Austin, Texas (Tory Wortham)

Where to Eat and Drink

• Uchi or Uchiko – argued to be the best sushi in the US, trust the server to order for you

• 2nd Bar + Kitchen – yummy small plates to share, crafted cocktails

• Fonda San Miguel – amazing interior Mexican food, you feel like you are in Mexico City

• Hula Hut on Lake Austin – casual Mexican, don’t miss the chips and queso

• Perla’s Seafood and Oyster Bar – sit outside below the enormous oak trees

• Taco Deli – delicious breakfast & lunch tacos, not open for dinner

• Food Trucks – South Austin Trailer Park and Eatery, Picnic on Barton Springs

• Red Ash – Downtown classic Italian

• Jeffrey’s (refined dining) and Josephine House (more casual sister restaurant) – both are delicious, cozy atmosphere, higher end

• Franklin BBQ – if you are willing to wait an hour our two!

• East Side King Thai Kun – Thai inspired dishes, warning “mild” is still hot

• Launderette – neighborhood café, contemporary Mediterranean cuisine

What to Do

• Visit Zilker Botanical Garden. You could spend 1/2 day exploring the different gardens. Don’t miss the incredible Japanese Gardens.

• See live music at the ACL Moody Theater.

• Shop on South Congress.

• Take a picture at the “I love you so much” mural.

• Hike Barton Creek Greenbelt (wear a swim suit- it is hot).

• Swim in Barton Springs Pool – it is a live spring fed pool that is 68 degrees all year around.

• If you are a history buff – Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum is fascinating.

• ACL Live – attend a music concert

• Lady Bird Lake Trail – hike, run, paddle board, boardwalk

• Shop: South Congress and 2nd Street

• Blanton Museum of Art

• Lake Austin Spa Resort – Plan on spending several hours here even if you aren’t staying at the resort.

• Tour the State Capitol – No reservation needed, it is free, the capitol is 15 feet taller than the National Capitol.

Inside Scoop

• Austin is laid back, it has a chic / casual vibe and is usually warm (so dress accordingly!)