TRIBEZA June 2023 Neighborhood Issue

Injured? We’re here to help.

CONTENTS

JUNE

DEPARTMENTS

Social Hour p. 14

Kristin’s Column p. 20

Tribeza Talk p. 22

Karen’s Pick p. 96

Dining Guide p. 98

Arts & Entertainment Calendars p. 108

FEATURES

Level Up p. 26

Foodie’s Paradise p. 56

Gluten-Free Eats p. 68

Decor Galore p. 90

GUIDE

Austin Neighborhood Guide p. 32

W E A R E I N C ( R E D ) I B L E .

The Agency is a unique kind of real estate company, defined by its strength of character, rebellious spirit and passion for reinvention.

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HIS MONTH’S NEIGHBORHOODS ISSUE IS REACHING NEW heights in “I Believe I Can Fly.” About 24 years since its founding, Above and Beyond Aviation is one of the longest standing and most popular flight schools in Austin.

“Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.” — Leonardo da Vinci.

Humans don’t naturally belong in the air, but we have this innate desire to trade our fate as land animals for a set of wings. Whether you choose to fly to escape a world that often feels chaotic, heavy and mundane or to simply see the world from above, flying is a reminder of just how small we really are.

Once we get our head out of the clouds and back on the ground, we turn our attention to a rescue organization that’s saved countless horses’ lives. In return, these beautiful and intelligent animals teach us all about resilience and companionship. In “From Neglect to Nurture,” Camille and her team turn feral horses into well-mannered riding horses that are safe enough for beginners.

“Horses are like children. Each one has a different personality and learns in a different way. So I like to have a ‘toolbox’ of methods and ideas that I can draw from to work with each distinctly different individual horse,” says Camille.

Her crew helps each horse heal completely — physically, mentally and emotionally — allowing them to also heal something within themselves. And for some, riding feels more natural than walking with their own two feet.

From one saddle to another, in “Breakfast Club,” we highlight an organization that’s paving the way for a more inclusive cycling community.

“It started as an outlet to be a bit more casual and not take the riding component so seriously, to have the social aspect and community connection be the focus,” says Grant Rogers, co-founder and “head chef.”

Today, Breakfast Club hosts monthly group rides, usually out of Central Machine Works, where hundreds of riders of different levels show up to ride their bikes for two hours, followed by an epic breakfast after-party. They allow people to come together and be part of something bigger. So if you see hundreds of riders mobbing through the city on Saturday morning (with police escorts as accomplices in their street takeover), you can bet it’s Breakfast Club.

Finally, we top off this issue with two guides that shine a light on local businesses’ mastering their industry. In “Gluten-Free Eats” we feature 15 restaurants that are making it easier than ever to dine out with dietary restrictions, including OMG Squee, Picnik, Citizen Eatery, ATX Cocina, Thai Fresh, Honest Mary’s, Bulevar and others. We also round-up 15 stores in “Décor Galore” that

are treasure troves for design fans. Stores like Room Service Vintage, Shabby Slips, Sparrow, Good Company Home, Urbanspace Interiors and more, where you’ll find the perfect items to turn a house into a home.

It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood!

Carrie Crowe Executive Editor

PHOTO BY BRITTANY DAWN SHORT

AUSTIN CURATED

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Carrie Crowe

ART DIRECTION

TheFitBiz, Inc.

DIRECTOR DIGITAL STRATEGY

Georgie Miller

DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER

Holly Cowart

DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR

Jenna Belle Fuhrmann

DIGITAL EDITORIAL INTERN

Meadow Chase

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

David Clough

COLUMNISTS

Kristin Armstrong

Karen O. Spezia

WRITERS

Liz Harroun

Lauren Jones

Avery Matschek

Britni Rachal

Carolynn Solorio

COPY EDITOR

Ashley Brown

EDITORIAL INTERN

Carolynn Solorio

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Weston Carls

Holly Cowart

Drew Elaine

Brian Fitzsimmons

Jonathan Garza

Liz Harroun

Lauren Rose

Brittany Dawn Short

CONTRIBUTING ARTIST

Wes Rowell

PRESIDENT

Chad Miller

PUBLISHER

Krissy LittleStar Hearn

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Ashley Beall

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Leah Strahan

ACCOUNTING MANAGER

Melanie Rognerud

TRIBEZA MEDIA, LLC

Jim Kastleman – Chairman

Chad Miller

Holly Moore

TRIBEZA AMBASSADOR

George Elliman

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Austin, Texas 78705

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Founded in March 2001, TRIBEZA is Austin’s leading locally-owned arts and culture magazine.

Copyright @ 2022 by TRIBEZA Media, LLC

All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of the publisher, is prohibited.

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SERVICE THAT’S AS ELEVATED AS YOUR STANDARDS.

At Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty, our brand’s heritage and sophistication enable us to connect with discerning consumers who value exceptional service and quality. We pride ourselves on exceeding our clients’ expectations by providing a comprehensive, worldwide luxury real estate network and utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance our impact. Our personalized approach to each client ensures a singular experience, and our commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of our business. With our global network and unmatched expertise, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of service in the luxury real estate market.

NOTHING COMPARES. explore more at kuperrealty.com

#1 AGENT IN AUSTIN #35 AGENT IN THE COUNTRY

KUMARA WILCOXON

With over 20 years of experience, Kumara Wilcoxon is the face of Austin’s luxury real estate market, with unparalleled passion and commitment to the Austin Lifestyle. As the #1 agent in Austin, #35 agent in the country, and top producer company-wide for Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty, Kumara has sold over $1.5 Billion throughout her career. Consistently honored among Austin’s select multi-million dollar producers, she has been ranked #1 by Austin Business Journal for Residential Real Estate Agents for the last three consecutive years and is a distinguished member of both Austin’s Elite 25 and Luxury League. Her connections to the top 1% of the industry affords her access to the most coveted properties, many of which are never listed in the highly competitive Austin luxury market.

BRIDGET RAMEY

Celebrated by more than half a billion dollars in active, pending, and recently sold inventory since 2020, Bridget consistently ranks among the top most productive Realtors® in Austin. She is entrusted to represent the world’s most discerning clientele, both on and off-market. Whether it’s along the shores of Lake Austin, throughout the region’s burgeoning incity neighborhoods, or extending to ranch properties, her personalized approach provides a luxury service at all price points, and around the globe. Bridget is known for her keen intuition and relentless “treasure hunting” for opportunities, all while employing a true concierge level of service that delivers a breadth of hospitality transcending the grand residential opportunities she represents. Paying it forward, Bridget is effortless in mentoring and inspiring others, and befitting of Sotheby’s International Realty’s greatest ambassadors, she placed in the “Top 100” ranking globally. She credits trust, integrity, and perseverance as core competencies supporting her success trajectory from, building her global referral network one relationship at a time.

Social HOUR

Korman Fine Jewelry owner, Kat Stokes, hosted a luncheon on April 13 at Tiny Boxwoods in honor of jewelry designer Mollie Faith Good of the Walters Faith collection. VIPs and friends, including Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Odette Annable and Brooke Stubbs, attended the event, which showcased stunning gems and designs for the season.

ST. GABRIEL’S MIDNIGHT IN MONTE CARLO GALA

On April 15, families and supporters arrived at the Fairmont Austin in black tie attire for the St. Gabriel’s Catholic School gala. Themed “Midnight in Monte Carlo,” guests were treated to live music, delicious bites, casino games and enticing auction items. Funds raised from the evening went towards further support of teachers, students and faculty of St. Gabriel’s.

SLOW FASHION FEST

Sustainable style lovers gathered at Native Cafe & Bar on April 15 for the Slow Fashion Festival. The runway featured collections from 12 slow fashion designers, along with a zine launch. The event strives to cultivate connection and awareness around the slow fashion movement and builds community across Central Texas by showcasing sustainable efforts from artists, designers and more.

KORMAN FINE JEWELRY LUNCHEON

KORMAN FINE JEWELRY 1. Katherine Farmer Thornhill & Brooke Stubbs MD 2. Jamie Lynn Sigler, Kat Stokes & Odette Annable 3. Mollie Faith Good 4. Maureen Morris & Mollie Faith Good 5. Terilynn Babb & Brandy Simmons Archer

ST. GABRIEL’S 6. Erin Edge, Michael Edge, Dana Gambino & Kevin Gambo 7. Eric Dunigan & Mike de Lota 8. Jeanette Bledsoe, Tracey Lackovich, Kara Smith, Aylin Amore & Molly Scaff

SLOW FASHION 9. Blanche Beohen 10. Anthony Leon 11. Dead Space Dash 12. Loria Mendoza

As we expand into new markets throughout Texas, our firm is prepared to support clients with unique local insight and industry expertise. Since 1989, we have consistently met the needs of luxury buyers and sellers throughout Central and South Texas with our knowledge of Residential, Land & Ranch, and Commercial real estate. Call on our outstanding agents in your search for a property of true distinction.

Social HOUR

NOURISH, A TRIBEZA WELLNESS RETREAT

Fans of relaxation and positive vibes headed to Hummingbird House for NOURISH on April 16. Chic flower arrangements by House of Margot Blair and furniture from Design Within Reach set a serene scene. After morning bites and sips from Fronks, People’s RX and Austin Java, guests attended a yoga session with Bloom by Callie and a lively cooking demo from Farmhouse Delivery.

The wellness event also had workshops led by physical and mental well-being experts, including botanical healing with Hill Country Herb Garden, sound bath meditation with Creekhaven Inn & Spa and a panel discussion hosted by Dr. Nahal Delpassand, Sally Bowman and Dr. Brooke Stubbs of Rooted Femme. Later, attendees enjoyed a happy hour with wine from BOXT, music by harpist Sarah Hall and pop ups from Creekhaven Spa, Restore Hyper Wellness, Saving Face, Mōtus Chiropractic, Love Weld and Urban Betty, with goody bags made by Savilino.

UMLAUF GARDEN PARTY

On April 20, UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum hosted its 24th Garden Party, offering delicious bites from over 20 of Austin’s top restaurants, a selection of wines and cocktails and a performance by Nash Hernandez Orchestra. The Garden Party is UMLAUF’s largest and most crucial fundraiser of the year, and all proceeds will benefit the organization’s many community outreach programs.

NOURISH 1. Dr. Nahal Delpassand 2. Ashley & Colin 3. Chef Carlos Guerra 4. Chad Miller, Ashley Beall, Becca Gutierrez Schafer, Krissy LittleStar Hearn & Jennifer Hentrich 5. Suzanne Trotter, Debbie LittleStar, Emily Purcell & Lorrie Jobe 6. Mindy Smith & Savannah Smith 7. Sarah Hall 8. Bloom by Callie 9. Hummingbird House 10. Micaela Tucker, Hailey Duran & Leah Ingram UMLAUF GARDEN PARTY 11. Dale Huggins, Christina Ayer, Jonathon Todd & Katie Robinson Edwards 12. Bella Cheng, Amanda Valbrach & Lahoma Dade 13. Susie Cakes TRIBEZA WELLNESS RETREAT PHOTOS BY HOLLY COWART, UMLAUF GARDEN PARTY PHOTOS BY JUSTIN LEITNER

Experience Matters.

Helping clients live their best life in Austin for over 15 years.

Social HOUR

AUSTIN PBS MADE IN AUSTIN PREMIERE

Austin PBS announced the programming for its upcoming season at Austin Media Center on April 20. Community members received a sneak peek of the new docuseries “Taco Mafia” and return of beloved series like “Overheard With Evan Smith” and “Central Texas Gardener.” Started in 1962, Austin PBS is the only locally-owned nonprofit public television station in Central Texas, providing essential services to millions of viewers.

FIELD GUIDE FESTIVAL

Over 750 attendees arrived at Fiesta Gardens Park on April 22 for Field Guide Festival. Spearheaded by Lindsey Sokol and Trisha Bates, the celebration was built to recognize and appreciate our local food system, with proceeds benefiting Central Texas Food Bank. Exclusive dishes were crafted by 34 chefs, farmers and mixologists with a focus on the sustainable future of food in Austin.

TOAST OF TEXAS

The Wine & Food Foundation commemorated its annual Toast of Texas at Star Hill Ranch on April 23. The “sip & stroll” style event featured a silent auction, wine samples from some of Texas’ best wineries, plus paella, Texas BBQ and perfectly paired bites from Farmhouse Delivery. Since 1985, WFF has awarded more than $1.6 million in grants, scholarships and hospitality support.

AUSTIN PBS 1. Sara Mardanbigi, Edgar Rico & Xose Velasco 2. Carolyn Krawczyk,

Evan Smith & Sara Robertson 3. Ranjit Gupta, Alka Bhanot, Luis Patiño, Raka Srinivasan & daughter

4. Christian Barnard, Laura Britt & Lori Bolding 5. Ray Benson 6. Linda Lehmusvirta, LaTonya J. Pegues & John Hart Asher 7. Rob Shands & Gay Gaddis FIELD GUIDE FEST 8. Allan Bautista, Becky Hume, Colter Peck & Chris Arial 9. Kevin Truong, Rosie Truong & Travis Breihan 10. Jessica Crain & Leigh Ann Kalman 11. Liz Fletcher, Kaitlin Bates, Lindsey Sokol & Sunny Blount 12. Philip Speer TOAST OF TEXAS 13. Kandace Ayala, Leslie Brockman & Lexie LeBouf 14. Gwen Schuler & Tiffany Edmonds 15. Alex Garland & Dina Graham 16. Chef Jo Chan & Leah Schwebel

The Wisdom of Goldilocks

AS A LITTLE

GIRL NERD IN SCHOOL,

I loved the assignment to make a diorama. I loved the intimate, bird’s eye view into a home, a scene, a period of time. I loved transforming a shoe box into a work of art, complete with a million little details. I am reminded of dioramas every time I drive by a home at night, lit from within, the cast of characters on display eating dinner or watching TV. It’s also probably why I prefer the privacy of a front courtyard, nothing to see from the street.

My fiancé and I are trying to create the diorama that resonates with our particular scene of life. There is a decidedly in-between place in the transition zone between Part 1 and Part 2.

Three kids in college, one out and working, one finding herself, being newly engaged at 51, and searching for the new home and neighborhood that suits our new tribe’s collective transitory lifestyle. The big family house now feels too big. A condo feels too small. A pool is too much trouble, but it’s too hot here to survive without one. A high rise downtown feels too hip, and our dog doesn’t want to trade her dog door and fenced yard for a leash and an elevator (or maybe I like the option of walking her). The old neighborhood feels more like a place to raise children than a place where we want to welcome them home.

Some friendships forged by the proxemics of parenting don’t always survive the migration to Part 2. The bubble that once felt comfy now feels like it needs to pop. We need enough room that we can host happy holidays and provide a comfortable place to bounce for kids as they springboard, but not too comfortable that they don’t launch. Never have I felt more compassion for Goldilocks, wanting something juuuuust right.

I am ready to purge the excess of Part 1, hold onto a few treasures and let the rest go so we can travel light. Upstairs bedrooms feel like the museum of childhood natural history, full of artifacts, devoid of energy and far too clean. Except for the occasions when they are over-full and far too messy, which I must say is delightful. Otherwise, I barely go up there.

We’ve looked at some houses for sale, and my usual comment as we depart is that I wish we could shave off the entire upstairs. I want no wasted space, no media room (I don’t even like media), no formal dining room (we intentionally only dine with informal people). One living area that feels amazing and seamlessly opens to the outside. One story, not two — I can’t stand walking into a foyer with a staircase. A cook’s kitchen with soul, that beckons, and a kitchen island where you want to dock for the night. A trifecta of fireplaces — in the living, the master and the patio. And my Betrothed is a car man and wants a nice garage, so a carport simply will not do.

I am restless, ready for what’s next. I feel like a trapeze artist who won’t let go of one bar to free her hand to grab the next, so I keep swinging. Dangling in the space between Part 1 and Part 2.

In an ideal world, where interest rates were friendly and our portfolios weren’t pillaged, I would like to sell our old oasis posthaste and find a smaller island. Or even better, two smaller islands, one in Austin and one in our beloved Santa Barbara. I can envision a life of floating between the two, and creating a life of working with clients in both locations, teaching, seeing kids and eventually grandkids, visiting friends and walking the beach with my sweetheart until our final sunset.

Part 2 will be an opening up, not a closing down. I cannot foresee a life of errands, lunches, workouts,

travel plans and visiting children. I don’t want to be passing time, I want to be expanding and deepening it. I don’t have a vision of longing for retirement, because I don’t engage in work that feels like work. My work feels like meaning, more being than doing, and that is an entirely different experience. I am not waiting to retire to live my life, I’m living my life until I expire.

So that is precisely why our neighborhood and community are so vitally important. We want to surround ourselves with likeminded people, resonant energy and a shared view for what is possible. The place you choose, the space you choose and the people you share it with become the backdrop for your life.

And that is exactly the scene I want to depict in the diorama of Part 2, pared down to only the finest and most useful, creative and inspired, and well-lit from within.

By Kristin Armstrong Illustration by Wes Rowell Portrait by Laura Doss

TRIBEZA TALK

By Avery Matschek

Summer Family Fun!

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical at Zilker Hillside Theatre

Zilker Theatre Productions will present its 64th summer musical from July 7 to Aug 12 at the iconic Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theatre. The joyful show is centered around Matilda, a witty child with psychokinetic powers and an incredible imagination. Inspired by the classic novel by Roald Dahl, this musical features a talented cast and incredible music. zilker.org

Dreamland

An outdoor entertainment venue that is sure to engage both children and adults, Dreamland is a must-visit destination in Dripping Springs. With art everywhere you look, two excellent mini-golf courses, an exciting splash pad and 16 pickleball courts, activities abound at Dreamland. dreamland.us

The Thinkery

The Thinkery is a play-based and STEM-inspired children’s museum with enough interactive indoor and outdoor activities to keep any kid amused. Visit for free during Community Hours, send the kids to Thinkery Camp or become a member to receive benefits, discounts and invitations to special events. thinkeryaustin.org

Tea Party at Brentwood Social House

Brentwood Social House has many activities for the youngins — a playground, family-friendly live music and special events, but our favorite option is the Afternoon Tea, available for adults and children. Wonderful for special occasions or a simple family day out, tea parties are a fantastic way to enjoy the cozy environment at Brentwood Social House. brentwoodsocial.com

Austin Bouldering Project

Get climbing with the youth program at ABP, a bouldering gym that has been loved by locals for years. Youth climbing camps run weekly from May 29 to August 11, giving children ages five to 12 an opportunity to learn climbing techniques while socializing with friends. Parents are also invited to bring their kids to climb together during regular hours.

austinboulderingproject.com

Kalahari Resorts and Conventions

There’s 223,000 square feet to explore at America’s largest indoor water park, which happens to be located just north of Austin in Round Rock. On top of that, Kalahari is also home to the Zambezi Outdoor Waterpark and Tom Foolerys Adventure Park. An ideal venue for a birthday party or a family weekend getaway, don’t miss out on this water-filled wonderland.

kalahariresorts.com

Round Rock Express Games

With fun specials like $2 Taco Tuesdays, Kids Days and Thirsty Thursdays, sports-loving families can head out to Round Rock’s Dell Diamond to cheer on the Express! The Minor League Baseball team is the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, offering a more affordable, but still fun, baseball experience — complete with classic concessions and a free 2023 Express Kids Club Membership for those 12 and younger. milb.com/round-rock

Austin Scottish Rite Theatre

Theater kids will love attending any and every show at Austin Scottish Rite Theatre, an educational and high-quality theater housed in a building that was erected in 1871, the year that Austin became the capital of Texas! The theater focuses on offering enriching programming for kids, including summer camps covering the subjects of acting, puppetry, stage combat, advanced theater and Shakespeare. scottishritetheater.org

Quarry Splash Pad

Quarry Splash Pad is now open for the season! Located at Southwest Williamson County Regional Park, this is a low-cost, fun-filled outdoor water park that is worth the short drive to Leander. With picnic tables and grassy areas, parents can enjoy the sunshine as their children play in the water.

cedarparktxliving.com/quarry-splash-pad

Inner Space Cavern

The Inner Space Cavern was hidden for more than 10,000 years before being discovered by a Texas Highway Department core drilling team in 1963. The gorgeous formations and prehistoric animal bones contribute to the beauty of this natural wonder, which remains at a constant 72 degrees no matter the temperature outside.

innerspacecavern.com

The Art Garage Summer Camps

Entertain with art at The Art Garage’s amazing summer camps. Every camp has a unique theme — there’s more than 20 themes to choose from throughout this summer! Campers will create 10 or more art projects each week in mediums like mosaics, glass fusion, painting, tie-dye and more. Beyond the camps, The Art Garage also hosts art parties, custom events and walk-in projects, all perfect for families to experience together.

theartgarageaustin.com

Lone Star Riverboat Bat Watching Tour

Experience the spectacle of the approximated 1.5 million bats under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge with a tour from Lone Star Riverboat on Lady Bird Lake. The cruise departs before sunset so attendees can watch as the bats emerge. Tours are open from March through early November for this recognizable Austin activity.

lonestarriverboat.com

OPENED A NEW MULTI-LEVEL STORE WITH UPSCALE OFFERINGS ON EXPOSITION

BY LIZ HARROUN PHOTOS BY WESTON CARLS

Grocery shopping is a polarizing activity: some people love frequenting them, while others would rather do just about anything else. The bright lights, cold produce section and often overwhelming selection of foods are not for the faint of heart (and those with rumbling stomachs). But for those of us in Austin, whether you love grocery shopping or hate it, you have to check out Austin’s newest H-E-B at the corner of Lake Austin Boulevard and Exposition Boulevard.

Three years in the making, including COVID-related delays, this well-designed 97,000-square-foot store opened its doors on February 15. As the first multi-level H-E-B in the Austin area, it includes an underground parking garage and a two-story porch where patrons can sit outside and eat.

Jim Smith, top store leader at the Lake Austin H-E-B, has been working for H-E-B for 15 years and loves his work. He oversees all of the store’s operations and ensures the employees are taken care of so they can, in turn, take great care of the customers.

H-E-B

With open indoor and patio seating, people sat working on their laptops, taking advantage of the free Wi-Fi, with food or coffee in hand. There are about 65 seats in the True Texas BBQ restaurant and at the bar, 35 seats on the upstairs outside patio by this restaurant and 20 seats on the outside patio for coffee and pizza guests.

“We have long wanted to serve the West Austin community, and we jumped on this rare opportunity when it became available,” Jim says of the new location. Not only is it the first two-story H-E-B in Austin, but it’s also arguably the most premium. “It’s a fresh-forward food powerhouse with an expanded produce department, fresh sushi made everyday in-store, an expanded seafood offering with fresh fish flown in daily, dry-aged beef aged in-house and an extensive wine department with some of the most educated wine stewards in Austin,” he says. “We also have a catering manager in this store to make birthday parties, events and large celebrations stress-free for customers.”

When I visited for the first time, as someone who does not like grocery shopping, I was blown away by how clean and open the space was. The natural light and high ceilings felt more elevated than any other grocery store I’ve visited. With open indoor and patio seating, people sat working on their laptops, taking advantage of the free Wi-Fi, with food or coffee in hand. There are about 65 seats in the True Texas BBQ restaurant and at the bar, 35 seats on the upstairs outside patio by this restaurant and 20 seats on the outside patio for coffee and pizza guests.

In addition to the restaurants, the grocery aisles are vast and diverse.

You’ll find bulk food items and a nut grinding station as well as a large selection of cheeses, cold cuts and freshly baked bread from their bakery. There’s also a beauty department and a full-service pharmacy with a drive-through.

“Come sample your way through our store and meet some of the most educated and friendliest staff in all of Austin,” says Jim.

