Erin is the editor of Time Out Austin. She eats an exorbitant amount of sugar and has zero cavities. Take that, Mom. Follow her on Instagram at @erinito.

Erin Kuschner

Erin Kuschner

Articles (223)

The 12 best Airbnbs in Austin for a one-of-a-kind vacation

The 12 best Airbnbs in Austin for a one-of-a-kind vacation

Heading to Austin with dreams of barbecue feasts, live music, and an all-around good time? Great choice. Now is the perfect time to explore this unique city, whether you're eager to dive into its vibrant entertainment scene or lace up your boots for a memorable adventure in the stunning local scenery. Now, picture this: after a day filled with dancing, exploring, and savoring local flavors, you retreat to a cozy, one-of-a-kind spot to rest those tired feet. And sure, while a standard hotel is an option, why not make your stay as exceptional as the city itself? Austin has tons of incredible Airbnbs ready and waiting to take your trip to the next level. From garden oases to geodesic domes and luxurious penthouses with surprisingly reasonable rates, Austin's Airbnbs offer the perfect fusion of style and comfort. And, to ensure your trip is nothing short of amazing, we've curated a list of our top picks for the best Airbnbs in Austin. Don’t worry, you can thank us later. RECOMMENDED: 🏨 Check out the best hotels in Austin🇺🇸 Discover the best attractions in Austin👪 Traveling as a family? These are the best things to do in Austin with kids. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
Where to buy Christmas trees in Los Angeles

Where to buy Christmas trees in Los Angeles

Whether you enjoy the fresh smell of pine in your living room or prefer the convenience of a well-dressed, pre-lit fake tree, Los Angeles has a bounty of lots, shops and farms filled with Christmas trees of all sizes and shapes to suit your fancy—and picking one out is practically a Christmas event on its own. As the Thanksgiving food coma starts to wear off, you’re inevitably faced with figuring out where to buy Christmas trees in Los Angeles. Even if you only have space for a little tabletop tree, there are plenty of options: real or fake? Pre-cut or cut-your-own? Tinsel or tons of tinsel? Whether you prefer a real, fake or living tree—or even to cut down your own evergreen on a Christmas-tree farm—we’ve got you covered. Scope out some Christmas lights and holiday markets for inspiration, then decorate your own tree to your heart’s delight. RECOMMENDED: See more ways to celebrate Christmas in Los Angeles.
The best luxury hotels in Austin

The best luxury hotels in Austin

As one of the most exciting cities in the US, Austin’s hotels provide the very best in luxury. Bat City plays host to the likes of NASCAR and SXSW, a booming tech industry, and attractions galore, so the appetite for five-star experiences is pretty darn insatiable. If luxury is what you’re after, consider it served right here…with sides! Luxury can mean many things, too. For some, it is the coolest boutique hangout with fine-dining restaurants and an elevated bar; for others, it is a tranquil spa resort tucked away by the hills. It’s fair to say at least that the overall expectation is beautiful interiors, impeccable service, and a chance to indulge. For anyone looking to splurge a couple of nights (or more), take a look at our list of the finest Austin hotels, all of which are an ideal base for exploring the best things to do in Austin. Updated for February 2024: Because we like to always have one ear to the ground when it comes to the best stays, we're always improving our lists. An this time, we've taken the liberty of adding two new favorites, one a gorgeous mansion and heritage site, while the other is  steeped in modern luxury with a secluded poolside that will have you in utter bliss.  RECOMMENDED: 🇺🇸 Check out the best hotels in Austin🧖‍♀️Relax at the best spa hotels in Austin Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel
The 13 best hotels in San Antonio

