Kayla Hui

Barbecue is king in Texas, but that statement hits especially hard in the capital city. Austinites don’t mess around when it comes to smoked meats—many are willing to wait over three hours in line for a taste. And it’s no wonder: brisket is smoked low and slow for the perfect tender bite, ribs drip with saucy goodness and the sides? Let’s just say mac and cheese here isn’t just a side dish—it’s a lifestyle. Austin is also leading the charge nationally. At last year’s inaugural Michelin ceremony, Austin earned three of the four Michelin stars awarded to barbecue restaurants in all of Texas, cementing its reputation as a bucket list BBQ destination. So loosen your belt and get ready to queue up for smoked perfection. And once you’ve eaten your fill, consider walking it off on one of Austin’s scenic trails—or cap it all off with a classic city moment: watching the bats take flight at sunset from the Congress Avenue Bridge. Summer 2025: Austin’s barbecue scene is as bold and creative as ever. Since our last update, we’ve seen some exciting shake-ups: new brick-and-mortar openings from food truck favorites, inventive side dishes stealing the spotlight and longtime staples like LeRoy and Lewis continuing to redefine what Texas barbecue can be. We’ve revisited our top picks, updated locations and wait times and added a few newcomers that are making waves.

In Dallas, ice-cold beers and Margaritas are mandatory staples in the nightlife scene, but the city has bars—and drinks—for every situation and every type of drinker. Looking for a casual spot to post up with colleagues during happy hour? That’s easy. How about a wine bar that goes beyond the usual-suspect labels and offers varietals you won’t find at every steakhouse in town? That can be arranged. The same goes for upscale cocktail lounges enlisting centrifuges and sous vide machines, and stuck-in-time dive bars where the beers are cheap and the furniture was presumably acquired secondhand in the 1960s. The point is: We’ve got a lot of good bars here. The best of the bunch nail the drinks and the ambiance, so you can be sure that your time and money are well-spent, no matter what kind of night you’re after. Now, go forth and start a tab at some of the best bars in Dallas. May 2025: In this most recent update, we've polished each entry to ensure they’re accurate and current, and we added three bars to the list: Midnight Rambler, Double D’s and Mike’s Gemini Twin. We’ll continue to make updates each month to best reflect the Dallas bar scene. For more on our process, feel free to check out how we review at Time Out. RECOMMENDED: 🪩 The best Dallas nightlife spots🥩 The best restaurants in Dallas📍 The best things to do in Dallas🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Dallas

Only two cities in the United States are designated as UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy, and San Antonio is one of them. Boasting some of the most diverse foods and cultures in Texas, the Alamo City's culinary scene has it all, from reliable neighborhood haunts and swanky bistros to the Riverwalk’s endless selection of restaurants. While Houston, Austin and Dallas have fantastic food scenes, San Antonio has a culinary flair that reflects the diversity of the people and cultures that make it such a fun place for your taste buds.  Whether you're after authentic Texas barbecue, meaty street tacos, Naples-style pizza, juicy Chinese char siu or elevated Asian fusion, you will find it all at the best restaurants in San Antonio. After eating your way through different neighborhoods, you'll want to explore all the exciting things the city has to offer, and make time to hit up some of the best bars in town. Now that your taste buds are standing at attention, here are the best places to eat in San Antonio right now. Recommended: The best bars in San Antonio This guide was updated by San Antonio experts Jill Robbins and Anni Irish. 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. 

With the recognition by Michelin, Austin is officially on the world’s main culinary stage, despite locals knowing its value long before the French came in to taste it. The scene might be a long way from its barbecue and Tex-Mex origins, but even as chefs rise to fame through their omakase skills or take on duck confit, the flavor of our foundation still shines through. Austin continues to cook up a food scene worth venturing for, and below are some of the best inside our city limits. Don’t be surprised if this list looks different down the road. This is only the beginning.  May 2025: We’re constantly keeping our eye on spots that deliver on quality, service and flavors. This month, we visited several restaurants and included four new restaurants in this guide’s iteration: Mexta, Bar Toti, Maie Day and OTOKO.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Austin

Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to spoil the woman who’s done it all—and what better way to celebrate her than a mimosa in hand and a plate of something delicious? Whether your mom’s into upscale environs or rooftop restaurants serving up creative dishes, brunch is a timeless way to show your love. We’ve rounded up the best brunch spots that feel just special enough for the occasion, so you can treat Mom to a meal as memorable as she is. 

