5 Best Holiday Pop-Ups to Get You in the Spirit

 

Unlock the magic of the holiday season in Austin with an enchanting array of festive pop-up experiences that promise to transform the city into a winter wonderland. From Gibson Street Bar’s ‘Gibson Wonderland’, to Kitty Cohen’s lively Hanukkah celebration, each venue offers a unique and spirited escape. We’ve compiled our top five must-see pop-ups to get you in the festive spirit!

 

 

Gibson Street Bar 12/1 – 12/31: Gibson Street’s holiday pop-up bar, “Gibson Wonderland,” is a festive transformation that captivates visitors every December. With the bar’s string of reindeer lights and towering candy canes transforming the space into a Christmas wonderland and a delightful holiday drink menu, it’s the perfect place to unwind and embrace the holiday spirit. Enjoy the warmth of the season with friends and loved ones at this Austin gem, starting December 1st.

 

 

Kitty Cohen’s 12/1 – 12/30: The East Austin bar Webberville will host its fourth annual Hanukkah pop-up, with lively decorations accompanied by a menu of Hanukkah-inspired drinks. In addition to their themed drink specials, this year’s celebrations will feature baked goods from pastry chef Amanda Rockman, including Hanukkah cookies during the holidays and rugelach, a cocktail served with a star of David chai shortbread with a citrus glaze. Jewboy Burgers will also pop up on Monday, December 19th.

 

 

Miracle on 5th Street at The Eleanor 12/1 – 12/27: Miracle on 5th Street, a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar, creates a whimsical and nostalgic holiday atmosphere in the heart of the city. This merry establishment boasts festive decorations from floor to ceiling, multiple bars, delightful communal experiences, and a generous serving of holiday cheer. Austin’s beloved holiday destination, located once again at the Eleanor, is back for another enchanting season. Visitors can’t resist taking snapshots in Santa’s Throne or savoring seasonal libations like the Chimney Cricket and the Jingle Balls Nog. Hurry in before the festivities conclude on December 27.

 

Mozart’s Light Show 12/1 – 1/6: One of the city’s most iconic offerings during the holiday season is a mesmerizing display at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters that transforms the café into a dazzling wonderland. Thousands of LED lights meticulously choreographed to classic tunes turn the entire outdoor deck into a symphony of colors and music. Families, friends, and couples gather to watch their incredible light show, sipping coffee, and indulging in delicious pastries. It’s a cherished Austin tradition that evokes a sense of wonder and community, making Mozart’s a must-visit during the holidays.

 

 

Ice Rodeo at The Four Seasons Hotel Austin 12/1 – 1/7: Experience winter magic as you skate beneath the stars with a breathtaking view of Lady Bird Lake at downtown Austin’s premier ice-skating rink. The Four Seasons’ Ice Rodeo is an immersive holiday experience with extravagant decor, art installations, and is accompanied by themed pop-up lounges, outdoor dining cabins, as well as a themed menu and more.

 

6 Events Happening in Austin this Month

 

November in Austin, Texas, is a magical time when the scorching summer heat starts to wane, and the city comes alive with an array of events. From studio tours and cultural festivals to family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’ve compiled six exciting events happening in Austin this November that you won’t want to miss!

 

Wurstfest 11/3 – 11/12: An annual festival held in the charming town of New Braunfels, is a beloved event that celebrates the best of German culture, food, and tradition. Wurstfest offers a unique and unforgettable cultural experience, from the mouthwatering array of sausages to the lively polka music and spirited beer gardens. Discover the rich history, delicious foods, and lively entertainment that make Wurstfest a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Germany in the heart of Texas.

 

Austin Food + Wine Festival 11/4 – 11/5: The Austin Food + Wine Festival is an annual celebration that excites taste buds and raises a glass to the finest culinary experiences. This locals’ favorite event showcases the best of Austin’s food scene and the world of wine in a captivating setting. Attendees can indulge in a diverse array of gourmet dishes, sample exquisite wines, and enjoy engaging culinary demonstrations and entertainment. This festival is a must-visit for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a delightful blend of flavors and experiences in the Texas capital.

