A Taste of Spicewood
IRON WOLF RANCH & DISTILLERY AND DE GRACIA & ESTEVEZ CIGARS LEADING THE WAY IN SPICEWOOD’S FOOD AND DRINK SCENE
Food & Drink Issue
Welcome, fall! Fall in West Austin brings cooler air, shorter days, and flavors we all look forward to this time of year. October is one of my favorite issues because it celebrates food and drink, highlighting local restaurants and seasonal menus that remind us why this community is such a great place to call home. It is also the perfect season for a quick day trip out to Spicewood. Go-to spots like Spicewood Vineyards, Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery, and Frontyard Brewing offer a chance to enjoy Hill Country views, great drinks, and time with friends and family.
At home, my wife, our two children, and I enjoy simple fall traditions. Pumpkin bread in the oven or a pot of chili on the stove reminds us the season has arrived. We also look forward to celebrating Halloween at neighborhood favorites like Frontyard Brewing and the Hill Country Galleria, where the community comes together in festive spirit.
I hope this issue inspires you to savor the flavors of West Austin and enjoy every gathering this fall.
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Bryan Stone | Bryan.Stone@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Wood | Michelle.Wood@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Alissa Cordoba | Alissa@alissacordobabrands.com
Claire Smith | Claire@littleacornsphoto.com
Kim Ortiz | Kim@kimortiz.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
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city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
@THEBEECAVEFARMERSMARKET
@FRONTYARDBREWING
@MADAMMAMS
1: Dogs dress up for Halloween fun at Iron Wolf’s pet-friendly celebrations. 2: Support vendors at Bee Cave Farmers Market and shop local meats, produce, and handmade goods. 3: Frontyard Brewing’s Oktoberfest is all about laughter, big steins, and neighbors celebrating together. 4: A Bee Cave pumpkin patch filled with pure sunshine and pumpkins galore! 5: From morning coffee to evening pizza, Winston’s keeps locals craving more. 6: Hill Country Galleria hosts the Rolling Sculpture Car Show October 26, benefiting Bee Cave Library. 7: Taste the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine at Madam Mam’s in Bee Cave. @WINSTONSATX @IRONWOLFRANCHANDDISTILLERY @HILLCOUNTRYGALLERIA @HOLIDAYANDHARVEST
Austin Tea Xchange Café
Known as a community hub in Bee Cave, Austin Tea Xchange Café offers specialty teas, locally roasted coffee, and freshly baked treats in a welcoming setting. Favorites include their signature yogurt creations, light bites, and flavorful lattes crafted with care. It’s the kind of hangout where neighbors meet for conversation, work, or a healthy pick-me-up during the day. Stop by Austin Tea Xchange Café at 13011 Shops Parkway, Suite 600, Bee Cave, TX 78738
Blenders & Bowls (Westlake)
Blenders & Bowls brings a fresh, unique twist to breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks with its nutrient-packed açaí bowls and smoothies. Each bowl is crafted from organic ingredients, topped with fruits, granola, and superfoods for a healthy and satisfying option that still feels indulgent. It’s a local favorite for families, students, and neighbors on the go. Visit Blenders & Bowls at 3736 Bee Caves Road, Suite 8, West Lake Hills, TX 78746.
Photography by Austin Tea Xchange Café
Photography by Blenders & Bowls
Café Blue at Hill Country Galleria
Café Blue is a coastal-inspired restaurant offering fresh seafood, signature cocktails, and a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. From oysters on the half shell to mahi tacos and their famous crab cakes, it’s a taste of the coast right here in the Hill Country Galleria. Perfect for date night, happy hour, or family dinners, Café Blue is a local staple worth revisiting often. Dine at Café Blue, 12800 Hill Country Blvd., Suite G-115, Bee Cave, TX 78738 Scan to read more
Summer Moon Coffee (Bee Cave)
Oak-roasted coffee and the famous Moon Milk have made Summer Moon a Bee Cave favorite for morning routines and afternoon pick-me-ups. The inviting space makes it easy to linger with neighbors or take your coffee to go. From creamy lattes to classic drip, every cup is made with care, giving you a true taste of this Texas original. Stop in at Summer Moon Coffee, 15511 State Highway 71 W, Suite 100, Bee Cave, TX 78738.