The 13 best hotels in San Antonio

San Antonio isn’t just the best day (or weekend) trip to take from Austin anymore; it's a destination in its own right, filled with incredible cuisine, fun time bars, gorgeous hotels, fascinating historical structures, and much more. Time your visit for the annual fiesta celebration or the rodeo, and you’ll need a whole itinerary that requires some forward planning, especially when it comes to accommodation.  Here’s a tip: the bulk of tourist activity happens along the River Walk, and this is where you’ll want to be based. Luckily, there are lots of hotels primely positioned along or at least near it, along with resorts further afield where the point is to get away from the bustle. From right-on-the-water happening hangouts to charming boutiques by the Alamo to family-friendly spa resorts a short drive away, here are our favorite stays and the best hotels in San Antonio. RECOMMENDED: Best Airbnbs in San Antonio This guide was written by Texas-based writer James Wong. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you t
Where to stay in Austin right now, from a local writer and expert

Where to stay in Austin right now, from a local writer and expert

Austin is a city of contrasts, a place where you can just as easily spend time sinking craft beers and buying vintage dresses as you can getting wholesome with a day based around a hiking trail. And that’s not to mention the more traditional vacay past times like booking into a high-end restaurant or doing the whole Sunday morning museum trip thing. The most important thing is to get a handle on the different facets of this disco ball of a place, both so you can base yourself in the area that’s best for you, and so you can explore the rest at your total leisure (even if that just means spending it in the spa). To point you in the right direction, like any helpful local would do, we’ve pulled together a guide to Austin’s different neighborhoods with some notes on where to eat, drink, visit and stay when you’re in each part of town. From mozzarella-addled Korean food to an Austinite’s favourite brunch spot, we’re passing on all our secrets. RECOMMENDED:  🍳 The best brunch in Austin 🏨 The best boutique hotels in Austin 🍹 The best bars in Austin This guide was written by Texas-based writer James Wong. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.  
A guide to the best food halls in Los Angeles and Orange County

A guide to the best food halls in Los Angeles and Orange County

Bite into a sandwich here, slurp a bowl of ramen there, before finishing off with some ice cream—when it comes to piecing together the ultimate meal, it's always fun to pick and choose at Southern California's various food halls, home to small businesses and some of the most thoughtful, creative and scrappy chefs across the region. Though L.A.'s food halls date back close to a century—we're looking at you, Grand Central Market and the Original Farmers Market—a new crop of food havens have made it easier than ever for diners across the Southland to personalize their own all-in-one snack crawls. Check out our guide to our favorite food halls in Los Angeles and Orange County—and start planning your next visit.
The best breweries in L.A.

The best breweries in L.A.

If it seems like a new brewery pops up in a Torrance warehouse or Highland Park garage every few months, it’s because it does. Despite L.A.’s impressive pre-existing selection of beer bars, we’re also a city full of artisans who like taking matters into our own hands—including brewing beer.In fact, there’s so much fantastic craft beer in this city that compiling a list of best breweries had to come with restrictions: Here, we’ve focused on the breweries that have a taproom you can actually visit (hence why Craftsman, a veritable Pasadena brewery with a devoted following but no actual public space, is not on here), and those that actually brew in Los Angeles. So put down your crusty old Miller Lite, get out of the house and raise a pint to L.A.’s growing craft beer scene. RECOMMENDED: Guide to craft beer in L.A.
The 10 best boutique hotels in Austin

The 10 best boutique hotels in Austin

Contrary to popular belief, it ain’t all ranches and dusty motels down south – Austin is a modern metropolis filled with swanky lounges, tech offices, and big-name events, meaning fabulous hotels of all sorts to keep up with the demand. The Texan capital provides the perfect opportunity to elevate a stay, you know; designer furniture with a little feng shui, small-batch spa products from local perfumers, acclaimed on-site restaurants with camera-roll pretty plates… And the odd poolside firepit. This is Texas, after all. Basically, y’all have your eyes set on a boutique hotel to make your stay one to remember, don’t cha? Whether it's a weekend break or a staycation, we’ve rounded up the best boutique hotels in Austin that pack bags of character, style, and, of course, food (don’t forget to check out our list of best restaurants and best bars while you’re at it), and we promise, these are an experience in their own right. Who says hotels are just for sleeping? Check in and let the fun times roll.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Austin 
The best bars in Santa Monica

