Chi'lantro BBQ

We’re always delighted when a trip involves staying at the Four Seasons. Who isn’t? And to be clear, there are things to love about the Four Seasons Austin. The grounds are beautiful, the cocktails have alcohol in them, and the lake-view rooms have views of the lake. Then there are the things that are harder to love. A recent renovation transformed the property from charming Texas hotel to soulless Texas hotel—with overall décor that is somehow a combination of greige and lonely. Even the suites feel impersonal and corporate—and showers are unreliable at best. But all that failed water pressure doesn’t come cheap: A suite for one night will run you a few thousand dollars.

This boutique hotel is set in a 1925 Craftsman bungalow (with two levels, and just seven rooms, each uniquely furnished), but don’t let the old-school edifice fool you: The interiors of this historic house have been totally refurbished and renovated for a polished, modern look. Married partners George Reynolds and Kathy Setzer opened up shop in East Austin in 2012—the up-and-coming area has since grown into a happening, but not unruly destination. You can borrow bicycles for free to explore the area—bars, galleries, food trucks, and some excellent taquerias are all within striking distance.

This historic mansion-turned-boutique hotel is all about Texas charm, from the grand wraparound porch, to the meticulously manicured grounds in the pool area, to the plush upholstery in the well-appointed rooms. The best part: it’s all newly renovated and totally up to modern luxury standards. The outdoor pool is lined with cabanas where you can enjoy complimentary 24-hour guest services (the fitness center is also open round-the-clock), making it the perfect place to rest and recuperate while on a business trip. Their on-site bistro, Goodall’s Kitchen, covers brunch, dinner, and dessert. The juicy burger, Tavern Steak with roasted bone marrow, or simply a few snacks to share, mean Goodall’s is worth a visit even if you're not checking in.

In the hospitality world, hotelier Liz Lambert is known for her Midas touch. Case in point: She hand-picked every item—from the silky drapes to the giant chandeliers—in this fourteen-room Victorian mansion with visiting musicians and creatives in mind. (The South Congress Hotel also happens to be named after the patron saint of music and poetry.) There are five suites, six poolside bungalows, and three studios—all outfitted with turntables, monogrammed bed linens, and Le Labo products, although each one has its own distinct character. Guests can borrow LPs from the library too. The hotel bar (for guests only) has a gorgeous view of the grounds—go at sunset and order a margarita. (Lambert's other hotel in South Congress, Hotel San Jose, also has great cocktails, and is a good option if you're looking for a busier atmosphere.) Bonus: The Hotel Saint Cecilia's fifty-foot pool is heated and open around the clock.

Smack dab on South Congress Avenue and originally built in 1939 as an old motor lodge, the 40-room property was revamped by hotelier Liz Lambert in the late 90s and has since developed something of a cult following along the way. Here, her minimalist aesthetic translates to a cool gray stucco façade, terra cotta roofs, a bamboo-lined lap pool, and Eames arm-shell chairs. The concrete-floored rooms are sparsely appointed (Sferra linens, Malin + Goetz products), but thoughtful. Slip on one of the custom striped kimono robes—conveniently also for sale at the hotel’s gift shop—and you’ll be hard pressed to take it off. An added perk: Jo’s Coffee next door will deliver your daily Iced Turbo or a breakfast taco right to your room.

Part of the appeal of Hotel Van Zandt is its location in Rainey Street Historic District, and close proximity to the Austin-specific, easy-going, bungalow-turned-bars there. The Kimpton hotel has 300-plus guest rooms, decorated in the brand's signature smart style, and a handful of fabulous suites, which have views of downtown, Rainey Street, or Lady Bird Lake. Van Zandt's chic pool and deck also overlook Lady Bird.

While it’s billed as a design-centric boutique hotel, Frame Hotel's seven mid-century modern guestrooms, minimalist courtyard, and common area, complete with kitchen, office, and fancy coffee station, strike us more as the trappings of a really well-appointed guesthouse. Its central location and not-too-big size not only makes it the ideal home base from which to explore the city, but a great option for hosting birthdays, family reunions, even weddings—reach out well ahead of time to book the entire space.

The pillows at the hypermodern LINE Austin are the soft landing we all need after a day (and night) of downtown revelry. The 1965 building housed a former jazz club, and thanks to art from local creatives on every wall, stunning views of the Town Lake, and arguably the prettiest pool in Austin—complete with its own fireplace—the Line has personality in spades.

This boutique hotel is a modernized revamp of a retro motor court motel—its live music, bonfire parties, and dipping pool reminiscent of a classic Texas swimming hole have made it a destination for the young and hip. This is the place to stay for quirky Americana touches without skimping on quality, cleanliness, or luxe amenities (including a supply of bath-and-body products made in California by modern apothecary, Lather). Located in North Austin, the vibe here is definitely social—all the outdoors activities make great opportunities to meet fellow travelers (and locals), have a drink, and hang out. The on-site food truck court, in true Austin fashion, is a big bonus.

Fittingly located on South Congress, the street’s namesake hotel is as much a destination for locals as tourists, thanks to a comprehensive collection of restaurants (Cafe No Se, Otoko, and Central Standard) a low-key coffee shop (Mañana), and some of the city’s best stores (Sunroom and Revival Cycle), all under one roof. Design-wise, the rooms and lobby have a warm-but-modern Texas vibe, comfortably decorated with felt headboards, midcentury furniture, and leather poufs. Make time for a drink at the rooftop pool and bar.

Barley Swine works its magic with fresh-off-the-farm Texan bounty like no place else. And we’re obsessed with the locally made Sunset Canyon pottery each dish is served on. A healthyish dinner could look like this: bean salad with masa-infused mayo, shishito pepper mousse flecked with puffed grains, and a bowl of shiitake dumplings with grilled squash to share.

If you’re after something substantial, Café No Sé is open all day, but the weekday breakfast is our favorite. The space is big and bright, with wooden tables, wicker chairs, and outdoor seating. The menu falls somewhere between healthyish and decadent, so you can order, say, the gluten-free paleo granola one day and ricotta pancakes with pecan butter the next.

If they weren’t already, Clark’s cemented the place of restaurateurs Larry McGuire and Thomas Moorman (owner of the uber-popular Perla’s) as the utmost authorities of Austin’s seafood scene. The small space has a clean, nautical vibe that’s faintly reminiscent of the Hamptons, with a subtly East Coast menu to match; ideal for a more intimate dinner or brunch. Our suggestions? Cold water oysters (a must) and their famous fries, ceviche, the cooked kale salad, and the wood-grilled shrimp toast (a divine compilation of aioli, smoky shrimp, and crunchy sourdough). In our humble opinion, this is by far one of the best Bloody Marys in the city.

Austin's South First is a gem of a street and this is one of the top highlights. A Vietnamese café plus French bakery, Elizabeth Street Café combines the best of two worlds. The bakery makes two different kinds of baguettes daily (order the bánh mì to try), croissants, and a variety of pastries including macarons. Stumptown is the house coffee, and you can get traditional Vietnamese coffees with classic café du monde chicory. In addition to bánh mì, the restaurant also serves spring rolls, pho, and spicy curries. The interior is exquisitely pretty, clean, and bright, decorated with oversized framed mirrors and divided by an open arch. The chic neon touches on the side patio follow suit.

El Primo is a member of the old guard. Reliably good, affordable, and unchanging, the breakfast tortas and salsas served out the hatch of this teeny-tiny south Austin trailer are the stuff of local legend. Michoacán chef Humberto Reyes has been flipping tacos here for thirteen years, and unlike at many of the other city trucks, the meat to cheese ratio sandwiched into every tortilla is always just right. Stop by for breakfast, pick up a cold brew next door from Once Over coffee like the Austinites do, and take note: El Primo is cash only.

Emmer & Rye is an unusual, heavy-on-heritage-grains concept we cannot get enough of. New American cuisine is served dim sum–style, which translates to best-of-the-farmers’-market small bites that come around on a cart as you work through your mains. Chef Kevin Fink cut his teeth at Copenhagen’s Noma, which is reason enough to come here, and the resolutely seasonal, farmers’ haul influence is apparent on every plate. Menu standouts include a peppery-to-the-point-of-spicy (we’re not complaining) cacio e pepe with heritage Blue Beard durum wheat pasta, and a buttery Carolina Gold rice pudding.

Fonda San Miguel underwent a renovation in the last decade, but the bright decor here still speaks to its impressive 1970's roots. Of course, though, the mouthwatering Mexican food is the reason this restaurant is still open forty-plus years later. In fact, they make the same tortilla soup recipe from 1975; locals love everything from the classic enchiladas to the chile rellenos and Gulf shrimp dishes.