Photography by Café Blue
Photography by Summer Moon Coffee
The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen (Lakeway)
With its laid-back charm and thoughtfully curated wine list, The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen has become a go-to for neighbors in Westlake and Lakeway. The menu ranges from wood-fired pizzas and salads to flavorful entrées, each pairing perfectly with their wide selection of wines. It’s a gathering place for friends, family, and celebrations of all kinds. Visit The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen at 3001 Ranch Rd 620 S, Austin, TX 78738. Scan
Photography by The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen
LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Kid-Friendly
Canyon Grille www.canyongrillelakeway.com | 512.261.3444
Mandola’s Italian Kitchen www.mandolas.com | 512.419.9700
Kerbey Lane Cafe (Westlake) www.kerbeylanecafe.com | 512.879.2820
Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q www.rudysbbq.com | 512.250.8002
Ski Shores Cafe www.skishorescafe.com | 512.572.2997
Best Pet-Friendly Restaurants
Café Blue at Hill Country Galleria www.cafebluetx.com | 512.366.5230
Hops & Thyme www.hopsandthyme.com | 512.710.1011
Tadashi home.tadashiaustin.com | 512.263.3200
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
The League Kitchen & Tavern www.leaguekitchen.com | 512.808.2170
Winston's www.winstonsatx.com | 512.355.4282
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CELEBRATE
CHARCUTERIE WITH
Elevate your next gathering with a charcuterie board crafted from Antonelli’s Cheese.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD
There’s nothing quite like greeting friends with a beautiful charcuterie board, and our neighbors at Antonelli’s Cheese know just how to make it special. When you stop by Antonelli’s at 4220 Duval St, Austin, TX 78751, you’ll be met with warm smiles from the cheesemongers, fun music, and the rich aroma of their artisanal cheeses. They’ll walk you through the case, offering samples and suggestions to help you find the perfect pairings for any get-together. Open daily from 11–7, or give them a call at (512) 531-9610, because every fall gathering deserves a little extra flavor.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANTONELLI’S CHEESE
GRAZING TABLE(S)
ORDERING DETAILS:
1. See pricing online at antonellischeese.com
2. Not available to ship (shop collections or Cheese Club for shipping options)
3. Accommodations available: “No blue cheese,” “No soft cheeses,” or “Pasteurized-only”
4. Gluten-free options available (cracker add-ons offered)
5. Sturdy wooden boards lined with wax paper (reusable at home)
6. Convenient pick-up: Hyde Park (behind Uncle Nicky’s) or South Lamar (front door)
WHAT YOU’LL GET:
• Up to 10 kinds of cheese (6.5 lb total)
• 7 meats
• 12+ accompaniments
• Serves 30+ guests
• Curated variety of styles (soft, firm, blue) and milk types (cow, goat, sheep)
• Pairings that highlight all five tastes: sweet, salty, bitter, sour, umami
ORDERING DETAILS
:
1. Order online up to midnight the day before pickup or delivery
2. Advance orders welcome; limited sameday orders may be available
3. Always cut fresh-to-order on the day you plan to enjoy
4. Not available for nationwide shipping (see other collections for ship-ready items)
5. Pickup available at Hyde Park or South Lamar locations
DESSERT TRAY
WHAT YOU’LL GET:
• Two artisanal chocolates (one confection bar and one chocolate bar, selections vary)
• Fresh fruit like strawberries, grapes, and dried apricots
• Gluten-free and nut-free (prepared in a facility with both)
• Tray size: 12 inches long by 3 inches wide
• A sweet complement to cheese and charcuterie boards
CRAVING Wellness
Here in West Austin, The Well has become a favorite spot for neighbors looking for a health-conscious dining experience. Located at 6317 Bee Caves Road, Suite 200, the restaurant serves recipes free of gluten, dairy, seed oils, soy, refined sugar, and GMOs, with optional add-ons of premium grass-fed dairy. By working with local farms and focusing on clean ingredients, The Well makes eating with intention both simple and delicious.
