only is it the best, but because of the limited capacity, it’s the least crowded.” – Angela Yocum Finalists: Blue Hole Regional Park, Krause Springs, Lake Travis
Large Live Music Venue
“Incredible artists, friendly and caring staff, great acoustics.” – JM Cox Finalists: Mohawk, Stubb’s
Local Instagrammer
“Just to be clear, my vote is for dogs! But also Alex is pretty great.” – Aron Taylor Finalists: Clarissa Cardenas (ATX Concert Queen), Jane Ko (A Taste of Koko), John Kulow (ATX FoodGuy)
Alternative Sports
“Circus is not just a sport, it’s a way of life. And at Sky Candy everyone is family.” – Jade Adair Finalists: Austin Historical Weapons Guild, Central Texas Archery
Best Defense Against Gothic Heatstroke
The heat index. Humidity. Barometric pressure. Weather forecasts give you all that data, but can they tell you whether you can still wear your black jeans and Combichrist long sleeve without breaking a sweat, or will you need to pack your best lace parasol? DJV and DJ AsuraSunil, hosts of KOOP Radio’s goth and industrial…
Best Queer Pop Princesses
With early-Aughties aesthetics that evoke otherworldly dimensions, p1nkstar and Y2K are the pop princesses queer-kid you yearned for and queer-adult you still need. Each their own act, but who often collaborate and perform together, p1nkstar and Y2K are nightlife fixtures – queer or otherwise – performing hybrid music-conceptual shows, as well as campastic musicals like…
Best Reason to Shovel Cheese Into Your Mouth With Your Hands
Around these parts, Tex-Mex queso is life, and whether straight-up, vegan, or Velveeta, everybody has their go-to style. Then there’s queso fundido, repping the upper echelon of flambéed cheese, and this Downtown modern Mexican restaurant has perfected their version. Made with bubbled queso Oaxaca and queso Chihuahua, chef Kevin Taylor (whose parents owned Mexican restaurants)…
Best Move to the Left at the Lege
After the 2018 elections managed to flip 12 noteworthy seats in the Texas House of Representatives, the 86th legislative session saw a little blue wave of power pulsing through the state Capitol. But the biggest slap back to the Republican anti-LGBTQ agenda from the last two sessions came from the House’s newly formed LGBTQ Caucus…
Best Workout With Wine
Ever drifted into savasana dreaming a glass of wine would appear on your mat to extend your state of relaxation? Vino Vinyasa has brought this concept to fruition by pairing an all-levels yoga class with an educational wine tasting. While the vino is only consumed after the vinyasa, you’ll whet your palate with wine facts…
Doggie Day Care
“They make my crazy dog not seem so crazy. Anyone who can do that is a winner in my book.” – Sara Davila Finalists: Austin Dogtown Boarding & Daycare, Jumping Jack Dog Ranch, Mud Puppies, Remington Pet Ranch
Plumber
“Very responsive and run a professional and ethical business.” – Laurie Flood Finalists: Ruben’s Plumbing Service, Wilson Plumbing
Bridal Shop
“Got my wedding dress here for $99 and it was perfect.” – Mila Litchfield Finalists: Blue Bridal Boutique, Blush Bridal Lounge
Smoke Shop
“One of the local chains that keeps ATX weird and chill.” – Sylvia Butanda Finalists: Oat Willie’s, MaryJae
Drag Performer
“Tall, terrifying, and the nicest person you will ever meet.” – Axel Perez Finalists: Hentaii, Noodles, Rhonda Jewels
Bakery
“Their sourdough is 👌” – Ryan Quigley Finalists: Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery, Upper Crust Bakery
Ice Cream/Frozen Treats
“Hello, the Mexican Vanilla is life-changing.” – Margaret Elkins Finalists: Lick Honest Ice Creams, NadaMoo! Scoop Shop, Sweet Ritual
Winery
“Cool space with funky furniture that works with wine on tap.” – Sylvia Butanda Finalists: The Austin Winery, Duchman Family Winery
Swimming Pool
“Can’t beat a public natural swimming pool right in the heart of the city.” – Anandhi Mani Finalists: Bartholomew Pool, Deep Eddy Pool
LGBTQ Club
“This place is just welcoming, period. You have all walks of life on that dance floor moving and grooving together like Gaga intended.” – Juan Wences Finalists: Oilcan’s, Rain on 4th
Local News
“The anchors and meteorologists are very professional and keep me informed about important information regarding Austin.” – Anita Matejka Finalists: KUT, KVUE
