My last two trips to Austin have been with my parents to go visit one of my older brothers. We went on a lot of road trips growing up so I definitely felt like I was ten years old again hopping in the backseat of my dad’s truck to hit the road again.
The Trip
Like with any trip to Austin, we stopped to grab kolaches along the way. This recent trip we stopped at a different kolache spot (not the Little Czech Stop, gasp!) a few blocks off of 35 called Village Bakery and it was SO good. It was the first czech bakery to open up in the area and is still going strong. It’s amazing how stopping in a little town like West makes you feel like you’re in another world. The place we stopped at felt like it was still operating in the 50’s (which was awesome) then we popped into one the vintage stores across the street where I looked at just about every sign and magnet they had (if you follow me on Snapchat @thefashionhour you saw a few of them). I love the ones that look like they’re scenes from the 1950’s and have some hilarious and sarcastic quote on them. Do you know what I’m talking about? Anne Taintor makes a lot of them. The one I left with had a picture of a woman holding a glass saying, “why do dishes when you can do daquiris?” Ha! Sold. Side note: I’m wearing the most comfortable culottes pants ever made out of sweatshirt material (sounds weird but I promise they’re amazing).
Where we Stayed
Like our previous trip to Austin, we stayed at the Hilton Austin located downtown on East 4th Street, a perfect location that is walking distance to everywhere you’d want to be in downtown Austin. We received such great service and felt so welcome our first trip, it was a no-brainer we would stay there again (I’m obviously a fan of Hilton plus their beds are super comfortable). My favorite part had to be the executive lounge on one of the top floors that had the BEST coffee machine. I know that may sound silly but it really was one of the most delicious lattes and they had incredible croissants (yes, these are the kinds of things I get excited about). They also had a cocktail hour every day where they served little appetizers and had an incredible cheese board spread from 5-7pm. We probably went up there at least twice a day during each of our stays! Whether you’re planning a trip with a group of friends or heading to Austin alone, I would highly recommend the Hilton Austin. We literally walked everywhere from the hotel and it really did become our little home away from home.
What We Ate
Every trip to Austin (or any trip with my family for that matter) is centered around one thing: food. Where are we eating for breakfast? What are we going to do for dinner? What’s for dessert?? We are legit that family that talks about other restaurants while eating at a restaurant. So annoying I know (and if you watch Girls you may remember a similar scenario) but it’s who we are and it probably won’t be changing anytime soon. And hey, this way I get to share all of the places on here with you! Here’s a look at what we enjoyed this trip…
Lambert’s
Half. Price. Happy hour. DAILY. Need I say more? Not only is happy hour on a weekend great, but a happy hour that includes an entire bar food menu and appetizers at half price? That is a good one. Lambert’s is such a cool place and was only a few blocks from the hotel. We must have ordered ten items while we were there. Everything was so delicious but I have to say my favorites were the frito pie (I’m genuinely upset I have to drive all the way to Austin in order to eat this again. It was so good.) and the “hot” chicken fried oysters (the combination of “hot” with the cabbage slaw was delicious). Oh and how did I not know that egg in a hole could be so delicious?! Happy hour is 7 days a week from 5-7pm (also includes $2 off all beverages).
1886 Cafe & Bakery at The Driskill
The historic hotel that is The Driskill is located on 6th street right outside of where all of the madness goes on at night. After Lambert’s and attending a hilarious and entertaining Addams Family musical put on by Summer Stock Austin, my family and I went to the 1886 Cafe located inside the hotel late one night for dessert and coffee. The pastries and cakes they create are incredible! We loved the 1886 Chocolate Cake (literal recipe dating back to 1886) and the Limeade tart made of an airy coconut macaroon and dollops of gelled lime filling and meringue. A great spot to stop in for a treat then explore the hotel.
Trio at Four Seasons
While on the hunt for an “affordable brunch”, we came across probably the most expensive brunch option in Austin, Trio at the Four Seasons. We decided to go for it and looked at it more as an “experience” and a getaway in itself so to speak. We sat outside on the orange umbrella covered patio overlooking gorgeous landscaping and Lady Bird Lake. At $56 a person, this Sunday Brunch includes everything you could imagine and more. From usual brunch items like eggs benedict, omelettes, pancakes (which were the most perfect pancakes ever), french toast casserole, etc. to dishes like blackened grouper, prime rib, chicken and waffles, an insane dessert buffet, and my favorite, the seafood. We must have eaten a few dozen shrimp and crab claws (which were gigantic) and the small dishes of ahi tuna tartare were not only delicious but refreshing on such a hot day. With the gorgeous view, great service, comfortable atmosphere and unlimited coffee and mimosas (mainly champagne with fresh squeezed orange juice), it’s easy to spend a couple of hours at brunch.
Let me know if you give any of these spots a try! Check the blog this weekend for a refreshing and trendy recipe post I am very excited to share! 🙂
Thank you for reading!
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Thank you to the Hilton Austin for my stay!