Sure, Houston might be known for NASA, oil production and Beyonce, but it’s a city driving innovation on all fronts. It’s home to several world-class museums, over 200 green spaces and is one of the few American cities with permanent ballet, symphony and opera companies. Not to mention, its culinary scene, made richer by its cultural diversity, is shining bright with six one-Michelin-star restaurants and 14 Bib Gourmands.  Expect to find everything, from BBQ and Tex-Mex to cajun-Vietnamese and New American.  With 25 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality, you could spend a year exploring and still not see everything Houston has to offer. So take our advice and check out the best things to do in Houston on your journey through Space City (more on that below!). This guide was updated by Houston-based writers Patrick Magee and Rebecca Deurlein. 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.  RECOMMENDED:  🍴The best restaurants in Houston🏠The best Houston Airbnbs🇺🇸The best hotels in Houston

Everyone wants to come away from their trip feeling like they saw it all and hope they never stumble across a TikTok post-trip highlighting a destination and making them ask, “Did I even go to [blank]?”  Austin’s bejeweled with treasured locals and hidden gems that can spur a first-timer to consider moving here to save on having to make frequent trips back. Natural wonders adjective to our lively downtown, Texan landmarks that’ll make any wannabe cowboy hoot n' holler and lively experiences like The Morning Spin's daytime jam sessions at local coffee shops are listed below so your trip to Austin gets it right the first time.  April 2025: It's starting to warm up in Texas, which means festivals galore. In May, the Capital City will host Hot Luck Fest, artisan markets and monthly morning DJ sessions at local coffee shops. Pick an event—we promise you won't be bored.  RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from AustinThe best hotels in AustinThe best Airbnbs in AustinThe best spa hotels in Austin This guide was updated by Austin-based writer Deven Wilson. 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. 

If you’ve ever experienced San Antonio during Fiesta, you’re in for one Texas-sized celebration. The 11-day festival turns the city into a colorful canvas, with parades, food festivals, live music and cultural events that honor San Antonio’s rich history and communities. Whether you’re a first-timer or Fiesta regular, these seven signature events are the ones you won’t want to miss. 

Spring is an exciting time to be in Austin. From SXSW festivities to a Bloody Mary festival—and, of course, the return of spring blooms, there’s no shortage of excitement. Fields across the city burst into color with Texas bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes and pink evening primroses. While bluebonnets line the highways, the best way to appreciate them is up close, so whether you’re after the Insta-worthy shot or just want time to soak in the scenery, these are the best places to see Texas wildflowers this spring.  

SXSW is not a sprint—it’s a marathon of nine jam-packed days of keynotes, film screenings, live music and speaker sessions across tech, wellness and more. To survive, you’ll need fuel. Luckily, Austin is dense with incredible restaurants and coffee shops, meaning you’re never far from a good meal. Whether you’re grabbing a breakfast taco before a panel or digging into Caribbean food after a long day, here’s some must-visit spots you should hit during your stay.

Texas may be known for its barbecue and cowboy culture, but look closely, and you’ll find another rich tradition woven into the state’s fabric: Irish heritage. Irish immigrants began arriving in Texas as early as the 18th century, with many settling in cities like San Antonio and Corpus Christi. Drawn by economic opportunities and land grants, they helped build Texas railroads, while leaving an indelible mark through the state’s many Irish pubs.  Whether you’re raising a pint of Guinness or scarfing down bites of a hearty shepherd’s pie, Texas’ best Irish bars capture that warm, welcoming spirit. From classic watering holes to eclectic spots with nightly sing-alongs, these spots offer a taste of Ireland deep in the heart of Texas. 

Spring is an exciting time to be in the Lone Star State. The heat hasn’t taken over yet, so most days bring mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures. This season is packed with everything from festivals to nightlife events and parades. Whether you’re looking to see the San Antonio River Walk turn green for St. Patrick’s Day or vibe to R&B hits in Dallas, here are the top things we’re most excited about in Texas this spring. 