Bowling Alley
“Dart Bowl for the win!” – Don Williams Finalists: Highland Lanes, Westgate Lanes
Best Northside Barbershop
Every neighborhood needs a good barbershop, and Original Walker’s provides the quality cuts and lively atmosphere that make for a truly great shop. All of the barbers are excellent at their craft, and they all help make Ray Walker’s shop a place that could become an institution. Specializing in cuts, fades, razor shaves, and more,…
Best Rising Stars of Improv
When Austin’s first Asian American improv troupe opened a new show at ColdTowne Theater this year, the title Starring Y’all We Asian was a riff on the show’s theme that Asians are done with Hollywood whitewashing and sidekick roles; they’re ready for their close-up, Mr. DeMille. But the truth is that the troupe is star…
Best Thing to Ever Happen to an Asian Pear
You’d think, with all the great sushi and tropical fare the joint serves up, that what’s mostly used as a garnish – dark amber slices of pickled Asian pear – would go unnoticed at Downtown’s She’s Not Here. But whatever miracles of fermentation chef Ben Schwartz and his crew visit upon that fruit has turned…
Best Photographer to Keep You Starry-Eyed
Look into the night sky when you’re way out in the country and there’s no artificial light for miles: What you’ll see will astound you. Now imagine you had a telescope and a good camera for capturing all that stellar glory. Even then, the images might not do justice to reality – unless you had…
Best Clubbing for Kids
Needless to say, if any of you are reading this in Austin, you failed to make it to the big time in world football. The good news is that Lonestar S.C. will at least give your li’l Lavelle or Pulisic Jr. a kicking chance to one day be a part of the beautiful game at…
Dry Cleaner
“Always friendly, on time, and cost-efficient.” – Heidi Bray Finalists: EcoClean, Jack Brown Cleaners
Psychic/Tarot
“Sister Temperance’s bimonthly live Instagram videos on the new and full moons are always so spot on.” – Juliet Morgan Finalists: Austin Mediums, ChosenEyes, Sound Sight Tarot
CBD Purveyor
“High end & super modern. The staff is always insanely knowledgeable about all their products. We love coming here.” – Joey Edwards Finalists: Restart CBD, Joy Organics
Sporting Goods
“Good value for a great price.” – Victoria Winburne Finalists: PW23 Fitness, Whole Earth Provision Co.
Drag Showcase
“Poo Poo is one of the sickest shows I’ve seen. They are a very progressive troupe that is leading today’s drag shows.” – Albert Morales Finalists: Boiz of Austin, Die Felicia
Barbecue
“Any place that Barack Obama will personally make time for is frankly worth your time.” – Jeanine Christensen Finalists: la Barbecue, Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew, Terry Black’s Barbecue, Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ
Italian
“Holy crap, these paisanos know how to make Italian food like a grandma, only better.” – Alan Weiss Finalists: Il Brutto, Patrizi’s, Red Ash Italia, Vespaio
Adult Club
“Classic and classy.” – Zach Martin Finalists: The Friends Club, Perfect 10
Yoga
“What’s dark, sweaty, and full of love? Black Swan Yoga.” – Lauren Bernick Finalists: Practice Yoga Austin, Wanderlust YOGA
Nightlife Wild Card
“Sahara Lounge is a special place and one of the last of its kind in the city of Austin.” – Katherine Vaughn Finalists: Austin Dungeon, Butt Stuff Bingo, wILD 2.0
Local Podcast
“Tales that will capture your imagination, and make you question just what it was that went bump in the night.” – Kay Marley-Dilworth Finalists: Gender Fluids, The Rabble
City Trail
“Long name. Great walk.” – Owen Egerton Finalists: Violet Crown 290 Trailhead, Southern Walnut Creek Trail
Best “Let’s Get Sweaty” Gear
#DoingThings – especially outdoorsy things – is a motto most Austinites can get behind, which might explain our (and the world’s) obsession with Outdoor Voices. But Tyler Haney’s activewear brand is a lot more than a motto. The fabric-first, sustainably made fitness apparel goes beyond your regular athleisure because it’s actually designed for you to…
Best Place to Buff Up Your Bumper
Owner David Bosada staffs this body shop – nestled in Southeast Austin, en route to the airport – with a crew who make it a habit of going that extra mile. Since opening his family-run shop in 2007, Bosada has taken a customer-first approach to auto paint and body repair work, striving to ensure that…
