Ring ring… jk, I know your phone’s on silent. But pick up—it's not your ex, it's my favorite local businesses begging for a little love. I felt a bit sad after reading the Austin Monthly article about our favorite bars and restaurants closing. So I spent my weekend visiting my favorite local spots, and I’m here to share the places that thrive (and survive) on our support. Here’s a quick and fun itinerary to support your local, Central Austin spots. It’s time to stimulate the economy (that means spend that $$$, baby), post/share with your friends, and keep Austin clear of those boring box stores.
Friday Night: Wine Down at Violet Crown 🍷
Kick off your weekend at Violet Crown. I know what you're thinking—Austin has more Violet Crowns than a Renaissance festival, but this gem is located off Woodrow Ave in North Central Austin. It’s a neighborhood-centric, yet destination-worthy specialty coffee shop and natural wine bar. Unwind with my personal fave, Honey, Honey Herbal tea. If you’re in need of some vino to start the weekend, the wine selection is elite. You can even build your own wine flight.
Hot Tip: from a cool employee—order the chocolate peanut butter bar, but ask for the refrigerated version and add a little sea salt. Trust me.
Saturday Morning: Get Your Caffeine Fix at Brentwood Social House ☕️
Start your day with a visit to Brentwood Social House. Female-owned and family-friendly (playscape in the back), this café offers a variety of items featuring house-made European baked goods, savory pies, paninis, and quiches, along with beer and wine. Personally, I'm obsessed with the vegan curry pie and a tea latte—not necessarily at the same time, but hey, no judgment here. If you’re a DINK or SINK (dual income no kids, single income no kids), grab your drink and snacks to-go and head to your next adventure.
Late Morning: Bead Therapy at Sea of Beads 💍
Next, head over to Sea of Beads. This place is a treasure trove for anyone who loves to dabble in DIY jewelry making or just needs a little creative boost.
BONUS: they have classes! It’s the perfect way to uplevel or learn a new skill. Aren’t we all in need of ANOTHER hobby??
Early Afternoon: Retail Therapy at Lady Collective 🛍️
Now it's time for some retail therapy at Lady Collective. This boutique is all about empowering local artists and makers, with a lot of unique finds and second-hand pieces that are ready for a new life. Snag some unique pieces with no corporate guilt.
Mid-Afternoon: Snack Time at Tiny Grocers 🛒
Foxtrot, who? This is my new go-to spot for fun drinks and snacks. Tiny Grocers isn’t your average grocery store; it’s packed with local, sustainable goodies that make meal prep for the week ahead feel like a luxury experience. Think of it as grocery shopping, but make it trendy (I bought a $7 can of sparkling CBD water, which I savored the h *ll out of). It’s the perfect spot to regroup in the AC, maybe meet a friend or a hot date, and enjoy some food and drinks from tinyDelicatessen. The menu includes salads, sandwiches, and pastries… and possibly my new favorite iced matcha (TBD)…
My current fave is at Paperboy. Order the iced matcha + your favorite milk + lightly sweetened with their homemade lavender syrup
Saturday Evening: Books & Bites at First Light 📚
Head next door to unwind at First Light Books; a gorgeously designed store that formerly operated as a post office. This bookstore and café is perfect for a cozy evening of browsing through an eclectic selection of books while munching on (more) pastries and drinks. Whether you’re sipping on a hot drink or indulging in a sweet treat, it’s the ideal spot to reflect on your productive day.
Evening: Picnic Supplies at Fresh Plus 🍏
By now, you've probably had enough snacks, so you should head to the grocery store! Hear me out: Fresh Plus is your go-to local grocer for quick needs or picnic supplies, which is why you’re here. Grab some delish options for a Sunday picnic, even if that’s a stay-at-home picnic.
Sunday: Treat Yourself at Parker and Scott 🥂
Are you in need of a birthday gift this week? Maybe you’re running low on dish soap or shampoo? Parker and Scott General Store is the perfect stop for their curated selection of toys, candles, books, apothecary items, and hard-to-find snacks. The Refill Bar has amazing choices for hand soaps, dish soaps, and shampoos. It’s a sustainable shopper's dream.
Sunday: Afternoon
End your day enjoying your Fresh Plus picnic goods, reading your new books from Parker and Scott and First Light Books, and making yourself a new necklace from Sea of Beads. There you go, a weekend packed with local love, supporting the businesses that make Austin the eclectic, vibrant city we adore. If you have other favorite shops, send them my way!
Stay cool Austin!
XOXO, America
Bonus: All of these spots offer FREE parking, both in their lots and on the street (just be sure to park respectfully in the neighborhood).