Guests can enjoy weekday breakfast, nourishing bone broth, or vibrant smoothies made with housemade cashew milk. The menu features wholesome bowls, grass-fed Wagyu steak, and sustainably-sourced salmon, along with ceremonial-grade matcha, creative lattes, and adaptogen-rich drinks. Weekend brunch brings neighbors together for fresh, seasonal dishes, while Westlake weekday happy hour from 3–5pm is perfect for relaxing with friends.
Dining in, picking up, or ordering for delivery is easy, and every option supports a lifestyle rooted in wellness. For details or reservations, call (512) 937-0118 or visit EatWellATX.com
Redefining Health-Conscious Dining in West Austin
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE WELL
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD
A TASTE OF SPICEWOOD
A Fall Guide to Tasting, Touring, and Relaxing in Spicewood, TX.
Just a short drive from West Austin, Spicewood offers the kind of Hill Country retreat that feels both familiar and new with every visit. Fall may be the most inviting season to go. The air is cooler, the hills take on a softer glow, and favorite spots around town reveal a different charm this time of year. Spicewood provides a stunning backdrop for unwinding with friends, enjoying a family outing, or discovering new flavors.
For spirits lovers, Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery at 101 County Rd 409 is often the first stop. Spread across fifteen scenic acres, the property blends bold flavors with sweeping Hill Country views, making it easy to settle in for the afternoon. Vodka, gin, rum, bourbon, and flavored whiskeys headline the menu, and this year brought an exciting addition: the De Gracia & Estevez Cigars Store and Lounge, now open on the distillery grounds. Here, guests can pair premium hand-rolled cigars with Iron Wolf’s small-batch spirits in a lounge designed for both relaxation and conversation. With live music, yard games, tastings, and this new cigar experience, Iron Wolf has become a destination that offers much more than a distillery tour.
A short drive away sits Spicewood Vineyards at 1419 Co Rd 409, a landmark of Texas winemaking that has welcomed guests for decades. Rows of vines stretch across thirty-two acres, creating a beautiful backdrop for sipping by the glass, bottle, or through a guided tasting. Covered porches, relaxed hospitality, and Hill Country breezes make it easy to stay longer than planned. From a crisp white on a sunny afternoon to a bold red at sunset, each pour reflects the mood of the season.
Rounding out the trio is Frontyard Brewing at 4514 Bob Wire Road, where craft beer and family-friendly fun go hand in hand. The wide-open layout gives kids space to run and play while adults enjoy rotating taps of seasonal brews and seltzer cocktails. Food trucks add variety to the menu, and live music on the weekends brings neighbors together. As evenings cool, fire pits and string lights make the space feel like an extension of your own backyard.
“A short drive from West Austin brings you to Spicewood, where the big Texas sky, fresh air, and Hill Country flavors create the perfect escape. From vineyard tastings to brewery lawns and bold spirits, each stop offers something unique yet tied together by neighborly hospitality.”
Together, these three destinations showcase why Spicewood is worth the drive in any season. Each brings something unique, yet all share a welcoming spirit that makes neighbors feel at home. For West Austin, a trip here is a chance to pause, take in the fresh air, and enjoy flavors and company that remind us why the Hill Country is special.
FALLING FOR FLAVOR
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY TACO CREW MANAGEMENT LLC
In Austin, tacos are a way of life, and Taco Flats embraces that tradition with food that is fresh, bold, and local. Born from a neighborhood bar in the 1970s and later reimagined for today, Taco Flats has grown into a staple with multiple locations across the city. Each one carries forward the same spirit: a lively atmosphere, authentic flavors, and a sense of community that makes every visit memorable.
The Lakeway location offers a menu that honors tradition while welcoming creativity. Guests can
enjoy classics like carnitas, barbacoa, and pastor, all seasoned and prepared with care, or branch out to try inventive favorites layered with house salsas, pickled vegetables, or roasted peppers. Vegetarian and vegan options such as the El Hippie or the Austinite keep every table inclusive, making Taco Flats an easy choice for groups with a variety of tastes.