Best Space For Diverse Voices
There’s a certain cachet, perhaps, to being referred to as “bold” or “daring.” But even those tiredly used adjectives wane when discussing the sheer breadth and ambition of the Ground Floor Theatre. A performance space dedicated to highlighting marginalized voices, be it last year’s run of Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour’s experimental grenade White Rabbit Red…
Tiniest Bar(becue) in Texas
Osaka meets Austin at this outstanding Eastside izakaya joint. Enjoy teeny skewers of grilled meat and generous drapes of fresh fish (fear not, they even have vegan options) while sipping on sake or an obscure Japanese beer. A hearty “Irasshaimase!” from the chef kicks off this J-pop pumping party as soon as you walk through…
Best Progressive Tag Team
The entire City Council calls itself progressive, and each member has had chances to vote their values and lead their colleagues toward making Austin more just and equitable. Casar and Garza have made that progression easier for everyone with their consistent, coordinated, energetic, and thoughtful advocacy: for workers’ rights and reproductive rights, for decriminalizing homelessness…
Best Gifts for a Foster Child
Too many kids never know the simple joy of screaming around their birthday party, covered in cake and unwrapping presents from people who care, and that’s especially true for foster kids. Registered nonprofit Pop-Up Birthday is doing its best to make sure that children who are already dealing with enough enjoy a day dedicated to…
Electrician
“Bryant Electric Service is the best-run and easiest-to-work-with service company I’ve ever worked with. Great folks.” – Bryan Haynes Finalists: Colvin Electric, Klock’s Electric
Real Estate Agent
“Lilly went above and beyond to help us prepare our house for the market, taking it upon herself to vet make-ready firms, consult with stagers, coordinate professional photography, and even haul off trash in the middle of the night.” – Becca Frasier Finalists: Samantha Soletti Adler, Laurie Flood
Comics/Fandom
“I think my family would move in here, if they could.” – Stephanie Clayton Finalists: Austin Books & Comics, Tribe Comics & Games
Used Furniture/Antiques
“Great place to find just the right unique thing for a gift or your home/office. In fact, if you need a gift for a friend and can’t find something here, you might need more interesting friends.” – Laura Grable Finalists: Design It With Consignment, Far Out Home Fittings, Room Service Vintage, Uptown Modern
Fiction Writer
“Sarah is an Austin treasure.” – Peggy Little Finalists: Ernest Cline, Owen Egerton
Breakfast
“Those lemon and poppy seed pancakes are the best. Eggs Benedict? Yes, please. You literally can’t go wrong with anything you order off the menu.” – Chanel Ingram Finalists: Bouldin Creek Cafe, Counter Cafe, Magnolia Cafe, Tacodeli
Juice/Smoothie
“The wundershnozen (how ever you spell it oh my lawd)” – Casey Harrod Finalists: Daily Juice, The Soup Peddler
Bar for Singles
“Great bar to hang. The service is great and lots of locations to mingle there.” – Julia Liss Finalists: Nickel City, Rain on 4th, Shangri-La, South Austin Beer Garden
All-Ages Venue
“My kids love this place! What am I saying, I love this place.” – Brandi Ng Finalists: High 5, Mohawk, Thinkery
Outdoor Venue
“Bigger space and better sound. That simple.” – Eric Quitugua Finalists: Cheer Up Charlies, Mohawk
Local Startup
“Music Firsthand is like having that one friend who knows all the best bands in town on speed dial.” – Mason Pfeiffer Finalists: Civitech, inLieu
Exercise Class
“Fantastic community that keeps me coming back.” – Morgan Nuncio Finalists: Jazzercise at Austin Recreation Center, November Project, ToddPilates & Barre
Best Appliances on the Cheap
Did you just get the news that your washer isn’t worth repairing? Can’t afford to replace it with one of those fancy washers that connects to your wi-fi and tweets the status of your unmentionables? Just south of Highway 71 sits an unsuspecting warehouse with a wide selection of refurbished appliances priced to sell. What’s…
Best Radical Free Pizza