At InterStellar, pitmaster John Bates takes experimentation seriously—especially when it comes to sausage. You’ll find everything, from traditional Polish-style beef kielbasa to inventive creations like Frito pie sausage: a pork-and-beef blend, infused with chunks of cheddar, black beans, corn, poblano and dried chiles. Equally impressive are the sides, and it’s worth sampling a little of everything, from the smoked scallop potatoes to the creamed corn and housemade charro beans cooked down in garlic and pork belly.  The dining area is cozy, with checkered floors, folding and wooden chairs and quirky space-themed signage. It’s casual, but the flavor is anything but. The room often echoes with “mmms” as diners take their first bites.  Some BBQ joints come and go, but InterStellar is an Austin mainstay. With its Michelin star, boundary-pushing innovation and good ol’ BBQ, it’s safe to say Interstellar is here to stay.  The vibe: A small joint with space-age touches and a Michelin star.  The food: Inventive sausages and thoughtfully marinated meats (hello, peach tea glazed pork belly).  The drink: Sweet tea and BYOB.  Time Out tip: Arrive early—they often sell out between 1:30 and 2pm. 

When it comes to barbecue in Austin, Franklin Barbecue remains the gold standard. What started as a humble trailer operation off the interstate has become a world-renowned smokehouse that draws locals and visitors into three-hour lines. The wait is an experience in itself. The restaurant provides collapsible chairs, so you can sip your beverage of choice while bonding with strangers eagerly waiting for a taste of Aaron Franklin’s perfected brisket recipe. It’s tender, seasoned just right and smoked to literal perfection.  Get there early, as brisket is one of the first to sell out; however, you can’t go wrong with anything else on the menu: jalapeno cheddar sausage links, turkey, pulled pork and pork spare ribs. Swing by Friday through Sunday to try the coveted beef rib. Don’t forget to dip your meats in the housemade barbecue sauce and add on a slice of pie to finish off your meal on a sweet note. Meats are sold by the pound, so it’s best to go with friends or family.  People always ask: Is it worth the wait? The answer is still a resounding yes.  The vibe: Casual but busy spot filled with retro charm and a wall full of accolades.  The food: Expertly smoked beef, turkey, pork and more.  The drink: A curated selection of local beer, wine and soft drinks.  Time Out tip: You can skip the hours-long wait by pre-ordering your meat online at least six weeks in advance. Or make friends in line—some people actually enjoy the thrill of the wait as much as the meal. 

In a male-dominated world of Texas barbecue, pitmaster Ali Clem is blazing a trail as one of the few women behind the smoker—and helping La Barbecue earn a well-deserved Michelin star in the process. The “La” in its name is a tribute to LeAnn Mueller, Chem’s late wife and a member of the famed Mueller BBQ family.  La Barbecue has earned its reputation thanks to high-quality meats and bold flavors, especially its smoky and juicy pork ribs and turkey. La Barbecue’s sides don’t miss either; the shells and cheese are some of the best mac in town. They come in small, pint or quart-sized servings, but we’d recommend the quart if you’re planning to go back for seconds.  While the line can move slowly, there’s more seating here than in other BBQ joints. Be warned: there’s little to no shade outside, so waiting in the Texas heat can be brutal. For faster service, preorder your meats online and use the left entrance to skip the line. You won’t be able to dine in, but you’ll spend less time sweating and more time eating.  The vibe: Laid-back restaurant with ample indoor seating, outdoor communal tables and neon signs.  The food: Standout smoked meats like pork ribs and turkey, plus can’t-miss shells and cheese.  The drink: Full bar service available.  Time Out tip: Parking is hard to find, but there’s free parking in the neighborhood and a paid parking lot across the street. 