When looking to purchase a home, many people consider the accessibility to a good grocery store. Along with centrality and safety, proximity to a grocery store can increase surrounding real estate. So this premium H-E-B is good news for the surround-

ing neighborhoods like Tarrytown and Westfield (not that they needed a boost in home prices). Moreover, it adds a community hub to Exposition Boulevard — a place to convene with friends or get some work done. Needless to say, with a previously limited selection of food options in the area, the new store was welcomed by the surrounding area.

“We met with the neighborhoods several times during the design phase of this store,” Jim says. “We originally did not design a restaurant or seating area in the store, but we heard loud and clear from the residents that they wanted a restaurant, a breakfast offering and places to meet.”

“We originally did not design a restaurant or seating area in the store, but we heard loud and clear from the residents that they wanted a restaurant, a breakfast offering and places to meet.”

Jim Smith

On the first floor are Austin’s Coffee Spot and SouthFlo Pizza. The coffee shop is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for tacos and until 9 p.m. for coffee and freshly made pastries.

On the first floor are Austin’s Coffee Spot and SouthFlo Pizza. The coffee shop is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for tacos and until 9 p.m. for coffee and freshly made pastries. SouthFlo Pizza serves New York-style pizzas made to order (from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.) with artisan ingredients as well as wings. True Texas BBQ, named the best BBQ chain by Texas Monthly, is upstairs, with indoor seating and a beautiful outdoor patio. Along with delicious Texas barbecue, the restaurant’s bar serves a range of Texas craft brews, including beers from several Austin breweries, and cocktails. (Happy hour is 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday!)

H-E-B has a long history in the Lone Star State, founded in 1905 when they opened their first small, familyowned store in Kerrville in the Texas Hill Country. Today, HEB serves families all over Texas and Mexico with more than 420 stores and 145,000+ employees. Their vast success, however, has not compromised their dedication to offering excellent service, low prices and a friendly shopping experience. Furthermore, H-E-B is committed to public service and giving back. Each year, they donate five percent of pre-tax earnings to charitable organizations focused on initiatives including hunger relief, education, environmental sustainability and diversity.

In line with the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, the design incorporates environmentally friendly elements, including energy-efficient refrigeration with condensation capture for landscape irrigation. There

are plans to install rooftop solar panels and EV chargers.

The underground parking allows the store to have a pedestrian-friendly perimeter that encourages walking and biking as well as an aesthetically pleasing impact on the neighborhood. The H-E-B design team was thoughtful in incorporating elements that complemented the neighborhood, including vine-covered walls, ample natural light, pitched roofs and textured materials like limestone and wood.

This H-E-B is also heavily involved with the community. In honor of the 100th anniversary of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, they’re hosting an art exhibit for all of 2023 celebrating the natural beauty of Texas state parks. The

stunning works of art are displayed in the lobby areas of the store.

The store supports the community in a variety of ways, including delivering meals and financial support to teachers and the O’Henry Middle School located right behind the store. In April, H-E-B was the presenting sponsor of Family Day at the West Austin Youth Association, where they gave away free BBQ plates. They also fund birthday boxes for foster children and rescue food from the store to share with the Central Texas Food Bank.

This new H-E-B is much more than a grocery store. It’s a community gathering place that also gives back in countless ways. Whether you live in West Austin or not, it’s worth the trip.

I Believe I Can Fly

AVIATION THAT GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND

Words & photos by Liz Harroun

WHAT IS IT ABOUT FLYING THAT IS SO ENTICING TO HUMANS?

We don’t naturally belong in the air, but we seem to have an innate desire that fuels us to reach higher.

The history of aviation dates back more than 2,000 years, beginning with kites and tower jumping attempts. The famous Wright brothers built the first successful powered airplane in 1903. Since then, humans have become regulars in the sky — transcending our biological fate as land animals.

My dad was a pilot and spent more than 40 years flying various aircraft — from his time as a U.S. Navy fighter pilot in the Vietnam War to his long career as a commercial pilot for Southwest Airlines to flying private jets for business people. I spent much of my childhood in airports, hangars and planes. I saw my sister and cousin become pilots, and — when I wanted to try some lessons for myself — everyone I asked in Austin mentioned Above and Beyond Aviation.

I took a few lessons at Above and Beyond this past summer and was impressed by the convenience and care they infused into the process. When I first reached out, Bobbi Farris (co-owner and administrator) walked me through each step — including booking an aviation medical, enrolling in the complimentary online course and setting me up with an instructor based on my personal preferences regarding what I wanted to get out of the lessons. The instructors were skilled and respectful. They gave tips on how to get the most

out of my time and money. The whole experience was enjoyable — and, of course, the actual flying kept me coming back.

George Farris had the desire to fly from a young age. His father, like mine, was in the Navy, but he worked as an airplane electrician and remained active throughout George’s childhood. That meant a lot of moving around the country as well as a lot of time spent around naval air stations. George also grew up watching the TV series, “Sky King,” where a rancher used an airplane to fight crime.

“I thought it was so cool for it to be your job to fly around,” he says. He moved to Austin in 1970, with about $10 in his pocket, to attend the University of Texas. During school, he was reminded of his dream of becoming a pilot when a man he was working for (who was learning to fly at the time) would take George on flights. Knowing George had interest, he told him he needed three things to get his license: money, motivation and time.

In that era, it cost $1,000 to get a private pilot’s license, and he was making just $25 a week, just enough to stay in school. Then, after graduating, he lacked the time as he built a successful video game business called Farris Family Amusements. Finally, in 1995, when George was in his 40s, he

finally had the money and time (the motivation was always there).

The fact that he could use the plane for his current business made it an even easier decision. And so, through the University Flying Club, he got his license and started flying.

He became a part-time instructor as a way to earn extra money to send his daughter to UT. He never intended on starting a school. But then, when the flying school where he was working went bankrupt in 1999, and he somehow found himself with four planes, it only made sense to start his own.

It was important to him to make the process as simple and affordable as possible. Unlike most other flight schools, there is no on-site staff. Instead, you meet your instructor at the hangar and are billed later with a credit card on file. While George still in structs from time to time, he has around 16 instructors and 16 planes so students have plenty of options. His wife Bobbi started working for Above and Beyond around six years ago and has been instrumental in managing and maintaining the recent unprecedented growth.

About 24 years since its founding, Above and Beyond Aviation is one of the longest standing and most popular flight schools in Austin. With two locations — Austin Bergstrom and Austin Executive in Pflugerville — it’s convenient whether you live north or south.

These days, most people spend between $13,000 and $23,000 to obtain their private pilot rating. It typically takes three months to a year, dependent on study habits and frequency of training.

“The ratio between career path students and hobbyists is about 50/50,” Bobbi says. “For the hobbyist, they use their license to do a wide variety of things: visiting friends and relatives, vacations, business trips, and of course, simply the pleasure of flying.”

I met with 25-year-old Joe Brush, one of the flight instructors, who moved from Ohio to Texas to follow his passions: flying and teaching. Texas has year-round flying weather, making it a great place for those trying to get hours in the air.

“I love working with different people,” Brush says. “Being a flight instructor allows me to help individuals reach their goals while also sharing one of my passions every day.”

When I met Joe to watch him with his current student Seth Redlus, who was finally realizing his lifelong goal of learning to fly, the joy in the whole process was palpable. They discussed the weather and flightpath before heading outside to the plane to go through the preflight checklist together. As they taxied and took off, I found myself dreaming of the day I’d have the time and money to return to my own training.

Maybe we fly to escape a world that often feels heavy and mundane or to see that world from afar as a reminder of how small we are. Whatever the reason, many people do want to learn how to get higher. With Above and Beyond, you can learn how right here in Austin.

aboveaviation.com

“ONCE YOU HAVE TASTED FLIGHT, YOU WILL FOREVER WALK THE EARTH WITH YOUR EYES TURNED SKYWARD, FOR THERE YOU HAVE BEEN, AND THERE YOU WILL ALWAYS LONG TO RETURN.”

LEONARDO DA VINCI

AUSTIN NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE AT X

PHOTOGRAPHY

“WE’RE EXCITED ABOUT SPONSORING THIS YEAR’S NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE! THE PEOPLE, THE SENSE OF COMMUNITY, AND THE ATMOSPHERE ARE WHAT MAKE US WANT TO INVEST IN OUR CITY IN WHATEVER WAYS WE POSSIBLY CAN.”

Fusing timeless craftsmanship with new innovations, Jared Gossett of Gossett & Co has been redefining the luxury homebuilding experience across Austin’s finest neighborhoods since 2009. Since building his first home in Crestview and selling it for $400,000, Jared’s passion for custom homebuilding has remained strong. Considering people spend 90% of their lives indoors, Jared and his team are on a mission to foster their client’s well-being while ensuring the homes they design enhance light, air, and water. And, while being located in a city where the energy, the people, and the momentum make you want to be better, succeed, and grow, it is their core value to focus relentlessly on pushing the envelope of what a home could truly be.

HIGHLAND PARK WEST

AREA ARCHITECTURE?

Expect to see an array of architecture including modest mid-century ranchstyle homes, luxurious new construction, and everything in between.

YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE AREA?

For it to be discovered. It has become increasingly desirable in recent years and I suspect its popularity will continue to soar in the years to come.

ANY FAVORITE ANNUAL LOCAL EVENTS?

The Easter Hunt, Movie in the Park, 4th of July Parade, and The HOOT at Highland Park Elementary are a few favorites! It warms my heart to see neighbors collaborating, connecting and celebrating together!

WHY THIS HOME FOR YOUR BACKDROP?

There are so many magical memories here! After a lengthy 9-year search for a property that truly resonated with us, we fell in love with this one in 2012 and completely renovated it to suit the needs of our family of five. We walked our three kiddos to Highland Park Elementary daily and hosted a myriad of events and fundraisers. This home and this neighborhood will forever have a hold on my heart. They are both extraordinarily special and warm.

Full of character, inclusive and unpretentious, this welcoming community offers expansive lots, established trees, diverse terrain, and various architectural styles. Regardless of the residence’s age, style, or size, these streets shine with pride of ownership. The highly-rated schools in the area encourage and celebrate parental involvement, while the neighborhood itself provides thoughtfully planned and executed family festivities throughout the year. These are just a few aspects that draw a broad demographic, including growing families, young professionals, empty nesters, and Wendi Slaton Anderson, the local specialist and founder of ROOTS Residential Group.

As a long time resident, Wendi has deep roots in the community and an intimate knowledge of the market. Home is her sanctuary, so helping others find theirs is an honor and privilege she does not take lightly. Boasting a 100% referral-based business, Wendi’s client relationships are rooted in authenticity, trust, and respect. As a Master Certified Negotiation Expert, a designation held by less than 1% of Realtors in the country, Wendi is committed to educating, empowering, and helping to navigate buyers and sellers through the process seamlessly.

It’s freedom. It’s convenience. It’s the everchanging energy and thrum of excitement that go hand-in-hand with downtown dwelling. Offering a rhythm all its own, life in the heart of the city is anything but mundane. With new businesses and activities popping up regularly, Downtown Austin offers a little something for every demographic. It is this walkability and flexibility to explore trails, attend festivals with friends, and shop and dine at new locales that continue to draw so many to the city’s core year after year.

As a renowned expert and long-time resident, Kevin Burns has lived, worked and raised two daughters downtown for over two decades. It was his passion for the active urban lifestyle that prompted him to found Urbanspace Real Estate + Interiors in 2000. Since then, he has been the exclusive brokerage for Seaholm Residences, The Independent, and 44 East Ave. Most recently, he served as the developer of The Modern Austin Residences where he sold out the building at a record pace with the exception of a few remaining penthouses. Construction is underway in the Rainey Street District, with an expected delivery in 2025.

DOWNTOWN

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE ON DOWNTOWN’S FUTURE?

I see a continued evolution. What most excites me are the improvements to our downtown parks! Waterloo Greenway just kicked off its next phase of development. “The Confluence” recently opened, bringing new life to the northeast quadrant.

HOW HAS DOWNTOWN BEEN CONDUCIVE TO RAISING A FAMILY?

Besides accessibility, the vast amenity spaces inside many of the condo buildings are like extended living spaces.

ANY NEW EATERIES?

We are super excited to open Bacalar later this spring at the base of 44 East Ave. Chef Gabe Erales partnered with us after winning “Top Chef” and has been honing and perfecting the menu inspired by Mexico’s Yucatan region.

WHY THE MODERN FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT?

Developing The Modern has been my vision for years and is now becoming a reality. The development team has worked hard to ensure that we deliver the gold standard for residents who share our passion for urban living.

TELL US ABOUT THE MODERN’S ARCH?

It’s a design feature and our threshold to living the Modern Urban Lifestyle.

To keep an eye on the ever-evolving skyline, Kevin invites readers to explore their interactive map at bit.ly/urbmap.

Erika.Levack@Compass.com

CHERRYWOOD

ANY GO-TO SPOTS FOR A QUICK PICK-ME-UP?

I’m not a big coffee drinker, but I do love a good cup of black tea. Cherrywood Coffeehouse is not only a coffee shop, it’s a lifestyle -- a welcoming atmosphere to work, meet friends, hear music, and just sit quietly. I also love Thunderbird Coffee, Civil Goat, and Bird Bird Biscuit.

YOU’RE MARRIED WITH TWO KIDS AND A PUP. ANY FAVORITE PLACES IN CHERRYWOOD THAT Y’ALL VISIT OFTEN?

We enjoy our neighborhood park, Patterson Park, because of its wide open fields, basketball court, tennis courts, the community garden, and skate park. It’s got a very inclusive vibe and an active community that raises funds to keep it fresh and usable.

FAVORITE EATERIES?

We love eating locally at places like Bobo’s, El Chile, and Este! The iconic former Eastside Cafe has been transformed to create an upscale and memorable dining experience.

WHY ESTE FOR YOUR PHOTO BACKDROP?

The newest kid on the block, Este serves up some wonderful eats in a beautifully designed setting. So it’s picture-perfect!

Old-growth trees, a central location, and winding streets ideal for walking and biking combine to create a charming neighborhood where anyone from any walk of life can find familiarity and comfort within its borders. Growing out of what was once rural farmland, the history of Cherrywood provides texture and a richness that makes living here so unique. With an original Austin feel, the pockets that make up Cherrywood offer a diverse mix of architecture, from dreamy bungalows and larger ranch-style homes to two-story concrete duplexes and remodeled mid-century construction.

A resident for over a decade, Cherrywood expert Erika Levack knows the pockets through and through, from its architecture and the nuances of its little corners to its wonderful people and local businesses. While self-described as a brutally honest yet empathetic and understanding agent, Erika focuses on helping people solve problems, ensuring they are making educated decisions, and getting to the core of why her clients want to buy or sell. This allows her to be their best possible advocate. As an active investor in the local market, Erika brings that understanding to the table when helping clients discern between neighborhoods, understand varying states of property condition, and determine how to match them with their housing needs to help them grow their financial portfolio.

Being one of the city’s most desirable places to live, this central location maintains its historic elegance, scenic views, and unique charm. Complemented by its proximity to the heart of the bustling city, the tranquility and privacy found at the neighborhood’s core attracts an array of residents, including Old Enfield and Pemberton specialist Erin Fabacher.

OLD ENFIELD & PEMBERTON 78703

WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FOR THE FUTURE OF OLD ENFIELD AND PEMBERTON?

As it remains one of the most coveted neighborhoods in Austin, I expect to see an increased focus on new construction and uniquely creative renovations of the traditional homes in the area.

WHAT ARCHITECTURE CAN BE FOUND HERE?

Lined with towering oaks, the streets of Pemberton Heights and Old Enfield hold some of the most beautiful historic homes in the city. The central location of this area offers quick access to Downtown, the University of Texas, and Lady Bird Lake. On any given visit, you’ll likely see people walking their dogs, children riding bikes, and families enjoying the many parks and trails. The neighborhood is renowned for its schools, friendly neighbors, and historic charm.

As a resident of Pemberton Heights, Erin has established strong connections with agents and neighbors in the area, granting her access to a broad range of properties available for sale, including those that are not publicly listed. A determination to meet her clients’ real estate goals, knowledge of off-market property values, and expertise in negotiations, guarantees that her clients’ homes are priced properly, and her buyers are able to acquire properties at a fair cost. All of these factors are indispensable in today’s fast-paced real estate industry.

To get an inside peek at some of the city’s most unique and luxurious homes, follow her social accounts @ErinFabacher

A medley of designs - cozy cottages, Colonial mansions, and transitional new construction can all be found here.

BEST WAY TO SPEND TIME OUTDOORS?

My family and I live just around the corner from a small community park that we love taking our son to on the weekends. If we want more of an adventure, we will head to Shoal Creek Trail. Typically, our walks land us at some of our favorite hidden gems, where we can stop to grab a bite to eat!

WHY YOUR HOME FOR THE PHOTOSHOOT?

Because I am lucky enough to call Pemberton Heights my home and have worn the same shoes as my clients when searching for the perfect place to plant my family roots in this highly desired neighborhood.

WESTOVER HILLS

WHAT KIND OF BUYER WOULD BE PERFECT FOR WESTOVER HILLS?

Someone who appreciates a mix of city and suburb. You’re surrounded by beautiful nature in a laid-back environment but feel like you’re close to the city.

FOR THOSE THINKING OF MOVING TO THE AREA, WHAT SHOULD THEY BE AWARE OF?

The great schools and proximity to everything Austin. They should also be aware of there being a plethora of deer in the neighborhood!

WHAT MAKES IT IDEAL FOR FAMILIES?

Taking walks in our neighborhood is the best – wide streets with friendly neighbors around. Halloween is done big in our neighborhood and it’s so much fun. Not to mention, the schools are wonderful and there is a real sense of community here.

WHY YOUR HOME FOR THE PHOTOSHOOT?

My home is so meaningful to me – I’ve brought all 3 of my kids home from the hospital here and can’t even begin to describe all the significant memories and milestones we’ve had in this home.

A timeless neighborhood defined by treelined streets and spacious lots, Westover Hills offers the best of both worlds - a picture-perfect hybrid of city and suburb. Close enough to enjoy the energy and excitement of the city’s core, residents are also enveloped by a 1990s vibe where neighbors are friends, cul-de-sac parties are the norm, and children play together in the streets. Aside from the variety of lifestyles it caters to, the community’s architecture is also diverse. Amidst the mid-century modern, traditional, and ranch-style homes built in the seventies, a sprinkling of modern properties also dot the landscape. Even among the remodels, upgrades, and new construction, the character and essence remain, one aspect that drew Westover Hill resident and local real estate expert Adam Zell.

Recognized for his family-man personality, genuine approach, and fiery red hair, Adam is a Boston transplant who has called Austin home since 2009. He understands the intricacies of relocating and has over 13 years under his belt with more than 800 transactions to boot. By treating customers like family, a guiding principle of the Zell Team, he offers buyers, sellers, and investors honesty and reliability while advocating and negotiating on their behalf. Truly taking care of people and seeing them happy at the end of the day is his number one priority.

Renowned for being a close-knit community, Rollingwood is more than just a neighborhood. Tranquil tree-lined streets, perfectly manicured lawns, and charming homes nestled on sizable plots of land define the setting. Complimented by the local amenities and unparalleled access to Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, and other top attractions, Rollingwood is a gem worth living in. As it caters to a wide variety of lifestyles, lifelong Austin resident and recognized expert across the region’s most desirable neighborhoods, Leslie Gossett, currently enjoys calling it home with her husband and nine-year-old daughter.

Ranked among the top 1% of agents, Leslie brings over 15 years of industry experience as a Global Real Estate Advisor. With a sustained foothold in the Central Texas luxury market for over 11 years, her clients benefit from her expertise, creativity, and multi-faceted career interests. With a newfound passion for energy medicine, Leslie builds deeper connections with her clients and focuses on creating positive energy flow throughout a transaction, whether guiding buyers in setting the right intentions for their new home or clearing any negative energy when it’s time for sellers to say goodbye to their old space. As a tenacious negotiator and meticulous when reviewing contracts and analyzing listings, Leslie loves the adventure her career brings and savors the connections she makes.

ROLLINGWOOD

WHO IS THE IDEAL BUYER FOR ROLLINGWOOD?

This neighborhood caters to a wide variety of lifestyles. It’s a dream come true for parents who value good schools for their children, and an ideal hub for singles or couples who relish the downtown experience since it is just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant heartbeat of Austin.

WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FOR THE FUTURE OF ROLLINGWOOD?

Rollingwood continues to flourish as the area is slowly adding more commercial spaces. Residents can look forward to more dining, shopping and entertainment options in the coming years. New construction projects are underway that will bring even more life to this charming Austin neighborhood.

FAVORITE WAYS TO SPEND TIME WITH YOUR 9-YEAR-OLD IN THE AREA?

Exploring the Zilker trail has become a treasured tradition for me and my daughter, making weekends feel like mini-adventures. To fuel up before our walks, we love visiting Texas Honey Ham. When it comes to satisfying our pizza cravings, Marye’s pies reign supreme in our books. She also loves Blenders and Bowls and Tiny Pies!

WHAT BUYER WOULD BE A GREAT FIT FOR TRAVIS HEIGHTS?

Buyers moving from big cities often look to Travis Heights because of its walkability. They feel a connection to that from walking everywhere in New York or Chicago. It is also perfect for dog owners as there are numerous sidewalks and parks so lots of places for pups to sniff and run around.

YOU TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF THE OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE THAT AUSTIN AFFORDS. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR STAYING ACTIVE IN TRAVIS HEIGHTS?

I play tennis every weekend at Little Stacy Park in the neighborhood. It is the ideal place for a match and even has lights so you can have fun at any hour!

WHY ABA FOR YOUR PHOTO BACKDROP?

It is one of the wonderful restaurants on South Congress adjacent to Travis Heights. With a lovely bar with white twinkle lights at night and healthy food options, it is eclectic and exudes a very “Travis Heights” ambiance.

Come discover where upscale meets curvy winding roads, a mini forest of trees, beautifully restored landmarks, and contemporary remodels. Embodying the true spirit of Austin, Travis Heights welcomes anyone and everyone into the fold, from professors, musicians, and artists to parents, tech entrepreneurs, and anything in between. It was this diversity and easy walkability that originally drew real estate specialist Heather Witbeck to the community more than 10 years ago.

Energized by a mission to put her “people personality” to good use, Heather finds excitement and fun in pairing individuals and families with the neighborhood and home that matches their lifestyle. When working with sellers, her public relations background guides her in understanding how to market a property while allowing her to visualize how to enhance its features through all mediums.

Her tenacious spirit, strong negotiation skills, and ceaseless dedication make her a powerful advocate and partner in the real estate space. By maintaining a vast network of resources, Heather frequently hears about listings before they hit the market, which serves as an invaluable asset to clients. While she understands the immense responsibility of helping someone purchase a home or sell their current residence, it is an honor that she does not take lightly.

Quiet, tree-lined streets, well-kept lawns, and a variety of architectural styles ranging from grand Tudors to twentiesera cottages, this is life in Tarrytown. It is the unshakable sense of community, neighborliness and proximity to downtown that make this tight-knit enclave located just west of the city’s core so desirable. Boasting a 23-acre nature preserve, historic golf course, and spring-fed pool, there are many reasons that once families put down roots here, they tend to stay. Just ask fourth-generation Austinite and local expert Anna Lee.