This is the kind of legendary BBQ joint that can only exist in Texas. Run by Aaron Franklin, Franklin Barbecue has been selling out daily since it opened in 2009 (at the time, in a trailer). The line, which starts forming around dawn—for lunch—is easily a few hours long. The now well-known way around it is to pre-order online for pick-up— which you can do up to six months in advance—provided you are ordering between 5 and 30 pounds of meat. As for the food itself: Suffice it to say there is nothing lean about the menu or the meat. The slow-smoked brisket is insanely tender; it's regularly described as "melt-in-your-mouth" good. Same goes for the pulled pork and ribs.

For Armando Vazquez, tacos are a family affair. His two daughters run the outrageously popular Veracruz, while he and his wife, Maria Rios, turn out their own version of the food they grew up with. In this case: Granny’s chilaquiles taco is a breakfast special we—and pretty much the rest of Austin—happily stand in line for. Tender shredded chicken, cheese, spicy jalapeños, and a smattering of onions are liberally drizzled in Rios’s grandmother’s secret mole sauce.

Güero's is one of those places that's on every visitor's hit list. In a town where margaritas, tamales, and enchiladas are fuel, this South Congress taqueria doesn't disappoint. (It helps too, that they've been around since 1986.) Service is friendly and the vibe is lively and casual. On Sundays, it's practically a ritual to nurse a hangover in the restaurant’s Oak Garden with an order of migas—a plate of scrambled eggs, tostadas, and pico de gallo. There's a vegan menu, too.

Situated on top of a hill overlooking downtown, this former 1950s pharmacy has been turned into a farm-to-table hotspot with a line on the weekends that wraps out the door. Thankfully, the owners restored many of the old pharmacy’s charming details: there’s a pentagon-patterned floor, antique wooden display cases, and a photogenic tin roof. The breakfast menu is deceptively simple: the fried egg sandwich features avocado, aioli, fried green tomato, and eggs in a bowl, which includes mozzarella curd, sautéed kale, and zucchini. Local pride extends to its produce as well—many of the local veggies are picked from nearby Eastside Urban Farms so it’s all very fresh. During the day and into the evening, the raw bar, with its mix of East and West oysters, is a happy hour favorite, especially when paired with a grapefruit jalapeno margarita.

Husband-and-wife duo Bay and Lindsay Anthon melded their love of craft beer (him) and French background (her) into Hopfields, a sophisticated neighborhood gastropub, which opened in Austin in the fall of 2011. The rotating tap list is a big draw (but there's also a wine list), and regulars love the steak frites as well as the Pascal burger served with camembert, cornichon, whole grain mustard, and caramelized onions.

Irene’s is the epitome of a neighborhood joint: housed in a former auto body repair shop and named for one of the proprietor’s beloved grandmother’s, it’s the kind of spot locals flock to thanks to its wraparound outdoor patio, and a walk-up window counter that serves breakfast pastries and coffee from 7am on. Inside, a neon sign, salvaged airplane panels, and, yes, an upright piano greet diners who appreciate a little kitsch, but you should really come here for the comfort food. Think: sea-salt popcorn and pimento cheese snacks, pulled chicken and avocado sandwiches, and farro and mushroom salad.

The team behind Josephine House is responsible for some of Austin's best eats, including Lamberts and Elizabeth Street Café. Situated in a bungalow cottage with a blue exterior, and bright, white interior paired with dark hardwood flooring and an intimate marble bar, Josephine House is designed to feel like a (gorgeous) home kitchen. The locally sourced menu features signature dishes like the Josephine Rice Bowl, along with seasonal salads, soups, and meat mains like braised short ribs with grits.

With the style of an old-timey diner—only much more polished—June’s (which owner and renowned restaurateur Larry McGuire named after June Rodil, their master sommelier) is a lighthearted spin on French bistro cuisine. From breakfast to dinner, their offerings are all fresh, delicious riffs on classic French comfort foods like bone marrow bolognese and steak-au-poivre, adding into the mix quintessentially Austin touches like chalupas for breakfast. And of course, their wine-and-beer list is on point—and abundant—with selections from all over the world, as well as local brews. (P.S. Their patio is dog-friendly.)

Downtown Austin fixture, La Condesa, has gone through a series of kitchen staff changes in the past few years, and is now helmed by Texas native, Chef Rick Lopez. The food—a combination of small plates and a tight edit of Mexican-focused entrees—remains excellent. Start with the guacamole tasting, a sample of all of La Condesa's seasonal salsas and guacamoles (there's one with chipotle purée and another with jumbo lump crab). The tacos (which come in two's) are nice for sharing, and add the elotes side (authentic Mexican corn) to whatever you decide to order for dinner. If tequila is your thing, they've got a solid selection, and their signature margarita with fresh pineapple and lime juice is very satisfying. The atmosphere is lively whether you're sitting on the outdoor patio or at a table inside the split-level restaurant; there's also a gorgeous private event space.

Imagine a mashup of hot Malay, Thai, and Chinese smoked meats paired with Texan BBQ. That’s Loro. Run by Austinite food-scene veterans Tyson Cole (Uchi) and Aaron Franklin (Franklin Barbecue), standouts include the Thai green curry sausage and charred pork shoulder with a heaping portion of garlicky rice noodles to soak up the juices. While Loro isn’t necessarily the spot for the meat-averse, sides like Texas sweet corn, zesty papaya salad, and the grilled Asian pear with kale hit the spot for herbivores and carnivores alike. Stools and long wooden tables built for communal feasting set a picnic-for-the-adults vibe, and twinkling skylights and long hanging lamps strung from the barn-style roof add atmosphere in spades to this casual dining spot that is so thoroughly at home in Austin.

Owned by James Beard Award-winning chef Edgar Rico and his wife Sara Mardranbigi, this little indie restaurant serves some of America's best artisinal tacos. The tortillas are made in house with heirloom corn they nixtamalize themselves.

Like many of Austin’s most beloved food spots, Odd Duck started out in a trailer—a Fleetwood Mallard camper, specifically. The menu is, at its base, Southern, but the flavor combinations and resolute use of local produce add an element of farm-to-table California. Lunch could be a chopped smoked chicken salad, while dinner might be delicate roasted quail with collard greens or meltingly tender bavette steak with charred-onion salsa. Plan for a long, lazy evening out on the patio and start with a cocktail. Drinks here are good—really good—and all the classics have an Odd Duck spin to them. The Paloma, made with a hint of tarragon and topped with a salty foam, is our standing order. Be smart and come for happy hour: Many of the entrées are half-price, so you can justify ordering double and leaving stuffed.

Go to Perla's on South Congress for seafood and top-notch oysters. (It's run by chefs/restauranteurs Larry McGuire and Thomas Moorman and their Austin power group that's responsible for Lamberts, Clark's, and Josephine House, to name a few.) The inside of the restaurant is beautiful, but if you want to people watch while you're in Austin, sit outside here.

This truck was a local secret for a while. But places this good don’t stay secret for long. Pueblo Viejo’s breakfast taco is nothing short of an institution in Austin: a perfect egg, potato, spicy chorizo, and a generous amount of cheese. For an indulgent treat or a little soakage after one too many margaritas (the margaritas tend to taste better when you’re this close to Mexico) the chicharron taco—crispy pork rinds with salsa verde and heaps of fresh cilantro—hits the spot.

Chef Fermín Núñez did the rounds in Austin, cooking at La Condesa and Launderette before striking out alone. The menu champions traditional tacos, tamales, and tostadas, all made with what is the foundational ingredient of Mexican cuisine: masa. A soft flour of finely ground, presoaked corn kernels is prepared daily, using local white, green, and red heirloom corn. The nutty, slightly sour flavor of the doughy wrap is worlds away from the chewy, prepackaged tortillas we’ve become accustomed to. Be sure to order the suadera taco—fork-tender brisket, avocado salsa, and Suerte’s black magic oil (smoky Morita chili, a little sesame, and other secret, transporting flavors we can’t quite put our finger on). The drinks list is a thing of beauty. Mezcal and tequila are, of course, in abundance, but the Oaxacan whiskey was a first for us, and a good first at that.

James Beard award-winning Chef Tyson Cole serves small and inventive Japanese dishes using a mix of local ingredients according to what's in season, and fresh fish flown in from everywhere. Order the Hot Rock (they bring wagyu beef and a hot rock—hence the dish name—to your table and cook the meat in front of you), and the madai from the sushi menu. If you're a peanut butter person, you have to get the peanut butter semifreddo with apple-miso sorbet for dessert—the combination of flavors sounds strange but taste amazing. If you don't have time for a full-on dinner, come between 5 and 6:30 for sake social, during which a limited, but noteworthy, selection of the menu is on offer (and for a fraction of the cost).

