Kelli & Justin
Things To Do
Mount Bonnell
They say it's a hike, it's more of a walk. You can go stairs, or no stairs, to a gorgeous look out point with views of Lake Austin and downtown. An easy somethin' (20-30 min) in the morning that's fun to follow with a breakfast taco!
Lake Austin
Gorgeous views, or fun on the water, Austin can still be warm in October!
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Park is host to many events! Most famous as the location for Austin City Limits (ACL), we know and love it as the Austin Trail of Lights. Every year, the park transforms into a walkable winter wonderland (as winter wonderland as you can get in the south). We went for our annual Christmas date night the first year we moved to Austin, and it remains one of our holiday favorites!
The Bats at Congress Avenue Bridge
Classic. The first "thing" we did when we moved to Austin in July 2016, The Bats are famous. This is a fun night planned right. Remember The Bats emerge at sunset, so depending on timing, you could easily hit Coopers Old Time BBQ before or after, and there are no shortage of bars downtown!
Austin FC Game @ Q2 Stadium
We all know what a big sports fan Justin Hogle is. The second ATX got a sports team, you can bet he wasn't long to wait. A little further on the North side of town, a fun, energetic night!
Formula 1 @ Circuit of the Americas
In year one of us living in Austin, we went to the F1 race at Circuit of the Americas with Mom, Dad and Bob. Years later it was site to one of the best Valentine's gifts I've ever given Justin - passes to drive his Corvette on the COTA track!
South Congress Avenue
Many date nights and milestones celebrated on South Congress. Super walkable with great shopping, food, and live music, this stretch is home to some of the other suggestions on the list!
Torchy's Tacos
Step 1: Enter Torchy's Step 2: Order Queso Thank us later.
Amy's Ice Creams
Forget trendy ice cream. Amy's is where it's at. Around since the early 80's, in Austin, it's a crime to go anywhere else. If you're pressed for time, this tasty treat can also be found at the airport on your way into or out of town!
Home Slice Pizza
The dinner that kicked off renovations to our new home! Truly incredible pizza on South Congress with a hidden back patio! You won't be sorry.
Distant Relatives
So everyone's heard Justin's getting a smoker right? His passion for BBQ has reached new heights and this is one of the truly top spots. You've probably heard of Franklin's and Terry Black's but seriously...Distant Relatives. These guys are James Beard finalists and worth the wait. Pro tip: BBQ for breakfast. No joke. The best will sell out, often before lunch time. If you really want to try Texas BBQ, do your research on what time they open!
la Barbecue
Another top spot in Austin that flies a little below the radar compared to Franklin's or Terry Black's. Incredible! Probably a longer line than Distant Relatives...we weren't kidding about that research. Another great option if you just can't wait till Saturday night. There may or may not be (there will be!) BBQ at the wedding.
Loro
Located on South Lamar (the local version of South Congress), Loro is the happy marriage of Texas BBQ and Asian cuisine. The owners of Franklin's and famous sushi restaurant, Uchi, got together and woah!
Ramen Tatsu-Ya
This one's in the regular rotation. We LOVE Ramen Tatsu-Ya. Considered one of the best ramen restaurants in the country, it's our spot on Sundays when it's too late for lunch and too early for dinner.
Tiki Tatsu-Ya
Remember Ramen Tatsu-Ya? This is the same guy, and right next door. A casual speakeasy style restaurant, Tiki Tatsu-Ya is fronted as a closed travel agency with the entrance located on the back side of the block. Check out the website on this one! The drinks are shareable and a show for a crowd. Delicious food too. Pro tip: plan in advance! This place opens reservations one month at a time, one month in advance, and they. go. quick.
Red Ash
You've probably heard us talk about it. This is the number one. We've celebrated many birthdays and at least 2-3 anniversaries. For sure, our three-year anniversary. We went before we saw Hamilton last Christmas. We've taken all the parents. Need I go on?
J Carver
Sooo...Red Ash is so good and such a hit, the owner and executive chef opened a second spot. J. Carvers has all the chops with a focus on steak and seafood instead of pasta. The did steal the "Hot And Crispy Country Italian Bread" from the Red Ash menu. Like the queso at Torchy's, don't ask questions, just do it.
Elephant Room
Our 2019 annual Christmas date night, The Elephant Room is a divey basement jazz bar, and SO. MUCH. FUN.
The Roosevelt Room
The best craft cocktail bar in town! More of an experience and also best to make a reservation.
Rainey Street
Where to go when you want to keep the party going! You can also head to "dirty 6th", but be prepared for the craziness that comes with it.