Having grown up on the streets of Tarrytown, Anna remains a resident to this day. With community gatherings and a wealth of waterside activities, homes in the area are typically snapped up quickly when they become available. That is why working with an agent entrenched in the neighborhood is so important. Knowing Tarrytown like the back of her hand, Anna is familiar with the neighbors, the lifestyle, and where to find the hidden gems. By relying on her extensive, multigenerational network, strategic knowledge, and people skills, she has consistently been a top 1% producer and has developed a business based solely on client satisfaction and endorsements. Each deal, each closing, and each home is a big deal because it is her client’s life. A closing where everyone is happy is what success looks like to her.

TARRYTOWN

AS A FOODIE TOWN, WHAT ARE A FEW PLACES IN THE AREA YOU RECOMMEND?

You cannot beat 34th Street for lunch and Fonda San Miguel for dinner.

ARE THERE ANY LOCAL GARDENING SHOPS YOU SUGGEST?

Thompson+Hanson is a small nursery and gift shop on 35th street. There is also Shoal Creek Nursery and Barton Springs Nursery. I just love to plant. I’m not saying I’m the best at it but I love it.

ANY FAVORITE WAYS TO GET ON THE WATER?

Having grown up skiing on Lake Austin, my family still has a boat there. We take friends out and spend a lot of time with family. I really enjoy taking people new to Austin out on the boat and showing them around. There is nothing quite like experiencing the city from the water’s edge.

WHY THE HOME OF YOUR PARENTS FOR THE PHOTOSHOOT?

Tarrytown is a very friendly and family-centric neighborhood that you never want to leave once you’ve put down roots. In fact, my parents still live on the same street where I grew up.

WHAT SHOULD BUYERS BE AWARE OF?

There is amazing variety in Holly. Look for what suits you, your lifestyle, your budget, and your goals. With its prime walkability and proximity to some of Austin’s best, Holly is a fantastic place to be and a great long-term investment.

WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FOR HOLLY’S FUTURE?

Holly is changing very quickly. New homeowners have been buying old bungalows and making them their own. Developers are also densifying the area with many multi-unit properties. As demand for the neighborhood grows, I expect this to continue for years to come.

FAVE RESTAURANTS?

Bufalina recently reopened after closing their original location. It’s the best pizza in town and we’re ecstatic to have them back! Launderette is our neighborhood spot; we go there often for their happy hour and brick chicken.

DATE SPOT IDEAS?

We love to walk over to Suerte for their Suadero tacos and a Don Dario (named after the original restaurant in that location). We also pop into Whisler’s, which has well-made cocktails and a fantastic old interior.

WHY LOU’S FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT?

With a casual vibe, and shady outdoor space, we go here often as a family.

A bit under the radar a few years ago, word is out about this eclectic community that offers a neighborhood feel with an urban vibe, and an interesting mix of cultures and diversity. Located south of Cesar Chavez, more isolated with fewer pass-through streets than other east side areas, Holly remains a fascinating tapestry woven together of young and old, vintage and new, big and small. Early 1900s bungalows with classic facades, ultra-modern architecture, and new construction developments offer a little something for every preference and budget. While it continues to evolve daily, one aspect that longstanding east side resident and local housing expert Ed Hughey enjoys the most is the lifestyle it affords and the fact that it remains one of, if not the, closest neighborhood to the Lady Bird Lake hike and bike trail.

An Austinite since 2003, Ed is a licensed real estate professional and the Founder and Principal Architect of Hughey Architecture. Offering a one-of-a-kind perspective when it comes to buying, selling, and investing in Holly, Ed’s extensive background with bungalows, old homes, new construction, and urban infill/ development allow him to offer invaluable guidance throughout the process. Whether chatting about renovation ideas, imparting knowledge of city code, or assessing feasibility, Ed enjoys assisting all his clients with finding their place in Holly.

As Austin’s first suburb, founded in 1891, Hyde Park is still defined by its charm, small-town feel, and alluring older homes. While most residences were built between 1900 and 1940, the quintessential bungalow remains the prevailing architectural style on the landscape. Offering high walkability and a grounded, authentic culture, those who enjoy walking and biking and prefer independently-owned restaurants would do well in Hyde Park. Take local real estate professional Tammy Young of SEED Property Group, for instance.

Trading in the Los Angeles and Paris, France fashion scene for real estate and family in the Live Music Capital of the World, Tammy has been a resident of Hyde Park for more than thirteen years and a licensed agent since 2007. Rooted in results, her keen business savvy garnered from years of experience in sales, marketing, and branding created a career where she closed over several million dollars in her first year alone. Since then, Tammy has built a solid referral-based business grounded in hard work, integrity, and honesty. Categorized as what many would call a “fixer,” complex transactions, working under pressure in fast-paced environments, and making problems go away is what drives Tammy day in and day out to create for her clients “an experience worth repeating.”

HYDE PARK

HOW HAS THE LOCAL REAL ESTATE MARKET CHANGED SINCE THIS TIME LAST YEAR?

While many pockets of Austin have fallen in value since 2021, home prices in the historic district of Hyde Park are appreciating, and often trading privately with unreported prices.

FOR PEOPLE MOVING TO HYDE PARK, WHAT SHOULD THEY BE AWARE OF?

It’s a very small neighborhood with very tight quality inventory. Working with a neighborhood specialist is a must. I also recommend working with someone well-versed in older homes, all of the inspection challenges that can come up, and how to handle each of them.

NEW SHOPS IN THE AREA?

The Tiny Grocer at 43rd and Speedway, Mongers Seafood on Guadalupe, and Avenue B Grocery that reopened last summer after an extended closure.

WHY THE COMMODORE PERRY FOR YOUR SHOOT’S BACKDROP?

The estate is an amazing respite in the heart of the city and the developers did an amazing job combing historic architectural design with a cool, modern Austin vibe. I love coming here to meet friends for drinks or just bringing my laptop and working for an afternoon. The continues to be a neighborhood treasure.

BARTON CREEK

WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FOR THE FUTURE OF BARTON CREEK?

Barton Creek has grown exponentially. We started when there were only 3 neighborhoods – now there are 22! It seems to get closer and closer to the center of Austin as this city grows. More neighborhoods will be added in 2024-2025 and more shopping and restaurants will be coming soon.

ANY NEW BUSINESSES ON THE SCENE?

Ling Wu just opened and we are excited about Lee’s Kitchen, which will open soon in the Village of Westlake Center,

ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR THE OMNI BARTON CREEK RESORT & SPA?

We recommend a full day! Start off with a Himalayan Salt Stone massage. Then, hang out at the roof top pool before enjoying lunch at the café. Next, spend a little time in the steam room before getting a Collagen Infusion Facial followed by some time in the Relaxation Room. Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it?

WHY THE BARTON CREEK COUNTRY CLUB FOR YOUR BACKDROP?

It was the perfect way to highlight the new Omni Barton Creek Member Bar and Restaurant, which is gorgeous!

With a history that reaches back to the early twentieth century, this longestablished community exudes effortless sophistication and a picturesque setting. Its array of architecture, ranging from Traditional and Spanish to Tuscan, French, and Contemporary, creates a neighborhood fit for any lifestyle and design preference. From apartments and retirement facilities to homes spanning more than 30,000 square feet, there is a little something for every stage in life. Even its outdoor entertainment and social calendar is robust with the coveted amenities the legendary Barton Creek Country Club offers.

Understanding the ins and outs of the area better than anyone else, as well as the attributes that set it apart from other communities, Lisa Sexton and Susan Doyle of Lisa + Susan Residential Group are the consummate professionals of Barton Creek. Having personally worked for its developer for more than 30 years, they have witnessed its growth from infancy to the resort-like destination it is today. With a successful track record, this dynamic duo combines real estate sales with creative excellence to assist clients in navigating the challenging marketplace. Whether buying, selling, or relocating, Lisa and Susan treat every transaction as an opportunity to change someone’s life and make a positive impact.

It’s the spray of the water on your face, the play of sunlight glinting off the waves, and the gentle tranquility that seeps into your bones will every passing sunrise and sunset; life on Horseshoe Bay and Lake LBJ is unlike anything else. From its small-town atmosphere to the extensive city amenities available at your fingertips, this environment offers the best of all worlds. Whether searching for a grand waterfront estate or something to serve as a smaller fishing cabin, your heart’s desires await. And that is what top producer and longtime lakeside dweller Tammie Bennett appreciates the most.

As the #1 Luxury and Waterfront Realtor® for the Highland Lakes Association of Realtors and a 17-year resident of the area, Tammie knows a thing or two about buying and selling at the water’s edge. While demand is at an all-time high, inventory remains low, which is why she urges buyers to find an agent specializing in the market to ensure they have the best representation possible. As an agent with Kuper Sotheby’s, Tammie’s sellers benefit from the agency’s strong presence, an unparalleled network of contacts, and countless marketing programs that showcase each home in its best light. With the myriad of proven health benefits a lakeside lifestyle affords to property values that will always stay high, the perks of owning a lake house are immeasurable. And since life is short, for those on the fence, Tammie recommends just buying the lakehouse.

HORSESHOE BAY & LAKE LBJ

WHAT BUYER IS IDEAL FOR LAKESIDE LIVING?

Someone ready to make fantastic memories that their kids or grandkids will remember for a lifetime.

WHY IS THIS AREA A GREAT PLACE TO PUT DOWN ROOTS?

I personally live on Lake LBJ full time and could not be happier. The ability to just step out the door to enjoy the lake is something I am grateful for everyday.

ANY NEW RESTAURANT WORTH MENTIONING?

Bay View overlooking Lake LBJ. Don’t miss the Chicken Fried Lobster!

FAVORITE ACTIVITIES AT THE HORSESHOE BAY RESORT?

Golf is the next best thing to a day on the Lake! The Horseshoe Bay Resort has 4 courses and Escondido has a beautiful private course. Membership is required.

WHY YOUR HOME FOR THE PHOTOSHOOT?

My lake house is my favorite place on earth, and I feel that everyday when coming home. So shooting there just felt like the best way to showcase what I do and how much I love it.

ANYTHING BUYERS IN THE AREA SHOULD BE AWARE OF?

With the neighborhood charm, forget bulldozing an old house and rebuilding something inconsistent.

BEST LOCAL PLACE YOU CAN STROLL TO?

Josephine House is one of my favorite lunch places in town. It has a great patio and I always see someone I know.

WHAT CLARKSVILLE LOCALES DO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FREQUENT?

We love Clark’s Oyster Bar for date nights and birthdays. Jeffrey’s is our go-to for a nightcap before heading home. The men in my life love Howler Bros for hip shirts and hats.

ANYTHING NEW ON THE LOCAL SCENE?

The new-ish bars, Howard’s and Rosie’s, are backed at the corner of Blanco and 6th. If you are looking for something sexy, wander into Elle’s Boutique next door for a diverse collection of lingerie.

WHY CLARK’S ON 6TH FOR YOUR BACKDROP?

Clark’s is arguably my favorite restaurant in Austin. For dinner, I always order a dozen oysters and the Ciopinno. Don’t forget the fries!

Brimming with historical vitality, this charming neighborhood is the oldest surviving freedman’s town. Residents can expect to see late 19th and early 20th century restored architecture with Designated Austin Landmarks scattered throughout. While there are not many residences with modern facades, the character of Clarksville is what attracts a variety of people, from young professionals and families to empty-nesters and everything in between. Add to it the walkability to West 6th Street, West Lynn, and anywhere downtown, and it is easy to see what makes this community so popular.

A proud Austinite since 2005, local real estate professional Julia Mistler holds a deep appreciation for Clarksville and a plethora of experience representing buyers and sellers in the area. Recognized for her friendly personality and tireless hustle, Julia thrives on tackling problems and finding solutions, especially when that means searching for the diamond in the rough or helping clients turn a house into a home. From recommending contractors for updates or pediatricians, swim teachers, and preschools for the kids, Julia consistently goes above and beyond to form solid relationships and turn clients into friends. While there are many capable agents in the Austin market, Julia suggests that the simple key to a happy transaction is finding someone that fits your personality.

Imagine spectacular sunrises, lingering sunsets, gentle breezes, and the soft murmur of the swells sweeping against the dock. In a nutshell, that is life on the lake. From simply relaxing to the gentle spray of the water and enjoying the luxury of fishing or kayaking on demand to gliding across the waves on a private boat after a long day at the office, Lake Austin living is like no other. Just ask Stephanie Nick, a nationally recognized real estate top producer who resides lakeside with her husband Greg Hurd and their furbaby, Marley.

An Austinite since 1996, Stephanie possesses a comprehensive understanding of the local housing market and personal familiarity with the lake, allowing her to provide more accurate property values, recognize market trends, and easily point out the unique features of each neighborhood in the area. Her strong network of industry contacts ensures her clients remain ahead of the curve regarding upcoming listings and off-market homes. When assisting sellers, her background in marketing is highly beneficial as it allows her to communicate effectively, understand their needs, and tailor her advertising efforts to target the right audience. So, from navigating the challenging intricacies of a constantly changing housing market to recognizing that she played a significant role in helping clientele discover a property that is an ideal fit, Stephanie finds her work and this industry truly rewarding.

Providing a Lifestyle, Not Just an Address.

LAKE AUSTIN

FAVORITE WAY TO GET ON THE WATER?

There’s nothing quite like cruising along Lake Austin and taking in the scenic views with a glass of wine.

YOUR VISION FOR LAKE AUSTIN’S FUTURE?

I anticipate that we will see more luxury developments and new construction along the lake in the coming years. At the same time, I hope that preserving the natural beauty and health of the lake will continue to be a priority.

ANYTHING CURRENTLY IN THE WORKS FOR LAKE AUSTIN?

We have completed the most luxury marina on Lake Austin and have begun site work on five villas. As the exclusive salesperson, you can trust me when I say they will be truly exceptional in every aspect with the finest of finishes, making them the perfect destination for luxury living.

WHY THE WEST HARBOUR MARINA FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT?

As the first new development on Lake Austin in 20 years, it’s a special place. Being a part of the development process the past seven years and having sold over half of the slips myself, I’ve had firsthand involvement in making it a premier destination.

CIRCLE C

WHO IS THE IDEAL BUYER FOR CIRCLE C?

People that want the best of both worlds with proximity to the city’s urban core along with the more laid back vibe of the South Austin suburbs and easy access to the Hill Country.

ANY LOCAL AMENITIES WORTH MENTIONING?

Highly rated schools, an 18-hole golf course at Grey Rock Golf and Tennis club, more than 500 acres of parkland, four swim centers with a year-round Olympic-size heated pool, and countless kid-friendly activities such as the Veloway and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL HANGOUT SPOTS?

It’s hard to pick a favorite, but The District is a go-to for family dinner, a client meeting and even date night. They have a great patio, fabulous cocktails, seasonal menu, and the best carrot cake! The Wildflower Center holds a special place in my heart because we have spent many weekends on the tree swings and the walking paths since my kids were babies.

WHY ESCARPMENT VILLAGE FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT?

It showcases how accommodating the area is overall. Circle C has been thoughtfully developed over the years and Escarpment Village is an important community anchor with locally owned businesses and so many options to engage and connect.

Since blossoming from the pristine lands of the original Circle C working farm and ranch, this master-planned community has been providing ample amenities and a variety of properties ranging from garden homes and upscale residences to estate lots and everything in between. Circle C continues to expand and provides countless options for a myriad of lifestyles. Local Real Estate specialist, Michelle Hendrix has come to appreciate all the intricacies that set this well rounded and fun filled area apart from others. She is always excited to introduce clients to the area and educate them on all of the options and perks in Circle C.

While Michelle’s zeal for real estate began in Santa Barbara during the early 2000s, her passion was quickly reignited when she relocated to the Live Music Capital of the World in 2007. Considering this industry as one of ultimate service, Michelle’s top priority is offering exceptional consultation and transparent guidance. While focusing on clear and concise communication and utilizing her vast network of industry relations, Michelle’s ultimate focus is supporting her valued clients throughout Austin and closing successful transactions with a great deal of efficiency, while promoting a joy-filled life.

Quirky, eccentric, and the birthplace of the “Keep Austin Weird” slogan and vibe, Bouldin is a hidden gem. Bordering the edge of Lady Bird Lake and downtown, it is ideally situated to offer easy access and walkability for all its residents. Its architecture, an exciting mix of old craftsman cottages and luxurious new construction, embodies everything that makes the city cool and unique. Of any neighborhood in South Austin, Bouldin easily wins in terms of access to area bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and boutique shopping while simultaneously offering a laid-back style, diverse mix of people, and historic vibe. For those interested in buying or selling in the area, look no further than 20-year South Austinite and Bouldin specialist Brooke Roeder.

As a highly creative and driven person, Brooke is a real estate investor, the founder of a vacation rental company, and the general contractor for her B3E Creative design and build firm. Whether working with first-time home buyers, seasoned investors, or luxury clientele, Brooke loves educating and empowering clients to move confidently through each step of a real estate transaction. This unique combination of skills and experience allows her to analyze the market at a deeper level while offering a holistic and educated approach focused on maximizing equity and not only finding but creating dream homes.

BOULDIN

WHAT KIND OF BUYER WOULD BE PERFECT FOR BOULDIN?

Bouldin is a great for anyone looking to live in the downtown area. It may be especially appealing to those who enjoy a very active lifestyle, eating out, and/ or working downtown.

TELL US SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT WORKING IN THE BOULDIN AREA.

The oldest home I’ve sold in Bouldin was a historic farmhouse that was built in the late 1800’s!

FEW AREAS RIVAL THE QUALITY AND VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS IN BOULDIN. ANY FAVES?

Elizabeth Street is delicous. Polvo’s is a classic Tex-Mex spot and, most importantly, you can order pitchers of margaritas. Can’t forget Thai Fresh either; it’s one of the best and an old Austin favorite!

WHY BOULDIN CREEK CAFE FOR YOUR PHOTO BACKDROP?

It is a local staple and long time favorite spot of mine for coffee, eats and drinks.

ALLANDALE

78757

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT REAL ESTATE?

CL - I love that Real Estate allows me to tap into both my creative and analytical sides. I believe both are required to be successful in this industry.

AA - Facts and figures are my specialty. No one loves a spreadsheet more than I do. Understanding the numbers helps me keep a pulse on the market for my clients.

IDEAL BUYER FOR ALLANDALE?

LAE - As a ten year resident of Allandale, what drew me in was the feel of an established neighborhood with tree-lined streets. Not only is it a beautiful and tightknit community, but it is also close to many fabulous restaurants, parks, shopping and all that popular Burnet Road has to offer.

WHAT SHOULD BUYERS BE AWARE OF?

The Austin market as a whole is constantly shifting. Thus, it is important to find a Realtor who follows the changing trends and advises accordingly.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY PLACES YOU RECOMMEND?

Eldorado Cafe, Fonda San Miguel, the iconic Top Notch Burgers, and the newly opened Voodoo Donuts!

WHY ELDORADO FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT?

It’s one of our favorite local staples! The food and margaritas are amazing, and the Owners make it feel like home.

With pockets of mid-century modern residences intermixed with more traditional ranch-style homes, this charming and family-friendly neighborhood is recognized for its large lots, picturesque oaks and central location. It is the refreshingly tight-knit atmosphere amidst the growth throughout Austin that makes it such a sought-after community. For those considering buying or selling in the area, look no further than Allandale experts Christy Levy, Ashley Amini and Lea Anne Erwin of Levy Properties.

Founded in 2008, this dynamic powerhouse brings more than two decades of experience to the table. While they agree that overall industry knowledge is imperative, they believe local expertise is equally important. As the Broker and owner, Christy has seen first-hand how the city has changed throughout the years, allowing her to advise clients based on trends she experienced as a professional and resident. By asking the right questions and listening carefully, they are equipped to help clients achieve goals by implementing the correct strategies while building and maintaining trust, the foundation of excellent service. Whether buying or selling, Levy Properties understands that it can be an emotional process, so they savor the opportunity to make each transaction seamless and enjoyable!

A taste of old Austin awaits among these quaint homes, trendy boutiques, hip coffee shops, and new eateries. Radiating a friendly, eclectic, and cozy vibe, South Austin is home to some of the city’s swankiest and most popular neighborhoods. From luxury new construction, urban starters, and traditional suburban residences to public, private, and charter schools, many options exist for carving out one’s lifestyle. Offering proximity to downtown, the Texas Hill Country, Barton Creek, and the Violet Crown Trails, there is an excellent mix of adventures and activities just around the corner, which is precisely why real estate specialists Gray and Air Adkins call it home.

Holding a special place in their hearts, South Austin is where Gray grew up, where they purchased their first home, flipped multiple properties, built a strong network of connections, and represented many clients throughout the years. While Air brings a background in marketing and advertising that allows them to create unique strategies for each client and property, Gray has carved out his skills in the industry, knows the city like the back of his hand, and enjoys solving problems and creating solutions, which allows him to notice trends and data that give him an overarching perspective on the central Texas market as a whole. A family-owned business, this dynamic duo was initially drawn to real estate for its aesthetic aspect. Ultimately, however, the relationships formed with people and the art of the deal keep them dedicated to helping clients navigate the intricate world of real estate to achieve their objectives, whether generating strategies when listing properties, assisting in identifying and purchasing dream homes, or creating personalized plans for investment and commercial partners.

To catch up on the latest and check out exclusive listings, follow their social accounts @grayandairhome.

EXPECTATIONS FOR THE AREA’S FUTURE?

With many emerging mixed-use projects slated, the future of South Austin is bright! We predict even more exciting shops, restaurants, and entertainment to come.

WHAT’S IT LIKE WORKING WITH YOUR OTHER HALF?

It’s so much fun getting to share common goals, push each other to do better, and experience when our hard work pays off. Since having kids, it’s been a true blessing to spend time together as a family and share with them a different work lifestyle.

AS COFFEE LOVERS, WHAT ARE YOUR LOCAL GO-TO SPOTS?

We certainly have a few! There’s Summer Moon, Praxis Coffee Roasters, Captain Quackenbush’s, and you can’t forget Spokesman Coffee.

FAVORITE ASPECTS OF SOUTH AUSTIN?

We love the local aspect of it from Homegrown restaurants; tacos shops, coffee and new bars. It is fun to support and get to know local Austinites going after their dreams and making an impact in the community.

Northwest Hills is a family-oriented haven. Surrounded by nature, it’s a serene environment featuring magnificent views of the Austin Hill Country. A long-time resident of the area along with her husband and three kids, Noa Levy has experienced Austin’s growth first-hand and has learned the uniqueness of each pocket of the city. A top producer with approximately $600M in closed sales and nearly two decades of industry expertise, Noa is driven by not only the excitement and fun of discovering hidden gems, but also the desire to be a strong liaison for her clients, helping them navigate the often complicated world of real estate business transactions.

(512) 659 - 3898 | NoaLevyATX.com

YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF NW HILLS?

I have no doubt it will continue to grow and become as much of a destination as Tarrytown is for people and families looking to stay central.

WHY A HOME FOR YOUR BACKDROP?

Located in Northwest Hills, 7328 Vista Mountain has a gorgeous balcony and pool deck that is the perfect setting to watch the sun set over the rolling hills. Did I mention that it’s also for sale?

Noa.Levy@TheAgencyRE.com 78731

BRENTWOOD & CRESTVIEW

Brimming with architecture ranging from original bungalows with recent updates to Modern Farmhouses and Scandinavian styles, Brentwood and Crestview are known for their established neighborhoods, mellow vibe and strong sense of community. In fact, that was what drew John Dunham, founding member and principal of Juice Real Estate Group, to the area. Since then, he has bought, renovated and sold multiple homes while also being involved in over 200 transactions here alone. Coming from a long line of Realtors®, John is knowledgeable about the nuances of older homes as well as new developments. He enjoys being part of important life changes with clients while helping them prepare for their future.

WE HEAR YOU HAVE A FAMOUS BURGER JOINT IN THE AREA.