Sandals Resorts may be synonymous with honeymoons and couples' retreats, but don’t let that reputation fool you. On a recent sister trip, I found that Sandals Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios, Jamaica delivers far more than candlelit dinners and couples’ massages. With 12 restaurants highlighting local and global flavors, sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and Jamaican hospitality, the remodeled resort turned out to be an ideal place to reconnect, indulge and unwind—made even better by sharing the stay with my sister. Why stay at Sandals Dunn’s River?Located on the north coast of Jamaica, Sandals Dunn’s River underwent a major renovation, and it shows. Boasting 260 rooms, five pools and direct beach access, the all-inclusive resort offers plenty of space to relax and recharge. My sister and I checked into a Tufa Terrace One-Bedroom Suite, one of 14 room types offered. It was complete with a rain shower, walk-in closet, fully stocked bar and sea-facing plunge pool.  One of the most impressive features? The personal butler service included with our suite. While we weren’t sure we’d need it, our butler quickly became a go-to for poolside chair reservations, restaurant bookings and daily check-ins that made the stay seamless. What are the rooms like at Sandals Dunn’s River? Each room at the resort is thoughtfully designed with clean, modern decor and Caribbean art. The space felt spacious and inviting, with sliding doors that opened to sweeping sea views and a private pool and tub. The

If you’re looking for a hotel that’s slightly off the beaten path—but still close to San Antonio’s hottest attractions, consider the Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk. This upscale Hyatt property is centrally located, just minutes away from the buzz of the Pearl District, home to some of the city’s best restaurants (hello, Isidore and Brasserie Mon Chou Chou), the San Antonio Museum of Art for the art lovers and The Alamo for history buffs.  After a long day of city sightseeing, retreat back to one of the 162 guest rooms, including 33 luxury suites. The king rooms comfortably fit two and are a great option for couples or solo travelers who want more space, while the two-queen layout suits friends or families. While the pillows skew on the softer side, the bed itself is outfitted with luxe Sferra sheets and backed by a stylish buckle pillow-back headboard. Rich teal walls give the space a cozy, moody vibe, though floor-to-ceiling windows let in ample daylight. Designed by Mariana Valero, rooms feature abstract art, warm lighting and a thoughtful mix of wooden and industrial accents. Depending on the room you choose, you’ll score either a neighborhood view or an expansive cityscape.    Didn’t land a room with a skyline view? No problem—the hotel’s 20th floor rooftop lounge offers a front-row seat to sweeping city vistas. At The Moon’s Daughters, sip on inventive craft cocktails like the “Wish You Were Here,” a mix of Mexican and Caribbean rum, passionfruit, lemongrass and lime,

If you need a reason to get out of the house on a Monday night, let that reason be a block party, and no one throws a party quite like Canje. Founded by chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph and Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, this vibrant East Austin restaurant is hosting its third annual block party with an exciting lineup of local and national chefs, DJ sets and, of course, signature drinks to get the party started.  This year’s culinary guests are celebrities in their own right, including Ashleigh Shanti of Good Hot Fish (Asheville), Ian Corral of Mezquite (San Antonio) and Grace Aguilar of Five O Four (Austin). Each chef will whip up a signature dish packed with depth and creative flavor, so come hungry. Food and drink tickets will be available for purchase on-site for $12 each.  The event is free to attend and runs from 4 to 9pm on Monday May 12. Beats will be provided by DJ Jamie Dred, an Austin-based artist whose sound is inspired by reggae and UK hip-hop.  Planning to sample a little of everything? Take advantage of a limited-time early bird deal: Through May 12, you can snag a pack of five food and drink tickets for $65 on Eventbrite. Parking is limited, so arrive early to find a spot. This is one Monday night Austinites won’t want to miss.

Being single in a city can be liberating, but it can also present some challenges. From managing living costs solo to finding a sense of community, not every city is built to support a single lifestyle. But some stand out from the pack. According to a recent study, one Texas city in particular has been named the best place in the country for singles: Austin, Texas.   A study by Rocket Moving ranked Austin as the number one city for singles, based on factors like cost of living, job opportunities, safety, walkability and the number of restaurants and activities available.  While Austin’s home prices are on the higher end compared to the rest of Texas (averaging around $513,000), rent is relatively manageable at $1,437 for a one bedroom apartment. The city also boasts a strong safety ranking and 14 million open jobs, making it a great place for solo living. It’s equally great for dating, with plenty of things to do and standout restaurants for first (or third) dates. Sacramento, California came in second on the list, followed by Orlando, Florida. Nashville secured the sixth spot, while Chicago ranked eighth.   The top cities for singles shine at a few key things: economic opportunity, a high quality of life and an active, social atmosphere. While some places are better suited for couples and families, these ten cities offer the perfect environment for singles looking to thrive.  The 10 best cities for singles in the U.S. Austin, TX Sacramento, CA Orlando, FL Albany, NY Pittsbu