What is #TransPizza, you ask? And how can pizza be radical? Silly mortal. Twitter followers of the local (and award-winning) graphic novelist Lilah Sturges know how, cuz every week she gives out $20 to a lucky winner (or two) who responds to her call for free and queer food! Cuz not all superheroes wear capes,…
Best Unamplified Music Installations
No microphones. No amplifiers. Absolutely no talking. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more astoundingly intimate musical performance on planet Earth than those assembled by Team Goodtimes, in which bands play acoustically outside to large audiences in rapt silence – typically between the hours of one and four in the morning. Ringleader Cody Johnson…
Best Hound-Inspired Hang
Whether from the retro beer signs, wood paneling behind the bar, or low-key Seventies vibe, Frazier’s feels like the kind of place your mother used to send you to pick up your dad. Michael Frazier took inspiration for the name from his two hound dogs (“long life, low stress”) and, along with partner Nathan Hill…
Best Proletariat Uprising
Austin’s biggest music outrage of 2019 hit the fan May 28 when employees of Red River venue Beerland announced a strike, citing unpaid wages since March. Owner Richard Lynn attempted to outrun the drama with a pretty press release on Beerland’s sale to an unknown buyer. The successive social media firestorm offered ample use of…
Best Inspiration for IRL Fort Building
Couch cushion forts were doomed once kids could construct mansions from an iPad in Minecraft instead of scrounging together every blanket and pillow in the house to make a constantly collapsing box. However, the Fortlandia outdoor exhibit at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center may be just the thing to revive the lost art of…
Home Maintenance/Services
“Amazing owners who treat their employees right and want to improve our community, too.” – Shelley Szucs Finalists: K&M Steam Cleaning, PreFix, WOW Total Cleaning & Restoration
Recording Studio
“I’ve spent months there this past year and know firsthand the quality of the staff, the facility, and the ever-elusive but essential vibe.” – Matt Hubbard Finalists: Permanent RCRD Studios, Space Rehearsal & Recording Studio
Electronics Store
“Honest with high integrity. I always take my equipment to them for servicing.” – Karen Welsh Finalists: Discount Electronics, Switched On, Sound Gallery
Vintage/Consignment Clothing
“My go-to for recycled digs.” – Holley Gonzalez Finalists: Blue Velvet, Charm School Vintage, Room Service Vintage, Uptown Cheapskate
Film Festival/Series
“SXSW Film has become my favorite part of SXSW; I love that we get world premieres and some really interesting activations for new shows and movies.” – Sharon Tressa DeSimone Finalists: Austin Film Festival, Fantastic Fest
Brewery
“Not only does Austin Beerworks make delicious, badass beer, their leadership team led the charge for the new beer-to-go law. Where did the Texas governor go to sign the new law? Austin Beerworks, with a Pearl-Snap Pils in his hand.” – Jonathan Connors Finalists: The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co., Jester King Craft Brewery, St.…
Late-Night Dining
“Kerbey queso is my drug of choice every time.” – Christian Flores Finalists: Magnolia Cafe, 24 Diner
Bartender
“Kathee is amazing! So welcoming and accepting to everyone she encounters and such a good time. I always look forward to seeing her awesome smile.” – Nick Beiler Finalists: Pat Dean (Velveeta Room), Kelsey Caudebec (The Tigress Pub), Whitney Hazelmyer (Watertrade)
Birthday Cakes
“Yummy!” – Ashley Parker Finalists: Capital City Bakery, HayleyCakes and Cookies, Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery
Place for Sober Socializing
“The Central Library is the city’s crown jewel. Workspaces, event spaces, social spaces, books, art, coffee, food … it represents all the new best that Austin has to offer. You can even get a workout on those twisting Harry Potter staircases.” – Daniel Diffen Finalists: Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden, Sans Bar
Local YouTuber
“Adriene inspires her viewers one breath, one giggle, and one sentence at a time. She reminds you to forgive yourself and keep trying to do whatever thing it is you’re trying to do. She is kindness embodied.” – Angela Miracle Finalists: Sam Contreras and Rico Perez-Grant (Tea Time With T Boys), Negeen Dargahi