What elevates the experience further is the pairing of tacos with something refreshing from the bar.
Signature margaritas, a rotating selection of craft beer,
Serving everything from classic tacos to inventive favorites, Taco Flats has earned its place as a West Austin staple.
and cocktails like the Spicy Frozen Margarita or the Agave Old Fashioned set the tone for a meal that feels authentically Austin. Add house-made chips, queso, or guacamole, and it is easy to see why Taco Flats continues to stand out.
The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, the kind of neighborhood spot where the energy is lively, good times are shared, and the tacos never disappoint. It is a place to meet friends, enjoy a meal with family, or simply take a break and savor flavors that feel both familiar and new.
Visit Taco Flats Lakeway at 900 Ranch Rd 620 S, Suite C104, Lakeway, TX 78734. Explore the menu and learn more at TacoFlats.com.
Rd
S C104,
TX
Taco Flats Highlights
• Tacos with Tradition: Classics like Al Pastor, Carnitas, and Birria las Brasas, along with creative choices such as El Hippie (veggie) and The Austinite (vegan).
• Appetizer Favorites: House-made chips with guacamole, queso, or salsa roja, plus loaded Papas fries and Gulf Shrimp Cocktail.
• Signature Cocktails: Spicy Frozen Margarita, La Sancha with hibiscus syrup, and the Agave Old Fashioned headline a bar menu that balances Austin flair with Mexican tradition.
• Beer & Wine: Local pours include Electric Jellyfish IPA, Meanwhile Pilsner, and Texas wines.
• Group Gatherings: Catering and private party options make Taco Flats perfect for celebrations.
• Visit Taco Flats Lakeway: 900 Ranch Rd 620 S, Suite C104, Lakeway, TX 78734 TacoFlats.com
Taco Flats - Lakeway, located at 900 Ranch
620
Lakeway,
78734. Photographed by Taco Crew Management LLC.
•
•
•
PUMPKIN PATCHES
Where to Find Pumpkin Patches Around Austin.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD
Just west of the “Y” off Highway 290, Hill Country Pumpkins has become a favorite family outing each fall. Admission is free, and the patch features bounce houses, hot cider, snacks, and even adult beverages for parents. With pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, it’s a seasonal tradition that offers something for everyone. Learn more at HillCountryPumpkins.com.
Each year, the Holiday & Harvest Pumpkin Pop-Up brings seasonal magic to Bee Cave. Families can wander among rows of pumpkins perfect for carving, decorating, or staging the ultimate front-porch display. Festive photo backdrops, holiday crafts, and a community atmosphere make it a go-to fall stop for neighbors looking to create memories together. See details at HolidayandHarvest.com
Sweet Berry Farm in Marble Falls is a favorite destination for families during its annual Harvest of Fall Fun. Admission and parking are free, with pumpkins and activities priced individually. Kids can enjoy hayrides, a barrel train, a corn maze, horse rides, scarecrow stuffing, sand art, and more. Details at SweetBerryFarm.com
1. HILL COUNTRY PUMPKINS
2. HOLIDAY & HARVEST PUMPKIN POP-UP
3. SWEET BERRY FARM
CIRQUE PRESENTS OVO
EXPERIENCE CIRQUE’S THRILLING NEW ACTS AT MOODY CENTER THIS OCTOBER.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MARIE-ANDRÉE LEMIRE
Cirque du Soleil has captivated millions across the globe, and now Austin is next. OVO, a reimagined classic filled with bold new acts and characters, arrives at Moody Center for a fourday run this October.
Fifteen years after its creation, OVO (“egg” in Portuguese) takes on new life with a fresh set design, newly imagined acts, reinvented music, and costumes that evoke nature in bold and unexpected ways. Crickets leap across trampolines, ants juggle food with precision, butterflies soar midair, and a contortionist spider bends in unimaginable shapes. At its center is a curious egg, an enduring symbol of cycles, renewal, and possibility, sparking both wonder and laughter within the community of creatures on stage.