The best bars in Santa Monica

What makes a decent bar in Santa Monica? Depending on age, relationship status, income level and tolerance for blacked out tech bros, that answer may vary widely. Putting aside the beachside city’s singles hotspots, rooftop bars and tourist draws—we’re looking at you, Bungalow and Circle Bar—we’ve rounded up the 12 best bars in Santa Monica.   On this list, you’ll find steal-worthy happy hours, divey karaoke and grown-up wine and cocktail spots worthy of a celebratory night out. With something for everyone, don’t knock back a Santa Monica nightcap until you’ve tried one of these destination-worthy bars.
The 13 best chocolate shops in Los Angeles

The 13 best chocolate shops in Los Angeles

For thousands of years, humans have craved cacao-based treats and delicacies—the 16th-century European iteration of that being the chocolate most people in the United States know and love today. Whether you’re shopping for a gourmet holiday gift (always a delicious Valentine’s Day go-to) or just hoping to score a sweet treat of your own, these L.A. chocolate shops will be there to facilitate a sweet, dopamine-spiking reprieve from modern life. And, you know, with the future of cacao uncertain amid the worsening climate crisis, an indulgent box of high-quality gourmet chocolate may soon be a rarity, so enjoy cacao-based sweets while you still can.
How to spend 48 hours in Austin, Texas

How to spend 48 hours in Austin, Texas

Spending 48 hours in Austin may not seem like a lot of time, but with the right amount of planning, just about anyone can sample the greats. We all know the Texan capital is most famous for three things: festivals, barbecues, and bats; but there’s so much more on offer that gives Austin way more bang for its buck. They include the lush outdoor spaces, enjoyed under warm sunshine with an ice-cold brew and a paddle in the lake. A rich history and culture, from which you’ll gain a deeper understanding by way of the downtown museums and iconic music venues. And of course, the culinary scene, which is earning its stripes beyond beef brisket from a food truck. Trust us. Our local guide to Austin plucks all the classics with the hot shot new, to give y’all a well-rounded experience of what the city really has to offer. Come explore, get merry, and if you have the stamina, stay up all night long; here’s what to do when you only have 48 hours in bountiful Bat City. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in AustinWhere to stay in Austin right nowThe best restaurants in Austin This guide was updated by Texas-based writer James Wong. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 
The best fireplace bars in Los Angeles

The best fireplace bars in Los Angeles

Contrary to popular belief, winter does exist in Los Angeles. For a few fleeting months, the Santa Ana winds litter our streets with palm fronds, cravings for ramen and pho are at an all-time high and, yes, even the leaves change colors (you might just have to drive to see them). So when the sun sets early and that Pacific Ocean breeze blows in, it’s time to head for the fire pits and other cozy places around L.A. These fireplace bars are keeping us warm with crackling flames and seasonal cocktails all fall and winter long. Now—let’s get lit!

Listings and reviews (72)

WEST

WEST

Austin’s biggest art crawl is back this spring as galleries, studios and private homes across West Austin open to the public for two weekends of pure art appreciation.
Moontower Comedy Festival

Moontower Comedy Festival

Laugh out loud while the country’s best comedians—Tiffany Haddish, Tig Notaro, Mike Birbiglia and others—bring their best jokes to Austin’s annual comedy bonanza. The Paramount Theatre serves as Moontower’s home base, but you can catch stand-up, sketch and improv at venues across the cit, where locals such as Matt Bearden, Chris Cubas and Avery Moore will have you laugh until you cry.
Keep Austin Beautiful