 

Austin Fashion Week 11/10 – 11/12: The annual Austin Fashion Week, hosted by Fashion by Texas, returns this November for an in-person, outdoor show at The Domain. AFW is a dynamic and trendsetting event that converges fashion, art, and culture in the heart of Texas. This annual showcase celebrates local and national talent, providing a platform for emerging designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts to shine. With a diverse lineup of runway shows, fashion exhibits, and style-related events, Austin Fashion Week captures the city’s unique sense of style and creativity. It’s a must-attend for those who appreciate the fusion of innovation and fashion, making it a key cultural highlight in Austin’s social calendar.

 

Texas Monthly BBQ Fest 11/4 – 11/5: Texas Monthly hosts the annual Texas Monthly BBQ Festival just south of Austin in historic Downtown Lockhart, Texas. This two-day event features live music, an artisan market, live cooking demos and some of the best BBQ in the state. Hosted annually, this festival gathers the most esteemed pitmasters from across Texas to serve up a mouthwatering array of smoked meats. Visitors can try brisket, ribs, sausages, and more, all prepared with exceptional craftsmanship. With live music and a festive atmosphere, it’s a one-of-a-kind celebration of Texas’ smoky culinary tradition that no BBQ enthusiast should miss.

 

Austin Studio Tour 11/4 – 11/19: The Austin Studio Tour is a free, self-guided art event that takes place over three weekends and combines the West Austin Studio Tour and East Austin Studio Tour. The tour provides opportunities for artists all over Austin to connect with each other and for the public to experience art in person​.

 

Texas Book Festival 11/11 – 11/12: The 28th annual Texas Book Festival is set to unfold at the Texas State Capitol grounds, inviting the public to enjoy over 300 authors and 200+ sessions tailored for adults, young adults, middle-grade readers, and children. The festival promises a delightful array of events suitable for readers of all ages and tastes. The 2023 lineup includes luminaries such as New York Times Best Selling Author Stacey Abrams, PEN/Faulkner award recipient Ann Patchett, Pulitzer Prize laureate Andrew Sean, and more! 

 

Urbanspace Hospitality Opens New Full-Service Restaurant, Bacalar, in Partnership with Gabe Erales

 

 

Experience the Yucatán at Urbanspace Hospitality’s newest full-service concept, Bacalar. Located near the heart of Austin’s vibrant Rainey Street district, the restaurant was created in partnership with Chef/Partner Gabe Erales, a Top Chef winner. Erales brings his own unique culinary style to Bacalar, which is inspired by his Mexican heritage and his travels throughout Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. More than just a system of agriculture, the concept of la milpa comprises the complex interactions & personal relationships between farmers, the crops, and the land. The food of Bacalar emulates this philosophy inspired by the coastal and interior regions of the Yucatan peninsula from which Chef Gabe’s family originates. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of dishes that are not typically found in other Austin restaurants. This makes Bacalar a great option for people who are looking for something different. Chef Gabe Erales is a talented chef with a passion for creating delicious and authentic food. His dishes are artfully presented and packed with flavor. Bacalar offers the best fine dining experience.

 

 

Bacalar was designed by Urbanspace’s Development + Interiors Principal Merrill Alley and features two bars, two patios, a lounge, and a private dining room, with thoughtful design elements inspired by nature and the rich Maya culture of the Yucatán. Bacalar utilizes vernacular design to keep the space authentic while also remaining modern. The totem is both a physical and spiritual centerpiece of Bacalar’s design, representing a visual expression of the landscape and culture that inspired the restaurant’s cuisine. The base of the totem prominently features the most important crop in Maya agriculture: maize. Not only a staple food in the Mayan diet, corn also played a significant role in religion, culture, and the economy. Taken as a whole, the totem signifies abundance, fertility, and the natural world’s connection to the divine.

