It’s official: the Eastside of Austin is happening like crazy. Just one year ago, lone coffee shops and galleries dotted the rough community on the “wrong side” of giant interstate I-35. Now it seems that cute spots are opening every week; admittedly, I can’t get enough of it. Austin is many wonderful things, but historically it has been anything but a foodie mecca. As wonderful as Tex-Mex and Lone Star can be, I can’t help but want more from this sophisticated city. Now, this new scene cropping up really promises to change that and these spots are even open late! Another sad rarity.

I’ve been consistently impressed by new favorites in town: Eastside Showroom, Justine’s Brasserie and the Liberty. This powerhouse triumvirate offers a wonderful combination: amazingly sophisticated cuisine with local ingredients, beautiful outdoor spaces for lounging or bocce (always lovely since Austinites get to hang outside year round) and incredible drinks, many culled from the deep tombs of early twentieth century cocktails. I just can’t get enough.