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) stays booked and busy year-round, adding new non-stop routes annually, and the latest one’s a big deal for international travelers.  Cathay Pacific has officially launched its first-ever nonstop passenger flights between DFW and Hong Kong, making it the only direct flight available between Texas and Hong Kong. Starting April 24, passengers can take advantage of four-times-weekly service.  “DFW’s growth in passenger service also creates new ways of connecting people, cultures, and economies. We are excited to welcome Cathay Pacific and open a new nonstop gateway between Hong Kong and North Texas, enhancing global access and deepening the ties that drive innovation and commerce,” DFW Chief Executive Officer Sean Donohue shared in a press release.  The flights will operate on Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, a modern widebody plane that comfortably seats between 350 and 410 passengers in a three-class configuration. Flights depart DFW at 10:55pm and arrive at HKG at 6:35am, available Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. In addition to the DFW service, Cathay Pacific will also offer three return flights to New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, as well as daily return flights to both Boston and Chicago.  Bookings are open now—who’s ready to jetset? 

In Jesse Garcia’s latest role, he hits the road with a full tank and family in tow. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip—a fresh take on the classic children’s story, now streaming on Disney+—follows a Mexican-American family as they travel across the border in an RV to reconnect with their roots and each other. Garcia, who stars as Frank Garcia, a vegan chef and the family’s dad, navigates everything from RV tech gone haywire to run-ins with skunks. Despite the chaos, one takeaway rings true: there’s good in the bad, especially when you’re road-tripping with those closest to you.  It’s not Garcia’s first rodeo with Eva Longoria, who directs the film. The two were previously together on Flamin’ Hot, where Garcia portrayed Richard Montañez, the real-life creator of the beloved spicy snack. Whether he’s playing a visionary snack inventor or a road-tripping dad, Garcia brings heart and humor to the screen—qualities that show up in his real-life adventures across Texas. “I love nature, so being outdoors, checking out the different terrains—from wetlands to beaches and parks—is always high on the list,” Garcia says. Below, he shares his top five Texas road trip destinations from Austin, no matter if you’re hankering for antique shopping, spring wildflowers or a refreshing dip in a natural swimming hole. Marfa Marfa has come a long way from its roots as a water and freight hub. Today, it’s an internationally recognized arts destination (thanks, Donald J

When two flavor powerhouses join forces, the results are bound to be delicious. Enter Rockman Coffee + Bakeshop and Lick Honest Ice Cream, two of Austin’s most beloved purveyors of sweet treats. Just in time for summer (it’s already warm in Austin, okay), they’re teaming up to bring locals an ice cream sandwich you won’t find anywhere in Texas, or the country.  The limited-edition ice cream sandwich features one of Lick’s signature, limited-edition or seasonal flavors—like Sweet Cream & Strawberry, Tres Leches or Ladybird Lavender Crisp—nestled between one of Rockman’s meticulously crafted cookies. Choose from three cookie flavors: halva chocolate chip, strawberry lemonade sugar or oat crack.  This one-day-only collab is a perfect fusion of Lick’s bold, inventive ice cream and Rockman’s artful approach to pastry.  Just like cool weather in Texas, this collab won’t last long. The $12 ice cream sandwich will be available on April 18 at Lick’s South Lamar location from 12pm to 11pm.