Born in Veracruz, Mexico, sisters Reyna and Maritza Vasquez grew up helping out in their family restaurant. Veracruz All Natural (and mostly organic) started as a food truck back in 2009 and was an immediate hit. Nowadays the sisters have five locations, including a brick-and-mortar spot in north Austin. We go weak for flautitas de papas (potatoes wrapped in a corn tortilla, deep fried, and served with beans and salsa)—the ultimate comfort food. Al pastor tacos are freshened-up with seared sweet grilled pineapple, while the vegan “furioso” (cauliflower, black beans, spinach, salsa) has as much flavor as any of the meat dishes. Fruity aguas frescas are the norm around Austin, but Veracruz has added to its arsenal a slew of healthy juices and smoothies (with the option to add hemp protein, and nut milks), which are ideal to go.

Austin has its fair share of high-end Chinese restaurants but Wu Chow has made a something of a name for itself thanks to the mix of solid regional dishes, tiki décor touches, and hip-hop soundtrack. Classic dishes are reinterpreted with local ingredients. For example: traditional Hong Kong honey prawns with pecans shows up on the Wu Chow menu as gulf shrimp with Texas pecans; there’s also Shanghai soup dumplings and Cantonese lobster with ginger and scallions. Don’t miss the dim sum, served on Sundays from 11am to 3pm.

Antone’s reopened downtown last year three blocks from its original 1970s location. Inside, the show posters lining the walls from the likes of B.B. King and Ray Charles read like a Blues Hall of Fame. Now the two-story venue aims to not only bring in big-name acts coming through town, but to introduce showgoers to great music, including artists they may not have heard of. It also helps that hometown hero, musician Gary Clark Jr., who played some of his early gigs here, is also a partner.

The house-brewed beer at Blue Owl is sour—in the best way—due to their signature all-natural fermentation process, fittingly called sour-mashing, which results in lower acidity content and a tart, hoppy taste. (Staff on hand can provide you with a tasting guide to start, or opt for their $15 self-guided tasting tour.) Along with the unique texture/flavor medley of their distinctive brews, the bar itself is an elevated experience compared to your typical brewery: It is lofty, whitewashed, and fun.

Since opening its doors back in 1955 the Continental Club has made a name for itself as one of the oldest continuously running clubs in Austin, hosting acts like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Sonic Youth through the years. Nowadays, this South Congress pioneer is known for bringing on up-and-coming local talent and hosting secret shows for bands like Arcade Fire.

Tucked inside a parking garage at the corner of Sixth and Colorado, this bar usually takes a few extra minutes to find. The interior is surprisingly sleek, and the craft cocktails are artfully designed with small plates to match. Order a signature cocktail, starting with the Indian Paintbrush.

The back patio at Lucille’s is outfitted in twinkling lights—which makes it totally magical. Also on the patio: They’ve converted a former garage into a second bar, where people perch at the open windows. The interior is designed to be reminiscent of the 1920’s without trying too hard; the menu is expertly curated and highlights local, handcrafted liquor (and beer).

This pre-Prohibition-style, New Orleans-inspired craft cocktail bar is a great option for drinks and light dinner. Though it began as Austin’s first absinthe bar (the infamous green liqueur was legalized in the U.S. in 2007), their dinner menu, curated by executive chef John Lichtenberger, is worth a trip, too. The riffs on French standards like duck confit, bouillabaisse, and escargots are beloved, as are their only-in-Texas specialties, like Texas wild boar with polenta, braised short ribs with duck-fat mashed potatoes, and lamb bourguignon sourced from a nearby ranch. As for the cocktails, the go-tos (besides absinthe, of course) are gin, whiskey, vodka, and rum concoctions—some original, like the Fig Manhattan (rye, sweet vermouth, house cherry vanilla bitters, fig foam), some reinterpretations of tried-and-true favorites, like Sazerac (a New Orleans classic).

Stubb’s is famous for its barbecue, but maybe even more famous for the live music performances that happen (almost) nightly. Legends like Joan Jett, Willie Nelson, and The Killers are among the many that have entertained here. Be sure to buy tickets in advance for the concerts, as they are likely to sell out early. On Sunday mornings, there’s a live gospel music brunch with a make-your-own Bloody Mary bar.

Speakeasy vibes meet modern street-art at this cocktail bar, where the tall, vaulted ceilings, stone walls, and rustic-chic decor spill out onto the laid-back patio. Here they serve up a great list of signature cocktails (like their Oaxacan Prayer with mezcal, cocchi rosa, and Spanish citrus liqueur; Bossa Nova with gin, genepy, and coconut milk; and Chapado with barrel-aged cachaça, créme de cacao, and blackberry), as well as all the classics (rum and rye are featured heavily), and a respectable wine list. It’s the perfect balance of well-heeled and unpretentious—hence why their happy hour ($7 for a curated list of classic and creative cocktails) is so popular with the locals.

This east-side music venue is a tried-and-true honky tonk—meaning it’s a great, no-frills, super-social show-bar to go for a good time. The drinks are cheap and the pours are generous, with live music that—even if it can be hit-or-miss depending on the night—is pretty much guaranteed to be a weirdly fun, authentically Austin experience. A little rough around the edges and charmingly, endearingly gritty, you’ll want to come dressed for fun and comfort; we’re talking a flannel shirt, tee-and-jeans, and cowboy boots.

Established in 1984, Amy’s is a bit of a hometown hero in Austin; everybody came here as a kid. The setup is Coldstone-style, so you pick your flavor and choose from plenty of toppings or “crush’ns,” which the employees will mix in for you on-site. If you only go once, the famous Mexican vanilla is the thing to order. There are now twelve locations in Austin, but this outpost on Guadalupe was the original.

The food trucks of Austin deserve their own guide. Boteco is just one (really noteworthy) highlight. The yucca fries here get a lot of well-deserved praise, along with the empanadas and feijoada (a hearty Brazilian stew). Boteco catered the birthday party of Austin local Camila Alves, whose insider tips have helped us find many of Austin's other gems (e.g., the margarita at Hotel Saint Cecilia, the peanut butter dessert at Uchi, and the Zilker Park train ride).

Whether you never eat meat, or you're just looking for a break from brisket and BBQ, Bouldin Creek is an easy choice. The cafe serves appetizing all-vegetarian fare with vegan options and mostly organic, local ingredients. Come here for salads, sandwiches, breakfast all day—or just a coffee as you meander down South First. (If you are spending some time in the area, after Bouldin Creek, go to Sugar Mama's across the street for a cupcake.)

Francesca and Marco Silvestrini are Italian immigrants (Francesca’s fiancé Leo is also involved in the business; he’s another Italian native) who were dismayed that they couldn’t find great gelato in the states. One hot summer in Columbus, Ohio, Francesca quit her doctoral program and bee-lined it for Bologna to attend the Carpigiani Gelato University, which is, in fact, a real place and every bit as wonderful as it sounds. Francesca makes authentic, Italian-style gelato using the mantecazione vertical batch method, which contributes to its creamy texture. While she does the basics like chocolate and stracciatella really well, there are some great Texas-inspired flavors like peach and sweet potato on the menu too.

This isn't exactly the classic working coffee shop, but the dual-experience concept behind Easy Tiger is pretty cool. Upstairs, there's a bakery with amazing Bavarian bread; downstairs, you'll find a beer garden with a mile-long beer list and rows of picnic tables. The downstairs is definitely a party in the evenings, but it's quiet upstairs, making it a good choice for an afternoon of work.

Figure 8's serious business La Marzocco Italian espresso machine draws a loyal crowd that also appreciates the lack of pretension at this small neighborhood spot. Texas roasts (like Tweed Coffee and Wild Gift) are highlighted, along with West Coast offerings (like Four Barrel in California and Coava Coffee in Oregon).

Austin is one of the few cities that can pull off a really well done drive-through. Fresa's is all about chicken—tacos, bowls, salads, wings—although there is usually a beef and shrimp plate, and you can order the salads sans meat. The have a handful of grilled sides, including, of course, Mexican street corn. The Downtown location is the original one and is to-go only; in addition to lunch and dinner, they do breakfast tacos until 11am on weekdays and until noon on weekends. The second location in Bouldin is larger; it has a dining room and outdoor patio (plus a full bar) in addition to a go-to window, so you have the option of eating there. They do lunch and dinner here only—the take-out window opens at 8am, though, with dine in starting at 11am.

This hole in the wall specializes in Mexican street food like elotes (corn with cheese and spices) and sour hot Cheetos (a bag of Cheetos smothered in onions and other sauces—we dare you). In the summer, the lines build up for their mangonadas, which are frozen mango towers topped with strawberries, sour power belts, and a drizzle of Chamoy—a savory Mexican condiment that adds loads of complexity. None of it is like anything you’ve ever tried before.

