Hey y’all, City Editor Figi here. One of my favorite parts of the job is getting out to try the things that make Austin special, and I want to share some of my favorites with you.
All of these places get a five-star rating in my opinion, so if you haven’t already given them a visit, this is your sign.
Breakfast + coffee: Revolución
Nothing hits the spot more than Revolución’s nube latte paired with a bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast taco on corn. This spot gets crowded fast, especially during SXSW, so you may have to be vigilant if you want a table inside. Psst — we have many more coffee options here.
Place to work: Cosmic Saltillo
When the weather’s nice, you’ll likely find me sitting in Cosmic Saltillo‘s garden, sipping a frozen coconut horchata cold brew, liquid sunshine, or frozen whipped pistachio latte. I love that it’s so close to a Red Line station. I love working outside, so you may also spot me at one of these locales.
Veracruz All Natural also has great plant-based options.
Photo by @veracruztacos
Lunch: Veracruz All Natural
I’ve been known to say Veracruz serves my favorite tacos in town, and my go-to order is the Doña Reyna (again, on corn) with a cantaloupe agua fresca. I’ll go for a taco at any time of day.
Dinner: Tancho Sushi
I beeline to restaurants that don’t take reservations — particularly when the food is as good as Tancho. Seriously, name another place where you can get omakase to-go. I’m pretty much always game for sushi and there is no shortage of it in Austin.
Happy hour: Better Half Coffee & Cocktails
There’s nothing better than ending the day having a happy hour drink with friends, especially if it’s a Sloppee from Better Half. I also can’t visit this all-day spot without ordering cauliflower tots.
Indoor activity: petting kitties at Purrfecto Cat Lounge
Ok, I actually don’t go here that much, but that’s because if I did, I would have dozens of cats. Whether you just want to love on some cats or you’re looking to adopt, Purr-fecto is a great place to spend a cuddly afternoon or evening. Get this — Purr-fecto owner Lupita Foster also owns Dear Austin Coffee Bar next door.
Outdoor activity: a concert at Moody Amphitheater
Seeing a concert at any venue is an ideal activity of mine, but I do a little jump for joy when a band I like performs at the Moody Amphitheater. Fun fact: Gary Clark Jr. was the first to perform at Moody Amphitheater in 2021, and I was in the audience.
Shop: Clover + Maven
Clover + Maven is my go-to place to pick up a locally made gift, or more likely, a gift for myself. The women-owned and run collective showcases work from 80+ artists inside its Springdale General shop.
Which Austin-based locale do you think I should visit? Nominate them here.