After more than a decade of speculation, the long-abandoned warehouse off South Congress is finally springing to life—and no, it’s not a food hall. Originally slated to become St. Elmo Public Market in 2018, the 43,000-square-foot-space was meant to house some of Austin’s best restaurants. But after years of delays and canceled plans, the space is getting a new lease on life thanks to Pins Mechanical Co., an entertainment venue featuring duckpin bowling, arcade nostalgia and boozy drinks.  Set to open on April 17, this will be Pins’ 10th location nationwide, and the first in Texas. The Austin outpost comes fully loaded with 20 duckpin bowling lanes, pinball machines, classic arcade games, foosball, ping pong and giant-sized Jenga and Connect Four for those that want to summon their inner competitor.  Courtesy Cassandra KlepacPins Mechanical Co. interior But it’s not all games. The space features three full bars pouring craft cocktails, beer and low- to no-proof beverages, plus a Jewboy Sliders outpost and a rotating lineup of local food trucks. There are also fire pits and pet-friendly spaces, making it a choose-your-own-adventure kind of hangout, whether you’re with friends, kids or pets.  To celebrate its grand opening, Austin’s Pin Mechanical Co’s will offer daily specials: Service Monday: Half off select drafts + free duckpin bowling after 8pm Tito’s Tuesday: Half off Tito’s Vodka Whiskey Wednesday: Half off Buffalo Trace Tequila Thursday: Half off Espolon Fireball Fri

Barbie fans, rejoice! The moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here—Austin’s first Malibu Barbie Cafe has officially landed. With pop-ups in New York, Chicago, Miami, Mall of America and Houston, Austin marks the cafe’s sixth stop on its nationwide tour. Courtesy Kayla HuiAssortment of dishes from Austin's Malibu Barbie Cafe   The family-friendly pop-up features a fast-casual menu curated by Master Chef finalist and Chopped Champion Becky Brown. Expect playful, Barbie-themed eats like pink confetti pancakes, ice cream sundaes, cocktails and a Barbie’s Dream Boat filled with sprinkled-covered cupcakes. Sip on themed cocktails while soaking in the photo-worthy decor, which includes a giant boombox and an oversized Barbie box, perfect for striking your best doll-inspired pose.  Courtesy Kayla HuiBarbie box at Austin's Malibu Barbie Cafe Once you’ve snapped your pics and indulged in the treats, lace up your skates for the cafe’s roller rink. Skate rentals are just $1, with proceeds benefiting the American Red Cross to support those affected by the California wildfires. And, of course, no Barbie experience is complete without a little shopping. The merch store is full of branded goodies, such as mugs, t-shirts, keychains and even Barbie dolls. Courtesy Kayla HuiBarbie skates at Austin's Malibu Barbie Cafe Tickets are $25 each, which includes a food and merch credit. The pop-up runs through June 15, so you’ll have all of spring and early summer to live your best life in

Dallas’ coffee scene is buzzing, with new cafes opening up yearly. Now the city is getting an event worthy of its growing reputation: the first-ever Dallas Coffee Festival, happening on April 5 at Gilley’s Dallas. Founded by the team behind Austin Coffee Festival, San Francisco Coffee Festival and DC Coffee Festival, this one-day event is all about celebrating the local roasting scene while giving coffee lovers exactly what they want: unlimited coffee.  Attendees can sip on fresh brews from some of the area’s most beloved shops and roasters, including Juju’s Coffee, The Berni Bean Coffee Co., White Rock Coffee and more. Alongside endless pours, the festival will feature snacks from exhibitors, live entertainment and the opportunity to meet other coffee lovers.  The event is split into two tasting sessions: 9am-1pm and 1:30pm-4:30pm. Early admission grants access an hour before general ticket holders, while an all-day pass lets you stay through both sessions, giving you extra time to chat with roasters and savor every sip.  Tickets are on sale now, so whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a die-hard espresso aficionado, this is one event you won’t want to miss. 

Bloody Mary lovers, this one’s for you! Austin’s annual Bloody Mary Festival is back on March 22, and it’s bringing some serious competition. The city’s bars, restaurants and Bloody Mary mix brands will go head-to-head, each serving up their own take on the classic cocktail. But the real judge? You.   With your ticket, you’ll get unlimited Bloody Marys, bites from local vendors and the all-important power to cast your vote for The People’s Choice Award. Only one spot will take the crown, so sip wisely.  This year’s contenders include:  Honey Moon Spirit Lounge  Arriba Abajo Eureka Snooze A.M Eatery Tumble 22 Cisco’s Hissy Fit Industry Day Maker Beachside Billy’s The Driskill 1886 Cafe The Pretty Farmer Momo’s Michelada Mix Lee Lee’s Bloody Mary Mix  The festival takes place at Fair Market (1100 E 5th St.), with two sessions to choose from: 10:30am-1:30pm  3-6pm VIP and GA ticket holders have separate entry times, so plan accordingly. Bonus: Proceeds support the Girls Empowerment Network, so you can feel good about your ticket price while you sip. Tickets are on sale now, so grab yours while they’re still available.