Recognized for its part in the iconic movie Dazed and Confused, you can’t beat Top Notch. It even hosts car events!

WHY THE LITTLE DELI FOR YOUR BACKDROP?

There’s a good chance you’ll catch me there grabbing a sandwich or enjoying evenings with my family at a picnic table under the trees. Plus, it’s a local staple!

WEST LAKE HILLS

Luxury and leisure intermingle in soughtafter West Lake Hills. With scenic views, ample amenities, and gorgeous homes, this suburb is known for its exemplary schools and strong sense of community. That is what initially drew real estate experts Tracy Picone and Beth Carter to the area when raising their families. While the market is becoming more balanced, inventory remains low, which is why Tracy and Beth’s vast network of local connections is an added benefit and necessary edge for their clients. Add in their marketing experience, passion for design, and love for real estate adventures, and they are a perfect fit for West Lake Hills buyers and sellers.

CARTER+PICONE GROUP

(512)799-7427 | Beth.Carter@compass.com

(512)573-8851 | Tracy.Picone@compass.com

BARTON HILLS

A secluded little pocket bordered by 1,000 acres of greenbelt, Barton Hills offers the best of Austin - nature, an established neighborhood, and the convenience of downtown. Having lived there for 17 years, real estate expert and self-proclaimed master multi-tasker Michele Roi has walked and biked every street and created personal relationships in the community. Relying on her entrepreneurial spirit, business skills, and love of homes and architecture, Michele believes in super-serving her clients by managing and negotiating budgets, catering to their needs, and working tirelessly to ensure happy clients at the closing table.

(512) 576 - 0615 | BlairfieldRealty.com

MicheleRoiRealtor@gmail.com

ANY LOCAL SPOTS TO GET IN A GOOD SWEAT?

I recommend MOD Fitness off South Lamar for barre classes or Peach House Pilates if you like a reformer workout.

WHY EASY TIGER FOR YOUR BACKDROP?

My idea of a perfect Sunday afternoon, when I’m not hosting an open house, is to hike with my husband from our house through the greenbelt to Easy Tiger for a late lunch and an IPA.

OUTDOOR AMENITIES YOU RECOMMEND?

Lake Austin runs right through the area so waterskiing, wakeboarding, and wake surfing! There’s also the Barton Creek greenbelt for walking and biking.

WHY A WESTLAKE HOME FOR YOUR BACKDROP?

To showcase a typical home along the shores of Lake Austin. It was built in the 1970s like many in the area and has been updated along the way.

78746

TRACY PICONE & BETH CARTER

CARTER+PICONE GROUP BROKER ASSOCIATES | COMPASS

Once home to workers at the adjacent Mueller airport, Windsor Park now boasts charming oak-lined streets studded with lovinglyrestored mid-century bungalows. For the last 12 years, Olivia Vale has experienced first-hand the area’s expansion into Mueller, a LEEDcertified, highly-walkable mixed development. Having purchased and renovated six homes in the vicinity, Olivia loves guiding clients through DIY tweaks and home projects. She’s approachable and informed, passionately motivated by the best outcomes for her clients, both financially and personally. “For my clients,” she says “real estate is about making a wise investment financially, as well as investing in their own personal happiness. The right Realtor® can deliver all of that.”

OLIVIA VALE

REALTOR® | COMPASS ROOTS RESIDENTIAL GROUP

Tucked away, Spicewood at Balcones offers a laidback atmosphere with mature trees, large lots, and highly-rated schools. These features and the unique custom homes, a mix of vintage 70s, 80s, and more recent builder models, make local expert Kim Treadaway happy to call it home. An active member of the community, she is passionate about helping Austin’s growing tech and professional community discover the joys of living here. Coming from a tech background, Kim loves digging into the data and relies on her ingenuity and years of experience to guide clients in buying, selling, and investing.

ANY BUSINESSES THAT ARE FAMILY FAVES?

Lamppost Coffee, Interstellar BBQ (ranked #2 in the state) and Reale’s Italian Cafe. A special shout-out to La Fleur, our local florist!

WHY THE BALCONES COUNTRY CLUB FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT?

It’s a central gathering place for neighbors to socialize, swim, and play tennis or golf. (512)

FAVORITE WAY TO GET ACTIVE OUTSIDE?

Taking a walk with Pip around Mueller Lake, then patio time with friends at Loca D’Oro, Hanks, or the brand-new Veracruz Fonda. I love morning lap swimming at Bartholomew pool - it’s heated year-round!

WHY BLUE LACY FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT?

The upscale diner vibe is a great addition to Mueller. It’s got such a cute, quiet courtyard, and they even have a menu for pups: chicken or beef over rice!

Abundant greenery, parks galore, and an ever-changing lineup of events merge inside the neighborhood limits of Zilker. That is what this Platinum Top 50 real estate professional Kim Fodor has come to love about the area. As a resident, Kim has a vast knowledge of the community and loves to show her clients why she chose to call it home. Known for her sophisticated eye, discretion, and attention to detail, Kim has brokered transactions, ranging from multi-million dollar estates to first-time home buyers. Understanding the importance of timeliness, she is always available to show properties and negotiate deals at a moment’s notice. Whether buying or selling, Kim works to establish lifelong relationships based on integrity, rapport, and expertise.

ANY OUTDOOR SPOTS YOU RECOMMEND?

Zilker Park, Zilker Botanical Gardens, Barton Springs Pool, and paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake. There are so many ways in Zilker to beat Austin’s summer heat.

WHERE TO EAT?

Matt’s El Rancho for their Bob Armstrong queso dip, Juliet for their charming outdoor patio, and Uchi for the best sushi of your life.

Foodie’s Paradise

The Tailor Shop Foodery brings beloved favorites together under one roof

By Liz Harroun

Photos by Brian Fitzsimmons

WE LOVE OPTIONS.

In November 2019, Diego opened Pizzeria Grata, which came from a passion for making pizza from scratch using high-quality ingredients. The recipes were curated by Executive Chef Benjamin Garwood, including the sauce, based on a 100-yearold recipe from Naples. They offer a unique spin on traditional Italian dishes with wood-fired pizzas and puccia sandwiches. The name comes from the Italian word “grate,” meaning grateful, and they have an authentic gratitude for serving their community that can be tasted in the freshness and flavor of their food.

In March 2022, Diego opened 1836 Tacos & Salsa, which serves up authentic Latin street food, including birra, carnitas, ceviche, tacos and tortas. Executive Chef Crystal Campos has built an incredible menu of comfort foods that celebrate

Options for what to do, what to wear and — of course — what to eat. Diego Batista, Austin native and owner of BelaCor Hospitality, a private investment group here in Austin, understands that. That’s why he invests in a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes and occasions.

Latin American cuisine. Passionate about celebrating diversity and community impact, 1836 donates time and food to support those in need at Sunrise Community Church.

Lastly came Coast 2 Coast subs in October 2022, the realization of Diego’s lifelong dream that began in Lubbock, where he worked in a local sub shop while going to school at Texas Tech. During his time there, his dream of business ownership and love for subs both continued to grow. After college, Diego found himself in Philadelphia, where he moved to learn from local butchers, bakers and established names in the cheesesteak business. Bringing some of these learnings and tastes back to his hometown, Coast 2 Coast features authentic Philly cheesesteaks and delicious hoagies made with fresh ingredients and served on bread from Luscio’s Bakery, a family-run bakery near Philadelphia.

For a time, all three restaurants operated within the Valero gas station (along with Beatniks Market & Cafe) on Menchaca Road, just south of Ben White Boulevard. Diego and his team originally wanted to launch the tailor shop-themed bar downtown in 2020, but then, the pandemic hit, so they didn’t make any moves. Right when their lease at the Menchaca Road gas station was ending at the end of 2022, the Gordough’s pub house opened up. So they decided to relocate the three restaurants to that location on South Lamar, together called The Tailor Shop Bar & Foodery.

“The Lamar location landing in our lap was pure luck, and genuinely an ideal location, as it allowed us to stay close to our existing customer base,” says Diego.

“We would not be where we are today without their loyalty, and it just made sense for us when the opportunity presented itself. To say the location is perfect for us is an understatement, and we couldn’t have been more excited about what we have built so far, and what we are working to bring to fruition.”

The pizzeria, sandwich shop and taqueria are serving up their diverse, delicious foods in the new space. The location has ample seating, including two

“Our customers came first with this move and expansion. We would not be where we are today without their loyalty.”

— Diego Batista

patios that have live music from Thursday through Sunday. “We showcase multiple menu options under one roof without the food court feel,” says Diego.

The current location will eventually be developed into apartment complexes, but Diego plans to transition The Tailor Shop from the current building to a space within the new complex. There are also plans to expand operations to a second tailor shop-themed location by the end of the year, most likely in downtown Austin like they had originally planned.

“BelaCor will continue to invest in Austin as well as its entrepreneurs, something we’re very passionate about,” says Diego. He attributes their success and growth to their loyal customers, who inspire and support all of the restaurants. “Our customers came first with this move and expansion; they planted the seed for a sit-down space when we started in a corner store kitchen. To offer them the space with not one but multiple menu options is truly a blessing, and even better for us because we get to build stronger relationships with our customers.”

They donate a percentage of monthly sales to Lifted Spirits, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency relief for hospitality industry professionals in the Austin area. “We encourage nonprofits to reach out to us to host fundraisers at our locations,” says Diego. “We’re Austin natives that have spent most of our lives in the hospitality business serving our lovely city of Austin, and we’d love to meet everyone new and old to our city.”

In writing this piece, I decided to check out the place for myself. So I gathered up four of my best girlfriends on a rainy Friday night to check out what all the hype was about. We got there around seven, and Diego was on the floor — greeting customers and helping out at the bar. There was a decent crowd there, split between the indoor tables and bar, many of which you could tell were also checking it out for the first time. In line with the tailor-shop theme, there were mannequins lining the restaurant.

We ordered using a QR code, which led you to all the menus and drinks. One of my friends ordered tacos, which she was delighted to find out could be modified to be made with plant-based cheese (she has a lactose intolerance). The rest of us ordered pizzas. I chose the “Balsamica” with whipped ricotta, goat cheese, balsamic mushrooms, garlic confit and arugula. Everything was delicious, including the housemade meatballs, drowned in the time-tested sauce, which we all shared. We sipped on wine and agua frescas (some spiked with tequila).

The whole experience was cozy and nostalgic. With the dim lights, doughy pizza and friendly staff, we felt like we were back in high school hanging out at our favorite hometown pizza joint. After a couple of hours, we left with full bellies and tasty leftovers.

Don’t wait to check out The Tailor Shop Bar & Foodery on South Lamar. Perfect for happy hour or dinner with friends, with several full menus, everyone can find something they’ll enjoy.

facebook.com/thetailorshopaustin

Beauty and Balance Abound

GOLDEN MEAN BRINGS ARTFULLY BALANCED GIFTS TO BOULDIN CREEK

By Avery Matschek

GOLDEN MEAN ONLY OPENED ITS DOORS IN MARCH OF THIS year, but owner Grace Milligan had dreamed of creating her artist-focused gift shop and art gallery for many years before.

Milligan is a Houston native who lived in New York City for more than a decade before making the move to Austin with the goal to open her own store. During her time in NYC, she developed deep interests in art and fashion while working in sales, merchandising, wholesale, PR and styling at Wolves Within, Home Of The Brave, Urban Outfitters and the Massimo Bonini Showroom. The tastemaker also spent time working at San Francisco’s Rare Device, which became a huge inspiration for her own shop, specifically the art gallery element of the concept.

Boasting a curated selection of new and vintage home decor items, stunning jewelry, artful gifts and humor-infused greeting cards, Golden Mean aims to have products for any and every customer. The gorgeous store is approachable yet elevated, accessible yet sophisticated.

“I’m making sure there’s something for everyone here,” says Milligan. “Something for your grandparents. Something for your niece. Something for yourself. Something for your partner. I wanted to make sure there was something for every category.”

Walking around the natural light-filled locale is similar to perusing through a museum thanks to the intricate and show-stopping products inside, but in this space, you’re invited to interact with the work. There’s trendy and colorful glassware, stunning ceramics and one-of-a-kind pieces of art, and Milligan wants you to fully experience all of it.

“You’re going to see things that you’ve never seen before,” adds the owner. “The space is a little elevated, but I encourage people to touch things and pick things up, to open the books and flip through them in the store.”

Golden Mean is a reflection of Milligan’s personal interests in all things art and vintage, as well as her wide network of talented friends and acquaintances. It’s easy to see the amount of effort and heart the passionate entrepreneur has poured into this store on the journey to get to Golden Mean’s opening day. In the approximately 10 months it took to prepare to open her retailer, Milligan established relationships with vendors at flea markets and pop-up events, via instagram and through friends and family.

“I know all the faces behind the brands and I think that people connect with that and they can see that these are all small businesses and handmade items,” states the entrepreneur. “It’s important to me to work with a lot of local artists that not only are Texas-based, but also Austin-based.”

She found a home for her storefront in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood,

Photos by Brittany Dawn Short

close to a Juiceland location, Once Over Coffee Bar, the iconic Passport Vintage and other businesses that Milligan considers to be like-minded to her own. Her vision for the open-concept business was strong — and it had to be, as the location previously housed a laser hair removal salon, complete with smaller, sectioned-off rooms and a lower ceiling in one area of the space.

“When I first saw the space, I thought to myself, ‘I can envision this being a white box, even though it’s hard to do that right now,’” explains Milligain with a laugh. “The landlord agreed to completely renovate [the space] and once I had the lease signed, it was go time.”

A landmark feature of the store is the 10-foot wall where artists present their work in the form of a monthly gallery. The first exhibition to be put on display when Golden Mean opened was Keli Ma’s “MEMENTO MARY,” a collection of 15 original Polaroids by the Texas artist. The store’s second exhibition was “THESE ARE THE DAYS,” a gallery from Austin-based Rob

Chase made up of original lettering, lines and mantras on a selection of vintage frames and mirrors, all sourced in Texas.

For each gallery, the store hosts an opening party in an effort to bring people together in an authentic and celebratory way. Events are important to Milligan, who envisions community, representation and inclusivity as integral pillars of her establishment. The store even hosted an event during South by Southwest, less than two weeks into business. Stay tuned for more information about upcoming gallery openings and community events, as Milligan always has an idea up her sleeve.

Many amazing local and global brands and artists are featured at Golden Mean. Highlights include Soul Studio, a mother-daughter duo creating naturally-dyed goods; Lauren Hunt, an artist crafting stunning works of glass art, and Landry McMeans, who designs detailed hand-cut stencil prints.

The shop’s name comes from The Golden Mean principle, defined as the desirable middle between two extremes. Also known as The Golden Ratio or Fibonacci Sequence, Milligan describes the concept as something that represents balance, art and humanity.

“The goods that I carry can be the perfect final touch that adds to a space,” explains Milligan. “I felt like The Golden Mean really connected with what I represent here.”

On top of that, she liked the idea of the store carrying her own initials of “GM,” a fitting touch for such a personal project. At the end of the day, Milligan’s favorite part of owning and operating Golden Mean is interacting with her customers, whether that’s through having an in-depth conversation or simply greeting them with a smile while they peruse the handmade goods.

“The whole point is to connect with people,” she explains. “I think that people are happy to have a go-to place to get cards or a journal or just have a place if they want to come in and hang out and talk without buying anything.”

Right now, Milligan has one part-time employee, and Milligan herself is in-store every day of the week. Pieces are available at a myriad of price points in the hopes that everyone can find something that works for their budget. New items arrive daily, and the owner’s dreams for the retail space are to grow with the artists she currently carries and increase her inventory to carry more Austinbased artists.

“When you visit Golden Mean, you’re going to see things that you’ve never seen before, new and vintage,” says Milligan. “You’ll come and you’ll leave being inspired.”

goldenmeanaustin.myshopify.com

“YOU’RE GOING TO SEE THINGS THAT YOU’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE, NEW AND VINTAGE.” GRACE MILLIGAN

YOUR AUSTIN URBAN LIFESTYLE EXPERTS »

Ready to make a move? Urbanspace has you covered. Our team of expert realtors has a proven track record of success and extensive market knowledge of Austin. We are especially suited to help you find what you are looking for in the Downtown Austin market, from the latest condo towers to modern single-family homes. Last minute gift shopping? Visit our expansive modern furniture showroom — or shop online 24/7 at UrbanspaceInteriors.com.

FAMILY MATTERS

In April 2017, the Schuler sisters were working in different industries and cities around the world, when Lauren, the eldest, started talking with her father about their family business. As they spoke, she realized that her previous seven years in sales could be the solution to her father’s goal of expanding the company, an independent insurance agency. Suddenly working with family, something she had never truly considered, sounded like a challenge she was looking for.

This prompted Lauren, who’d been in New York City for half a decade, to finally make the move back home.

“I was getting burnt out from the city and wanted to be closer to my family in Austin,” Lauren explains. After speaking with her father, the President of Time Insurance Agency, she thought, “If I was going to make a move, maybe this was serendipitous timing.”

So, by the end of the year, Lauren had packed up her West Village apartment and headed back to Austin. Shortly after, her youngest sister, Michelle, who had previously worked in finance, also moved back to assist in the modernization of their family business.

Quickly, Lauren and Michelle both received their licenses and started to learn the ins-and-outs of personal and commercial insurance. During this time, they saw a younger generation of their peers needing different services and wanting a more modern approach to a traditionally complex service. Soon after, the middle sister, Jennifer, moved back from Paris where she had been working in tech and marketing. With her on board, they rebuilt their web presence and added user-friendly digital payment and communication channels, expanded their reach and updated the marketing and brand identity of the 62-year-old business.

Together, this third generation of Schulers took the reins and redefined insurance agenting with modern tools that created a premium on transparency and convenience while maintaining their grandfather’s dedication to client service.

“Our business is relationship-based and we take that to heart,” says Lauren. “We work with people one-on-one so we get to learn about their lives and needs but also their family, their businesses and watch them grow and succeed year after year.” The sister-led modernization of the longtime family-run Time

Insurance Agency was just what the company needed to jump into the next phase of their business.

Now, the Schuler sisters have taken over for John and run Time Insurance Agency full-time, and business has grown significantly.

The sisters say they owe much of this success to being locally owned and operated. “As local agents with 62 years of experience in Austin, we’ve seen the city and the needs of our fellow Texans change,” says Michelle. Staying local gives them the unique insight they need to accommodate the variety of different neighborhoods of Austin. The burgeoning east side’s eclectic mix of contemporary builds and townhomes requires different types and amounts of coverage versus that of the historic architecture and elegant estates of Old Enfield.

Time Insurance Agency today is a full-service agency carrying personal insurance like home, flood, ranch, auto, renters, health and umbrella as well as commercial insurance including general liability, property, workers’ compensation and cyber. They also have a dedicated Bond Department that provides surety bonds to suit all their clients could possible need — from construction projects to liquor sales.

The Schuler sisters of Time Insurance Agency provide a bespoke, boutique experience at no additional cost while saving you the time and hassle of researching policies to find the best rates. “Your insurance shouldn’t be complicated,” Jennifer says. “We make it simple.”

512-447-7773 / www.timeinsurance.com / @timeinsuranceagency

WE MAKE IT SIMPLE.

From Neglect to Nurture

HOW ONE WOMAN’S VISION HAS SAVED COUNTLESS HORSES’ LIVES

By Liz Harroun

Photos by Brian Fitzsimmons

CAMILLE PANDIAN, FOUNDER OF Driftwood Horse Rescue and founder and lead trainer of Unbound Horsemanship, has always shared a deep connection with our equine friends. Born and raised in Oregon, her aunt was a dressage breeder and trainer, and Camille learned to ride before she could walk. Passion and love for the animal was ingrained in her, and she doesn’t know any different.

“In many ways, riding feels more natural to me than walking with my own two feet,” she says. For a while, with an insatiable passion and love for horses, Camille trained them as a side job. However, when she visited Texas, she realized she could make it a career here, and so she moved to the Austin area in 2013 to train horses full-time.

In 2014, Camille bought her property in Driftwood (about 25 miles southwest of Austin) and has lived there with her personal horses ever since. She decided to wait until her kids were older before she started her own business. In 2021, right before she was about to take the plunge into entrepreneurship, two big events happened: her “heart

horse” (the horse she was most deeply connected to) died suddenly, and her friend shared some books about rescue horses.

“I began to learn about that plight of rescue horses and the slaughter pipeline,” says Camille. “It was such a great need that as soon as I began learning about it, I knew I couldn’t not try to help. So we opened Driftwood Horse Rescue and Sanctuary to help those horses who needed it the most.”

The rescues come from low-end auctions, kill pens, abandonment, abuse and starvation. Some have even been pulled off trucks headed to Mexico for slaughter. “I wanted to help the horses who had the most dire need and were the most misunderstood,” says Camille.

Driftwood Horse Rescue and Sanctuary is located on a beautiful 50-acre ranch in Driftwood, Texas, in the middle of the Hill Country. They try to keep the horses as close to how they would naturally be in the wild, so the majority of the herd has unlimited access to the entire 50 acres of long grass, shady live oaks and colorful wildflowers.

They specialize in Arabians because they are particularly sensitive, which, combined with trauma, can make training them difficult. Known for being more emotionally tuned in to humans and energetic, this breed is great for endurance riding but also more reactive overall. Arabians require more gentleness and patience, especially when overcoming previous trauma.

“I wanted to help these horses heal and show the world that they are just as worthy as expensive purebred horses from breeders.” They have 20 to 30 horses at the sanctuary at any given time. If a spot opens up, Camille reaches out to Arabian Rescue Group, who can immediately direct them to the next horse in the most need. While it’s undeniably her calling, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. As the head trainer, she usually feeds all the horses at 6:30 a.m. and then starts training, which includes individualized interaction and guidance dependent on each horse’s unique personality and background.

Fortunately, she has an amazing team that makes the operation possible and sustainable. Camille also has a training business called Unbound Horsemanship, which accepts horses owned by private clients, specializing

in training Arabians. They also focus on fostering the horse-human connection and exploring the emotional depth of horses through art and creative writing. All proceeds from Unbound Horsemanship go directly to the rescues.

Driftwood Horse Rescue Executive Director, Timea Chemez, has her own business called The Zen Horse Co. that specializes in equine nutrition, biomechanics and holistic bodywork. Timea helps train the rescues, runs the lesson program and coaches horse-human relationship building. She also does a lot of the organizational, managerial and administrative work. They have some dedicated horse feeders and stall cleaners, including Juliana Peterson and Reagan Flores, and the amazing Aliya Rose runs the websites and marketing. All are passionate about the mission of the rescue and work tirelessly and cohesively to progress that mission.

The time and expense of running the operation is huge. Feed and hay alone costs a small fortune right now (around $2,500 each month), still elevated due to the Texas drought last year. Furthermore, horses who have undergone such trauma and neglect need about six months to a year of vet care, supplements and proper nutrition before they physically look and feel well enough to begin the mental and emotional rehab.

Most horses come to them completely feral, scared to let humans even come near them. Camille and her team work with them until they are well-mannered riding horses safe enough for beginners. At any given time, there are horses at the rescue with a range of goals, from working on first touch to getting used to a saddle to developing rider skills.

“Horses are like children, each one has a different personality and learns in a different way. So I like to have a ‘toolbox’ of methods and ideas that I can draw from to work with each distinctly different individual horse.”

Taini, who was pulled from a low-end auction, is one of their most amazing success stories. She had been harshly abused, starved and abandoned by her owner. “When we rescued her, she just looked like a skeleton,” says Camille. “I actually cried when I saw her.”

