Hey Austinites, Morgan + Figi here. Between the two of us, we get the privilege of sharing local news, events, and conversations with readers in Austin, daily — here, and on our socials.
If you’ve been reading ATXtoday for a while, you probably recognize Figi. You may have also noticed that we’ve got a new face on the team, so consider this our official meet-cute.
Without further ado, allow us to introduce (and re-introduce) ourselves.
Meet Morgan
Q: What would be your final meal on Earth, only choosing from foods at ATX restaurants?
A: If I’m leaving the planet, I’d start with a frozen margarita from De Nada Cantina. My main course would be Tex-Asian bites from Anthem, like brisket rangoons, miso mac ‘n’ cheese balls, and honey sriracha popcorn chicken. I’d finish with a bang + eat a brig from Bonjour Brigadeiro.
Q: What were the last three things you did Downtown?
A: I’m lucky to live Downtown, so most of the things I do are in the heart of the city. My recent favorites are co-working with Figi at Revolución, dancing at Barbarella on Y2K night, and watching the city bustle from my apartment’s balcony.
Q: Hit us with your favorite piece of local trivia.
A: I love that Waterloo was the original name of Austin from 1835-1839. I’m a huge fan of Waterloo Sparkling Water, especially the cherry limeade flavor, and the ABBA song.
Q: In your opinion, what’s the unofficial Austin mascot?
A: I love the bats, but the grackles rule the city. I love them, I fear them, I aspire to be like them.
Meet Figi
Q: Fill in the blank: The coolest person I’ve met in Austin is ______.
KG BBQ chef Kareem El Ghayesh. Kareem has a unique blend of talent, personality, and love of barbecue that makes him fit seamlessly into Austin. His food is amazing, and he’s one of the friendliest people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting.
Q: What’s your favorite memory with ATXtoday?
In my two years of working at ATXtoday, I’ve made so many memories that it’s hard to pick, but being able to tour ICON’s 3D-printed Wolf Ranch neighborhood was a blast. I was also in the audience when ICON CEO Jason Ballard announced the new 3D-printed homes at Community First! Village during SXSW — that’s definitely up there.
Q: If you could only write about one ATX-specific topic for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Project Connect and public transportation. I can’t wait to be here when Austinites no longer need a car to get around, and if you ever ride the Red Line, you’ve probably seen me on board. Thankfully I don’t have to choose, because I really love experiencing everything Austin has to offer.
Q: If you were taking someone on a tour around Austin, where are the three places you’re going?
Anyone who visits me in Austin is guaranteed to try Veracruz All Natural at some point, because there is little that I love more than its breakfast tacos and aguas frescas. Next, I’m taking them to Cosmic Saltillo for some Liquid Sunshine and garden tranquility. Finally, for a night on the town, I like to bring people to Hotel Vegas for some live music or a drag show.