Golf Course
“Accessible, BYOB, no dress code, a staple of my childhood.” – Andrew Brock Finalists: Fazio Foothills at Omni Barton Creek Resort, Hancock Golf Course, Lions Municipal Golf Course
Best Buddhist Community Garage Sale
This meditation center’s periodic garage sale is like a traveling market drifting across the Saharan desert: You never know when it will appear or how long it will last, scheduling and linear time being two constructs the adherents of the center are presumably hoping to renounce. When it does pop up, though, you can always…
Best Way to Track Your Emissions Reductions
Yes, just 100 corporations are responsible for over 70% of carbon emissions in the world today, but that doesn’t mean we as individuals shouldn’t do our part to cut down on the other 30%. An app created by a team of UT grads helps you do just that by tracking your progress through challenges. Go…
Most Deserving to Be Made Austin Music Monuments
Roky Erickson lived in Barton Hills – where his mother Evelyn also resided. Lupine howler out front of the 13th Floor Elevators, 1965-1969 – very possibly the first psychedelic act – he ate at Threadgill’s, Hut’s, Amy’s. Throughout the Sixties, Seventies, Eighties, Nineties, and Aughts, he performed in Austin’s halls of fame: Vulcan Gas Company,…
Best Ladies’ Night for Lady Knights
Let’s face it: Meeting people is hard. Especially in a big city like Austin, and especially for those of us in that cross-section demographic where “adult nerd” meets “women-identified.” Thankfully, Tribe Comics & Games has the hook-up you need with “by women, for women,” ladies-only Dungeons & Dragons nights every Wednesday at 7pm. Open to…
Best Reclaiming of Space
Some would say you can’t have Pride without a Dyke March. It’s the political, take-back-the-streets, in-your-face-and-fiery sister to the Pride Parade. One, in at least its modern-day iteration, is about celebrating how far we’ve come; the other about fighting for more and greater queer rights. A Dyke March is also about creating space for the…
Best Music Spot for Green Thumbs
What better incentive do you need to visit a food park than a free gardening class and songwriter session while you nosh on vegan bites, tamales, and poke nachos? Host to the South Austin Family Fall Festival, this burgeoning Southside sprawl offers a family-friendly spot with a half-dozen food trucks, a community garden, outdoor yoga,…
Hotel/Motel
“Hotel San José all the way with their epic frosé.” – Chris Nelson Finalists: Austin Motel, South Congress Hotel
Salon
“You’d be hard pressed to find anywhere that captures that ‘Austin hospitality’ like VINYL does. Incredible stylists, wonderful location, and awesome vibes all around.” – Michael Hanrahan Finalists: Method Hair, Raven Row Salon, Vibe Collective
Farmers’ Market/Farmstand
“The market at Mueller is … well, perfect. I travel a lot so I never tire of this Sunday ritual whilst I am at home.” – Adriene Mishler Finalists: SFC Farmers’ Market at Sunset Valley, Texas Farmers’ Market at Lakeline
Women’s Clothing
“The best for our budgets and the environment.” – Alissa Bobek Finalists: Adelante, Beehive, By George, Spring Frost
Graphic Artist
“Lauren’s aesthetic is incredibly clean, and the way she arranges text makes my mind happy.” – Kait Rhone Finalists: Dan Grissom, Craig Kotfas, Keith Davis Young
Burger
“The Magic Shroom is a perfect burger.” – Danielle Butler Finalists: Arlo’s, P. Terry’s Burger Stand
Margarita
“Just the right amount of sweet and tart.” – Julie Graham Finalists: Matt’s El Rancho, Trudy’s
Cocktail Bar
“Try the Cigar Box to find out why.” – Alisha Snyder Finalists: Garage Cocktail Bar, Small Victory, The Tigress Pub, Whisler’s
Family Festival
“This was always the highlight of my childhood growing up here. Spinning under the giant tree, smelling the fresh-made kettle corn, and walking the trail in awe every year. It’s why I love this city.” – Leah Prado Finalists: ABC KiteFest, Old Settler’s Music Festival
Pool Hall
“Legendary pool hall that gives you a chilled atmosphere in the midst of a hectic Sixth Street.” – Edward Crowder III Finalists: The Grand, Warehouse Billiard Bar
Nonprofit/Grassroots Org.