Camille didn’t think she would survive the trailer ride home, but she fought for her life on the ride and the days following. Eventually, she gained weight and her coat completely changed color. As her health was restored, her true personality and confidence began to shine. “She’s now glossy and plump and the sassiest mare in the herd,” says Camille. “I nicknamed her Taini because it means returning moon in Chippewa.”

The work is hard but meaningful. Camille and her team are saving the lives of these beautiful, intelligent animals. And in return, the horses teach Camille lessons about resilience and companionship.

“Helping each horse heal completely — physically, mentally and emotionally, and flourish into who they were meant to be — I feel like also helps heal something within ourselves.”

driftwoodhorserescue.com/nice-to-meet-ya

Staycation

JOHN DICICCO, CO-OWNER OF E. 7TH’S KINDA TROPICAL, approached Erin Ashford, his former coworker from Olamie, one afternoon in 2020. “He said he wanted to open a bar, and he wanted to do it with me,” recalls Ashford, previously the beverage director at the popular Southern restaurant.

While the timing seemed “wild” in the midst of a pandemic which had shuttered many hospitality destinations, something about it felt right. They soon decided that Peter Klein, formerly of L’Oca d’Oro, Carpenters Hall and Olamie, would be the right pick to lead the kitchen.

By Lauren Jones

Photos by Weston Carls

“We love the way Peter cooks,” Ashford says. “He likes to throw big dinner parties, really snacky with cocktails and wine, and that’s how we wanted our new space to be.” While Klein’s laissez-faire cooking style comes across effortless, high-quality ingredients, crave-able recipes and shared plates make Holiday on 7th’s offerings far and above typical bar food. There are the standard marinated olives but they are elevated with provolone, fennel pollen and citrus.

REFINED COCKTAILS AND QUALITY SERVICE ARE SERVED UP IN A RELAXED, MODERN ATMOSPHERE

LEFT TO RIGHT: ERIN ASHFORD, JOHN DICICCO, PETER KLEIN

Other plates include steamed mussels and pork schnitzel, as well as the boquerones and butter, anchovies sourced from Spain, paired with cultured butter, a preserved lemon salsa verde and Texas French Bread baguette, a well-executed opener Klein suggests pairing with a dry martini.

When it comes to the beverages, Ashford, who acts as bar and service director, makes guests feel right at home with a nostalgic and playful drink menu, which include martinis, zero-proof tonics and house favorites, which she’s named “fancies.

“I wanted it to feel fun, easy and not too serious but still make the best cocktails in town,” she says. One of her favorites, the Nineteen Twenty-Nine, is an aromatic and earthy choice, a “Moscow Mule with a lot more going on,” featuring St. George Terroir Gin, walnut liqueur, ginger beer, pomegranate and celery bitters. The Virgo’s Groove, a play on a Beyonce song, uses Desert Door green bell pepper-infused sotol, Gentian liqueur (a French aperitif), velvet falernum (a sweet Caribbean syrup), bay leaf, basil and lime, and is a vegetal, smoky spin on the classic margarita.

“We wanted to make fancy drinks but not ones that felt too stuffy. They’re cheeky, have high-end ingredients, and often come in a fun vintage glass,” she adds. For those looking to go a different route, there’s prosecco, wine, beer and martinis, including a frozen Mexican martini, which pays homage to Trudy’s. “I love a frozen Mexican martini, and as someone who has been in Austin a while (I moved here in 2008), I have been to Trudy’s many times.”

The martini, served in an oversized TexMex cactus goblet, is just as much an enjoyable drinking experience as an Instagrammable moment. “As a bartender, I love the high-low,” she says. “Yes, I can be a snob with what I like to drink, but a cocktail doesn’t have to be too serious.”

When it came to the location, E. 7th Street seemed like an ideal choice. “John knows the East Side well and had been eyeing our property for a while,” Ashford recalls. “Kinda Tropical is so successful that he wanted to do something higher end and a totally different concept in the neighborhood.”

The building, located at 5020 E. 7th St. and the corner at Shady Lane, was constructed in the 1950s and is the site of a former auto body shop and car dealership. “The space itself is completely different than how it looks now,” she says. “One half was where cars would pull in, and our big window wall used to be garage doors, while the front room used to be the office and showers for the mechanics.”

Luckily, Ashford, DiCicco and Klein had a clear vision to transform the once “cave-like” space through plenty of

windows, plants, a full bar and kitchen, new bathrooms, with a light and breezy palette. They collaborated with architect Fred Hubnik, JCP Construction, and Tropic of Capricorn Design to bring it up-to-date. For the trio, Holiday on 7th’s design is welcoming and fills an important gap in the market, one that walks the line between the exclusive speakeasy and uninhibited dive bar.

“It was important for me that it not feel too masculine,” Ashford adds. “There’s not a lot of feminine-leaning bars in Austin.” Additionally, hospitality was a leading factor. “Most cocktail bars feel very exclusive,” she says. “There are reservations and they can feel uptight and less inviting. We didn’t like that.” When it came to working with Tropic of Capricorn, designer Candice Bertalan, who also happens to be DiCicco’s partner, already had an aesthetic they loved. “Her style is light, minimalist and natural. Being in East Austin we didn’t want to come in and make something all shiny and new. That wouldn’t be true to the neighborhood.”

With Ashford’s fine dining background and time spent as a cocktail server, she’s enjoyed getting to transition into a more curatorial role. “My favorite part is helping people get what they need and helping them find their spot,” she says. “I find a lot of joy and excitement with welcoming guests in and being on the floor. Everything here is thoughtful, and our staff wants to make it all about your experience.”

Since opening in April, Holiday on 7th has ushered in many guests, some which have even already become regulars, and Ashford is thrilled with the support. “We have a lot of great neighbors,” she says. There are many new apartment and condo developments, plus it’s walking distance to a handful of surrounding restaurants. “We are the new watering hole,” she says. “We will have people start here then walk to a restaurant.” Justine’s and Central Machine Works are just down the road.

And with no reservations, the bar, which is open from 5 p.m. to midnight daily, is a place to get lost for hours on end. “We see people come in to get olives, then two hours later they are ordering the schnitzel and more drinks.”

Maybe it’s the food, maybe it’s the cocktails or maybe it’s the summery design that makes Holiday on 7th a place to grab a seat, unwind and take a much-earned vacation.

holidayon7th.com

15

Gluten—Free

By Avery Matschek

Citizen Eatery

5011 Burnet Rd.

Primarily known for its outstanding vegan options, Citizen Eatery also gives gluten-free eaters plenty of dishes to choose from at their Burnet Road locale. Many items are naturally gluten free, plus sandwiches and hamburgers can be made with GF bread and buns. Everything on the menu is clearly marked for this dietary preference, and the health-conscious café consistently brings tasty and fresh flavors to their delicious drinks and incredible food. citizeneatery.com

De Nada Cantina

De Nada Cantina is a fun taco spot on the east side with ample outdoor seating and excellent tacos. Hand-pressed corn tortillas (no flour here!), slow-braised meats and fresh margaritas are all made in house to create a wonderful culinary experience. Open until midnight most days of the week, this is an ideal late night snack stop after a night on the town. denadacantina.com

Local restaurants make it easier than ever to dine out with dietary restrictions

4715 East Cesar Chavez St.

Gluten—Free Eats

Wilder Wood

1300 East 7th St.

The Well

440 West 2nd St.

Eat well at The Well, where clean and sustainably sourced ingredients contribute to fare that is delectable and nourishing. There’s no gluten, GMOs, seed oils, soy or refined sugar to be found here, making it accessible for any and all preferences. Visit for brunch, lunch, dinner or happy hour — everything on the menu is fantastic and creative. eatwellatx.com

ATX Cocina

110 San Antonio St., Suite 170

ATX Cocina is a fully gluten-free restaurant so feel free to order to your heart’s desire from the bounty of traditional yet modern Mexican offerings. The atmosphere is friendly and communal, as guests are invited to share large dishes from the grill and toast with cocktails made from organic agaves, high-quality tequilas and mezcals sourced from Mexico and freshly-squeezed juices. atxcocina.com

Wilder Wood has made gluten-free eating cool for close to 20 years thanks to its selection of classic starters, tasty burgers and sandwiches, Mexican-American entrees and so much more. Head here on Mondays for all day happy hour or Wednesdays for exciting open mic nights. wilderwoodrestaurantandbar.com

Thai Fresh

909 West Mary St.

Chef Jam Sanitchat brings together authentic flavors and seasonal ingredients at Thai Fresh, a local favorite for 15 years and counting. Many typical menu items are gluten free, and their in-house bakery boasts an entirely gluten-free line-up of sweet treats and decadent desserts. Relish in a delicious meal of Thai cuisine, then finish it off with a cookie, cake or brownie — all baked from a house-made flour mix of rice flour, tapioca starch and potato starch. thai-fresh.com

Nixta Taqueria

2512 East 12th St.

Another amazing taco spot with an awesome array of GF flavors, Nixta Taqueria sources their maíz from San Martín Tilcajete in Oaxaca, Mexico, making the corn tortillas as fresh and authentic as they come. James Beard Award-winning Chef Edgar Rico whips up imaginative tacos, tostadas and postres in a colorful setting. Plus, enjoy low-intervention wines, aguas frescas, low-ABV cocktails and other creative beverages. nixtataqueria.com

Picnik

Multiple locations

A perfect spot for those with dietary restrictions, Pinick makes eating simple and exciting thanks to its entirely gluten-free, refined sugar-free and peanut-free menu. Highlights include the adaptogen-filled cocktails, filling bowls and crispy fried chicken, and with several locations around town, Picnik can be a go-to health-conscious spot for any food lover. picnikrestaurants.com

THAI FRESH PHOTO BY JESSICA ATTIE, NIXTA TAQUERIA PHOTO BY HOLLY COWART, PICNIK PHOTO COURTESY OF PICNIK

OMG Squee

4607 Bolm Rd., Suite A

OMG Squee is a beloved small-batch bakery whipping up 100% gluten-free Asian American desserts for Austinities. Everything from OMG Squee will brighten your day, from butter mochi donuts to taiyaki soft serve and ever-changing macaron creations. squeeclub.com

Bartlett’s

2408 West Anderson Ln.

Bartlett’s makes the steakhouse concept accessible for eaters avoiding gluten thanks to its distinct, additional gluten-free menu. From those offerings, the Austin mainstay boasts entrees like the Kansas City Strip, Cold Water Salmon and Filet Mignon, in addition to Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Wilted Spinach with Reggiano and more steakhouse favorites. On top of that, the classic cocktails here are fresh and made-to-order, adding the perfect flair to an already wonderful meal.

bartlettsaustin.com

OMG SQUEE PHOTO BY LAYLA MAYS, BARTLETT’S PHOTO BY KNOXY KNOX

Honest Mary’s

4800 Burnet Rd., C300

9828 Great Hills Trail, #300

Build a bowl at Honest Mary’s, where many items are gluten free and easy to order thanks to the clearly marked menu. This is an ideal spot for a quick lunch — either order ahead for convenient pick-up or walk through the fast-moving line to choose from all the nutritious bases, proteins, toppings and dressings. honestmarys.com

Koriente

621 East 7th St.

At Koriente, diners will find health-forward Asian dishes served in an enchanting flower-filled garden. The Teriyaki Chicken, Pan-seared Ahi Tuna and Mix Mix Bibimbap are just a few of the options on the gluten-free guide, but be sure to specify you want the gluten-free option when ordering. Koriente is also an amazing place to order take-out or delivery to enjoy the MSG-free, veggie-filled dishes at home. koriente.com

Bulevar

9400 Arboretum Blvd.

Bulevar, a totally gluten-free establishment, opened to well-deserved acclaim in 2022 thanks to its mouthwatering Latin American-inspired cuisine and sweeping patio views. A sister restaurant of ATX Cocina, Bulevar similarly imbues a modern style into their premium meats and heirloom vegetables. bulevaratx.com

Zucchini Kill

701 East 53rd St. 2908 Fruth St., B

A bakery that’s whipping up completely gluten-free, soy-free and vegan treats, Zucchini Kill boasts locations at Wyrd Wood Village and Tweedy’s Bar. This is the spot to order a custom birthday cake for your next celebration or brighten someone’s day with handheld treats such as the Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcake or Black Moon Pie. zucchinikill.com

Bouldin Creek Cafe

1900 South 1st St.

Known primarily for its vegan and vegetarian fare, Bouldin Creek is also great for wheat-free eaters. Several meals have options to become gluten-free, while many naturally are made that way. With breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts and drinks, this café is a neighborhood favorite that always satisfies cravings.

bouldincreekcafe.com

Girl BrainPower

LATINITAS IS EMPOWERING YOUNG GIRLS, SPECIFICALLY THOSE OF HISPANIC DESCENT

By Carolynn Solorio

Photos by Drew Elaine

WHEN I WAS IN SCHOOL, I DREADED MATH AND science. I always had my nose stuck in a book, and intentionally ‘forgot’ my algebra homework to avoid ridicule from my teachers. It’s girls like these that Austin-based organization Latinitas aims to uplift, and eventually empower to enter the historically male-dominated fields of science, math, engineering and technology. And nowadays, where it seems like all jobs have foundations in digital media, Latinitas is encouraging the next generation of female Austinites to dominate all professional fields.

Latinitas was first founded in 2002 as a magazine for and by Latinas, aimed at increasing their own representation in the media. Over the past decade, however, it has grown into a multi-faceted organization focused on creating Austin’s next generation of bold, courageous leaders.

Latinitas now consists of afterschool programs, summer camps, conferences, podcasts and social media outlets in addition to their online magazine publication.

“LATINITAS SERVES THE CENTRAL TEXAS COMMUNITY WITH DIGITAL EQUITY TOOLS, CAREER EXPLORATION AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS THAT CREATE SELFSUSTAINING FAMILIES.”

GABRIELA KANE GUARDIA

Interim Executive Director of Latinitas, Gabriela Kane Guardia, was first involved with the organization as a volunteer, but came to admire Latinitas through one of these program extensions, as her youngest sister began participating in Club Latinitas, an online after-school program.

“I was so impressed by her growth in confidence,” Guardia says. “So when an opportunity for the Development Director position presented itself, I was eager to join the team and contribute to a mission that resonated so closely with home.”

Since then, Guardia has obviously risen in the organization’s ranks, but her passion for the work and core mission of Latinitas remains. She feels that what separates Latinitas is a continued focus on digital literacy and the preservation of Austin Hispanic culture.

“I started volunteering with Latinitas in early 2021 to support their efforts in commissioning a series of mosaic portraits to uplift their annual fundraiser,” says Guardia. “I was working in the arts field at the time and felt so drawn to a STEM organization that was preserving local cultural heritage.”

This combination of technological and humanitarian is evident in Latinitas’ culturally relevant curriculum, as well as the impact it has on students and facilitators alike. Rather than simply serving STEM educational needs, Latinitas has pioneered a STEAM approach to all that they do. That is, an added appreciation for the Arts amongst efforts to foster a Latina presence in digital and media outlets. Guardia explains that Latinitas introduces students to the foundations of STEAM via their vari-

ous youth services, which are available to girls and non-binary students ages 9-14.

These flagship programs come in a multitude of forms, so that they can reach as many students as possible. For instance, you can find Latinitas on the screens of students across town as they attend after-school clubs, like Guardia’s sister, or in the smiles across their faces as they attend day conferences or summer camps. Either way, students have opportunities to be introduced to and experience different topics of technology and media.

These virtual and hand-on interactions have a serious impact on Latinitas students. “As students engage with any of our programs, we introduce them to a diverse range of professional mentors who share lived experiences with them,” says Guardia. “So they can see themselves reflect in role models and know they are capable of pursuing a career in any industry.” This reflection gives Latinitas students a drive unlike any other, and their programs have such high demand that growth is inevitable.

Just recently, for instance, their eight-week online coding certification course, Code Chica, was so well-received by enrolled students that Latinitas developed a curriculum track for those wanting more advanced instruction, called Code Chica ++. And their Eco Chica Conference event last weekend, a one-day conference focusing on sustainability, innovation and social enterprise, was a huge success.

These program developments have also inspired Latinitas to develop courses that both students and their parents can enjoy.

“Latinitas continues to expand its multi-gener-

ation services, providing early career training for young adults through Google Certification courses, a Padres Digitales program for adult digital literacy education, and Tech Familia workshops for the whole family.”

These efforts help Latinitas engage entire households in technological innovation, which only helps their students thrive. Bilingual options are available, too, which helps Guardia and her team address the Hispanic community directly in helping develop and support digital literacy in these communities. As she puts it, “Latinitas serves the Central Texas community with digital equity tools, career exploration and educational programs that create self-sustaining families measured by economic opportunity outcomes.” And, as our city becomes the clear tech hub of the south, it’s becoming exponentially important for all communities to have access to this digital knowledge.

Maybe if my parents had enrolled me in Code Chica or Club Latinitas, I wouldn’t be so terrified of technology. Or perhaps I’ll always prefer the ‘A’ in STEAM. All I know is that, either way, I would’ve loved Latinitas. That’s what makes this organization so special — their dedication to every student, from every experience. So whether you listen to their podcast, read an article from their digital magazine or go follow their socials, I promise you won’t regret any attention you give Latinitas. After all, aren’t young minds the ultimate resource worth investing in?

latinitasonline.org

King of the Jungle

LION’S DEN IS A HIDDEN

“GEM” ON SOUTH CONGRESS

By Britni Rachal

Photos by Weston Carls

ATIRE SHOP TURNED FITNESS CENTER

is packing a punch in the historic and quirky South Congress district. Practically hidden from the street and with a focus on kickboxing and high intensity workouts, members describe Lion’s Den Fitness as the “speakeasy of Austin gyms.” A new locally owned and operated facility, father-daughter duo and native Austinites, Deanna and James DeLeon, offer classes for four people at a time, ensuring a more intimate setting and allowing for a more personalized training experience that includes the comradery, connection and accountability only a group setting can provide.

“We are a really tight knit community,” says Deanna. “We are family run, and we like to treat our members like they are our family as well. We are here to give advice on things like nutrition as well, because we really want to push them to their full potential and see them do great.”

“It’s really personalized to every person. Coach

really likes to take into consideration your goals and recognize them,” says member, Ursula Jaimes. “I think he really cares about his clients. He wants his clients to be happy. It doesn’t feel like a regular gym where you just get your workout.”

Lion’s Den Fitness is located on the west side of I-35, just on the outskirts of St. Edward’s campus and down the road from Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden. The idea for the new workout center started to come to life in late summer of 2020, after the original tire shop owner kept trying to get James, who is a certified personal trainer, to take the garage and turn it into a kickboxing hub. His daughter Deanna, who was wrapping up a bachelor’s degree in business from University of Houston, got involved and helped with the 2021 opening. Today, less than two years later, Lion’s Den Fitness is seeing major client success stories.

“After seven to eight months of going to the gym with Coach, I lost seventy pounds,” says James. “It

wasn’t anything that was extreme. It was completely healthy, just him teaching me about nutrition and how to take care of my body and still feed my body and give it fuel for energy.”

As a coach, James is no stranger to the challenges of fitness. He, himself, once went from a pants size of 38, down to a 32.

“I was getting close to almost two hundred pounds, and I’m short. I’m five-footfour,” says James. “My body fat percentage was around thirty-something percent. I didn’t realize how unhealthy I was.”

To help others, Lion’s Den Fitness offers two different types of workouts — kickboxing and strength and conditioning. A high-intensity workout with body weight exercises mixed with martial arts is the best way to describe the kickboxing class, while strength and conditioning is mainly performance based. James uses years of experience and talent to develop the programming for each workout, and then modifies as needed, depending on the skill level of each class participant in the small group settings. Class attendees move through three different performance bays within the garage-like structure.

“Everybody’s squat looks different,” explains James. “My ideal is to get the bar on their back, but not everybody has proper form, so I may have to modify what they are doing with smaller weights and stuff like that.”

Lion’s Den Fitness is packed with multiple fans to keep everyone cooled down, even in the Texas summer heat. Five classes are offered each day, which includes two in the morning and three in the evening. The gym allows for two free sixty-minute workouts to anyone who would like to try something new.

“I had never kickboxed before,” says Lion’s Den Fitness member, Olivia Little, who moved from Virginia to Austin six years ago. “My background is in dancing. Two years ago, I was looking for a new form of physical activity and to get out of the house and try something new.”

“I think fitness looks different for everyone,” says

Deanna. “What may work for one person is not going to work for someone else. Just finding something that’s fun for you and that you can enjoy that doesn’t have to be a chore.”

Consistency is key, according to James. That, and drinking plenty of water and incorporating an abundance of vegetables into a diet. The American College of Sports Medicine suggests that adults do strength exercises on all major muscle groups at least twice a week, with a focus on legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, and shoulders. It’s important to lose weight the healthy way, practicing moderation; for example, the Centers for Disease and Control recommend losing as little as one to two pounds a week, depending on your current body size and height. Accountability workout partners help too, along with a fun location in a relevant neighborhood.

“I love the location. Saturday when we have workouts, it’s really nice, because I’m able to run errands. It’s a great location, and it has Austin vibes,” says Ursula.

“That little stretch of South Congress is one I’m at daily. My dogs go to daycare right up the road at Wolf and Work,” says Little. “It’s very close-knit, like a boutique gym. It’s not a big box gym; it’s very personalized. You really get a sense of community where you are making friends. People hold you accountable for showing up, and I think that’s really important in anyone’s fitness journey.”

“It’s really cool being off South Congress. There’s a lot going on here,” says Deanna. “One of our favorite things is that we live really close by, so that makes it a lot easier. I love whenever there’s local businesses that can stay for years and years — it really establishes the community.”

In the future, both James and Deanna hope to grow their gym and grow their fitness community even more. Lion’s Den Fitness currently has around 20 members. Gym membership isn’t required, and anyone is able to schedule a class at any time.

ldfatx.com

“YOU REALLY GET A SENSE OF COMMUNITY WHERE YOU ARE MAKING FRIENDS.” DEANNA DELEON

A Community That Cares

curate funds that address the community and its most immediate needs because they actively listen to their neighbors.

“It’s important for us to amplify voices,” Mike says. “There are trusted resources in our communities, and we should be focused on uplifting them and mobilizing their efforts.” It’s their presence in the community, and their willingness to listen to those leading ongoing philanthropic efforts throughout Austin that enable Mike and his colleagues to strategize sustainable solutions for our city’s struggles.

By Carolynn Solorio Photos courtesy of Austin Community Foundation

CENTRAL TEXAS LOOKED PRETTY

different 45 years ago, and it’s hard to imagine any similarities between past and present Austinites. One thing that has stuck around, though, is our care for one another, and desire to make our city work for everyone who lives in it. This neighborly mission of inclusion is at the core of Austin Community Foundation, a grantmaking public charity whose work over the past 45 years has brought Austinites of all experiences together in efforts to close the ‘opportunity gap’ that prevents financial and social resources from being evenly disbursed throughout the city.

Austin Community Foundation is an organization meant to “bring together people, ideas and dollars to serve the Central Texas community,” says CEO Mike Nellis. Over the past eight years of serving as the Foundation’s chief executive officer, Mike has gained an unmatched insight into where and who in Austin are in the most severe need of recourses. That’s because, as a grant-based charity that raises and allocates funds across the city, it’s incredibly important for Mike and his team to be aware of the most pressing issues for those living in it. “Community foundations are focused on serving the needs of the specific regions they serve,” Mike explains. “Everything we do is driven by community voice and collective decision-making.”

