// March 16th, 2009 // 1 Comment » // Photo, SXSW, Video
For all those en route to the SXSW Austin invasion, countless events organized by the festival and its sponsors are ready to go. But it would be a crime to the lone star state not to get out of the sponsorship umbrella to support some of the city’s finest independent shops and restaurants. With carrot cake French toast and an impressive array of vintage clothing on the line, you’d only be hurting yourself.
Take an inside look at some of what Austin has to offer, courtesy of Fritzie and Kristen. More slideshows to come.
South Congress Cafe serves Texan fair with a very modern spin. If wild boar chile pozole or crabcakes with chipotle hollondaise sauce sounds a little too imaginative for you, try the carrot cake French toast covered in cream cheese pecan syrup. It’s packed with familiar warm flavors to ease your taste buds. The waits are long, but your hunger will be eased by a basket full of mini cornbread the minute you sit down.
New Bohemia is conveniently located just doors down from South Congress Cafe and is the ideal place to kill time while waiting for a table. Inside great vintage finds await at a fraction of the prices you’d find in just about any other American city.
Allen’s Boots has been in business for over 30 years and specializes in traditional Texan garb with an emphasis on – you guessed it – cowboy boots. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, though the prices are steep.
Jo’s Coffee al fresco is one of the many luxuries that the (usually) warm Austin weather has to offer, and Jo’s is happy to serve. Free wifi is available.
Uncommon Objects is a beautifully curated collection of finds from flea markets and estate sales all over the country. Owner Steve Wiman has created a treasure trove of other people’s junk, from anatomical charts to decades-old jewelry to glass eyes. The collection is overwhelming, so put aside plenty of time for browsing.