Keep Austin Beautiful

Put on a pair of gloves and join Keep Austin Beautiful on their mission to clean and beautify the city—one park, river and roadside at a time. On December 9, volunteering families work alongside organizers during Clean Lady Bird Lake, a large-scale cleanup of a 10-mile stretch along the shoreline. The Christmas Cleanup of Loop 360 gathers volunteers to collect yuletide decorations from cedar trees along the route to protect the natural habitat of animals in the Bull Creek Watershed. To register up to four weeks in advance, visit keepaustinbeautiful.org. 
Mobile Loaves & Fishes

Mobile Loaves & Fishes

With so many challenges facing Austin’s homeless and disabled population, this program offers two volunteer tracks for families: mobile food-delivery service work and a host of activities at the Community First Village in East Austin. At the former, families help clean trucks, prep meals and deliver life-sustaining supplies to people in need on the streets. At the latter, you and your kiddos can contribute to garden maintenance, meal distribution and animal care.  To check availability, visit mlf.org. To register, email serve@mlf.org.
Partnerships for Children

Partnerships for Children

Fulfill the wishes of around 5,000 kids in the care of Child Protective Services with Partnerships for Children’s Holiday Wishes. Families with kids as young as three can sort, tag and wrap gifts at the organization’s warehouse between December 5 and 16, giving children less fortunate the opportunity to unwrap some much-needed surprises. New toys and personal care items can also be donated, or families can sponsor a child’s specific gift requests. To register, email holidaywishes@partnershipsforchildren.org.
Urban Roots

Urban Roots

If healthy living, the outdoors and learning where food comes from are priorities in your household, check out the sustainable urban farming initiative Urban Roots. Children as young as 10 can volunteer with an adult at this beautiful 3.5-acre sustainable farm in East Austin, which grows a whopping 30,000 pounds of produce per year—nearly half of which is donated to local soup kitchens and food pantries in need. Young participants gain valuable experience in crop management, harvesting, processing and irrigation, so a real passion for getting down and dirty is a must. To check availability, visit urbanrootsatx.org.
Generation SERVE

Generation SERVE

Looking to strengthen your family bond through hands-on community service? Generation SERVE connects children and their families to nearly 90 local nonprofit organizations across Austin. Activities include preparing and serving food to the homeless, creating upcycling projects, visiting the elderly, beautifying local parks, breaking down computers, stocking food pantry shelves and sorting donations. To register, visit generationserve.org.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar

Blue Genie Art Bazaar

A mainstay in the Austin holiday market scene, Blue Genie Art Bazaar is back for its 17th year. Peruse folk art, jewelry, photography, ceramics and much more from 200 local and regional artists who populate the bazaar with gifts that range from kitschy to classy to whimsical. Pick up a neon sign from Noble Gas Industries, colorful textile purses from ANNEMARIE and soaps enriched with activated charcoal from Black Hatchet. Stop by at least once on Mondays, when 10 percent of the bazaar's profits go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. 
Vaudeville

Vaudeville

In the 19th century, vaudeville emerged, an accessible form of entertainment that identified timely social and political issues through comedy and satire. The Harry Ransom Center highlights vaudeville’s origins, popular acts and impact with photographs, writings and other pieces of work from Harry Houdini, Tony Pastor, Florenz Ziegfeld and others.
A Christmas Affair

A Christmas Affair

Support the Junior League of Austin at its annual holiday fund-raiser, where you can shop from more than 200 local vendors to help raise money for the organization’s various causes: feeding hungry children, providing coats for kids in need and supporting other like-minded nonprofits in Austin. 
Thundercloud Subs Turkey Trot

Thundercloud Subs Turkey Trot

Hosted by the Austin sandwich shop Thundercloud Subs, this year’s turkey trot kicks off on Thanksgiving morning with a five-mile walk and run in an effort to raise money for Caritas of Austin, which works to prevent and end homelessness. You’ll feel good about making a difference, plus you’ll be hungry enough to down an extra slice of pie or two. 
Bartlett's

Bartlett's

4 out of 5 stars
Bartlett’s has been a business lunch and date night favorite for years, largely because they’ve chosen to focus on scratch cooking and a streamlined menu of classics. This approach extends to dessert, where you’ll find one pie only: a classic key lime. Surviving trend after trend, the pie remains a bestseller after years on the menu, and makes for a perfect finish after a lunch of the restaurant’s top-flight burgers. A pot de creme and a seasonal cobbler are also available for those who aren’t fans of Key Lime.