Austin Community Foundation’s success in supporting the city’s unique needs for the past few decades is no accident, either. Mike and his team can

This advocacy-led investment is also supported with data gathered from across the Central Texas area that highlights the inequities in need of financial attention and investment. “We use data and commission research to expose the areas where monetary support is most needed,” Mike explains. This combination of commissioned research and advocate-led awareness leads to the foundation’s ability to generate direct assistance to the groups that need it most. For instance, the charity’s impactful projects such as The Black Fund, Hispanic Impact Fund and Women’s Fund allocate funding to nonprofits working to improve the economic security of Central Texans. Just last year, along with ACF’s other ongoing funds, these programs helped award a record $52.7 million in grants to Central Texas non-profits in need.

But it’s not just about raising financial support for various causes. Rather, it’s about data-driven community investment that directly challenges the mul-

titude of inequities prevalent in Central Texas. This strategic philanthropic approach through data and outreach became especially important during the pandemic, where Mike and his team saw COVID as an accelerant in exposing these inequities. When asked about the issues made obvious by the pandemic, such as affordable housing, Mike said that he and his colleagues feel that there is a clear role for philanthropy to play in addressing them. Public sector support can only go so far, and where government assistance is limited, public funds like those curated and disbursed by ACF are crucial for our community.

Mike said it best: “The rapid growth of our community has been incredible, but not necessarily for everybody.” As Austin expands, its essential that we continue to take care of our own, and work to ensure that the increase in opportunity is felt equally for Austinites across all backgrounds and experiences.

That’s what makes organizations like Austin Community Foundation so important, and their work to uniquely address the specialized needs of our growing Central Texas community.

Whether it’s donating to one of their many community funds, or establishing a charitable fund of your own, ACF makes it easy for those interested in giving back to the community to do so. “We’re proud of the work we do here at the foundation,” Mike beams, “and we will continue to invest in this community in the most meaningful ways that we can.”

austincf.org

FOR OVER 45 YEARS, AUSTIN COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HAS BEEN CREATING SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS TO CLOSE THE OPPORTUNITY GAP

MCCRAY & CO.

Husband-and-wife duo Chris McCray and Grace Hall of interior design fi rm McCray & Co. have built a reputation for creating some of Austin’s most memorable spaces, including the elaborate island paradise at Tiki Tatsu-Ya, the exquisitely layered Vixen’s Wedding, the funky Texas-meets-Japanese izakaya at Kemuri Tatsu-Ya, and the neighborhood gem Lenoir.

To McCray & Co., blending old, new, high, low, and custom is the path to making sure a space has got soul. Rather than following trends or imposing a well-trod aesthetic, they pull inspiration from seemingly everywhere: their clients’ vision, their own travels, clever material reuse, music, even myths and stories. Chris’ philosophy is, “Look at more stu .” He takes the simple credo to heart – and with more than three decades of industry experience, he’s seen a lot of stu .

While McCray & Co. is best known for their work in the hospitality world, their dynamic studio o ers high-end residential interior design services as well. From furnishing homes to make them feel more personal, to ground up construction and complete renovation, their collaborative approach ensures that each space is aligned with the way clients live.

As the team points out, “Listening is our favorite tool.” This enables them to create one-of-a-kind spaces, where every detail is considered and where people love to spend their time.

Online: mccray-co.com

Instagram: @mccrayandco

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: WILL ELLIS, JANE EATON, JAKE HOLT.

Breakfast Club

PAVING THE WAY FOR A MORE INCLUSIVE CYCLING COMMUNITY

By Liz Harroun

SOME ENJOY THE SIMPLICITY OF RIDING BIKES, WHILE OTHERS ride for parallel experiences that oftentimes come with the sport: unbridled eating and drinking, breathtaking views and like-minded people with whom to take in the enjoyment of it all.

Breakfast Club started as a group of four friends who understood that the fun of riding bikes extended far beyond the time in the saddle. In early 2020, they started meeting at Carpenters Hall every Saturday morning, from there they would leave for a two-hour ride, followed by many more hours of hanging out, eating and chatting. This way, even though they all had different skill levels and paces, they reconvened at the end to share an afternoon of good food and conversation.

“It started as an outlet to be a bit more casual and not take the riding component so seriously, to have the social aspect and community connection be the focus,” says Grant Rogers, co-founder and “head chef” of Breakfast Club.

Others started hearing about the ride and, before long, about 20 people were

Photos by Simon Krenk

showing up every week. When the pandemic hit, they paused riding for a few months. However, Breakfast Club continued to have an online presence, and when the rides started back up, they were bigger than ever. When the number of riders neared 100, they moved to larger venues and split into multiple ride groups.

For many, it was a social haven during the lonelier pandemic days. “We provided this outdoor opportunity to come and hang out and provide that connection,” Rogers comments.

Today, Breakfast Club hosts monthly group rides, usually out of Central Machine Works, where hundreds of riders of different levels show up to ride their bikes for two hours, followed by an epic after-party. The riders split into four groups, each with a different pre-designated route depending on skill level. The A Group is the fastest, and usually rides about 40 miles at over 20 miles per hour, while the D group has a much shorter route and slower pace. The B and C groups are somewhere in between, averaging 15-20 miles per hour over 30-40 miles. Breakfast Club ride leaders accompany the groups to keep them on the route and assist with mechanicals. Police cars escort the riders on their routes out of town, providing riders with additional safety.

After two hours of riding, which starts around 8 a.m., no matter which group you go with, everyone circles back to the starting point for a party full of food, drink, photos and laughter. Oftentimes it lasts well into the afternoon, longer than the ride itself.

Typically group rides are organized by bike shops, which are incentivized to bring more riders in where they hopefully buy something from time to time. However, the shops aren’t reliant on revenue from group rides to stay in business since they have other patrons coming in to make high-dollar bike purchases. With no physical location, Breakfast Club has to do things differently to cover expenses like police escorts and ride leader kits. So they partner with brands and venues that help supply the whole operation with nutrition, gear, event space and funding. They also sell Breakfast Club swag, including t-shirts and water bottles, on their website. Some partners they work with include Pas Normal Studios (a cycling apparel company) and Specialized Austin.

When I attended the monthly ride in April, I didn’t know what to expect. I had been to plenty of Breakfast Club rides before, most of them starting from Central Machine Works and then heading out of town. This one, however, was different. It began in Round Rock at the headquarters of one of their latest

partners, Bare Performance Nutrition. Because it was far up north (most of us drove to the start, although there was a group of folks who rode from town), I anticipated a much lower turnout. However, it ended up being the largest Breakfast Club ride with more than 500 riders who showed up ready to ride their bikes through beautiful country roads.

Since I braved the A group, I rode tucked in a large, fast group at more than 22 miles per hour on exposed roads lined with vast cornfields and wildflowers. The group split into smaller groups, but everyone checked on each other throughout. My friend April who I drove with gave me one of her water bottles since I didn’t have time to fill mine up before the group left. Near the end of the ride, when I was about to lose the group after a hill, my friend, Dave, seemingly out of nowhere, pulled me back on by encouraging me to draft on his wheel as he did the work to get us back on.

We came back to the start — around the same time as the other three groups — ready for breakfast. There were free pancakes and coffee for all as well as t-shirts to commemorate the partnership. You could even purchase a limited Breakfast Club edition Cinnamon Roll protein made by BPN. The whole morning was one to remember, and I came home feeling full from a hearty breakfast and a fantastic community.

There are plenty of other regular group rides in Austin, but nothing close to the magnitude of the community around Breakfast Club.

“We provide an outlet for people to come together and feel part of something bigger when they have different riding capabilities,” says Rogers. It’s not about structured training or going as fast as possible; the bigger mission of Breakfast Club is making the cycling community more inclusive and fun, and that doesn’t stop with the monthly co-ed rides. They also host “rider leader pop-ups” that are more sporadic and smaller — but just as fun as the huge monthly rides — and leave from The Meteor on South Congress Saturday mornings. And, unforgettably, the weekly women’s-only “Babes Ride.”

Breakfast Club CEO Jordie Whittle (a.k.a. “Mom”) is responsible for all experiential operations for rides, including Babes. “It has been a personal mission of mine to bring more women into the sport of cycling that is vastly male-dominated,” she says. “I had a cold entry into cycling and had to figure a lot out on my own. With the Babes, I want women to feel comfortable learning about the sport and building community.”

Every Wednesday, 30 to 40 ladies of all skill levels show up to climb some hills (including Mount Bonnell), regrouping throughout the ride so that no one gets left behind. Afterward, the group rolls back to The Meteor to hang out and drink wine together. Much like the monthly ride, the mission is much bigger than fitness. It’s about an authentic community for adults of varying backgrounds, skill levels and interests  — aside from the obvious shared interest in riding bikes.

The Breakfast Club is lowering the barrier of entry for cycling. If you see hundreds of riders mobbing through downtown on Saturday morning (with police escorts as accomplices in their street takeover), you can be pretty sure it’s Breakfast Club. Better yet, grab a bike and ride with them yourself!

breakfastclubatx.com

“THE BIGGER MISSION OF BREAKFAST CLUB IS MAKING THE CYCLING COMMUNITY MORE INCLUSIVE AND FUN.”

Putting Down Roots

A NEW HOUSING PROJECT MEANT TO PRESERVE HERITAGE OAKS

By Lauren Jones

Photos by Brittany Dawn Short

FOR FRANCISCO UZCATEGUI, MANAGING principal and founder of Houston- and Austin-based residential design-build firm Unicus Developments, deciding to preserve centuries-old trees during the planning of his latest project was a no-brainer. Not only does one of the trees, which stands nearly 40 feet tall, grace the adjacent home with dappled light, a tranquil view and treehouse-esque atmosphere, but Uzcategui feels it’s his due diligence to the land. It also helps that he had a $380,000 tree budget. The new development, FIVE — a private, gated collection of five architecturally impressive homes — will be complete by winter 2024 with prices beginning at $12.48 million. The tree, which flanks the final home at the back of the site, an 8,200 square-foot modern masterpiece, is a key part of the home’s charms.

“You can see the tree from every vantage point of the house, from the family room to the kitchen to the principal bedroom,” he says. The tree-moving

process, which included a 12-foot relocation from the corner of the lot to the center, took six months and was accomplished with help from EDI (Environmental Design, Inc.). “They did Ground Zero in New York and the Post Oak Corridor in Houston,” he says. “We used them for the transplant, and they also have a tree farm.” Unicus also looked to EDI to source more than 30 oaks planted throughout the five-and-half-acre estate.

In order to move the tree successfully and ensure its survival during the critical five-year post-transplant period, months of effort went into preparation, guided by the experts at EDI. For the past 40+ years, the firm has been the premier provider for large-scale tree supply and transplants in the U.S. and abroad, offering nursery establishment, turnkey tree harvest, installation and more.

While moving a more than 100-year-old tree was a daunting effort in itself, geography offered yet another challenge. The solid stone ground meant that special equipment would have to be used to care-

fully remove the tree and root it in its new home, a successful operation due to EDI’s proprietary technology. Unicus spent $189,000 on this process alone, which developed a sense of a courtyard with the tree as the focal point and blurred the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

“The beauty of doing this with EDI is that the company’s success rate is ninety-eight percent,” he says. The City of Austin requires a five-year bond to ensure the tree thrives. “Plus, EDI has a five-year preservation plan and will maintain it for the homeowner during that critical survival time. They come to assess it each month.”

While the process was lengthy and arduous, it’s even more monumental given that it was done for a residential project. “We’ve been told by the City arborist that this is the only transplant of this nature that has been done for a single-family residence. It’s more common with commercial projects,” he says. Some of EDI’s clients, which range from resorts, universities, master-planned communities and commercial spaces, include Stanford University, the University of Texas, the San Diego Zoo, The Woodlands and Pebble Beach Resorts.

At the end of the day, Uzcategui and his team are able to salvage heritage oaks because they control the development and have budgeted for it.

“We believe this will set an innovative example of how developments can complement a space and create a sense of serenity and appreciation for home design,” he adds.

As a centrally located development, potential buyers are offered a chance to live within 10 minutes of downtown but also have a fairly flat one-acre plot. “A rare occurrence in Austin,” Uzcategui remarks. Rolling hills, flourishing trees and privacy set the stage, while consideration of the site, orientation, landscaping and materiality were all highly considered during the design and planning process, which was led by Mexico City-based architect, David Curiel.

“We have been working with David for the last ten years,” he says. The now 33-year-old architect has filled each unique home with

stunning finish-outs, as well as floor plans that are visually impactful yet practical.

For example, residence IV, nicknamed the “Brass Door House,” combines a traditional Hill Country stone facade with modern glass volumes and six-foot-by-10-foot brass panels, which will patina over time.

“The inspiration for the Brass House is the Old World with heavy stone that makes it feel like it’s been here for years,” says the architect. Inside, there are two kitchens separated by a pantry, one facing the living room, ideal for entertaining, and the other more for prep and everyday cooking. During the private reveal for the community, open to neighbors, media and clients, on April 18, Unicus brought in contemporary art and provided cocktails and appetizers from award-winning chef Matthew Peters, former executive sous chef of The French Laundry.

“We are curators of experiences and the art of living and feel like homes should serve as a canvas,” Uzcategui says. The idea for the development company was formed from his passion for design and construction, further rooted in an appreciation for the arts throughout Latin America, Europe, and the U.S. “We’ve carried those design pillars and inspiration throughout the design and build of FIVE,” he says.

While each home has a one-of-a-kind plan, they share some similarities with an earth tone exterior that complements the Texas landscape, three- or four-car garages with charging stations, a dog-washing station, spa-like bathrooms, a pool, private fenced green space and built-in lighting to showcase homeowners’ art collections. Property I, which will stand 6,700 square feet, has triangle-arched windows, five bedrooms, five bathrooms and will be complete by May 2024. Property II, the second home when you enter the main driveway, is set on a 1.1-acre lot and is the second largest home at 8,240 square feet, while the fifth residence, is still under design and will be complete at the end of next year. Property I has sold but the rest are still available for purchase through Moreland Properties.

unicusdevelopments.com

“THE COMPANY’S SUCCESS RATE IS NINETY-EIGHT PERCENT.” FRANCISCO UZCATEGUI

Get

Roasted

MOZART’S CELEBRATES 30 YEARS ON OYSTER LANDING

By Britni Rachal

Photos by Brittany Dawn Short

THE YEAR IS 1993, AND ON A HOT JUNE

Monday, Mozart’s Coffee Roasters on Lake Austin is just beginning to open its doors for the first time. Baristas hadn’t yet entered the Austin market, as the concept for coffee shops had just started to brew in cities like Seattle and California. Celebrating 30 years this year, Mozart’s is now a staple in the Austin community, a place of deep-rooted memories for loyal local patrons and tourists alike, with some of the most expansive, beautiful, almost beach-like views right in the middle of Central Texas — all by simply walking down the inviting stairs that lead to Mozart’s well-crafted deck.

Originally, four couples invested in Mozart’s, with Ken and Stacey Leonard very hands-on, in what became a labor of love for Austin’s first-ever on-premises coffee roaster, which sits next to Hula Hut. The now iconic area is known as “Oyster Landing” and named after another one of the original investors, Duffy Oyster. The idea for a coffee shop came from California, in particular, from Pannikin coffee shop, once located in La Jolla, near San Diego.

“It sounds funny to even be saying this, but at the time, cafes didn’t exist in the coffee business. People didn’t go out and drink coffee,” says Leonard.

“The day we opened I think we never could have imaged that what Mozart’s might have done in its first week of business or weeks of business would be what we do in an hour at Mozart’s now.”

All eight partners (including Duffy and Tina Oyster, Bill and Katrine Formby, Ken and Barb Strottman) had a background in hospitality, and they also enlisted help from a U.S.-based office of a German roasting industry consulting firm, Probat, to help identify and buy equipment for roasting coffee beans. Millions

of customers and a couple dozen of unique blends later — including the classic Lake Austin and Mozart’s blends — Leonard cites the success of Mozart’s coffee based strongly on people who help produce the beverages. Master Roaster, Jack Ranstrom, is a former Seattle’s Best Coffee apprentice recruited by the Mozart’s team six years after Mozart’s opened. He’s since incorporated green coffee blends from as far away as Brazil, Columbia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicauraga, Indonesia and Kenya.

“I would say the biggest differentiation in what it means to produce excellent coffee is a commitment to buying quality raw ingredients,” says Leonard.

From day one, three concepts — place, bakery and coffee — have been the key focus in the success of Mozart’s. Those aspects fuel a business that Leonard says gains consistently year after year, even during times of crisis, including downward turns in the economy and the COVID-19 pandemic.

A fourth aspect of importance is music, with an estimated 500-600 artists performing each year, including previous Grammy-award winning artists and surprise artist visits during SXSW and Austin City Limits Music festival weekends. Chloe Youtsey, a jazz musician, singer and pianist with experience performing at places like Carnegie Hall and Kennedy Center, is the artist in residency at Mozart’s. For three years now, Youtsey has played a large role in scheduling other artists and elevating Mozart’s musical lineup,

including helping to bring a new music stage, The Loft, to life, in partnership with facilities manager, Nate Smith.

Especially important is Mozart’s emphasis on its onsite seven-day-a-week baking operation, where Karla Hernandez leads a team to create sweet and savory treats. Pastries, croissants, savory quiches, cupcakes, brownies and more are all freshly handcrafted by local bakers and pastry chefs. Another fun fact: due to an abundance of offerings, no one item tends to sell better than the next.

Variety is a theme at the coffee shop, and over the last three decades, if its walls could talk, they’d tell the story of past, present and future memories that are embedded in the hearts of its loyal, local patrons.

Espoir Nindeba studied at Mozart’s while completing his undergraduate degree at University of Texas. Now, he is working on materials for Harvard Medical School from the coffee shop, while also recovering from an unexpected brain aneurism that brought him temporarily back home from Boston.

“Doing medical school and then pausing it, and then me trying to get back into it, is one of the hardest things,” says Nindeba. “Mozart’s is a place where I can regain my focus and get back into the routine. Coming here kind of hits a reset button in my brain, helping me slowly diagnose each thing I need to do. This place has helped me out tremendously.”

For the good times and the bad times, Mozart’s is the place that Michael Mercieca wants to be. When the London native moved to Austin in 2001 from Australia, Mozart’s immediately stood out due to its diversity of patrons from all over the world and its beach-like atmosphere on the water. Memories of a young son standing on a table in a backwards baseball cap, goofing off, dancing to the music, eating his favorite chocolate mousse cake still make Mercieca smile, as his son is now 23 and living in Houston.

Mercieca, who is a fan of Mozart’s cappuccino,

hibiscus mint iced tea and the coconut macaroons, now frequents the scenic coffee shop several times during the week for work, and at least once or twice on the weekends. An environment of entrepreneurs and start-up energy has also helped him network his consulting business.

“For me, it’s a very comforting, fun, relaxed place. Mozart’s has punctuated my life. Being right on the water, it’s like an Oasis in the growth of Austin,” says Mercieca. “I will quote Dickens — ‘in the best of times and the worst of times’ — that’s always been the place to go where I get to regroup and feel my best.”

Slightly newer to Austin, Aldanah Alqahtani arrived to Austin in 2016 and admires Mozart’s for its diversity and the owners’ generosity to others.

value these small things — helping and supporting the community,” says Alqahtani. In fact, Mozart’s reminds Alqahtani of her small town. She’s made friends at the shop, and the owners also helped her celebrate a holiday, Eid al-Adha, which is celebrated in her country.

“Last year they bought and sold baskets with things that represent our holiday. That’s my heart. This is amazing what they are doing,” says Alqahtani. “To spend their time and money to understand the culture and holiday, that’s really special for a group of people.”

Another special event that more than 300,000 people still enjoy on a complimentary basis at Mozart’s each year is the annual holiday lights show. One of the partners, Katrine Formby, came up with the idea to use digital technology to synchronize music to Christmas lights 13 years ago, back when Austin’s Trail of Lights was on hold. Since then, several innovations, including the option to buy reserved tables for the show, along with a Bavarian-style parking lot market complete with pretzels, world-renown hot chocolate and cocoa bombs, and dozens of other festive treats grace Mozart’s for a total of 56-days each year. A gift to the Austin community, the event requires months of preparation and the attention of hundreds of employees.

The Saudi Arabia native frequents the coffee shop twice daily to work on her Ph.D. in land biology.

“Mozart’s is more than just a place to grab a coffee. It’s a really warm and inviting space,” says Alqahtani. “I feel like it’s a second home to me, and I accomplished a lot of my projects and work there. They are nice and welcoming to all people — it doesn’t matter what is your community, your color, religion or country, or what you are wearing. Everyone is super nice, and I really appreciate that.”

Alqahtani’s favorite Mozart’s memory is something she witnessed during the 2021 winter storm, when a blind woman walked in to buy water and was given beverages on the house.

“That’s a story that really touched me. I really

“No one would have ever imagined what the light show would become,” says Leonard. “This past year we added the new modality of dance. We put in an integrated LED lighted dance floor in the parking lot, which was a huge family success, and again entirely free for the community.”

With much change and expansion, the coffee shop prides itself on being an “Austin hold-out” refusing to branch out in places like San Antonio, Houston or Dallas. Popularity increases each year with patrons flocking the area much for the same reasons as year’s prior: the beautiful views of Lake Austin in a warm, friendly, entertaining and engaging environment.

For Ken and Stacey Leonard, the recipe for that the success is still very simple: it’s about people and community, and a focus on the same core values that helped launch Mozart’s on that early summer day in 1993.

mozartscoffee.com

Kyle Bunting

1340 Airport

Commerce Dr., Unit 325

Rugs will become the highlight of your home thanks to Kyle Bunting, where fine Italian hides are transformed into jaw-dropping masterpieces. The myriad of rug and hide designs available at Kyle Bunting can add a pop of color or layer of texture, and the team works with clients to craft custom pieces as well. kylebunting.com

Decor Galore

LOCAL STORES THAT ARE TREASURE TROVES FOR INDUSTRY DESIGN FANS TO FIND THE PERFECT ITEMS TO MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME

BY AVERY MATSCHEK

Maaribu

1413 South 1st St.

3402 Guadalupe St

Handpicked, high-quality pieces from Maaribu will complete anyone’s dream home. The store’s bedding collection is defined by comfort and an easy, natural design with coordinating layers, textures and shades. Maaribu’s South First shop is also home to a café with coffee and pastries, while their Guadalupe showroom boasts a bakery truck onsite. Chic furniture, funky wall art and sophisticated accessories are all available at Maaribu, inspired by Marfa and Malibu. maaribu.com

Shabby Slips

4807 Burnet Rd.

Now located on Burnet Road, Shabby Slips carries a deep inventory of gorgeous mirrors, antiques, lighting and furniture. Owner and principal designer Sara Scaglione’s boutique started as a slipover and custom furnishings shop before growing to offer design services and expanding its in-store offerings. At Shabby Slips, customers can discover classic and elegant elements for every room in the house. shabbyslipsaustin.com

Room Service Vintage

117 East North Loop Blvd.

Calling all vintage lovers! This is the place to find items from the 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond to add a little flair to your dwelling. The 3,500-square-foot space holds a bevy of one-of-a-kind pieces — colorful glasses, vinyl records and everything in between. The building itself is a fun visit, as it once was a pharmacy and soda fountain and now houses what we consider to be one of Austin’s best vintage stores.

roomservicevintage.com

Alexander Marchant

1617 West Koenig Ln.

Thanks to a wide range of lighting, bath accessories, plumbing fixtures and hardware, Alexander Marchant is a can’t-miss destination for the renovator. The team at Alexander Marchant works with clients designing their own spaces, as well as trade professionals in the industry. Any item from Alexander Marchant will add a stunning finishing touch to your kitchen or bathroom.

alexandermarchant.com

Good Company Home

904D West 12th St.