Since its debut in Montreal in 2009, OVO has been performed in more than 40 countries and has delighted over 7 million audience members. This latest version builds on that legacy while offering Austin neighbors something entirely fresh. The updated staging, paired with new characters and choreography, promises to surprise even those who have seen the production before.
What makes OVO so memorable is how it combines athleticism with emotion. Each act is backed by a pulsating Brazilianinspired live score, fusing samba, funk, and percussion to bring the stage to life. The production features 53 performers from 25 different countries, each bringing their artistry into a show designed to thrill audiences of every age. Families will find it just as enchanting as date-night crowds, making it one of the season’s must-see events.
Presented at Moody Center, OVO offers Austinites the rare chance to experience Cirque du Soleil’s world-class magic without leaving home. Whether you are a longtime fan of Cirque or attending for the first time, the combination of color, movement, and imagination promises an evening unlike any other.
“Step inside a kaleidoscopic world where crickets leap, butterflies soar, and wonder fills the stage.”
This October, gather your family, friends, and neighbors to witness the wonder of OVO. From its awe-inspiring feats to its whimsical story, the show reminds us how extraordinary the everyday can be when viewed through a different lens.
Cirque du Soleil’s OVO runs October 9–12 at Moody Center. Tickets available at CirqueDuSoleil.com/OVO.
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Steve Vinklarek Agent 512-452-0214
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OCTOBER 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS
Boo at the Zoo
10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736 | 6:30 PM
Get ready for a spooktacular night at Boo at the Zoo! Wear your costume, ride the Haunted Train, explore the Haunted House, and see animals after dark under festive lights. Tickets include a train pass and unlimited Haunted House visits. Reservations required. No refunds, rain checks, or discounts. Get tickets at AustinZoo.org/Calendar.
OCTOBER 9TH-12TH
Cirque du Soleil’s OVO
2001 Robert Dedman Dr., Austin, TX 78712 | 7:30 PM
Cirque du Soleil’s OVO returns to Austin October 9–12 at Moody Center. This reimagined production features dazzling acrobatics, playful characters, and a vibrant Brazilian-inspired score, captivating audiences of all ages. With 53 performers from 25 countries, OVO promises an unforgettable night of wonder and artistry. Get tickets at CirqueDuSoleil.com/OVO
OCTOBER 17TH-19TH
Formula 1 United States Grand Prix
9201 Circuit of The Americas Blvd., Austin, TX 78617 | 9:30 AM
The Formula 1 United States Grand Prix returns to Circuit of The Americas in Austin, October 17–19, 2025. Enjoy three days of world-class racing, star-studded entertainment, and post-race performances from Kygo, Garth Brooks, and Turnpike Troubadours. Experience speed, sound, and spectacle all weekend long. Tickets start at $150. Get details at CircuitofAmericas.com.
CONTINUED
OCTOBER 18TH
Oktoberfest at Hill Country Galleria
12700 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave, TX 78738 | 2:00 PM
Join us for Oktoberfest at Hill Country Galleria on Saturday, October 18th from 2pm-6pm! Bring some blankets and chairs and enjoy a full live music lineup, a festive food menu, face painting + balloon art, yard games, tons of imported beers (alongside local lagers) and plenty of oompah. Plus, participate in our costume contest. See details at HillCountryGalleria.com/Events
OCTOBER 25TH
Boo’s & Brews at
Frontyard Brewing
4514 Bob Wire Rd., Spicewood, TX 78669 | 11:00 AM
Get into the Halloween spirit at Frontyard Brewing’s “Boo’s & Brews” on October 25th! Enjoy sweet treats, pumpkin painting, a costume contest, live music, and movie night. Come in costume for a chance to win exciting prizes. Check out the full event details at FrontyardBrewing.com.
OCTOBER 25TH
Monthly Sip & Shop
101 Co. Rd. 409, Spicewood, TX 78669 | 12:00 PM
Sip and Shop at Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery runs from 12 to 6 PM with free entry. Come do your holiday shopping early with tons of local vendors offering handmade gifts, art, jewelry, leather goods, and gourmet treats. Enjoy free live music from 2 to 5 PM while you sip. Find out more about this festive event at IronWolfRanch.com/Visit-Us
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