“They continue to be a leader in the no-kill movement and are a big part of the culture of compassion in our city.” – Mary Maltbie Finalists: Austin Democratic Socialists of America, Austin Recovery
Gym
“No other gym is so welcoming for my entire family.” – Kimberlie Quong-Charles Finalists: Castle Hill Fitness, Fit and Fearless
Best Collection of Creepy and Occult Offerings
On the hunt for the freakish and far-out? Searching for a dark shop filled with occult objects and kitschy merch from your favorite spooky figures – Elvira, Nosferatu, even that ghost with the most, Beetlejuice? When pondering where in jolly ol’ weird Austin one might find a two-headed skeleton a room away from candles displaying…
Best Satellite Vinyl Emporiums
Vinyl road trip, anyone? With the artistic revival of Texas small towns comes two new standout record stores beyond city limits. In Lockhart, pink storefront Bluebonnet Records presents new and used vinyl, CDs, and cassettes, with a spirited emphasis on Texas and local acts. Co-owning power couple/punk players Kana Harris (Xetas) and Cody Kimbell (Super…
Most Foot-Stompin’ Classical
To look at these four musicians and their instruments, you might assume they’re another garden-variety string quartet, about to guide you on a tasteful tour of Europe via its classical compositions. Which they can certainly do, and do as virtuosically as the next ensemble, but these guys will invariably take a detour through Appalachia. The…
Best Listening Party
In a world of streaming singles, the Long Play Lounge drops the needle on deeper grooves. The latest joint from Mike Therieau and Will Tanner (Hole in the Wall, Stay Gold), with input from punk icon John Doe (X), caters to vinylphiles, but without any pretension. The extensive record collection on call for the house…
Best Repurposing of a RuPaul’s Drag Race Quote
When a group of Houston-based bigots descended on City Council during Austin Pride Week to decry Drag Queen Storytime events at local libraries, City Council Member Jimmy Flannigan – the first openly gay man to sit on the dais – shut that ish down. Chastising the speakers for both their anti-LGBTQ hate speech and their…
Best Rulemakers
We don’t need to roll the dice or pull a card to work out who is Austin’s winningest gaming company. Since 1980, Steve Jackson Games has won our hearts in every form of play, from their OG board games like autoslaughter fun Car Wars, online strategy in Ultracorps, a universe of role-playing in GURPS, and…
Lashes/Brows
“Beautiful upscale salon, friendly staff, and best service ever.” – Andres Manon Finalists: Haute House Lash & Beauty Bar, Kara Sánchez Beauty
Services Wild Card
“Free health services for marginalized communities with a friendly and knowledgeable staff that feels like a second family to patients – how does it get any better than that?” – Jess O’Rear Finalists: Geek Powered Studios, Sì Shòu Acupuncture and Wellness, Torrid Boudoir
Florist
“Something for every budget, and they come through in an emergency. Their flowers always last a long time, too.” – Elizabeth McLellan Finalists: Ben White Florists, King Florist, Mercedes Flowers
Actor
“Wonderful teacher. Phenomenal actor. Beautiful spirit.” – Rosa Ambriz Finalists: Kareem Badr, Judd Farris, Carlo Lorenzo Garcia, Marc Pouhé
Local Video Game Developer
“This is ironic because they just laid off their entire video game staff.” – Zane G. Finalists: Bluepoint Games, Stoic Studio
Cheap Date
“BYOB & a great icebreaker.” – Stephanie Clayton Finalists: Home Slice Pizza, Little Deli & Pizzeria, Nickel City, Torchy’s Tacos
New Restaurant
“The foie gras roll? OMFG. Tatsu Aikawa and Takuya Matsumoto are killing it with the atmosphere, food, and amazing cocktails.” – John Hood Finalists: Comedor, Nervous Charlie’s, Oseyo, Vixen’s Wedding
Dance Club
“If I die on the dance floor at Barbz, I will have died doing what I love the most.” – Alana Riddle Finalists: Elysium, Highland Lounge, Rain on 4th
Family Restaurant
“Pictures of dogs everywhere and jalapeño ranch dip? Yes please.” – Ali Tabrizi Finalists: Hat Creek Burger Co., Home Slice Pizza, Kerbey Lane Cafe, Phil’s Icehouse