It’s easy to fall for the décor in Houndstooth, which features a wooden herringbone bar, Scandinavian-style furniture, and clusters of Edison bulbs. The overall effect is really minimalist, which is great, because it lets their extremely well-researched and perfectly executed coffee shine. Nice touch: the coffee cups have adorable silhouettes of Texas that you’ll see when you make it to the bottom of the cup. There is another location in Rosedale.

Tucked into the parking lot of the Hotel San Jose, Jo’s is a South Austin go-to for your morning coffee and breakfast tacos (this is Texas, after all). They’ve become social media famous for their signature #IcedTurbo, which is a delicious milky coffee with crushed ice. Another thing they’ve become famous for: “I love you so much” graffitied on the side of the building—reportedly a love note from musician Amy Cook to her then-girlfriend and Hotel San Jose owner Liz Lambert. There's a second location Downtown.

Everyone has different (and equally passionate) views on where to find the best barbecue in Austin, but no matter who you ask, Lambert's inevitably comes up. For starters, the convenient downtown location is really easy to find, and the enormous, two-story building frequently hosts live bands. For the barbecue, you'll line up cafeteria-style and select your meats from a wide, sizzling skillet. The brisket is the must-get item, but you can't go wrong with any of the meats: The chicken is ridiculously juicy, and the sausages, which are stuffed with cheese, are great. Do your best to save space for the cobbler, which is served with a peel-top ice cream in a styrofoam cup.

Real-life couple Anthony and Chad met in New York in the early 2000s, bonding over the fact that they were both from small towns. As Chad waxed poetic about the ice cream he ate growing up in Lancaster, Pennsylvania (a.k.a. hand-made with locally sourced ingredients), Anthony began imagining the types of flavors he could create with ingredients unique to his hometown in Texas. Today, their ice cream shop has stores in San Antonio and Austin, with inventive, Texas-specific flavors like cilantro lime, dewberry corn cobbler, and sweet persimmon.

This adorable shop, owned by couple Alison and Michael Vaclav, has a few locations in Austin. The coffee is all French pressed, with the rich, earthy taste that comes with it. The vibe here is decidedly unpretentious, making it a comfortable place to unwind and dig into some work.

Austin is arguably home to the finest food trailers in the world, and Micklethwait Craft Meats (located less than a half-mile from famous Franklin BBQ) is among the very best. The menu has all the classics plus specials like Brisket Frito Pie and occasionally more rare cuts of meat. Everything is made on-site, mostly using Micklethwait's unassuming-looking pit, which sits next to the main yellow trailer where you place your order before taking a seat at one of the scattered picnic tables.

The enormous outdoor patio at Mozart's is on a dock that extends out onto Lake Austin, marked by a few big, mature oak trees that give lots of shade. Between that, and the fact that you can get a bottomless mug of coffee for just $3.50, there's almost no reason to leave. If you're not in the mood to work, stop by on the weekends for live music or during the holidays for an over-the-top Christmas light display.

The latest eatery from local restauranteurs Larry McGuire and Tom Moorman (Josephine House, Elizabeth St. Cafe, and Clarks), Pool Burger combines beef and booze right by the historic Deep Eddy Pool. Peeler Farm's burgers and crispy crinkle fries are cooked up in a 1968 Airstream parked alongside the small, but very on-theme tiki bar (think: carved stools, Mai Tai's, and ample grasscloth). Aside from the classic beef, cheese, and bun combo, you'll find riffs like The Blue Hawaiian (griddled pineapple, bacon, blue cheese, guac) and the Deep End (Swiss, jalapenos, bacon) on the menu. Save the best for last and order their home-made soft serve with all the fixings.

In what seems to be the Austin way, this coffee shop also has a craft beer list for the after work crowd. The rustic interior boasts reclaimed wood floors and walls, while the outdoor space is marked by a roofless tent-pole barn; sitting under the twinkle lights in the evening makes you feel as though you've landed in someone's backyard for the night.

There is a lot of awesome Tex-Mex in Austin but most people would agree that you have to go to Torchy’s at least once every time you find yourself in Austin. (If you're only making one trip, make it in the morning for a breakfast burrito.) Torchy’s, which started as a taco trailer in 2006 in the Bouldin Creek food truck mecca, now has several regular locations in Austin (in addition to the still-operating trailer), plus dozens of others around Texas and in a couple of other states. Sure, this makes Torchy’s seem less special, and many of the locations look no more remarkable than your average fast food joint—but the food here says otherwise.

Whole Foods is a lunchtime staple no matter where you live, but the flagship Austin location sort of takes everything to the next level. Inside, you’ll find 80,000 square feet of fresh, local, and organic goodness, and a prepared food section that matches. HQ is right upstairs.

While Allen's could be considered a bit touristy (you'll know it from the enormous red cowboy boot affixed to the front awning), there's nothing more fun than perusing their shelves, which are jam-packed with every style of boot imaginable. If you do decide to invest, they stock everything from shiny black Luccheses to Fryes with red leather and white stitching.

ByGeorge opened in Austin 1979 but in 2014 the clothing and home store came under new ownership—it's now helmed by Austin restaurateur Larry McGuire (of Josephine House, among others). There are two locations in Austin: The Clarksville ByGeorge actually combines two shops next door to one another—a women's store and a men's store. On the women's side, you'll find designers like Chloé, Marni, Saint Laurent, and a good selection of bags and shoes; and on the men's, Brunello Cucinelli, Common Projects, and Levi's Vintage. The South Congress store carries clothing as well (A.P.C., FRAME, Outdoor Voices, Jenni Kayne, and more), but it's also known for its home goods and decor, furniture, ceramics, books, and great gift-y items.

Just a stone’s throw from Hotel San Jose, the sprawling two-story Cove is a new kid on a much-loved block of South Congress. Here, University of Texas alum Rebecca Yanoff assembles a roster of brands “Austin women like to wear,” including Rebecca Taylor, Mara Hoffman, Sundry, and Current/Elliot in a light-filled setting accented with palm leaves. A highlight: there’s a wraparound patio with white mid-century Acapulco chairs so shoppers can socialize between fitting room deliberations.

Along with Tex-Mex and live music, there's a big vintage scene in Austin. Aficionados will want to comb all of South Congress and South First Street, but if you're looking for a really great edit, go to Feathers. The shop, which has been open since 2005, is neatly organized, beautiful, and well-run (by two women, one of whom is a Texas native). It's worth a stop for vintage-virgins, too—the clothing and jewelry selection is very accessible, and there are always pieces here that are conveniently easy to work into an everyday, modern wardrobe.

Wendi Koletar knows a thing or two about what Austin women want to be wearing. For more than a decade, the Texas native’s unerring edit has made way for wearable, up-and-coming labels like Jesse Kamm, Demylee, and Apiece Apart presented in a raw, light-filled space. She takes particular (and well-deserved) pride in her shoe selection—look for mules by Mari Giudicelli, Chelsea boots by Common Projects, and slides from Maryam Nassir Zadeh. The jewelry is a mix of earthy designs by Lizzie Fortunato and sculptural cuffs from Sophie Buhai.

Service Menswear is a long-time tenant on South Congress, occupying their bright, clean-cut space for over a decade. Founder Kirk Haines' buy kind of epitomizes the straightforward style that most Austin guys subscribe to, stocking Steven Alan shirts, Eastland boots, RVCA graphic tees, and plenty of Levis. He's also got a great selection of accessories (Steven Alan sunglasses, Nixon watches, Faribault blankets) and grooming products (Juniper Ridge, Marvis, etc.) to round things out.

The vibe here might be described as high-end with a twang. The owners don’t let trends influence the buy too heavily, so it’s a good place to update a guy’s wardrobe, whether you’re looking for a professional look, a pocketknife, or just a pair of jeans. The clothing selection is really classic, and there’s also generous shelf space devoted to clean grooming products. Keep an eye out for Ralph Lauren’s Double RL Line—a rarity even in Austin.

Religious paraphernalia, old scientific posters, cowboy boots, turquoise jewelry, Mexican striped blankets, horseshoes, and a good amount of taxidermy, give this antique curiosity shop a particularly Southwestern feel. The seemingly endless, happenstance groupings and displays that line every nook and cranny of this quirky old shop mean you'll likely feel a bit lost.

In addition to Lake Travis and Lake Austin, Barton Creek Greenbelt is a fun place to swim when the weather is warm in Austin (and there's been enough rain to fill its swimming holes). You can also come here to bike, hike (there are several miles' worth of trails), or just wander around. The Greenbelt is a several-mile, several-hundred-acre stretch that begins at Zilker Park, which is the best playground in the city for littles. There's a train ride that goes around the park—get a popsicle before jumping on. You can also paddle-board or rent kayaks to take out into the lake that crosses the middle of the city. (The baby turtles always keep the kids entertained.) In the center of the park itself is Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre pool that is fed from an underground spring; you pay a small fee to swim. The water in the natural watering hole is kept around 68-70 degrees, which feels just right on a scorching day. The pool is open daily, but closed most of Thursday for a weekly cleaning.