News (836)

Ramen Tatsu-Ya is expanding into East Austin

Ramen Tatsu-Ya is expanding into East Austin

It seemed like only a matter of time before Austin's favorite ramen shop, Ramen Tatsu-Ya, made its way to the east side—and that time has come. This morning, the restaurant announced that it will be opening a location on East 6th Street in the former Qui space sometime this summer. Like its other two Austin locations (plus one in Houston), the new Ramen Tatsu-Ya will feature cult favorites like the Tonkotsu Original and the Mi-So-Hot, plus its original lineup of snacks, sides and desserts. But there are a few differences, namely in the beverage program. Along with beer, wine and sake, the East Austin location will feature a full cocktail menu designed by beverage director Michael Phillips (who is also the beverage director at Kemuri Tatsu-ya, and who just picked up two awards at our 2018 Time Out Austin Bar Awards—one for best restaurant bar program, and one for most instagrammable cocktail). The location will also have late night hours on Friday and Saturday, providing another food option for hungry bar-hoppers. Photograph: A Parallel Architecture, Rendering by McCray & Co. and Ross Loftin Ramen Tatsu-Ya's east side spot is keeping the same structure designed by A Parallel Architecture, but will feature murals from Tokyo street graffiti artist ESOW, as well as artwork by Xavier Walker, Ross Loftin and Mila Sketch. They're already looking for new staff; anyone interested can apply here. “We’re super stoked to be opening a ramen shop on the east side,” says chef/owner Tatsu
The three things you need to know today in Austin: Tue, May 29

The three things you need to know today in Austin: Tue, May 29

Still coming down from that burger coma, eh? We feel you. If your goal today is working off everything you ate over Memorial Day Weekend, head to Republic Square Park for their Tuesday free fitness class,  Rō Fitness. Rowing machines will be set up throughout the park starting at 6:30pm, and an instructor will be there to lead through a workout.  The Paramount's Summer Classics Series is back in action, and you can make it a double feature today: Catch the Marx Brothers’ Monkey Business before The Bank Dick, which stars W.C. Fields as a n’er-do-well who winds up working at the bank. Your ticket is good for both films, and the air-conditioned theater is a welcome respite from the heat.  Play tourist for an evening with a Full Moon Bat Tour from Congress Kayaks, a relaxing float down the river that's brilliantly lit by tonight's Flower Moon. It's only their second one of the year, and costs $35 for a two-seater kayak (bring a friend!). The tour starts at 7pm. Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.
The three things you need to know today in Austin: Mon, May 28

The three things you need to know today in Austin: Mon, May 28

Happy Memorial Day, and a heartfelt thank you to all those who have served and fought for our country. If you haven't already made plans for the day, there are a couple events going on around Austin—just remember to hydrate. It's going to be a scorcher. Irene's is turning two today, and they're celebrating with a big ol’ birthday party starting at 10am. Enjoy a Bloody Mary bar, $2 Austin Eastciders and specialty cocktails (that come with a raffle ticket!), plus free bubbles and a giant strawberry cake to close out the party. Head to ABGB for their second annual Hell Yes Project Olympics and Memorial Day Party. This isn’t your standard Olympics—Poop the Potato, Water Balloon Toss, Speed Hole and Simon Says are among the competitions. Root for the eight Austin non-profits who are competing (all for a $1,000 prize!) and help decide who should win another special event: live band karaoke. The event kicks off at 3pm.  Still looking for a BBQ to crash? Spend the day at Texas Keeper Cider, where Puli-Ra will be offering burgers, green curry brioche, spicy pickles, vegan sandwiches, Texas sheet cake and more. Sip on Grafter rosé and enjoy the cider house's sprawling lawn; the BBQ starts at noon. Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.
The best bites, celebrity chefs and grill skills we witnessed at Hot Luck