 

 

“At Urbanspace, our expertise is in acquiring and developing best-in-class real estate while being passionate about building communities in the spaces we own and develop,” says Urbanspace CEO/Founder Kevin Burns. “With the genuine care that Chef Gabe and his team have for the Austin community, we know that Bacalar will be a wonderful addition to our city’s adored Rainey Street.”

Bacalar is located at the base of 44 East Ave, and reservations are now live! Hours are Sunday-Wednesday 5-10pm and Thursday-Saturday 5-11pm! Walkins are welcome, but if you would like to make a reservation or take a look at Bacalar’s menu click here.

 

5 Residential Developments Coming to Downtown Austin

Austin, Texas – one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The Austin skyline is ever-changing as new developments continue to arise. We’ve compiled a list of 4 residential highrise buildings in Austin that are undergoing construction, including a tower projected to be the tallest highrise in Texas!

 

 

The Modern Austin Residences 

Developed by Urbanspace Real Estate + Interiors, The Modern Austin Residences is a luxury condo building that will be opening in 2025. The Modern will be located on 610 Davis Street in the Rainey Street Historic District. The complex will have 56 stories featuring 299 market-rate residences and 19 affordable housing units. Amenities include a 25 M swimming pool + spa, movie lounge, dog run + dog wash, fitness center and much more. Urbanspace handles all sales and interior design related to The Modern. 

 

 

Waterline Tower 

Coming in late 2026, the Waterline Tower will be located on 98 Red River Street in the Rainey Street Historic District. The tower will be located in the heart of the business district and will be on the banks of Lady Bird Lake and Waller Creek. Waterline will be 74 floors with 352 residential luxury apartment complexes. The tower will also contain the 1 Hotel with 251 rooms. Reaching 1,022 feet, the tower is projected to be the tallest highrise in Texas.

 

 

6G

Located on 600 Guadalupe Street, The Residences at 6G will be the tallest building in Austin until the Waterline Tower is completed in 2026. The highrise is 66 floors with 349 apartment units. The building also features over 10,000 square feet of ground floor retail space and almost 600,000 square feet of office space. The residential amenities include a sky lounge with poker room, outdoor yoga deck, fitness center, golf simulator, indoor theater and much more.

 

 

The Linden 

The Linden is the first residential highrise to be located in between Downtown Austin and The University of Texas Campus. The building is located on 317 West 17th Street and will contain 1, 2, and 3 bedroom luxury residences. The 28 story building was topped off in January of 2023 and is projected to be ready for move-in in late 2023. First-class amenities include a world-class lap pool, a club room, a residence bar, outdoor lounge areas, and much more.

 

 

Vesper

Vesper, located at 84 East Avenue, will soar 41 stories high and house a total of 284 condos, with an average unit size of 975 square feet. This exciting project aims to encapsulate the essence of authentic Austin, celebrating the city’s unique artisan culture. The anticipated amenities are set to be exceptional, featuring a rooftop community clubhouse, a sky-deck pool with cabana and outdoor kitchen, complete with a fireplace and lounge area. Residents can also look forward to a fitness studio, complete with private spin and yoga studios, as well as a sky dog park, a lawn, and a convenient dog-washing station.

 

5 New Businesses in Downtown Austin

Austin, Texas, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, live music scene, and progressive atmosphere, has long been a hub for entrepreneurs and innovators. we will take you on a tour of five exceptional establishments that have recently opened their doors, each bringing something unique and fresh to the thriving downtown landscape. From tantalizing culinary experiences to aesthetic lounge bars, these businesses exemplify the city’s ever-evolving charm and dynamism.

Trulucks: In June, Truluck’s made a move just a block away to 300 Colorado St. Along with the relocation, the restaurant now contains a stylish and sophisticated new bar, a second-story patio offering panoramic views of downtown Austin, and an upgraded state-of-the-art kitchen. These enhancements provide Chef Michael Cerny and Chef de Cuisine Andrew Diaz with the opportunity to further diversify and enhance the already delectable menu. Rest assured, the restaurant continues to offer its iconic and popular dishes, including the delightful miso-glazed sea bass paired with crab fried rice and chilled cucumber slaw, as well as other delicious options like sesame seared tuna, prime king crab, and South African lobster tails.

