The Warehouse District offers several upscale options, as well as casual, laid-back eateries. Malaga’s Wine and Tapas Bar showcases an extensive wine menu and serves tapas with a Spanish flair. The Mezzaluna name is famous for its Los Angeles counterpart, but here it’s known for three-course Italian meals and grappas. Sullivan’s serves Hollywood stars and politicos top-quality steak with an air of confidence. If you’re looking for a more casual dinning spot, try Spaghetti Warehouse, offering steaks and pasta dishes. Bitter End B-Side Lounge & Tap Room serves an array of appetizers along with English-style beers. If you’re looking for an Irish pub, look no further than Fado. You’ll often find Gaelic football on the television and a menu filled with Irish-inspired appetizers. For a mellow pub experience, stop by The Gingerman, where you can sip on a beer in the couch-filled bar area. Need a cup of coffee? Head to Ruta Maya Coffee Company, Austin’s original coffeehouse, brewing coffee produced in Latin America and offering poetry readings and occasional live music. For retro dancing try Polly Esther’s, where you can dance upstairs with the 1970s tunes and Saturday Night Fever dance floor, or head downstairs for the 1980s DJ and dungeon-like dance floor. Oilcan Harry’s large bar and dance floor play host to Austin’s diverse gay community, although the straight set can also often be found dancing the night away.

Not too far from the downtown area lays the neighborhood of Hyde Park, boasting a small cluster of wonderful places to dine, drink and grab your morning cup of coffee. Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery offers a good selection of baked goods and a welcoming atmosphere in which to enjoy your cup of tea or coffee. For an exquisite dessert and liquor date indulge in Dolce Vita Gelato and Espresso Bar. Mother’s Cafe and Garden offers vegetarian, low fat and vegan menu items in a casual environment. Sit inside and enjoy the music, or head out to the peaceful patio, with its small fishpond and lush greenery. Hyde Park Bar & Grill is a bit more upscale in decor, but is famous for its Texas take on battered fries served the European way. Asti, with its modern design, is the newest addition to this area of Hyde Park. Specializing in dishes from Northern Italy, it offers delicious and creative desserts and upscale service.