Vintage Books & Wine, East Austin

Sitting in the very gentrified area of East Austin is the perfect blend that is Vintage Books and Wine, housed in what was formally an old general store and home. Now its 30-year-old owner has created a recipe that is a perfect blend for many of us: books and wine. The building is 140 years old and has been created into a very hip hang out. 

There is a special section for Texas books, but bibliophiles will find any genre of interest. Whether readers are looking for a great yarn or a great beverage, they will not be disappointed. Customers can choose from cold brew, Prosecco, rosé, beers in a can, a featured wine, or a great standby, like the Diora Chardonnay from Monterey. If you time it right, oenophiles can enjoy live music, 6 to 9 p.m., a Thursday author reading, a “class and a glass,” which is their yoga once a month or other special events, such as an Independent Bookstore Day April 29th event. They are open six days a week (closed on Mondays), and customers will find that all furniture and art is for sale as well. What’s not to love?

Flix Brewhouse, Round Rock

Let’s face it, I’m spoiled when it comes to movie theaters. Round Rock’s Flix Brewhouse, the only cinema brewery in the country, is the only one I’ll go to. I need convenience, F&B (food & beverage), and comfy seats. They also have theaters in El Paso, Frisco (Dallas) and San Antonio. Flix (Round Rock) recently renovated several theaters to make our viewing experience even more pleasant: reclining seats and new dining tables (“eating stations”).

We love their fan fest and brew fest menu items which match the theme of the movies. Some other menu highlights include breakfast all day, house made hummus, house made pizza dough (they are proud of their “mother,” live yeast culture from which their fresh sourdough yeast is derived), and all their salads can be turned into a wrap. Even though they are a brewery, guests can choose from wine and cocktails for their cold beverage option, as well. 

Flicks + fun + food= a perfect experience. 

Alma at the Hacienda, Georgetown

Opening this Spring, Alma by Stephan Pyles (who proudly holds 12 James Beard Awards in his apron pockets) invites guests to enjoy the “Father of Southwestern cuisine’s” offerings. In 30 years, the celebrity chef has opened 23 restaurants and there are no signs of stopping. Alma is his new passion project and it is a beacon for true southern hospitality, gourmet food, and live music (on occasion). But, here’s the very interesting thing about this restaurant in Georgetown… It’s part of a senior living community!

The Hacienda at Georgetown is a senior community placed on 13 acres of beautiful Texas land. However, the doors of Alma are open to young and old– hoping the community at large frequents the avant garde restaurant concept.  The setting of Alma encapsulates the serenity of Georgetown, differentiating itself slightly from Austin, with an eclectic spirit. 

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 Cover Photo Courtesy Mitchell Kmetz. 

Marika Flatt, Outstanding Austin Communicator 2021, is the Travel Editor of Texas Lifestyle Magazine. She began her travel writing career in 2002 and can be seen as a contributor on TV shows across Texas, offering travel tips.