Red Farm: Red Farm, a contemporary Chinese eatery based in New York, is making its way to Austin. The restaurant will be located in downtown Austin at 201 West Third Street. While the specific opening date remains undisclosed at this time, food enthusiasts can look forward to savoring the restaurant’s renowned dishes. Among the highlights are the famed Peking duck, tantalizing pastrami egg rolls, delectable lobster paired with eggs, flavorful barbecue spare ribs, and delightful pork buns. Additionally, Red Farm is renowned for its diverse selection of dumplings, including the delectable black truffle chicken or pork and crab soup dumplings, the mouthwatering crispy duck and crab dumplings, the satisfying crunch vegetable and peanut dumplings, and the playful Pac Man dumplings, designed to resemble characters from the iconic arcade game.

Fox Trot: Situated conveniently in downtown’s central area, right off 2nd Street, Foxtrot, a Chicago-based convenience store, offers a variety of specialty grab-and-go food and beverages, complemented by a cozy seating space for relaxation. Besides the convenient grab-and-go options, Foxtrot contains a well-equipped kitchen where you can order delectable sandwiches, wraps, breakfast tacos, and an array of other tempting dishes. Moreover, as the day winds down, you have the option to swing by and grab your favorite bottle of wine or locally brewed Austin beer, and enjoy a wine pour on-site before heading home.

Uchiba: ​​Chef Tyson Cole’s renowned Japanese restaurant, Uchi, which has gained popularity in Austin, is introducing its casual spin-off, Uchiba, to the city at the end of the summer. It is an izakaya-style cocktail bar and restaurant where customers can relish an extensive array of Japanese whiskies, delectable yakitori grill offerings, and all-time favorites from Uchi’s menu. The upcoming menu at Uchiba will feature items such as yakitori, dumplings, bao, and an extensive selection of sushi and sashimi, taking inspiration from the successful original location in Dallas.

The Quill Room: The bar located within the Austin Proper hotel made its debut in January but was made accessible to the public in May, exuding the ambiance of a European salon. Located on the second floor, customers can experience stunning views while indulging in the refined ambiance, perfect for savoring a classic spritz, enjoying live music, and sharing delectable French-inspired snacks. The menu offers delightful drinks like the Love Letter, a delightful concoction of elderflower liqueur, prosecco, sparkling water, adorned with edible flowers. Additionally, the bar serves appetizers such as foie gras custard paired with radishes, enticing the taste buds of its patrons.

6 Ways to Beat the Heat in Austin

Welcome to the heart of Texas, where the scorching summer sun casts its fiery glow on the vibrant city of Austin. Known for its live music scene, mouthwatering cuisine, and undeniable energy, Austin is a place that never fails to captivate visitors and locals alike. However, as temperatures skyrocket during the sweltering summer months, beating the heat becomes a top priority for anyone looking to fully enjoy the city’s offerings.

So grab your sunglasses, slather on that sunscreen, and get ready to explore Austin like never before, armed with the knowledge of how to conquer the heat and make the most of your time in this vibrant Texan metropolis. Let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to beating the heatwave in Austin, TX!

 

Jacob’s Well : A natural artesian spring located just outside of Austin in Wimberly, Texas. It’s a popular tourist destination known for its swimming and diving. Tourists enjoy the thrill of jumping into the main well that is 140 feet deep! Below the well is an extensive cave system that extends for several thousand feet.

Deep Eddy’s Pool: Deep Eddy’s is a historic, natural spring-fed pool located in Austin. Built in the early 1920s, it is the oldest swimming pool in the state. Deep Eddy Pool is primarily used for swimming and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It is known for its clear water and is often frequented by swimmers looking to cool off or exercise. The pool hosts swimming lessons, water aerobics classes, and other community events.  Deep Eddy Park, surrounding the pool, offers picnic areas, shady spots, and beautiful green spaces for visitors to enjoy.  If you’re hungry, make sure to stop by Pool Burger, a popular hamburger restaurant located in Deep Eddy Park. The restaurant offers a variety of burgers and drinks that everyone can enjoy.