The best bites, celebrity chefs and grill skills we witnessed at Hot Luck

If the air in Austin smelled like barbecue a little more than usual this past weekend, we have Hot Luck to thank. The food and music festival from Aaron Franklin (Franklin BBQ), James Moody (Mohawk) and Mike Thelin (Feast Portland) returned for a second year with four days of grilling feasts and concerts, and while we could go on and on about each event—the kick-off barbecue at Franklin featuring some of BBQ's best players, catching Blackillac unleash crazy energy during Saturday's show at Barracuda—the success of these three main food events are a clear sign that Hot Luck is emerging as one of the best food festivals in the country. All photos by Layla Mays  Friday evening's Night Court was a tribute to the ’80s mall food court, and while a Cinnabon homage never surfaced, there were plenty of retro touches. Épicerie not only rocked ’80s attired behind their stall, but their brisket rangoon was a fantastic upgrade from the crab rangoons you used to scarf down at Panda Express. Celebrity chefs from across the country filled the Fair Market space—Andy Ricker from Pok Pok, Ivan Orkin from Ivan Ramen, Justin Yu from Theodore Rex, Adam Sappington from The Country Cat—along with local all-stars like Chad Dolezal (The Hightower), Laura Sawicki (Launderette) and Jason Stude (Boiler Nine Bar + Grill). As the night went on, a clear favorite emerged: the burger from John Tesar (Knife, Dallas), which was a tribute to the late food writer Josh Ozersky.                 With the te
The best things to do in Austin this weekend: May 25-27

The best things to do in Austin this weekend: May 25-27

It's the weekend—and a three-day one at that! You've worked hard to get to this point, so you deserve to play hard, too. We've curated our favorite events happening around Austin for the next few days, from pop-ups to festivals to grand openings—all you have to do is round up your crew. Have a great weekend, y'all! Fri 25 Hot LuckNow back for a second year, Hot Luck Festival has become one of the best events of the summer, a food and music festival from the most creative minds behind both arenas: Aaron Franklin (Franklin BBQ), James Moody (Mohawk) and Mike Thelin (Feast Portland). Over the weekend, the city will be filled with indulgent food events and music performances across the city. Get a reimagined glimpse into the American food court with Night Court, where world-class chefs invent their own mall bites. Attend Al Fuego, a flame-fueled celebration of open-air cooking. Head to a vintage car shop for an epic Sunday brunch. And see some insane musical talent—DJ Questlove, Blackillac, Okkervil River, Peanut Butter Wolf and more—at different venues around Austin. Through Sunday at various times Run, Lola, Run 20th AnniversaryThis thrilling movie by German director Tom Tykwer is turning 20, and to celebrate, AFS Cinema is showing it in 35mm and starting the party early with an electronic music set courtesy of DJ Troller. Get there at 8:30pm if you wanna dance along. Friday at 10pm Sat 26 Spokesman First Anniversary PartyHappy birthday, Spokesman! The South Austin coffee s
Kebabathon is bringing lamb to the masses over the next four days