This gorgeous, open-air, Spanish-style chapel is a free (except for a $200 reservation deposit for Monday-Thursday weddings and $400 for Friday-Sunday weddings) and, naturally, very popular venue for small, intimate wedding ceremonies. But if you’re just in for a visit, it also makes a great hiking destination. Perched on the precipice of an ancient walking trail in Texas hill country—on the grounds of the nontraditional business school, Wizard Academy, about 20 minutes south of Downtown Austin—the sweeping panoramic views from the chapel are stunning. Check in at the visitor’s welcome center to access the trails.

A collective of twenty Austin-based visual artists converted a recently vacated auto shop into a cooperative gallery in 2016. Visually, the space is impressive: The edifice opens garage-door-style onto the open-air, 1,500-square-foot interior. But what really impresses here is the work on display, created largely by local contemporary artists, the proceeds of whose sales also help support the space. From astounding sculpture to vibrant, abstract paintings, their holdings are right on the edge of the indie-to-emerging art world—there’s always something incredible by an up-and-comer to take in during the Saturday open-to-the-public hours (they’re open by appointment 12-5 on weekdays), plus community-focused events on the regular.

Lady Bird Lake is a refreshing nature break smack in the middle of all the city action. Central to this park on the Colorado River, flanked by the towering high-rises of Downtown Austin, is the reservoir—a local favorite for everything from rowing to paddleboarding to a leisurely picnic. (Just don’t try to go for a swim.) The newly constructed boardwalk across the water, and the trails that circle the namesake lake, make this the place to go for walking and biking.

This is a nice getaway from the city; the Pennybacker Bridge is an iconic landmark, which locals will tell you is best viewed by boat. A day out on the water (boats can be rented from multiple outfits) is a quintessential Austin experience, and you’ll find plenty of company ranging from families waterskiing and tubing to twenty-somethings overflowing anchored party barges. It’s worth seeking out the high, very fun rope swing on the south side of the river. Photo credit: 1nativeTexan, MisterDavidC.

This museum, an Austin establishment for over 30 years, celebrates Mexican and Mexican American fine art. Its offerings range from contemporary art—their shows are culturally on point, illuminating perspectives on the human toll of the conflict in the borderlands—to community engagement events, like its annual Día de los Muertos exhibitions, and its annual Young Latino Artists showcase. The contemporary works span from impressive, imposing sculpture to street-art-style murals to super-modern mixed-media works—truly an immersive experience, essential to understanding what Austin is all about.

This trendy movie theater downtown right by the Colorado River is a great date spot (obviously), and so much more: The Violet Crown is set up to make it enjoyable if you show up early, not just to save the best seats, but to take full advantage of their next-level concessions: Their full bar and modest-but-excellent food menu is the perfect companion for the latest blockbusters, though they also show select classic films. Here you’ll find healthier alternatives to buttery popcorn—think hummus and veggies, cheese and fruit, and a cranberry-kale salad—made from locally sourced ingredients, as well as your traditional comfort food like pizza, hot dogs, and french fries. Their artisanal cocktails and local craft beers are satisfyingly extensive, as is their wine list, from which you can order either by the glass—there’s also a “large pour” option—or by the bottle. If you’re up for a matinée, they also have a café serving espresso, coffee, tea, and treats.

Austin is one of the more bike-friendly cities, and this is a great way to cover a lot of ground and get your bearings around the various neighborhoods. While you don’t want to attempt riding through Dirty Sixth at happy hour, you should cruise around UT’s campus (kids and sports fans will want to stop and see the football stadium), and definitely head to the generous paths threaded throughout the parks bordering the Colorado River. There are numerous bike rental options in Austin, but the city bike program is actually really well done, easy to use and affordable, with locations all over. You can check out a bike with a credit card at any of the conveniently placed stations for a twenty-four-hour period, or purchase access for a longer time period—three days, a month, one year—online.

Replenish your electrolytes at Juiceland on Barton Springs Road. We’re partial to the Blue Hullabaloo, a blend of hemp milk, banana, Blue Majik spirulina, lemon, and coconut oil.

Forty minutes from downtown on a particularly spectacular bend in the river, Lake Austin is as amazing a day spa as it is an overnight retreat. Either way, you can use all the spa facilities, the restaurant (many ingredients come from an on-site organic garden) and participate in daily fitness activities from water yoga in the stunning, barn-enclosed warm pool, paddle boarding, and hikes to river-based workouts). There are more than 100 services on the extensive mind- and body-nourishing spa menu—everything from standard Swedish to Chinese-medical cupping treatments—with specific options for mothers-to-be, couples, and groups. The facials are particularly incredible: herbal enzyme peels, fractionated laser treatments, and luminizing vitamin C therapies, plus specific options for mothers-to-be, couples, and groups. Post-treatment, you can lounge by the series of swimming pools in the large hillside garden.

LOVE's bread and butter is a 45-minute spin class—there's one aimed at beginners and another for more experienced riders. They also have a family class (ages twelve and up). Classes end with the popular, cooling, eucalyptus-spritzed face towel.

If you’re in need of a wax, a quickie facial, a mani/pedi, or just about any self-care treatment you can think of, milk + honey is the spot. It’s ideal if you need to be in and out, but it’s also a solid option if you want to spend an afternoon with friends thanks to the serene lounge area, where you can hang out between treatments. If you’re after a one-and-done style pampering, go for the “Spa Partisan” that packs in a body polishing treatment followed by a steam under a canopy, and a 60-minute body butter massage. (It’s as good as it sounds.) Facials—which are anywhere from 60- to 120-minutes long—are completely bespoke. The estheticians take the time to talk to you about your goals, then create a treatment with decongesting ultrasonic therapies, gentle extractions, fruit acid peels, and powerful peptide treatments. End your experience by wandering through the smartly curated shop, which includes milk + honey’s own line of products. They have several other locations throughout the country, but the 2nd Street District location is the flagship.

Jeff Cerciello (former Thomas Keller culinary director) perfects the bakery-cum-larder-cum-restaurant concept in this sunny space with all-day dining at rustic communal tables, including a wonderful family-style dinner with a market-driven menu. Ingredients here are top-notch, and Cerciello knows what to do with them, keeping the food exciting and tasty without over-complicating. The Roast Jidori Chicken is a standout, along with any of the fresh seafood or excellent produce-based dishes. There's an attached mini-grocery store with an excellent cheese selection, pastries, and prepared salads and sandwiches.

Local, sustainable, and fresh ingredients are the focus at this rustic-meets-modern spot. The roasted salmon is particularly excellent, though there are very few misses on Forage's constantly changing chalkboard menu.

This is one of the main lunch go-tos in Santa Monica, which means there's almost always a line. The Godmother sub is the order of choice for everyone, us included, though we like to swap the pepper salad for pepperoncini for a little extra heat. Also on point: their tuna salad, and the turkey pesto and eggplant parm. While you wait for the deli to call your number, browse the market—it's stocked with authentic, imported Italian goods; the pasta and sauce selections are particularly impressive.

Housed on a residential street in Culver City, Jackson Market has a grocery section (lots of gourmet candy, drinks, and snacks) in addition to a lengthy lunch menu. While the Jamaican Jerk sandwich had a nice kick to it and the Rueben has the perfect brisket-to-sauerkraut ratio (best enjoyed right away as the dressing makes the bread soggy), the classic Italian sub is a definite fan favorite, particularly when you take the build-your-own option and opt for a turkey-and-pesto sandwich.

While it’s billed as a wine and cheese shop—and they do in fact put together an excellent cheese board—it’s the sandwich counter that’s the real draw. At only seven items long, and with the option to order by the half, you can easily sample the entire menu in a few visits—and if you need a good place to start, we always go for #1 (the freshest mozzarella, basil, and tomato situation) or the #3 (Italian salami and manchego cheese smothered in sundried tomato sauce) on fresh-baked baguette, though the ciabatta has a loyal following as well.

Being that it’s a butcher shop first and foremost, ACA is very serious about their meat-centric menu. The hot sandwiches—BBQ pulled pork, roasted turkey club, lemongrass flank steak banh mi with fried egg, and house-smoked pastrami—can be eaten at one of the few tables on-site or taken to-go. The Italian salumi travels particularly well.

