DPutt Picks for the ATX!

If you are in town and looking for something else to do before or after the EastSideBoil then I suggest you check out the following. You won’t be disappointed!

Coffee Shops

If you need a little pick me up after a long day, then you have to check out these two places.

JP’s Java – 2803 San Jacinto Blvd. – 512.494.0015
Located next to campus, this is where my former employer taught me the art of pouring a Rosetta as well as the important things in life. Great espresso straight out of Seattle and one of the best cups of coffee you will ever have in your life.

Caffe Medici – 1101 W Lynn St. – 512.524.2497
I worked with Michael at JP’s and he brought his hard work ethic and great customer service, combined it with his unique style and a great location. It gets busy but be careful, if you happen to grab a table outside on a sunny day you might not ever leave town.

Breakfast

One of the hardest things to decide on when I’m back in Austin is where to go eat breakfast each morning. Here are a few picks that I really enjoy but by no means are the only great breakfast places in town.

Cisco’s – 1511 East 6th St.
One of LBJ’s favorites and is located a few blocks from my house. You can’t go wrong with the Migas but don’t forget the ¼ lb. of fajita to go with it. Amazing!

Maudie’s – 2608 West 7th St.
If you like your Mexican food covered in cheese and sour cream with a little spice, then maudie’s is the place for you. My favorite is located on lake austin blvd.

Kerbey Lane – 3704 Kirby Lane
Open 24hrs serving great omelets and pancakes. The original on kerby lane is located in an old home and has the best atmosphere but you need to get there early to avoid the long wait. The baked potato omelette can’t be beat.

Taverna – 258 W. 2nd St.
Located down town in the booming second street district, Taverna is a nice place to have brunch as well as participate in the lively city vibe that is constantly changing.

Dinner

Dining in Austin is all about having something different. Getting away from the chains, enjoying good food and company, and making memories that will have you talking to all your friends about your great trip to Austin.

Chez Nous – 510 Neches St.
This small French bistro will transport you from Austin to the city streets of Paris. This is a short walk from the Hilton Garden Inn and well worth it.

Lambert’s BBQ – 401 West 2nd St.
When my friend Joel told me that he was going to be managing a restaurant that was going to serve fancy BBQ i almost laughed. BBQ has always been best served in an old smokehouse. The grungy surroundings gave the place character and enhanced your experience. This is what I thought before having dinner at Lambert’s. The modern decor in it’s downtown location all fits into a marvelous experience. Lambert’s Fancy BBQ is the bar that I set for all BBQ in the future. Go enjoy and tell Joel I said hello.

Bar at Hotel San Jose – 1316 South Congress Avenue
Not a place for dinner but a great place for an before or after dinner drink. Located in the heart of South Congress, this is a perfect place to sit by the pool catch up with a good friend or take a special lady and order a drink you normally wouldn’t. I felt a little silly ordering a champassion but it sure was delicious. Take a walk up and down South Congress afterwards and take it all in. Looking over the city during an evening stroll on South Congress is perfect.

Hotels

Hotel San Jose: a fancy place on South Congress with a feel that is a mix of urban tranquility and bustling South Congress excitement. This is truly a treat if you are new to the area and want excitement brought to your door.

W Austin: A trip to the W is like taking a trip to L.A.. It won’t be easy on the pocket book but if modern design, luxurious comfort all surrounded by shops and restaurants is what you want at your stay then the W comes up spades.

Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn: These have been two of the favorites of visitors of ESB past. Close, comfortable, and can be reasonable.

http://www.hotwire.com : by far the best way to go. Search it for 4 star downtown hotels and let luck be your lady. I use this website wherever I go and it hasn’t proven me wrong yet. Last year I stayed at the brand new ATT business center with my own private roof top terrace for under $100/night. Give it a shot.