Kebabathon is bringing lamb to the masses over the next four days

Hot Luck—the food and music festival now in its second year—is officially underway, and while you may have chosen to skip some of its bigger events this year, there's still a chance to take part in its most niche fête: the Kebabathon. In conjunction with the American Lamb Board (yup, that's a thing), the festival is throwing a four-day kebab scavenger hunt of sorts, starting today and continuing throughout the weekend. Here's the deal: Four local restaurants have interpreted the concept of a kebab in different ways, and is offering their take on the dish during regular lunch hours every day until Sunday. At Frank, you'll find a Merguez sausage in pita with harissa labneh and red pepper sauce; at Scholz Garten, a lamb frikadelle with duckefett (that's a traditional German sauce, FYI). Kebabalicious is offering lamb with charbroiled zucchini, caramelized red onions, a variety of veggies and shredded smoked gouda, all wrapped up in a za'atar spiced pita. And Clay Pit has crafted a Seekh Kebab with minced lamb, ginger and spices, grilled on skewers. Visit any of the participating restaurants and you'll be able to pick up a "kebab passport," which you'll get stamped after each purchase.  Of course, if you're looking to do more than just gorge on lamb this weekend, Hot Luck still has tickets to its other main food events: Night Court on Friday, Al Fuego on Saturday and Coupe de Grille on Sunday. Looking for other things to do this Memorial Day Weekend? We've got you covered right h
The three things you need to know today in Austin: Thu, May 24

The three things you need to know today in Austin: Thu, May 24

The Paramount Theatre's Summer Classic Series is back, and they're kicking it off with a truly iconic film: Casablanca. Watch Bogart and Bergman as two lovers torn apart by war in this 35mm screening that follows an opening night party—for Film Fan members only—celebrating the start of this beloved annual event. Now back for a second year, Hot Luck Festival has become one of the best events of the summer, a food and music festival from the most creative minds behind both arenas: Aaron Franklin (Franklin BBQ), James Moody (Mohawk) and Mike Thelin (Feast Portland). For four days, the city will be filled with indulgent food events and music performances; while the food portion doesn't officially start until tomorrow (unless you were lucky enough to score a ticket to Franklin's opening party), there are a couple shows happening tonight: Hot Snakes at Mohawk, Girlpool at Baraccuda and Con Brio at Antone's. Tickets are still left—get ’em here. Southold Farm + Cellar—one of the state’s newest wineries—is popping up at Better Half to share some of its wine made exclusively with Texas grapes. Owner and winemaker Regan Meador will be there to discuss how nature decides what wines the winery will make, and Better Half has a corn dog special on the menu. Come for the food and drink, stay for the classic country spinning on the record player. Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.      
Check out our photos from the 2018 Time Out Austin Bar Awards

Check out our photos from the 2018 Time Out Austin Bar Awards

Last night at the Eleanor, Austin's best and brightest in the bar industry gathered together to celebrate the second annual Time Out Austin Bar Awards. These awards are a chance for us to honor the best bars, bartenders and cocktails in Austin right now, all of which are nominated and voted on by a panel of industry experts. It's also a chance for us to party, which we did with the help of our Bar Awards sponsors: William Grant & Sons featuring Monkey Shoulder and Milagro, and Segura Viudas, who all made special cocktails (or provided the brut) for the event. After kicking the night off with plenty of drinks, we made our way to the Eleanor's dance floor to announce the winners. The best part about the evening? Every nominee and winner was met with a rousing cheer, proving once again just how much support and admiration the Austin bar community has for everyone in it. Check out our photos from the awards below, and be sure to hit up all of our winners—and nominees—for a celebratory drink.  All photos by David Brendan Hall                                           Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.                              
Seven ways to spend Memorial Day Weekend if you're staying in Austin