Sister bakery/deli/café to the much-adored restaurant Gjelina, Gjusta literally does a little bit of everything. They also smoke their own fish, which means the cured and smoked mackerel, salmon, and trout—served open-face on fresh-baked bread or bialy—taste amazing. At the other end of the spectrum is the chicken parm: light, cheesy, and addictive. Order at the counter for takeaway or to eat here; we love tucking into plates of fresher-than-fresh California bountry at the scattered outdoor tables.

Clementine is a go-to for light, fresh breakfasts, salads, and a solid heat-at-home selection—but their build-your-own grilled cheese is actually one of their best offerings. For the last 15 years, grilled cheese month (April), has been marked by a grilled cheese-specific menu centered on a specific theme, like “Curds Against Humanity” and “Melt the Vote.” Execution? Buttery, goo-ey, salty, and browned to perfection. The first outpost is located in Century City.

Built in 1917, restored in the '90s, and then revamped in the past few years, this downtown market—which has operated continually for the past century—still maintains its original façade in the Homer Laughlin Building. Nowadays, you'll find specialty shops like DTLA Cheese, along with small food joints serving up Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese food, ideal for the downtown office crowd and tourists alike.

With lines out the door by 10am, this is one of those spots where parents with early risers win: We go for the quinoa, veggie, and egg bowls, while our kiddos are bigger fans of the homemade doughnuts, scrambled eggs, mini English muffins, and grilled cheese. You can eat in (the tables turn over quickly) or take your turkey meatballs to go.

A coffee bar with pastries, a counter for prepared salads and sandwiches to go (or linger over), and a mini-grocery's worth of delicious cheeses, wines, snacks, and frozen treats. Though there are a million tables, they're generally always full; and parking in the area is scarce. That said, it's great for a mid-week breakfast or lunch. (There is also a Joan's in Studio City.)

At the beginning, this mother and son duo were just making meals for a few friends. Then it turned into a full-fledged catering company. Now, there's also a café and marketplace, which serves delicious breakfast and lunch fare, with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients. The salads are delicious and varied while the sandwiches range from an artisan grilled cheese to the Austrian-inspired chicken wiener schnitzel. The lunch boxes and DIY picnic baskets are pretty brilliant.

While many grab a seat at one of the tables to linger over eggs and cappucinos, we like this place best for its takeout. Fridges and freezers—loaded with pre-made soups and crowd-pleasing lasagnas—line the shop, and they also do take-out catering with minimal on-site prep. If you want a real sit-down affair, try their other spot, Local Kitchen + Wine Bar.

It can be hard to get really excited about vegetarian food (that can easily go vegan), but Kitchen Mouse makes it wildly appealing—both in the form of their cafe and catering (they do a brisk business in both). They're also nut- and soy-free. Must orders: Crispy Gomasio Rice Cakes and the breakfast sandwich.

Dinette is a sidewalk eatery by Café Stella owner, Gareth Kantner. There's a walk-up window and tiny interior showcasing Dinette's pastry treats. Also on the (changing) menu: heartier options like smoked salmon toast, Kobe beef burger, ricotta frittata, skirt steak with chimichurri, and an all-day breakfast pizza. And of course, coffee. You can take your food to go, or find a spot at one of the small tables outside the café.

Culver City’s food scene is exploding right now, and one of the best additions is understandably Picnic LA. The menu is divided into entrees (meatballs, chicken leg tangine, salmon, etc.) and sides (green salads, potato salad, and all kinds of other vegetables) that can be mixed and matched into a full meal. Everything’s pre-made, so getting in and out quickly is surprisingly fast, and it all packs up easily if you actually want to have a picnic. If that’s the case, don’t miss their desserts, like key lime pie squares or dark chocolate pot de crème.

Located in the old Nabisco building just north of the Meatpacking District, you’ll find a warren-like maze of restaurants and specialty shops. There are many hits, but we like Los Tacos No.1 for authentic Mexican and, if cooking a special meal at home is an option, we’d pick up our bread at Amy’s, fresh groceries at the Manhattan Fruit Market, and crustaceans at Lobster Place (they also do great pre-made rolls). You'll also find Bowery Kitchen Supply and Posman Books, where the offerings are more suitcase-appropriate.

This is kind of foodie nirvana, care of Mario Batali. Essentially Costco-sized, this Italian gourmet grocery store stocks aisle after aisle of the best artisanal ingredients, including truly fantastic fresh pasta. Throughout the space (which also includes cookware), you’ll find plenty of places to sit down and eat. While there are several gussied-up Batali restaurants upstairs, including a rooftop birreria, we find the best way to experience Eataly it is to grab a seat at one of the many bar-size specialty eateries scattered across the main shop floor. Understandably, they offer an excellent array of gelato.

This new development in the formerly sleepy and overlooked West 40s gathers some of the city’s top food purveyors like Blue Bottle Coffee, Jeni’s Ice Cream, and Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop, under one roof, with a stand and bar-seating at each. It’s worth trekking to this desolate part of town purely for Chef Seamus Mullen’s tapas concept, El Colmado.

We’re big fans of this sustainability-first spot, which is growing like crazy. The focus is on local farmers, proper sourcing, and environmental respect, which is also reflected in the hands-down delicious food. Besides the build-your-own salad bar, the bowl-centric dishes range from Mexican-inspired salads to basic cobbs—and in the true spirit of transparency, they reveal calorie content, too. Come lunchtime, the lines extend around the block.

Hearty, meaty sandwiches and Montreal-style deli food (house-smoked meats, poutine, brisket, and more) are served here, deluxe. Make sure to get a pickle on the side and wash it all down with a good glass of wine.

The sandwiches, soups, and salads here are mighty: While the offerings change daily, you can always count on a pretty delicious (and hearty) turkey sandwich, or a chopped salad packed with everything you could ever want. There's also a location in Soho.

This 30,000 square-foot French-style food hall offers a bustling market divided into different “districts" (from a café and an ice cream shop to an ample salad-and-prepared-food spot), as well as multiple restaurants. There’s Le Bar, which as its name suggests is best for a glass of wine and shared plates, and then the gigantic Liberty Bistro, with standard bistro fare and a view of the water.

Co-owned by two brothers from San Francisco—who were dismayed by the dearth of good Mexican spots in NYC—the emphasis here is on the basics: Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and burritos-in-bowls. The ingredients are fresh and local, and the flavorings are equal parts subdued and complex. This spot is popular: There are now 8 in New York City.

Dig Inn’s philosophy is “farm to counter,” which means that they serve sustainably sourced, usually local food in a casual setting and in a price range that makes it a reasonable option for everyday lunch. The salads and the market plates are easy to take back to the office (or home for dinner), and the menu changes with the seasons, so you won't ever be bored with the offerings. There are locations in Morningside Heights, Union Square, Tribeca, and in Midtown on 52nd, Madison, and 55th, in Lower Manhattan on Pine, Liberty, and Broad St., in Nomad, and off Madison Square Park.

This tiny little café on Lexington serves great coffee, alongside a small-but-mighty food menu. While there's no denying how good the schnitzel and breaded chicken sandwiches are, this is an especially great choice for vegetarians. The avocado smash (which is drenched in pumpkin seeds) is fresh-tasting yet totally filling. The tiny space can get a little bit crowded during the lunch hour, so it's best to take your brown bag to go.

Goop HQ will enthusiastically vouch for the fact that Schnippers (the original outpost is conveniently located on the first floor of the New York Times building) has the best chicken fingers in the city. While kids go wild for their fries and milkshakes, it’s a pretty great indulgence if you’re working late and need a convenient sugar bomb. They also have locations in Flatiron, Midtown, and in the Financial District.

This Manhattan mini-chain specializes in healthful, Mediterranean food and is particularly convenient for lunch if you work in the area. Unlike the delis and salad bars you’ll find on every corner, the focus here is on mostly organic, impeccably sourced foods, meaning there's no mystery surrounding the origin or freshness of your salad, sandwich, or soup.

Ask someone with a gluten allergy about the Little Beet, and you're bound to get an earful of praise—the entire, delicious menu is celiac-friendly. Chef Franklin Becker was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes when he was in his 20's and devoted the rest of his career to rebuilding his cooking style; the menu is full of light, healthy meals with an emphasis on lean protein and tons of vegetables. The seasonal menu items are always a sure bet, as are the make-your-own-plate options. There are also locations on Park Ave. and at Penn Plaza.

Chloe Coscarelli was fresh out of culinary school when she won an episode of Cupcake Wars with a vegan cupcake recipe: She was the first person to do so on that show or any other televised cooking competition. She’s since opened a casual restaurant in the West Village (followed by others), with an adorable interior (striped wooden floors, colorful tiles, hanging swing) and a little fridge with pre-packaged food. While the menu is focused on smoothies, juices, and great vegan burgers, you can still pick up her famous cupcakes.