Good Company started as a clothing boutique before expanding into housewares. There’s plenty to choose from here, from giftable items like candles and planters to more home-oriented objects like kitchen tools and wall decor. goodcompany.shop

The Renner Project

3018 North Lamar Blvd.

The Renner Project carries an eclectic mix of mid-century modern and vintage furnishings in their spacious spot on North Lamar. Designer Kimberly Renner has cultivated relationships with dealers around the world to provide a curated collection of home goods in ever-changing roomscapes. The accessories are incredible here — think vintage busts, fantastic frames and unique sculptures. There’s also wall art, textiles, lighting fixtures and other drool-worthy items you’ll want to bring home. therennerproject.com

Bleu by TPG

3801 North Capital of Texas Highway, C-160

Bleu by TPG only opened in April 2022, but the shop has quickly become a hotspot for design lovers. Laura Pankonien, the founder and owner of design firm The Pankonien Group, launched her storefront to offer to-the-trade items that are typically reserved for her clients. The inventory ranges from vintage decor and art to blue and white pottery and fun barware. Recognized as one of “House Beautiful’s” best home stores of 2022, Bleu by TPG could become your new favorite shopping destination. bleubytpg.com

THE RENNER PROJECT PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RENNER PROJECT, GOOD COMPANY HOME PHOTO BY ROCHELLE ABANTE,

TPG PHOTO BY AVERY NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY

A Custom House

4626 Burnet Rd.

A place for both retail customers and interior designers, A Custom House offers wonderful home goods and furniture in a showroom setting. The store’s team also works with clients on projects, lending a fresh perspective to designing beautiful spaces. A Custom House carries a curated collection of antiques, lamps, arts and other accessories to make any house a well-designed home. acustomhouse.com

Modern Redux

8120 Research Blvd. #108

A mid-century modern wonderland, Modern Redux features a collection of items from the modernist design movement. “Mad Men” fans will fawn over the refurbished coffee tables, artwork, lighting fixtures and amazing decor. Located at the intersection of Highway 183 and Anderson Square, the store will introduce customers to the beauty of 20th-century modern furnishings. modernredux.com

A CUSTOM HOUSE PHOTO BY KATE LILLY, MODERN REDUX PHOTO COURTESY OF MODERN REDUX

APT. F

1200 East 11th St., Suite 104 Apartment F carries incredible handmade vintage Moroccan and Turkish rugs and pillows, in addition to glassware, baskets, candles and more gift-worthy products. The store also presents top-of-the-line pantry goods like Brightland olive oil and Seed + Mill tahini, as well as apothecary items such as bath bombs and face masks. shopaptf.com

Magic Caravan

5202 Burnet Rd.

Magic Caravan is the mecca for Turkish boutiques in Austin. With handmade rugs and home furnishings, owner and collector Huseyin Sahin’s store carries authentic pieces sourced from the historic region once known as Persia, which will contribute to the overall beauty of any residence.

magiccaravan.business.site

Uncommon OBJECTS

1602 Fortview Rd.

Uncommon OBJECTS is an antique collective that houses 24 sellers under one roof near Menchaca Road. A visit to Uncommon OBJECTS is more than just a means to an end of finding something to add to a home, it’s a journey through eras in time and design styles. Overflowing with quirky antiques dealers and one-of-a-kind pieces, you never know what you might find at Uncommon OBJECTS. uncommonobjects.com

Urbanspace Interiors

301 West Ave. #100

Sparrow Interiors & Gifts

3404 Jefferson St.

Elizabeth Cates founded Sparrow Interiors & Gifts in 2017. The boutique storefront carries items from brands like Schumacher, Annie Selke and Kravet, and the shop’s full-service design studio’s capabilities range from interior decorating to new construction and everything in between. Design fanatics can bring their vision to life with the support and vision of the Sparrow Interiors team. sparrowinteriors.com

With pieces for the bedroom, living room, dining room, outdoor spaces and beyond, Urbanspace Interiors is a one-stop shop when renovating or building a new home. The full collection features lighting fixtures, storage and organization pieces, decor accessories and modern furniture. Plus, the team members at Urbanspace are available to guide clients with any and all of their design needs.

urbanspaceinteriors.com

SPARROW INTERIORS & GIFTS PHOTO COURTESY OF SPARROW INTERIORS, UNCOMMON OBJECTS PHOTO BY HARPER SMITH, URBANSPACE INTERIORS PHOTO BY SOPHIE EPTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Gràcia

A FULL-SERVICE MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR OPENS IN ROSEDALE

By Karen O. Spezia

Photos by Holly Cowart

YOU KNOW THE DRILL: A NEW RESTAURANT OPENS AND everyone scrambles to check it out. They post on social, rave to friends, then forget about it when something else opens. It’s a familiar cycle in Austin, where new restaurants pop up like toadstools after a rainstorm. We’re spoiled with such a vibrant restaurant scene where you can eat some place different every day and never get bored.

But what about when the chase gets tiresome? When you just want a neighborhood place that feeds your stomach and your soul? Where you can be a regular and greeted by the staff — and perhaps the clientele — by name? That’s the niche that Mediterranean newcomer, Gràcia, hopes to fill.

Located in midtown’s Rosedale neighborhood, Gràcia has only been open a short time but already feels like it has been around awhile. Inspired by the popular Barri de Gràcia neighborhood in Barcelona, Gràcia offers a similar funky, friendly vibe. It’s a cozy sliver of a restaurant that accommodates just 50 diners. Formerly occupied by Fluff bakery, Gràcia is wedged within a low-slung strip

mall, anchored on one end by its sibling Italian restaurant, Gusto, a neighborhood fixture for over a decade. Restaurateur Cameron Lockley owns both Gràcia and Gusto, and the two restaurants share some of the same staff and clientele, with servers and diners often greeting each other with casual familiarity.  Designer Robert Smith helped transform the narrow space into a warm and welcoming dining room using earthen and oceanic colors reminiscent of coastal Mediterranean cities like Barcelona and Tel Aviv. A snug bar runs along one wall, offering a handful of stools for sipping or dining. The other wall is lined with a wooden banquette, cushioned with hand-made textiles and pillows and framed by a sparkling mirror accented with original textile artwork. Breezy wicker chandeliers illuminate the intimate space with a soft glow. Outside, a small covered patio overlooks bustling Burnet Road.

Texas-born Chef Jason Tallent honed his culinary skills in San Francisco, where he worked at some of my favorite restaurants in my old stomping grounds like Globe, Boulevard, Hawthorne Lane, Jardiniere and Rose Pistola. He returned to Austin over a decade ago to helm the kitchens of 34th Street Café and Cipollina. Now at Gràcia, he showcases the Mediterranean flavors of Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Morocco with tapas-style dishes meant for sharing.

But before diving into the food, settle in with a well-crafted cocktail like the classic Vieux Carré made with locally-distilled Milam & Greene Port Cask Rye, Pierre Ferrand 1840 Cognac, Lustau red vermouth, Strega Italian liquor and Creole bitters. Or if you prefer wine, there’s a fabulous international selection, including a couple of my favorite Italian wines by the glass: a crisp Livon pinot grigio from Friuli and an elegant Grosjean Frères pinot noir from Valle d’Aosta. Pair your drink with a plate of creamy chickpea hummus dusted with za’atar spices and

drizzled with Aleppo chili oil. It comes with homemade flatbread, but pay the additional supplement for the vegetable crudité, a garden-fresh seasonal selection that recently included watermelon radishes, purple carrots, sugar snap peas and cucumbers.

Other sharable nibbles include roasted baby eggplant seasoned with tahini, Aleppo chili oil, mint, lemon, black sesame seeds and za’atar spices. Served in its charred skin, the tender eggplant is scooped out onto warm grilled pita. There’s also Spanish inspired  patatas bravas, crispy potato cubes sprinkled with fresh herbs and served with a bold Dijon-garlic aioli. Gràcia’s menu favors seafood. The scallops are terrific: sweet jumbo dayboats caramelized to perfection and scented with a hint of truffle oil, served with a side of whipped potatoes. Other seafood specialties include oysters on the half shell, salmon tartare, grilled swordfish skewers, baked cod in a piquant tomato sauce and shrimp wrapped in Serrano ham. Tallent’s signature dish, calamari Bolognese, is a twist on the Italian classic and served atop tender homemade potato gnocchi. For non-seafood options, there’s grilled sirloin steak and also lamb chops glazed with an herbaceous Italian Salmoriglio sauce.

In keeping with Mediterranean tradition, desserts are light and refreshing. There’s gelato, sorbetto and chocolate budino pudding. But my favorite is the orange almond cake, a not-toosweet confection bursting with citrus flavors and tamed with a sweet creamy yogurt sauce. Although Gràcia’s cuisine is global, its heart is decidedly local. Even with its international influence, its core is a neighborhood spot where you can’t help but absorb its convivial vibe within its cozy quarters. Every neighborhood should have a place like Gràcia, where you can stop chasing the Next New Thing, relax and enjoy.

graciamediterranean.com

1417 FRENCH BISTRO

1417 SOUTH 1ST STREET | (512)-551-2430

Neighborly chic greets you and offers a French bistro comfort menu from steak frites to moody blue cheese beignets. A full bar serves up signature cocktails from a refreshing cucumber gimlet to a blood orange French Margarita with black volcanic salt. Don’t miss their gorgeous patio for al fresco dining at its best!

24 DINER

600 N. Lamar Blvd. | (512) 472 5400

Chef Andrew Curren’s casual eatery promises delicious plates 24/7 and a menu featuring nostalgic diner favorites. Order up the classics, including roasted chicken, burgers, all-day breakfast and decadent milkshakes.

34TH STREET CAFE

1005 W. 34th St. | (512) 371 3400

This neighborhood spot in North Campus serves up soups, salads, pizzas and pastas — but don’t miss the chicken piccata. The low-key setting makes it great for weeknight dinners and weekend indulgences.

ARLO GREY

111 E Cesar Chavez St. | (512) 478 2991

Arlo Grey is the debut restaurant from “Top Chef” 10 winner and “Fast Foodies’’ star Kristen Kish. Found inside the LINE Hotel, the picturesque lakeside spot has received praise for its intentional design and elegant, French-and-Italian-inflected take on Texas ingredients.

ASTI TRATTORIA

408 E. 43rd St. | (512) 451 1218

This chic little Hyde Park trattoria offers essential Italian dishes along with a variety of wines to pair them with. Finish off your meal with the honey-andgoat-cheese panna cotta.

BARLEY SWINE

6555 Burnet Rd., Ste. 400 | (512) 394 8150

James Beard Award–nominated chef Bryce Gilmore encourages sharing with small plates made from locally sourced ingredients, served at communal tables. Try the parsley croissants with bone marrow or Gilmore’s unique take on fried chicken.

BLUE DAHLIA BISTRO

3663 Bee Cave Rd. | (512) 306 1668

A cozy French bistro serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual setting. Pop in for the happy hour to share a bottle of your favorite wine and a charcuterie board.

BUFALINA & BUFALINA DUE

6555 Burnet Rd. | (512) 215 8662

This intimate restaurant serves up mouth-watering pizzas, consistently baked with crispy edges and soft centers. The famous Neapolitan technique is executed by the Stefano Ferrara wood-burning ovens, which runs at more than 900 degrees. Lactose-intolerants beware, there is no shortage of cheese on this menu!

CAFÉ NO SÉ

1603 S. Congress Ave. | (512) 942 2061

South Congress Hotel’s Café No Sé balances rustic décor and a range of seasonal foods to make it the best place for weekend brunching. The restaurant’s spin on the classic avocado toast is a must-try.

CARVE AMERICAN GRILLE

7415 Southwest Pkwy. | (512) 792 4450

Whether it’s a date night dinner, a casual Friday lunch, or weekend family brunch, visit this amazingly modern-rustic dining room complete with a vibrant bar and patio with hill country views. Everything about CARVE is inspired by fresh and eclectic ingredients, with every dish reinventing the American grille experience.

CICLO

98 San Jacinto Blvd. | (512) 685 8300

Ciclo is a modern Texas kitchen featuring locally inspired flavors and ingredients with a Latin influence, brought to life by world-renowned restaurateur, Richard Sandoval. Ciclo’s name reflects its focus on menu offerings that change seasonally from ceviches, crudos and grilled and smoked meats to inventive cocktails.

CLARK’S OYSTER BAR

1200 W. 6th St. | (512) 297 2413

Small and always buzzing, Clark’s extensive caviar and oyster menu, sharp aesthetics and excellent service make it a refreshing indulgence on West Sixth Street. Chef Larry McGuire brings East Coast-inspired vibes to this seafood restaurant.

CHAPULÍN CANTINA

1610 South Congress Ave. | (512)) 441-7672

chapulincantina.com

Chapulín Cantina is an Oaxacan inspired restaurant from long-time restaurateurs Chefs Ryan Samson and Daniel Brooks (Vespaio, Enoteca, Licha’s). This lively neighborhood restaurant and bar offers fresh seafood, tylayudas, from scratch moles, house made nixtamal tortillas, aguas frescas, and an expansive selection of mezcal and other agave distilled spirits. Open for lunch and dinner every day at 11am (closed Mondays). Don’t miss the $8 Happy Hour menu

Tuesday-Friday 3-6pm. Order takeout online.

COMEDOR

501 Colorado St. | (512) 499 0977

Hiding in plain sight on one of downtown’s busiest street corners, Comedor is a restaurant full of surprises. Lauded chef Philip Speer delivers a menu that is equally clever and unexpected, with contemporary cuisine riffs on Mexican culinary traditions.

EASY TIGER

3508 S. Lamar Blvd. | (512) 964 8229 6406 N I-35 Frontage Rd., Ste. 1100 | (512) 494 4151 1501 E. 7th St. | (512) 839 8523

Easy Tiger lures in both drink and food enthusiasts with a delicious bakeshop upstairs and a casual beer garden downstairs. Sip on some local brew and grab a hot, fresh pretzel. Complete your snack with beer, cheese and an array of dipping sauces.

ÉPICERIE

2307 Hancock Dr. | (512) 371 6840

A café and grocery with both Louisiana and French sensibilities by Thomas Keller–trained chef Sarah McIntosh. Lovers of brunch are encouraged to stop in here for a bite on Sundays.

FONDA SAN MIGUEL

2330 W. N Loop Blvd | (512) 459 4121

At Fonda San Miguel, authentic interior Mexican food is lovingly served inside a colorful hacienda-style restaurant. The art-adorned walls and indoor, plant-filled courtyard provide a pleasant escape in North Austin.

FOREIGN & DOMESTIC

306 E. 53rd St. | (512) 459 1010

Small neighborhood restaurant in the North Loop area serving unique dishes. Chefs-owners Sarah Heard and Nathan Lemley serve thoughtful, locally sourced food with an international twist at reasonable prices. Go early on Tuesdays for $1 oysters.

ELDORADO CAFE

3300 W. Anderson Ln. | (512) 420 2222 eldoradocafeatx.com

Eldorado Cafe exemplifies old school Austin, resonating the beat of the early 90’s, sending out hot plates of the most decadently delicious and sometimes healthy eating you will find in Austin. Mexican style comfort food with a deep honor towards the historical eateries that have made Austin great. Come see us.

GOODALL’S KITCHEN AND BAR

1900 Rio Grande St. | (512) 495 1800

Housed in the beautiful Hotel Ella, Goodall’s provides modern spins on American classics. Dig into a fried-mortadella egg sandwich and pair it a with cranberry-thyme cocktail.

GRIZZELDA’S

105 Tillery St. | (512) 366 5908

This charming East Austin spot lies somewhere between traditional Tex-Mex and regional Mexican recipes, each fused with a range of flavors and styles. The attention to detail in each dish shines and the tortillas are made in-house daily.

HANK’S

5811 Berkman Dr. | (512) 609 8077

Delicious food and drinks, an easygoing waitstaff and a kid-friendly patio all work together to make Hank’s a favorite neighborhood joint. With happy hour every day from 3-6:30, the hardest task will be choosing between their frosé and frozen paloma.

GRÀCIA

4800 Burnet Road Suite 450 (512)649-4844

graciamediterranean.com

Gràcia, Catalan for “grace” is a Mediterranean inspired restaurant and wine bar in the midtown Austin neighborhood of Rosedale. The menu is seafood forward and draws on flavors throughout the Mediterranean including Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Morocco, and more. The wine list features selections from family-run estates around the Mediterranean, and the curated cocktail list incorporates boutique spirits - perfect for pairing with Gràcia’s sharable plates. Open every day at 5pm. Happy Hour MondayFriday 5-6pm.

GUSTO ITALIAN KITCHEN + WINE BAR

4800 Burnet Rd. | (512) 458 1100

gustoitaliankitchen.com

Nestled in the Rosedale neighborhood of northcentral Austin, Gusto captures the warm, comforting, every-day flavors of Italian cuisine. Dishes range from housemade antipasti to hand-formed pizzas, salads, panini, fresh pasta, entrees featuring Texas farmraised meats and scratch desserts. Craft cocktails, beer on tap and boutique wines. Open for lunch, happy hour and dinner.

HILLSIDE FARMACY

1209 E. 11th St. | (512) 628 0168

Hillside Farmacy is located in a beautifully restored 1950s-style pharmacy with a lovely porch on the East Side. Oysters, cheese plates and nightly dinner specials are whipped up by chef Sonya Cote.

HONEY MOON SPIRIT LOUNGE

624 W. 34th St. | (737) 209 0319

Vintage-chic hot spot with ample outdoor seating turning out imaginative cocktails and global mains.

HOPFIELDS

3110 Guadalupe St. | (512) 537 0467

A gastropub with French inclinations, offering a beautiful patio and unique cocktails. The beer, wine and cocktail options are plentiful and the perfect pairing for the restaurant’s famed steak frites and moules frites.

JEFFREY’S

1204 W. Lynn St. | (512) 477 5584

Named one of Bon Appétit’s “10 Best New Restaurants in America,” this historic Clarksville favorite has maintained the execution, top-notch service, and luxurious but welcoming atmosphere that makes it an Austin staple.

JOANN’S FINE FOODS

1224 S. Congress Ave. | (512) 358 6054

A South Congress neighborhood spot, a new take on the American diner, and a vacation for locals and tourists alike. Open early and late at the Austin Motel, Joann’s is a welcome respite for early birds and night owls, outlaws and in-laws, all ways always.

JOSEPHINE HOUSE

1601 Waterston Ave. | (512) 477 5584

Rustic Continental fare with an emphasis on fresh, local and organic ingredients. Like its sister restaurant, Jeffrey’s, Josephine House is another one of Bon Appétit’s “10 Best New Restaurants in America.” Find a shady spot on the patio and indulge in fresh baked pastries and a coffee.

JUNE’S ALL DAY

1722 S. Congress Ave. | (512) 416 1722

This wine-focused restaurant is complemented by serious cocktails and a menu of approachable bistro favorites. Inspired by Paris cafes, Spanish tapas bodegas and urban wine bars, June’s encourages sipping, noshing and lingering.

JUNIPER

2400 E Cesar Chavez St. #304 | (512) 220 9421 Uchi Alumni Chef Nicholas Yanes fuses central Texas influences and local farm produce with Italian fare. Start with puffy potatoes and the Chef’s Brand New Cadillac Negroni.

JUSTINE’S BRASSERIE

4710 E. 5th St. | (512) 385 2900

Justine’s is a quaint French brasserie deep in East Austin. Don’t let the short drive deter you — the experience of eating traditional French plates among exquisite works of art and decorative string lights makes for one idyllic evening with a significant other.

KEMURI TATSU-YA

2713 E. 2nd St. | (512) 803 2224

Kemuri Tatsu-Ya is a Japanese-Texan mash-up that injects seriously good food with a sense of humor. The East Austin joint features Asian-inspired smoked meats and seafood, along with yakitori, ramen, and izakaya classics meant for sharing. Drinks are also an integral part of the meal, so come thirsty.

LA BARBECUE

22401 E Cesar Chavez St. | (512) 605 9696

Though it may not be as famous as that other Austin barbecue joint, La Barbecue is arguably just as delicious. This trailer, which is owned by the legendary Mueller family, serves up classic barbecue with free beer and live music.

LAUREL

320 S. Capital of Texas Hwy. | (512) 306-6500

Hotel Viata’s new modern Italian restaurant showcases the best of Texas Hill Country and Italian coastal cuisine. Guests are greeted with a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, and can enjoy diverse menu options partnered with a refined cocktail menu inspired by the world’s finest spirits.

LAS PALOMAS

3201 Bee Cave Rd. #122 | (512) 327 9889

One of the hidden jewels in Westlake, this unique restaurant and bar offers authentic interior Mexican cuisine in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. Enjoy family recipes made with fresh ingredients. Don’t miss the margaritas.

LE VACHER

136 Drifting Wind Run, Suite 101, Dripping Springs, TX (512) 337 6977

Head chef Jacob Euler imparts a sense of culinary heritage with a creative twist, focusing on cuisine inspired by French technique and artfully prepared local ingredients. The scenic Dripping Springs landscape, a familial tie-that-binds, creates the perfect backdrop for an evening of fantastic food and revelry.

LENOIR

1807 S. 1st St. | (512) 215 9778

A gorgeous spot to enjoy a luxurious French-inspired prix fixe meal. Almost every ingredient served at Lenoir comes locally sourced from Central Texas, making the unique, seasonal specialties even more enjoyable. Sit in the wine garden for happy hour and enjoy bottles from the top wine-producing regions in the world.

LIN

ASIAN BAR + DIM SUM

1203 W. 6th St. | (512) 474 5107

Located in a vintage West Sixth Street bungalow, Chef Ling and her team create sophisticated Chinese dishes that draw enthusiastic crowds day and night. Make sure to stop by during weekend brunch to taste the full mouthwatering dim sum menu.

LICHA’S CANTINA

1306 E. 6th St. | (512) 480 5960

Located in the heart of East 6th, Licha’s is a quick trip to the interior of Mexico. With masa made fresh in house and a large range of tequilas and mezcal, Licha’s Cantina is a celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine. The music, food and ambiance will get you ready for a night out on the town.

LORO

2115 S. Lamar Blvd. | (512) 916 4858

Created by James Beard Award winners Tyson Cole and Aaron Franklin, this Asian smokehouse is a welcome addition to South Lamar. The expansive indoor-outdoor space, designed by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, is welcoming and open, and unsurprisingly the food does not disappoint. Don’t miss out on the sweet corn fritters, smoked beef brisket, thai green curry or those potent boozy slushies.

MATTIE’S

811 W. Live Oak St. | (512) 444 1888

Mattie’s is a glorious urban paradise offering upscale American classics. While the cocktails are top-notch and the cuisine is nothing short of outstanding, Mattie’s ambiance and atmosphere are unmatched.

NIXTA TAQUERIA

2512 E. 12th St.

The brainchild of James Beard-nominated chef Edgar Rico and Sara Mardanbigi, this East Austin gem has garnered national acclaim and in 2020 was named one of the best new restaurants by Food & Wine magazine. Nixta’s artfully-crafted tacos are unlike any other and made with wildly creative ingredients — but the Mexican heritage corn tortillas are truly the star.

ODD DUCK

1201 S Lamar Blvd. | (512) 433 6521

Famed food trailer turned brick-and-mortar, Odd Duck is the first venture from acclaimed chef Bryce Gilmore. Expect seasonal fare and drinks with a strong Texas influence sourced locally whenever possible.

MARYE’S GOURMET PIZZA PUB

3663 Bee Cave Rd. #4G (512) 327-5222

maryesgourmetpizza.com

Marye’s Gourmet Pizza, a West Lake Hills favorite for over 25 years, serves gourmet pizza, fresh salads, classic sandwiches and more all made from scratch in our kitchen using the best ingredients we can source. We offer a large selection of gf and vegan options. Enjoy crave-worthy food, craft beer and boutique wines in our casual and inviting dining room.