Seven ways to spend Memorial Day Weekend if you're staying in Austin

Some people who feel the need to get out of town on Memorial Day Weekend, taking long-awaited vacations on a beach somewhere with all of the margaritas. But if you're hanging around Austin for the three-day weekend, there's plenty to be done here, too. In addition to all the events going on over the next few days, we've come up with a handful of ideas for getting the most out of your staycation: Get a hotel pool passA handful of hotels around Austin allow non-guests to buy a day pass to their swanky pools, including the South Congress Hotel, the Westin, the Four Seasons and, most recently, Lone Star Court, which starts granting access to their pool this Friday.  Go to a Hot Luck showHot Luck Festival takes place this weekend, and while some of the major food events are sold out (or come with a hefty price tag), there are still plenty of single show tickets available starting at $15. Catch Galactic and Twin Peaks on Friday, Okkervil River and Blackillac on Saturday, and DJ Questlove and Peanut Butter Wolf on Sunday, among others.  Check out a new restaurantWhile this week has seen a slew of disappointing closures—RIP Bonhomie, Alcomar and Athenian Grill—there are some brand new openings to put on your radar. Rosewood, which delayed its opening after some initial hiccups, is set to open on May 25. Stop by for seafood entrées like shrimp jambalaya and blue crab, or whey braised lamb and pollo asado. Home Slice's new North Loop location is also in soft-opening, and a welcome addi
The three things you need to know today in Austin: Wed, May 23

The three things you need to know today in Austin: Wed, May 23

Blues on the Green is officially back for the season! It doesn't feel quite like summer without a pilgrimage to Zilker Park for KGSR’s annual (and free!) summer concert series, and it's off to a stellar start as The Black Angels and Night Glitter take the stage tonight. Don’t forget to bring a blanket to sit—and if you're looking for some close-up action, you'll want to get there early to snag a spot. Don your finest Fritz Bernaise dress and join the Bridesmaids Pub Run for what Whole Foods is calling "the ultimate wedding party." The grocer is organizing the event, which starts at the Paramount and Stateside Theatres. From there, participants will dash to the market for some food, beer and music compliments of an actual wedding emcee. The fête continues back at the Paramount with a costume contest and movie screening. You can répondez s'il vous plaît here. Chick Corea and Bela Fleck are joining forces on stage tonight at the Paramount, when the pianist and banjo player perform in what's guaranteed to be a breathtaking performance that mixes genres, standards and even gospel.  Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.
The three things you need to know today in Austin: Tue, May 22

The three things you need to know today in Austin: Tue, May 22

It's the final night of Steak Out!, a steak night series with local musician Dan Dyer. Tonight's grill session features Olamaie's executive chef and owner, so you can expect some top-notch grub at the event, held at Cosmic Coffee + Beer. There's gonna be a jam session, too—Dyer plans to lead fellow musicians in an informal performance after dinner. David Crosby, co-founder of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, graces the Violet Crown city for a set joined by five friends: James Raymond, Mai Agan, Steve DiStanislao, Jeff Pevar and Michelle Willis. They'll play music from Crosby's forthcoming Sky Trails album, plus a beloved hit or two. The show kicks off at the Paramount Theatre at 8pm. It's heating up (hello, summer), and we're all about escaping the heat by pretending we're in the tropics. Enter Ah Sing Den's Tiki Tuesdays, where tropical vibes are the main event. The Wise Monkey, a vanilla bean-infused rum cocktail with pistachio orgeat, Falernum, orange and lime are among the $6 drinks on offer at this now-weekly excuse to drink on a Tuesday. You'd be smart to indulge.  Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.
The three things you need to know today in Austin: Mon, May 21

The three things you need to know today in Austin: Mon, May 21

Kick off the week with a trip to BookPeople to see Amy Chozick. The writer-at-large for The New York Times is joined by Texas Monthly’s Mimi Swartz for a conversation about Chozick’s new book, which was inspired by her coverage of Hillary Clinton’s 2008 and 2016 presidential campaigns—Chasing Hillary: Ten Years, Two Presidential Campaigns, and One Intact Glass Ceiling. Haven't been able to attend a Free Fitness Series in Republic Park yet? Ease into it with Monday's yoga class. Head to the park at 6:30pm to practice your downward-facing dog with an experienced Wild Heart Yoga instructor. Namaste. Uchiko’s Ed Sura and Juniper’s Amanda Turner are teaming up tonight for a 12-course feast with beverage pairings. Expect both sushi and pasta, not to mention a suckling pig porchetta seasoned with Japanese flavors. Reservations are required. Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.