Queer Party
“Anticapitalism? Yes, please, I’ll take four.” – Nakia Winfield Finalists: Cut Up! at Elysium, Lesbutante & the Boss monthly ladies’ night, Lez B In Touch: Dykes You Should Know
Photographer
“She is a delight to work with.” – Davis Covin Finalists: Casey Chapman Ross, David Brendan Hall
Out-of-Town Hike
“Views for days and the climb is definitely worth it.” – Kimberly Watson Finalists: Big Bend National Park, Pedernales Falls State Park
Levitation Album Reviews
Every album in Chelsea Wolfe’s decadelong career brought her closer to the extreme metal she’s cited as a primary inspiration. Sixth studio LP Birth of Violence now retrenches the near-solitary aesthetic of her earliest work. Subverting expectations and cocooning after years of non-stop touring, the acoustic folk of “Be All Things” contrasts sharply with the…
Travis County & City of Austin Election 2019: Final Results
City propositions go down; Expo Center wins voters’ hearts
Levitation Album Reviews
After three releases spent in the mischievous daydream of Los Angeles, psych-surf outfit Allah-Las ventures into different sounds. Still relaxed, LAHS clouds over with less reverb, punchier drums, and – at long last – vocals at the front of the mix. “Keeping Dry” jangles fun and loose and just-held-together with Matthew Correia’s tight skitter on…
From the Fonz to Gene Cousineau: Henry Winkler’s Career of Fearless Reinvention
The man who defined cool on the changing demands of acting, being an icon, and the joy of fly fishing
The Luv Doc: Love Is Blind
When you make a presentation you should have some visual aids
Levitation Album Reviews
Arising from largely improvised performances that accompanied a cosmic expedition at San Antonio’s Scobee Planetarium, The Spiral Arm ranks not as the Austin ambient trio’s spaciest effort – that’s 2016 debut Original Soundtrack – but as their most beautiful. Their fourth album’s title cut rides eight piercing synthesizer notes, over which singer/percussionist Linda Beecroft whispers…
Now Streaming in Austin: RT Extra Life
Rooster Teeth’s streaming charity marathon show aims to raise a million for sick kids
Mr. Smarty Pants Knows
If you like cookies or pie, you owe a debt of gratitude to Gus Baumgarten. In 1917, he was fooling around with a thermometer in his oven and invented the oven thermostat to regulate heat for baking. Baumgarten died in 1960 and is buried in the Schulenburg City Cemetery in Schulenburg, Texas. According to a…
Levitation Album Reviews
From the Midnight Express cruise of “66” to the motion picture doom of “Sleep,” the train keeps a-rolling through Bent. Hailing from the Macedon Ranges in rural Australia, the four Findlay sisters showcase the natural majesty and brute force of hard rock. Suplex jams prove that restraint boosts sonic sprawl, while guitarists from the garage…
Heartland Theatre Collective’s The Vineyard
The reasons to see this staging of Nicole Oglesby’s new drama are the thorny questions it leaves you to answer
Levitation Album Reviews
A mournful opening to “Fire,” first cut on Brutus’ second LP, might fool you into thinking it’s faux-gothic emo, but then howling singer Stefanie Mannaerts’ machine gun drumming kicks in, followed by guitarist Stijn Vanhoegaerden’s reverb-flooded distortion washes and bassist Peter Mulders’ aggressive thrum. Lifting both blast beats and thrash dynamics from metal, the Belgian…
The Survivors/Los Sobrevivientes at Texas State University
Katie Bender’s drama takes us inside the Alamo for the rare treatment of that story as something intimate, with feeling more than action
Levitation Album Reviews
In addition to the Zeppelin-esque naming convention, 3 denotes these Memphis ladies’ debut as a trio – a downshift from a fourpiece. Clocking in at just half an hour, their third LP streamlines sonically, but the bulldozing remains. Subliminally, the aura of fellow weirdo Southern punks the B-52s and Pylon still rubs off in the…
“Demons & Devils” at Recspec Gallery
Because we could all use a little more aesthetic exorcising, couldn’t we?