Just Salad was an early adopter of the fast casual dining option, and they now have locations in practically every New York neighborhood. While they have some great existing menu options (including a few rotating seasonal choices), the main move here is to create your own salad and have it chopped. The ingredients are always really fresh, as they source them from within 350 miles of the restaurant at New York, New Jersey, and Vermont farms; everything is organic and exclusively non-GMO. Other locations: Flatiron, Fashion District, Financial District (on Broad St., Gold St., and Broadway), 30 Rock, Murray Hill, Chelsea (there's one on 8th Avenue and one on 6th Avenue), World Wide Plaza, Lexington, Park Slope, Downtown, Upper East Side (on 3rd Avenue and also on 1st Avenue), Hudson Square, Downtown Brooklyn, Macy’s Herald Square, Upper West Side, and the Woolworth Building.

The cast of characters at Pennsy is surprisingly star-studded, all things considered. Vegetable lovers, as always, will appreciate the presence of The Little Beet, but the market is also home to The Cinnamon Snail, a brick-and-mortar version of the beloved vegan food truck, which serves the kinds of sandwiches that make veganism much more appealing. Lobster Press is there as well, Marc Forgione's take on a casual seafood spot, where the thing to order is the sandwich for which the cart was named—a hot lobster panini, pressed and served hot. There's something here for carnivores too, at Mario by Mary (a fast-casual Italian collaboration between Mario Batali and Mary Giuliani that promises excellent Italian sandwiches and muffalatas) and butcher Pat LaFrieda's first restaurant (order the filet mignon sandwich or the meatball sub). While that line-up is enough to garner a lot of regulars, La Colombe coffee really cinches the deal.

Union Fare, a newish foodhall smack-dab in the center of Union Square, has a little something for everyone: made-to-order salads, tacos, poké, burgers, pizzas under one roof. Bonus: there’s a coffee bar that serves matcha croissants for a midday pick-me-up.

All of the adorable locations in Brookline, Cambridge (Third Street, Broadway, Main Street), and Charles Street offer the same classic light aesthetic, brightened up by crisp subway tiles and a haphazard collection of Edison bulbs and other industrial light fixtures. Chef Tzurit Or was born in Israel, and regulars rave about her Mediterranean-style fare, like savory tarts and sweet baked goods. She's also incredibly thoughtful when it comes to her ingredients, which she sources locally and humanely.

Bon Me was started by Boston natives Patrick Lynch and Ali Fong, who ran it as a food truck in the early years. Now, their Asian-style cuisine is served at restaurants across the city. The Chipotle-style ordering system asks you to choose between a sandwich, noodle salad, rice bowl, and green salad—then, choose from fillings like tofu, pork, and chicken. Veggies are included no matter what, and it's worth noting that the sandwich is by far the most popular item. These guys are expanding fast, with more than ten food trucks scattered around the city, and locations in Cambridge (Fresh Pond and Kendall Square), Chestnut Hill, and the South End.

Clover actually bills itself as “fast food,” a comparison that’s not totally wrong considering that their average serve time is 3.5 minutes (seriously)—though that’s pretty much where the similarities end. Ayr Muir, the passionate founder behind the food-truck-turned-chain sources all of his produce fresh daily and scrawls the daily-changing menu on a whiteboard each day to reflect what’s been delivered. There are no freezers, and all of the food is prepared directly in front of you, as there’s no back of house whatsoever. While the daily changing menu means you never know what lunch is going to be, you can always expect it to be fresh, veggie-heavy, and flavorful. Clover's growing quickly, with several food trucks roaming constantly and brick-and-mortars in Harvard Square, East Cambridge, and Brookline.

This cheery little spot is right next door to city hall, meaning that it’s within striking distance of countless offices come lunchtime. Founder Kyle actually started the business when his wife, Lydia, was diagnosed with breast cancer and their doctor recommended trying out a “plant-packed” diet for her recovery. There’s a lot going on here—a juice bar with multiple-day meal plans, made-to-order smoothies and lunches, and a cooler stocked with premade meals. Everything is fresh, organic, vegan, and non-GMO; fan favorites include the chia seed pudding and quinoa sliders.

Flour Bakery is best known for their pastries and desserts (owner Joanne Chang famously beat Bobby Flay when he tried to take on her sticky buns in Throwdown), which are more than enough to justify a visit. Less famous but equally good are her lunchtime sandwiches and salads, which can be ordered at the counter and taken to go. Needless to say, the bread on the sandwiches is game-changing—we’re partial to the focaccia—and it’s kind of sinful to leave without taking dessert to-go, also. Locations Downtown, on the South End, and in Cambridge.

This Greek spot has a pretty short menu—they stick to gyros and an excellent Mediterranean salad. The pork loin for the traditional gyro is marinated and stacked on a rotisserie (no horrifying cone in sight), and then sliced on to fresh pita to-order. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to black-book for your next craving. There's a second location Downtown.

Locals love Filter because in a lot of ways it feels like a friend's living room—lived-in, mismatched couches, dim lighting, and good music. And with disco fries, wraps, sandwiches, and veggie options on the menu, it's pretty easy to set up shop for the day with no real need to leave.

From the Mason jar–topped wood tables (huge—so feel free to spread out), to the distressed floors, to the taxidermied deer head on the wall, there’s a distinct rustic flavor to this Logan Square café. Unlike many spots that can easily coast on the quality of their coffee alone, the food offering here—simple, delicious breakfast, toasts, and sandwiches—can also hold its own.

This self-professed “fast-casual” eatery prides itself on giving guests a 100 percent customizable experience. The tech-to-table system allows for lightning-fast service (order from a digital menu board, and then take a wireless tracker to your table), though if traditional waiter service is more your speed, there’s that too. Food-wise, the focus is on healthful, fresh fare, with the menus at both locations brimming with veggie-driven dishes (for the most part, produce is sourced locally) like kale slaw and grilled artichokes, in addition to comfort staples like matzo ball soup and close to a dozen burger variations (the turkey burger is a GP favorite). There's also a location in River North.

Just like the NYC outpost, and the dozen or so locations all over Italy (as well as recent offshoots in Japan, Dubai, and Istanbul)—Eataly Chicago is a foodie wonderland. The sprawling space is packed with imported sauces, beers, sweets, and so much more. There’s even a selection of housewares and books. Stalls offering house-made breads, pastas, and cheeses are scattered throughout—we recommend doing a lap to get the lay of the land first before committing to any one spot. For more formal dining there are several restaurants that are pretty efficient about taking walk-ins. No big surprise, but they have great gelato.

Cold Storage is actually inside the Swift & Sons steakhouse—it’s their take on a seafood bar, with oysters and tons of shellfish. While the seafood tower doesn’t really make the best to-go order, you can get their excellent grilled fish and sandwiches (crab salad on brioche with avocado and lemon, anyone?) packaged up and ready for take-out. Dangerously, the desserts make for great takeout, too.

Situated next door to its sister restaurant, the Publican, PQM offers a full butchery plus sandwiches and old-fashioned breakfasts. In the evenings, it gets converted into a dining room for the Publican's private events.

Despite the name, José Andrés’ fast-casual joint in D.C. (there’s also a location in Philly now) puts all of the focus on vegetables. You’ll pick a base of bulgur, quinoa, rice, or leafy greens, and top it with vegetables and some oomph, like an avocado or a poached egg. The pre-made favorites, like the excellently named “Frida Kale,” or the “Kimchi-wa” bowls, sort of take out the guesswork. There's a second location in Foggy Bottom.

Suzanne Simon and Bettina Stern first started serving their vegetarian tacos at D.C.-area farmers markets, and it wasn’t long before the lines began, even on cold mornings. As expected, their first-ever brick-and-mortar has been wildly popular. The menu changes daily based on what’s fresh, and tacos can be ordered single or in three’s. In response to popular demand, any of them can now be ordered with a fried egg for protein-hounds.

This tiny little spot off Dupont Circle serves hummus the way it’s served in Israel—rather than a side dish, it’s actually the base of the meal. When you order, you’ll receive a bowl of hummus topped with a medley of (typically sautéed) vegetables and/or meats, along with a small green side salad and a warm piece of pita bread. The meals are incredibly filling but never overwhelming.

The three owners of this easy lunch spot are actually cousins whose parents owned a series of traditional Afghan kebab spots in town—SKWR is their modern take on the cooking style they learned form their parents. The classic kebab elements, like seasoned meat and basmati rice, are reminiscent of mom-and-pop spots, but the serving style takes cues from Chipotle. Decide between a bowl, a plate, and a wrap, pick a meat, and top with endless mixtures of spreads and dips.