I moved to Austin in 2023, and while the city is known for its friendly and hospitable vibe, making friends as a remote-working adult isn’t always easy. One day, while scrolling on Instagram, I came across Timeleft, an app that pairs you with five complete strangers for a group dinner at a restaurant of its choosing (don’t worry, you set the budget). Curious, I decided to test it out for myself.  How does Timeleft work?  Unlike other social apps, there’s no swiping on profiles or chatting before you meet. Instead, you start by taking a personality and identity quiz with questions like, “What best describes an ideal night” and “How important is humor to you?” The app also factors in age, gender distribution and personality test responses to create a well-balanced group.  Dinners take place every Wednesday at 7pm, with the restaurant chosen based on your budget ($, $$ or $$$) and dietary restrictions. You’re also assigned a table number—since no names are exchanged—to help you find your group.  My Timeleft experience The morning of my dinner, I received restaurant details from Timeleft. The pick? Ma’Coco, a casual Mexican joint serving Baja California-style dishes. When I arrived, I told the hostess I was with Timeleft table one, and she guided me to my seat. I was the third to arrive, with the rest of the group trickling in shortly after.  Courtesy Kayla HuiInterior of Ma'Coco Surprisingly, it wasn’t as awkward as I had anticipated. Some of my tablemates had attended previou

Austin, often called the “Silicon Hills” of Texas, has been attracting big-name tech giants like Oracle, Dell, Amazon and Google. With innovation at its core, it’s no surprise that autonomous vehicles are now part of the city’s transportation landscape. In its latest move, Uber has partnered with Waymo to bring driverless rides to Austin.  How to request a Waymo ride in Austin?  Uber users in Austin who request an UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort or Uber Comfort Electric may have the opportunity to be matched to a Waymo vehicle, pending availability. To increase your odds of being matched, users must have the most recent version of the app and turn on the autonomous vehicle (AV) preference in your account settings (more info here).   Once matched, riders can use the Uber app to unlock the vehicle, a fully electric Jaguar I-PACE, open the trunk and start the trip. You can identify your vehicle by license plate and car make/model. Similar to regular rides, Waymos will wait several minutes (seven to be exact) for riders to board. If any issues arise, 24/7 customer support is available through the Uber app and via in-car assistance. Waymos can accommodate up to four passengers in any seat except the driver’s seat. While four-legged friends are considered family, pets (except service animals) aren’t allowed, as a courtesy to riders with allergies.  Where Waymo operates in Austin Currently, Austin Waymos operates within the city’s 37-square-mile area in Austin, covering neighborhood

James Beard America’s Classics Award recognizes locally owned establishments that have served high-quality eats while standing the test of time. Since its inception in 1998, more than 100 restaurants across the country have earned this distinction. This year, a Texas institution joins the ranks, and it’s no other than Galveston-based Gaido’s, a seafood restaurant that has been serving fresh Gulf catches since 1911. Most recognizable by the large crab perched atop its roof, Gaido’s has been a Galveston staple for over a century. Its founder, San Giacinto Gaido, an Italian immigrant, was orphaned just two years after arriving on the coast. He worked his way through the service industry before first opening a sandwich shop and later, Gaido’s, which grew into one of the state’s most iconic seafood destinations. Today, the restaurant remains in family hands, run by fourth-generation Nick Gaido and his wife, Kateryna.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaido's Seafood (@gaidosseafood)   Gaido’s menu changes daily based on the freshest catches, but one thing remains constant: the quality of the seafood. Locals and visitors alike make the trek to indulge in Gulf shrimp, catfish, snapper and redfish—always fresh, never frozen. It’s a fact that servers proudly remind customers, reinforcing the restaurant’s commitment to high standards. And while the seafood is the star, the experience is just as memorable, with sweeping ocean views and a signature dose of war