Best pizza in Austin. Right up there with some of the best I've had anywhere. Try to sit in the main restaurant as they have more options than the to-go spot next door. Note: main Home Slice is closed on Tuesdays.

The sticky bun at Olivia is warm and sweet. Perfect.

A new contender for some of the best 'cue in town. Go early-- once it's gone, it's gone.

This townie dive bar hosts Chicken Shit Bingo on Sunday afternoon. How hysterical is that?!

Funky, boutique digs amidst the shops, restaurants and nightlife of South Congress. It's the quintessential Austin hotel-- a bit artsy, very chill, and more affordable than it's big sister, Hotel St. Cecilia.

In a city full of great Mexican places, this is my pick for something a little less down and dirt. I love Chef Ortiz's fantastic, modern takes on guac, tacos, plus killer drinks & desserts (pastry chef Laura Sawicki is one of the best in the country).

Cash-only food truck serving inventive versions of Asian classics. Think steamed buns filled with avocado or crispy chicken skins with kimchee.

Think of Uchiko like Uchi… only much bigger. Executive Chef Paul Qui makes delicious, inventive sushi dishes, but don't skip the Brussels sprouts (yes, I know they're not a "typical" Japanese dish). They're addictive.

Boutique luxury in Austin. Tucked just off the hustle and bustle of South Congress, this is the perfect way to be near the action without having to hear it. Fabulous pool, great room service and a bar that serves up fantastic cocktails.

Not just your average basic hippy-dippy grocery store. There guys serve up homey food (juicy burgers, fish and chips, great salads) and pour house brews.

Chef Tyson Cole does modern sushi better than anyone I can think of. His original Austin sushi bar is intimate and laid back. Be sure to call ahead for a reservation.

French brasserie on Austin's hipster-filled east side. Lots of 20s and 30s flair, sexy food and atmosphere. Bring a date.

Classic cocktails, dim lighting, good looking patrons… I mean really, what's not to love?!

Yes, you can find gourmet food from a truck. Odd Duck is proof. Owned & operated by the same folks at Barley Swine, this might be my favorite food truck in the country. I loved their goat-cheese cheese grits with duck egg, venison sausage and mushrooms.

One of the country’s most notable restaurant openings of 2011. Try the Wagyu brisket, coffee, barbecued beans and slaw.

Way casual taco spot with some serious food. 30+ tacos, plus sides and amazing salsas. Order a few tacos, but be sure to try the puerco borracho, made with slow-roasted, succulent pork braised in tequila & sherry and seasoned with fresh basil and pasilla pepper sauté. Yum.

Something about Austin makes you want to become a wellness freak and geek. This is the place to tap into that. Yoga, spa services, healthy food in a chic lodge setting on the edge of Lake Austin. You'll leave feeling like a new person.

Dine at the counter at this updated version of a mid-century diner. Food is anything but ordinary-- the beef dishes are spectacular, but the roasted acorn squash curry proves that vegetarian dishes can pack a lot of punch. Order the yogurt with dill syrup and cherries for dessert. Sounds weird, but Dine at the counter at this updated version of a mid-century diner. Food is anything but ordinary-- the beef dishes are spectacular, but the roasted acorn squash curry proves that vegetarian dishes can pack a lot of punch. Order the yogurt with dill syrup and cherries for dessert. Sounds weird, but it’s spot on.… see moresee less

Convenient downtown location, but with stylish sophistication you expect from the W.

Clean lines, bright rooms, comfortable and stunning rooms just off the vibrant South Congress district. Close to the action without having to hear it 24/7. You gotta love that.