Levitation Album Reviews
Slightly obscured by hellacious feedback and battery acid fuzz, Rachel Fannan claws vocally from the dirges of the underworld in Destroyer opener “Future Shade.” A guitar album at its core, the Canadians’ fifth studio LP ricochets caustic distortion, assaultive power chords, and tire-skid solos. On apocalyptic epic “Horns Arising,” rock sludge coalesces with robotron voicings…
Day Trips: Best of Texas
Five best roadside attractions around Texas
Levitation Album Reviews
Fronted by Tony Hawk’s son Riley Hawk, dark-surf trio Warish partners simple rhythms with lo-fi vibes on debut full-length Down in Flames. Opening tracks “Healter Skelter” and “You’ll Abide” coax a drum- laden nirvana before dropping into a cacophony of fast-moving riffs on “In a Hole.” The Californians wrap up the 11-track LP with the…
Soccer Watch
It’ll be Seattle Sounders against Toronto FC in the MLS Cup Final this Sun., Nov. 10, in Seattle (2pm on ABC). Just think: Two years from now, we could have a rooting interest in that fixture… The UT Longhorns bowed out of the Big 12 Championship tournament with a shoot-out loss to TCU. At 11-7-1,…
Joe Bob Briggs Teaches the History of Redneck Cinema
The original Hellbilly Deluxe
Qmmunity: Help Support Queer and Trans Students
Plus all-queer theater and queer archive rejects
Austinites Without Homes Find Themselves Pushed Out of Sight
Turns out those with and without shelter both want to be safe
Point Austin: The Morning After
What voters said about taxes, city and county plans, and dogs
Levitation Profile: John Cale
Founding member of Velvet Underground finds kindred spirits at psych festival
Death Watch: No Chaplain Needed Now in Murphy Case
Texas Seven member faces execution on Nov. 13 for a second time
Austin’s Best Food and Drink Events This Week
Dinner parties, farmers’ markets, beer, wine, and more for the week of November 7, 2019
Levitation Profile: Flipper
San Francisco noise punks bring chaos to the festival
AISD Delays Plans to Close Eight Schools
Advocates push to save Pease, Brooke
Plan Your Psychedelic Weekend With These Levitation Picks
Nearly two-dozen choices ranging from the Flaming Lips to Elephant Stone
Pour One Out for the Beto-Castro-Meter
Beto bows out gracefully while Castro hunkers down
Levitation Album Reviews
“There’s always a danger in leaving the past,” sings Tim Presley. His 10th release under the White Fence moniker carries an unfettered sense of pop history indebted, in places, to John Cale. An eerie, whimsical sheen coats jaunty guitars, arty baroque keys, and choral intonations, with delicate lyrics skewing surprisingly funny at times as they…
Quote of the Week
“I don’t want to go back into the woods, but I’m tired of dealing with this shit.” – William Brower, who was sleeping under U.S. 183 at Burnet Road until state highway crews began clearing encampments on orders of Gov. Greg Abbott. See “All Over Town, Austinites Want to Be Safe.”
30 Years of “Best of Austin”
Some of the stories behind 10,484 awards
Levitation Album Reviews
Thirteen years and six studio albums in, the Coathangers expertly entwine their raw punk edge and tight melodies with the respectively bright and blistering vocal interplay between Julia Kugel and Stephanie Luke. The Atlanta trio attacks head-on (“F the NRA”), but behind a bite that isn’t bitter as much as galvanizing. The calamity of “Crimson…
Death Watch: Lawmakers Ask for Rodney Reed Reprieve
Texas House Criminal Justice Reform Caucus joins celebrities, activists asking to stay the Nov. 20 execution
Levitation Album Reviews
Stepping out from L.A. dream rockers Io Echo, Ioana Gika’s solo debut emphasizes her stunning, versatile, dramatic singing. The dark synth pulse of opener “Roseate,” driving mad as Gika trills into an effervescent falsetto, sets a tension that flows throughout. The title track, named for an Ancient Greek sea divinity, harnesses beauty and terror in…
Headlines
Bobby Moore Spared: The Houston man convicted in 1980 for the capital murder of grocery clerk James McCarble has been spared execution. On the morning of Nov. 6, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals begrudgingly commuted Bobby Moore’s death sentence to life imprisonment due to his intellectual disability. See “Bobby Moore Will Not Be Executed”.…
Levitation Interview: Lingua Ignota
Kristin Hayter on academia, catholicism & the complexity of violence
APD Unveils New Interview Rooms For Survivors of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence
The next step in improving sexual assault investigations in Austin?
Report: Austin Leads State in Reproductive Freedom
But best-in-Texas ranking highlights what still needs to be done