Barton Springs Pool: This magnificent three-acre swimming pool is nestled within Zilker Park. Powered by underground springs, this limestone oasis maintains a delightful average temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year, offering a refreshing escape from the sizzling Texan summers. Tan on the lawns or take a dip in the invigorating cool waters. Keep in mind to plan your visit accordingly, as free admission is available during the early morning and late evening hours, while nominal fees apply during the day.

Zeds Real Fruit Ice Cream: Zeds puts an Austin Style twist on the New Zealand tradition by using Tillamook ice cream and berries from the Willamette Valley. The beauty of Zed’s Real Fruit Ice Cream lies not only in its flavor but also in its health-conscious approach. By utilizing real fruit, it provides essential vitamins and nutrients while minimizing artificial additives and sweeteners. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies both your cravings and your desire for wholesome ingredients. Its the perfect treat to bring the kids to enjoy on a fun summer day! Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a sweet treat throughout the year, Zed’s Real Fruit Ice Cream is a delightful and refreshing option that showcases the natural goodness of fruits in every spoonful.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Indulging in Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream with the kids is a joyful experience thats filled with laughter and delight especially in the summer. The vibrant colors and enticing flavors of Jeni’s creations spark excitement in their eyes. As they savor each creamy spoonful, their faces light up with pure bliss. Sharing stories and giggles over scoops of Brambleberry Crisp or Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks creates cherished memories. Watching their little fingers grab waffle cones or sample different flavors brings a sense of pure happiness. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream not only satisfies their sweet tooth but also creates a special bond between parents and children, making it a truly splendid treat for the whole family.

Lick’s Honest Ice Cream: Lick Honest Ice Cream is a popular ice cream brand known for its artisanal, handcrafted approach to creating unique and delicious flavors. Founded in 2011 in Austin, Texas, by Anthony Sobotik and Chad Palmatier, Lick Honest Ice Cream aims to provide high-quality ice cream made from scratch using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.

10 Things To Do in Austin This May

May is a beautiful month to visit Austin, with sunny days and bearable Texas temperatures, it is the perfect time to explore all the city has to offer before the summer rush! Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Austin this May. Here are some of the most exciting events and activities happening in Austin this month:

Pecan Street Festival (May 6-7): This free, family-friendly festival takes over historic Sixth Street for two days of live music, food vendors, and local artists selling their wares.

Hot Luck Festival (May 19-22): This food and music festival brings together some of the top chefs from around the country for four days of culinary delights and live music performances.

Austin Reggae Festival (May 27-29): This annual festival features three days of live reggae music, food vendors, and local craft beer.

Hiking and Biking Trails: With mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, May is a great time to explore Austin’s many hiking and biking trails. Some popular trails include the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail, and the Walnut Creek Trail.

Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater: This legendary music venue hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout May, featuring both local and national artists.

Austin FC Soccer Matches: May is the start of the MLS season, and Austin’s own soccer team, Austin FC, will be playing several home matches at Q2 Stadium. Catch a game and join the excitement of the city’s newest sports team.

Congress Avenue Bat Colony: Every evening from May to September, the Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Watch as over 1.5 million bats emerge from under the bridge at sunset.

Austin Food and Wine Festival (May 27-29): This three-day festival celebrates Austin’s vibrant culinary scene with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine and cocktail seminars.

Art Galleries: Austin is home to a thriving art scene, with many galleries showcasing works from local artists. Some popular galleries to check out include the Blanton Museum of Art, The Contemporary Austin, and the Mexic-Arte Museum.

Texas State Capitol Tours: Take a guided tour of the Texas State Capitol building, a historic landmark and the largest state capitol building in the country. Learn about Texas history and the state’s legislative process.

These are just a few of the many exciting things to do in Austin in May 2023. With so much to see and do, there’s never been a better time to visit this vibrant city.