PARKSIDE

301 E. 6th St. | (512) 474 9898

Patrons flock to this downtown hideaway for its wide selection of oysters and other modern-American specialties. The 6th Street locale is filled with industrial details and plenty of natural light, so it’s no wonder that reservations are often necessary to get a table in the inviting space.

THE PEACHED TORTILLA

5520 Burnet Rd. #100 | (512) 330 4439

This cheerful spot is sure to clear your weekly blues with friendly staff, fun food and a playful atmosphere. Affordably priced, you’ll find culinary influences from around the world with a healthy dose of Asian and Southern options.

PICNIK

4801 Burnet Rd. | (737) 226 0644

1700 S. Lamar Blvd. | (512) 293-6118

A perfect place to find wholesome food for any type of dietary restriction in a bright and airy setting. This place truly lives out the “good and good for you” concept with paleo-friendly options and thoughtfully sourced ingredients.

POOL BURGER

2315 Lake Austin Blvd. | (512) 334 9747

Tiki meets Texas in this neighborhood burger bar. Located behind Deep Eddy Cabaret, crunchy crinkle-cut fries and juicy burgers are served from the window of a 1968 Airstream Land Yacht.

QI AUSTIN

835 W 6th St. #114 | (512) 474 2777

Created by visionary chef Ling Qi Wu, also the owner of the esteemed Lin Asian Bar, Qi Austin dazzles with its top-notch Chinese cuisine and vibrant artwork. Located in Shoal Creek Walk, Qi Austin is a restaurant that pleases the eye as well as the stomach.

RED ASH ITALIA

303 Colorado St. #200 | (512) 379 2906

Red Ash Italia strikes the perfect balance between high-quality food and enticing ambiance. This Italian steakhouse is led by an all-star team, including executive chef John Carver. Sit back, relax and enjoy an exceptional evening.

ROSEWOOD GULF COAST CHOP HOUSE

1209 Rosewood Ave. | (512) 838 6205

Housed in a historic East Side cottage, this spot is quickly becoming a staple. Chef Jesse DeLeon pays outstanding homage to his South Texas roots with seasonal offerings from Gulf Coast fishermen and Hill Country farmers and ranchers.

SAMMIE’S ITALIAN

807 W. 6th St | (512) 474 2054

A member of the MML Hospitality family, Sammie’s will not only transport you to another place — but also to another era. The ritzy joint features a throwback menu of Italian-American favorites, completely transforming the former Hut’s Hamburgers space. Start with a well-made cocktail as you nibble on the complimentary bread basket filled with homemade focaccia and bread sticks.

SUERTE

1800 E. 6th St. | (512) 953 0092

Helmed by executive chef Fermín Núñez, Suerte was inspired by extensive travels through Central Mexico. Artisanal masa is the highlight, made from local heirloom corn and used in distinctive dishes rarely found on Austin menus. Order the delectable Suadero Tacos, perfect for sharing with friends.

THAI FRESH

909 W. Mary St. | (512) 494 6436

A restaurant, cooking school and market all in one place. When you’re done dining on traditional Thai favorites, stop by the adjoining coffee bar for freshly brewed joe, homemade ice cream and an array of baked goods.

THE WELL

440 W. 2nd St. | (737) 742 1129

The Well blends top-tier nutrition, local and sustainable farming, and authentic flavors for a breakthrough culinary experience that redefines healthy food in Downtown Austin.

TINY BOXWOODS

1503 W. 35th St. | (512) 220 0698

This Houston-based brand now serves its simple and delicious food in Austin’s Bryker Woods neighborhood. Favorites include house-ground burgers, salmon Provencal salad and their chocolate chip cookies.

THE WAYBACK

9601 Bee Cave Road Austin Texas 78733 | (512) 520 9590 waybackaustin.com

The Wayback mingles with nature, inviting travelers to do the same. The cafè serves the freshest ingredients on a seasonal menu that balances southern staples with newfound favorites, and the patio and outdoor lawns are perfect for dining alfresco.

TILLIE’S

3509 Creek Rd. Dripping Springs, TX | (512) 894 2633

Through its breathtaking architecture and innovative menu, Tillie’s lives the American Nouveau concept. The restaurant’s building, a repurposed town hall from the Ninh Binh region of Vietnam, is the physical embodiment of a dining experience that takes inspiration from history and cultures. Tillie’s culinary journey is inspired by traditional American cuisine, but with an international flair.

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN

222 West Ave. | (512) 777 2430

11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Suite 100 | (512) 992-0685

Inspired by Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory diet, True Food Kitchen combines decadent favorites with health-conscious eating. The restaurant, located in downtown’s Seaholm district, offers a full range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

UCHIKO

4200 N. Lamar Blvd. Ste. 140 | (512) 916 4808

The sensational sister creation of Uchi and former home of Top Chef Paul Qui and renowned chefs Page Presley and Nicholas Yanes, Uchiko is an Austin icon that everyone should visit at least once. Try the bacon tataki.

VIXEN’S WEDDING

1813 E. 6th St. Ste. A | (737) 242 7555

Vixen’s Wedding is a charming space creating something truly unique. Helmed by culinary super-couple Todd Duplechan and Jessica Maher, the restaurant specializes in Goan cuisine, a cultural mash-up of bright and complex flavors.

WU CHOW

500 W. 5th St., #168 | (512) 476 2469

From the curators of Swift’s Attic, Wu Chow is expanding Austin’s cuisine offerings with traditional Chinese dishes sourced from local purveyors and farmers. Don’t miss the weekend dim sum menu.

Curb

Appeal

&

COMPASS REAL ESTATE

LISA: 512.751.7321

SUSAN: 512.658.8229

LISAANDSUSAN@COMPASS.COM

LISAANDSUSANRESIDENTIAL.COM

We are thrilled to present an exceptional single-story house on a sprawling 2-acre lot that backs to a gorgeous golf course in Barton Creek. This luxurious property boasts a guest house, two master bedrooms, and organic gardens that will delight any nature lover. The rare Texas basement with an elevator is a unique feature that sets this home apart from the rest. With two motor courts and a 4-car garage, there is ample parking for all your needs. This remarkable property is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Schedule a viewing and experience the grandeur of this outstanding home for yourself.

LISA SEXTON

SUSAN DOYLE

3108 GRANDVIEW ST., AUSTIN, TX 78705

4 BEDROOMS | 3 FULL BATHS | 1 HALF BATH | EXTRA LARGE BONUS ROOM | 2 OUTDOOR DECKS

3,560 SQ. FT. | $2,695,000

City living in luxury and style! This 2017 home is 4-star green builder rated, has two tankless hot water heaters, zoned A/C, security, additional lighting features, and white oak flooring throughout. The main floor has an open plan featuring a living room with a fireplace and large windows overlooking the deck, a commercialgrade kitchen, and gorgeous dining room. Tucked away on the main floor is the primary suite with soft, natural light, two walk-in closets, and a large master bath with soaking tub, a giant glass shower, and a dual vanity. The entire second floor is a huge bonus room, and the guest rooms have their own floor. On the third floor are 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, laundry, and a covered deck. The yard is fully fenced with 3 garden beds, and the multiple outdoor living areas make this an entertainer’s paradise tucked away in the center of town!

Drop-In at the Long Center for Free Concerts All Summer

By Holly Cowart

LAST MONTH, ACL RADIO AND THE LONG CENTER RELEASED another fantastic lineup for the Drop-In, a series of free community concerts. The showcase was first launched in 2021 to uphold Austin’s tradition of easy access to exceptional live music. With genres spanning from psychedelic hip-hop to pop to good ‘ole rock ‘n’ roll, some of the talented local acts taking the outdoor stage this year include Good Looks, THEBROSFRESH, Chief Cleopatra, Urban Heat, Annabelle Chairlegs, Alejandro Escovedo and more.

Running every Thursday until August 10th, the Long Center will announce the upcoming artist each Friday before opening RSVPs to the public the following Monday. Once your seat on the lawn is secured, show up on Thursday with blankets, bevvies and friends in tow. The shows will start at 8 p.m., and there

will be plenty of food trucks and pre-show surprises to complete the festive weekday outing.

Set against the dazzling downtown skyline, the concerts will also showcase the venue’s new 3D-printed performance pavilion, created by ICON and unveiled in March during South by Southwest. The first of its kind in the world, it took 14 days to complete the unique structure, which is inspired by the landscape and future design of El Cosmico in Marfa, Texas.

With limited capacity, make sure to visit the website to stay up-to-date on event announcements and spend the summer connecting with fellow music lovers, catching your favorite Austin artists and discovering new reasons to love our city.

thelongcenter.org

CALENDARS

BE SURE TO CHECK WEBSITES FOR UPDATED INFORMATION AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Entertainment

WALKER HAYES

June 16

Round Rock Amp

MELANIE MARTINEZ

June 17

Moody Amphitheater

BILLY CURRINGTON & JOSH WARD

June 17

Whitewater Amphitheater

GARBAGE & NOEL GALLAGHER’S HIGH FLYING BIRDS

June 18

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

GLADYS KNIGHT & PATTI LABELLE

June 19

Bass Concert Hall

CITIZEN

June 22

Stubb’s

DIRTY HEADS

June 23

Whitewater Amphitheater

MUSIC

DURAN DURAN

June 6

Moody Center

MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER

June 6

Paramount Theatre

WATERPARKS

June 7

Emo’s Austin

THE ROCKET SUMMER W/ HELLOGOODBYE

June 7

Mohawk

WEEZER

June 8

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

SONIC FROOTZ

June 8, 16, 23 & 30

Antone’s Nightclub

LEY LINE

June 8

Pershing

SIR WOMAN

June 9

Parish

AN ORCHESTRA RENDITION OF DR. DRE

June 9

Scoot Inn

BANG YONGGUK

June 10

Emo’s Austin

JONAS BLUE

June 10

Superstition

BENNY BENASSI

June 11

Devil May Care

MUSIC OF GRATEFUL DEAD FOR KIDS

June 11 & 18

Far Out Lounge

LES CLAYPOOL

June 14

Moody Amphitheater

LOGIC

June 15

Moody Center

ASO: BRAHMS X RADIOHEAD

June 15

Palmer Events Center

OBLIVION ACCESS FEST

June 15 – 18

Multiple Venues

DREAM THEATER

June 16

H-E-B Center at Cedar Park

FISHER

June 16

Superstition

HEARTBYRNE

June 16

Far Out Lounge

THE PETERSON BROTHERS

June 23

Long Center

BEAT ROOT REVIVAL

June 23

The 04 Center

A FLOCK OF SEAGULLS

June 23

Emo’s Austin

LOS DOS CARNALES

June 23

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

PRIDE IN LOCAL MUSIC FEST

June 24

Long Center

HEARTBYRNE PHOTO BY STEPHEN OLKER

ANTONE’S ANNIVERSARY: IRMA THOMAS W/ MARCIA BALL

June 24

Antone’s Nightclub

PAUL CAUTHEN

June 24

Whitewater Amphitheater

JACK INGRAM

June 24

Haute Spot

NIGHT CAP

June 24

Scoot Inn

BROWNOUT

June 24

Mohawk

PIXIES W/ FRANZ FERDINAND & BULLY

June 25

Moody Amphitheater

THE SMILE

June 25 & 26

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

BARENAKED LADIES

June 26

Bass Concert Hall

WAVVES

June 26

Mohawk

ILLENIUM

June 30

Moody Center

TLC & SHAGGY

July 3

Bass Concert Hall

MISS LAVELLE’S BDAY

BASH

July 3

Antone’s Nightclub

WILLIE NELSON’S 4TH OF JULY PICNIC

July 4

Q2 Stadium

The 04 CenterFILM

ATX TV FEST

June 1 – 4

The Driskill Hotel

AGLIFF’S PRIDE MINI FILM-A-THON

June 3 – 5

Galaxy Theatres

ESSENTIAL CINEMA: THE EARLY WORKS OF MAKOTO SHINKAI

June 6 – 29

AFS Cinema

CINE LAS AMERICAS INTERNATIONAL FILM

FEST

June 7 – 11

Multiple Locations

ASO: E.T. THE EXTRATERRESTRIAL IN CONCERT

June 17

Long Center

AUSTIN ASIAN AMERICAN FILM FEST

June 21 – 25

AFS Cinema

SAY ANYTHING SCREENING W/ JOHN

CUSACK

June 22

Paramount Theatre

MOVIES IN THE PARK: THE SANDLOT

June 29

Govalle Neighborhood Park

THEATER

UNDARK: A RADIOACTIVE PUPPET PLAY

Through June 17

The VORTEX

BIG FISH

June 2 – July 2

Austin Playhouse

SUMMER CAMP

June 5 – August 4

Austin Scottish Rite Theater

CAMP PARAMOUNT

June 5 – August 4

Paramount Theatre

JULIETA TIENE

LA CULPA

June 8 – 17

Ground Floor Theatre

MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL

June 10

H-E-B Center at Cedar Park

HAIRSPRAY

June 13 – 18

Bass Concert Hall

NOISES OFF

June 14 – July 9

ZACH Theatre

YOUNG SHAKESPEARE’S THE COMEDY OF ERRORS

June 16 – 25

The Curtain Theater

RADIO:30 BY CHRIS EARLE

June 22 – July 15

Hyde Park Theatre

BOX BY JARRETT KING

June 23 – July 8

Ground Floor Theatre

THE ART OF MARTYRDOM (A COMEDY)

June 23 – July 15

The VORTEX

COMEDY

BECKY ROBINSON

June 8

Paramount Theatre

THEO VON

June 8 & 9

Paramount Theatre

MELISSA VILLASEÑOR

June 8 – 10

Cap City Comedy Club

KILL TONY

June 10

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

THEO VON

June 10

Bass Concert Hall

BORED TEACHERS

June 14

Paramount Theatre

WE AIN’T DONE WILD’N OUT YET

June 15

Cap City Comedy Club

CALENDARS

BE SURE TO CHECK WEBSITES FOR UPDATED INFORMATION & SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Entertainment

Arts

RAINBOW ON THE CREEK

June 10

Moody Amphitheater

SUMMER FESTA IN PISCINA

June 10

Hotel Viata

MUSIC GEAR MARKET

June 11

Mohawk

CENTRAL TEXAS JUNETEENTH

2K, PARADE & CELEBRATION

June 17

East Austin & Rosewood Park

ODDITIES & CURIOSITIES EXPO

June 17

TACARRA WILLIAMS

June 16 & 17

Cap City Comedy Club

GABRIEL IGLESIAS

June 16 – 18

Comedy Mothership

COLIN JOST

June 17

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

JIAOYING SUMMERS

June 18

Cap City Comedy Club

AUSTIN SKETCH FEST

June 22 – 25

ColdTowne Theater

SHAYNE SMITH

June 23 & 24

Vulcan Gas Company

KEVONSTAGE

June 23 & 24

Cap City Comedy Club

GEORGE LOPEZ

June 24

ACL Live at the Moody Center

OTHER WEEKLY WORKOUTS AT WATERLOO

Through June 28

Waterloo Park

CAMP WILDFLOWER

June 5 – 29

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

BIKE NIGHT

June 6 – 27

Circuit of the Americas

Palmer Events Center

19TH FEST

June 18

Waterloo Park

CARS & COFFEE

AUSTIN

June 18

Circuit of the Americas

BLIPPI LIVE

June 23

Bass Concert Hall

MIDSUMMER FEST

June 24

Old Bakery & Emporium

GREATER AUSTIN COMIC CON

June 24 & 25

H-E-B Center at Cedar Park

LAWRENCE MCFARLAND: FROM DODGE CITY TO SHIPROCK

Through June 18

Lydia Street Gallery

AUSTIN PROUD: A HISTORY OF PRIDE PARADES IN AUSTIN, 1971-2002

Through June 30 Central Library Gallery

MARS WOODHILL: ELEMENTS OF NATURE

Through July 1

Julia C. Butridge Gallery

PARADISE BLOOM

Through July 6

Women & Their Work

VEENY REVILLA: SAD GIRLS

Through July 7

Asian American Resource Center

LAS HERMANAS IGLESIAS

Through July 9

Blanton Museum of Art

AUBREE DALE: GOTO’S

June 2 – August 12 Central Library Gallery

PATRICK PUCKETT: SOLO SHOW

June 3 – July 2

Wally Workman Gallery

CARVER SUMMER CAMP

June 5 – August 11

George Washington Carver Museum

SUMMER EXHIBITION

June 10 – August 11

Art for the People

SCOTT GRIFFIN & RITA KOOS

June 15 – July 15

Yard Dog Art Gallery

OUT OF LA ROMITA

June 17 – August 26

Flatbed Center for Contemporary Printmaking

CHARLES HEPPNER: INTROSPECTIVE: AT ONE WITH THE BEAUTY OF NATURE

June 24 – July 29

Davis Gallery

Art SPACES

MUSEUMS

BLANTON MUSEUM OF ART

200 E. MLK Jr. Blvd. (512) 471 5482

Hours: Tu–F 10–5, Sa 11–5, Su 1–5 blantonmuseum.org

THE BULLOCK TEXAS STATE HISTORY MUSEUM

1800 Congress Ave. ( 512) 936 8746

Hours: Tu- Su 10–5 thestoryoftexas.com

THE CONTEMPORARY AUSTIN–JONES CENTER

700 Congress Ave. ( 512) 453 5312

Hours: W 12–11, Th–Sa 12–9, Su 12–5 thecontemporaryaustin.org

THE CONTEMPORARY AUSTIN–LAGUNA GLORIA

3809 W. 35 th St. ( 512) 458 8191

Driscoll Villa hours: Tu–W 12– 4, Th–Su 10– 4

Grounds hours: M–Sa 9–5, Su 10–5 thecontemporaryaustin.org

ELISABET NEY MUSEUM

304 E. 44 th St. (512) 974 1625

Hours: W–Su 12–5 austintexas.gov/department/ elisabet-ney-museum

FRENCH LEGATION MUSEUM

802 San Marcos St. (512) 463 7948

Hours: Tu–Su 1–5 frenchlegationmuseum.org

GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER MUSEUM

1165 Angelina St.

( 512) 974 4926

Hours: M–W 10–6, Th 10–9, F 10–6, Sa 10–4 ci.austin.tx.us/carver

HARRY RANSOM

CENTER

300 W. 21st St.

( 512) 471 8944

Hours: Tu–W 10–5, Th 10–7, F 10–5, Sa–Su 12–5 hrc.utexas.edu

LBJ LIBRARY AND MUSEUM

2313 Red River St.

( 512) 721 0200

Hours: M–Su 9–5 lbjlibrary.org

MEXIC–ARTE MUSEUM

419 Congress Ave. ( 512) 480 9373

Hours: M–Th 10– 6, F–Sat 10–5, Su 12–5 mexic–artemuseum.org

O. HENRY MUSEUM

409 E. 5th St. (512) 974 1398

Hours: W–Su 12–5

THINKERY AUSTIN

1830 Simond Ave.

(512) 469 6200

Hours: Tu–F 10–5, Sa–Su 10– 6 thinkeryaustin.org

UMLAUF SCULPTURE

GARDEN & MUSEUM

605 Azie Morton Rd. ( 512) 445 5582

Hours: Tu–F 10–4, Sa–Su 12–4 umlaufsculpture.org

GALLERIES

ADAMS GALLERIES OF AUSTIN

1310 RR 620 S. Ste C4 (512) 243 7429

Hours: M–F 10–6, Su 10-2 adamsgalleriesaustin.com

AO5 GALLERY

10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 118 ( 512) 481 1111

Hours: M–Sa 10– 6 ao5gallery.com

ART FOR THE PEOPLE

1711 S. 1st St. ( 512) 761 4708

Hours: Tu–Th 11– 6, F-S u 11–7 artforthepeoplegallery.com

ARTUS CO.

10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 141 (512) 761 6484

Hours: M–Su 12–6 artusco.com

ARTWORKS GALLERY

1214 W. 6 th St. ( 512) 472 1550

Hours: M–F 10–5, S a 10–4 artworksaustin.com

ATELIER 1205

1205 E. Cesar Chavez St. (512) 434 9046

Hours: Tu-F 11-4 atelier1205.com

AUSTIN ART GARAGE

2200 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. J (512) 351 5934

Hours: Tu–Su 11–6 austinartgarage.com

AUSTIN ARTSPACE

7739 Northcross Dr., Ste. Q (512) 763 0646

Hours: F-Sa 11–5 austinartspace.com

AUSTIN GALLERIES

5804 Lookout Mountain Dr. ( 512) 495 9363 By appointment only austingalleries.com

BIG MEDIUM GALLERY

916 Springdale Rd., Bldg. 2 (512) 939 6665

Hours: Tu–Sa 12– 6 bigmedium.org

CAMIBA GALLERY

6448 Hwy 290 East, Ste. A102 (512) 937 5921

Hours: F-Sa 12–6 camibaart.com

CENTRAL LIBRARY GALLERY

710 W. Cesar Chavez St. (512) 974 7400

Hours: M-Th 10-9, F-Sa 10-6, Su 12-6 library.austintexas.gov/ central/gallery

CHRISTIAN-GREEN GALLERY

201 E. 21st St. (512) 471 0254

Hours: W- F 12-5, S a 11-2 galleriesatut.org

CLOUD TREE STUDIOS & GALLERY

3411 E. 5th St. (512) 797 8852

Hours: M-F 12-6, Sa-Su 12-5 cloudtreestudiosandgallery.com

CO-LAB PROJECTS

5419 Glissman Rd. ( 512) 300 8217 By event and appointment only co-labprojects.org

CONTRACOMMON

12912 Hill Country Blvd. #F-140

Hours: M–F By appointment only Sa–Su 12-6 contracommon.org

DAVIS GALLERY

837 W. 12th St. ( 512) 477 4929

Hours: M–F 10–6, Sa 10–4 davisgalleryaustin.com

DIMENSION GALLERY

SCULPTURE AND 3D ART

979 Springdale Rd., Ste. 99 ( 512) 479 9941

Hours: Th-Sa 10–6 dimensiongallery.org

DOUGHERTY ARTS CENTER

1110 Barton Springs Rd. ( 512) 974 4000

Hours: M-Th 10–10, F 10–6, Sa 10–4 austintexas.gov/department/ dougherty-arts-center

FLATBED CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY PRINTMAKING

3701 D rossett Dr. ( 512) 477 9328

Hours: W–F 10–5, S a 12–5 flatbedpress.com

FLUENT COLLABORATIVE

502 W. 33rd St. ( 512) 453 3199 By appointment only fluentcollab.org

GRAYDUCK GALLERY

2213 E. Cesar Chavez St. ( 512) 826 5334

Hours: Th–Sa 11– 6, Su 12–5 grayduckgallery.com

ICOSA COLLECTIVE

916 Springdale Rd. #102 ( 512) 920 2062

Hours: F–Sa 12–6 icosacollective.com

IVESTER CONTEMPORARY

916 Springdale Rd. Bldg 2, ste. 107 (737) 209 0379

Hours: Tu–F 10-6, Sa 10-4 ivestercontemporary.com

WHAT’S NEW ON TRIBEZA.COM

ART MEETS NATURE

Get the scoop on the Blanton Museum of Art’s beautiful new outdoor space. tribeza.com/austin-blanton-museum-of-artuniversity-of-texas-grand-opening

DRIPPING SPRINGS BLISS

Camp Lucy is launching a four-day Wellness Retreat in July designed for women’s health and well-being.

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TOP NOTCH TEQUILA

Beyond margaritas, these six Austin bars are crafting the most innovative tequila cocktails in town.

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