Taylor Gourmet is the blood, sweat, and tears of two Philadelphia transplants who opened the chain’s first deli after determining there wasn’t a single good Philly-style hoagie spot in all of D.C. Today the chain is many locations strong, making it a lunchtime staple for everyone from college students to President Obama. The salads are perfectly suitable if you’re trying to keep lunchtime healthy, but the real order here is anything on their freshly baked bread (which gets delivered daily). The Italian sandwich and the Philly cheesesteak are obviously excellent, though anything involving their fried chicken cutlets is also worth a try. They're expanding fast, with locations in Dupont Circle, Mount Vernon Triangle, and the H Street Corridor.

Breken Kitchen occupies a stand-alone space with train tracks on one side and highway overpasses on the other—it sounds loud, but it's actually quite cool. Coffee flows freely here, they offer salads and sandwiches, and the brick-lined interior is always filled with light. There are also varied seating options, from couches to café tables, to long community tables.

Think of Garden Bar as the Sweetgreen of Portland. Mix-your-own salads (or choose from a few well-executed menu items) that are mixed and tossed for you on site. The advantage of going local for a quick salad joint? Most of the organic vegetables on order are sourced from Oregon farmers. There are also locations in the Pearl District, Old Town, and Park Square.

Kenny and Zuke’s almost seems out of place in the Pacific Northwest, since they easily meet New York standards for Jewish deli food—if it wasn’t for the hand tie-dyed t-shirts on the staff, you might think you were on the Upper West Side. These guys first became famous for the pastrami, which they make in-house, but they do all of the classics really well, from pickles to bagels to rye bread.

Like so many good casual spots, Kure started out as a food cart—when the lines got out of control, the owners knew it was time to expand into brick-and-mortar. The menu is full of fresh-tasting acai bowls and smoothies, along with a healthy selection of cold-pressed juices and other healthy eats, like oatmeal and matcha (the West End location actually has some heartier lunch options, too, like salads and quinoa bowls). Astonishingly (and awesomely), 90% of the ingredients used in their products are grown or made in Portland. The other locations only have juice, smoothies and açai bowls, but they're in almost every neighborhood:SE Division, Downtown, Hawthorne, and Moda Center.

This restaurant is named for a salumi made from backfat, which is an appropriate name, as the entire menu is really an ode to pork from the meatball banh mi to the pastrami cheeseburger to the french fries (which are made with pork fat). Part of the charm of the place, too, is that it’s such a Portland story: started as a food cart, check, adventurous foodie menu, check, enormous craft beer list, check. There are locations on both sides of the river, in Northeast Portland and Downtown.

Pike Place Market is probably most famous as a fish market—and it has to be acknowledged as a teemingly popular tourist destination—but with more than 80 restaurants and food stands, it’s also the best place in town for lunch to-go. Everyone has their own favorite spot, but the Bavarian Meat Deli (ruebens), Country Dough (Chinese stuffed flatbread), and Oriental Mart (Philipino food) are all great. For a healthier option, Ellenos yogurt offers some of the best Greek-style yogurt we’ve tried. Beecher's handmade cheese, which also has a location in New York, is the city's greatest cheesemonger, too—their tastings and classes make excellent gifts.

Today, it’s not unusual for a restaurant to list the farmers and other local purveyors it sources ingredients from on the menu—though that wasn’t the case fifteen years ago, when Portage Bay Cafe started doing it. Four locations strong, we come here for easy lunches and all of the brunch staples, which they make with eggs from nearby Stirs farms (which, amazingly, includes plenty of actual images of their henhouses on their website). While it’s not technically grab-and-go, you can order takeout ahead and pick it up upon arrival. There are also locations in University, South Lake Union, and Ballard.

Volunteer Park Cafe (so-named because of its location in Capital Hill, just blocks from Volunteer Park) is the definition of a neighborhood joint. Long communal tables, fresh pastries every day, and best of all, chickens in the backyard (don’t worry, they’re just for eggs). There’s a counter at the front for to-go orders and coffee and pastry pickups.

Portland’s Alder Street food carts, which occupy an entire city block of space downtown, are emblematic of the city to the point that they’re one of downtown’s major tourist attractions. Don’t let that deter you, though—plenty of locals like to hang out here, too, and come lunchtime the entire parking lot is buzzing with vendors and customers. The lines themselves are usually the best indicator of where to find the best-tasting dishes, but we recommend Whole Bowl for veggie-centric rice bowls and Nong’s Khao Man Gai, which, as the name suggests, only serves khao man gai.

Historically, vegan, gluten, and dairy-free food can resemble cardboard in both taste and consistency. That's not the case at Seed + Salt. Here, the 100% clean menu is thoughtfully developed to make the most of local ingredients' inherent flavor, which translates to delicious plant-based dishes like the S+S Beet Burger, Quinoa Falafel, and Horchata Chia pudding. And while the light-filled café is great for a casual hang, the takeout menu is a welcome alternative to fast food on busy weeknights.

This gorgeous building right on the Embarcadero houses some of San Francisco's most notable food merchants including Hog Island Oyster Company, Cowgirl Creamery's Artisan Cheese Shop, and Blue Bottle Coffee. It's the ideal place to bum around on rainy day and the outdoor farmers market (they set up on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) is not to be missed.

Sure, it's technically a deli, but that's only because there isn't really a fitting name yet for a quick and easy lunch spot (they're great for dinner and breakfast, too) that does the requisite sandwiches, soups, and salads while adhering to the tenets of the slow food movement. This means that everything on the menu is sustainably and locally sourced, mainly from Sonoma's family-owned Oak Hill Farm. The grilled cheese sandwiches are especially insane.

The name kind of says it all—house-cured meats are the main draw. The minimalist (and mini) space serves as an artisanal grocery store and Italian-themed lunch counter where the food selection, while on the skimpy side, totally hits the spot when a sad store-bought salad won't do. The oversized sandwiches are stuffed with gourmet meats (get the Salumi sandwich to get a good idea of their offering) and organic veggies while the salads are sprinkled with fancy add-ons. Needles to say, the charcuterie boards are the real deal. There's another location in the Mission.

Jane is known for venturing beyond the expected coffee-and-pastry formula and providing locals with wholesome and delicious organic breakfast and lunch. The granola, which they sell in to-go jars, is particularly memorable. Owner Amanda Michael made it a point to make each of the two locations (there's also an outpost in Pacific Heights) as comfy and welcoming as possible, which explains why both are perpetually packed.

Lucca deli has been a family operation since 1929—brother-and-sister pair Paul and Linda Bosco are actually the grandchildren of the original owner. Accordingly, the place has all the trappings of an amazing Italian deli: salami hanging from the ceiling, cheese wheels aging behind the counter, shelves packed with canned and jarred goods, and fresh tortellini and ravioli, which is still made by hand. The Italian sandwiches are a worthy lunch indulgence, with crusty rolls (delivered fresh daily), provolone, fresh-sliced meats, and their secret ingredient, a roasted red pepper spread.

Working Girls is specifically designed for grab-and-go lunch, so it’s exactly the kind of place you can stop into for quick breakfast when you’re running late, or head to for lunch when you just can’t leave the desk (you can order online so the food’s ready when you arrive). The menu is miles-long, so they’ve got whatever you’re in the mood for, from classic sandwiches and paninis to light salads. They’re now three locations strong. There are locations on New Montgomery Street and Mission Street, too.

The concept of Eatsa is to provide the convenience and speed of fast food with the nutrition of the slow food movement. The speed comes from their specially designed ordering system—you’ll order and pay either on your phone ahead of time or on an iPad in store. When you arrive (or in a few minutes if you order on-site) your food is ready to take away with you. They achieve this efficiency in the kitchen by offering a few easy-to-build bowls that you can customize to suit your tastes. The mediterranean salad is great for the carb-conscious, as is the “no worry curry.” There's a second location on Spear Street.

The Golden West is tucked into a small alley in the Financial District, and its takeout-only counter is marked with a neon “Au” sign. The menu is limited to a few items, and while everything from the salads to the daily specials is excellent, they’re really famous for the pork rib sandwich—a messy, sauce-y pile of stewed short ribs topped with caramelized onions and served on a freshly baked roll. If you must be health-conscious, the spicy chicken salad is also great. Photo: Alex Roberts.

While finding a Ruthie’s food truck near your office on a weekday is practically a godsend, knowing that they cater just makes it that much better. They rolled by the goop pop and served their famous grilled cheese heart attack (aptly called The Boss), which comes complete with slices of BBQ brisket tucked inside. Wash this or the mac ’n’ cheese down with their soup shooters on a day when you’re feeling particularly indulgent—it’s worth it.

Snap Kitchen has revolved around grab-and-go meals since 2010, making them one of the older companies in the relatively new healthy-pre-made-meal space. There are convenient pickup locations in Austin, Houston, Dallas, and Chicago, but you can also arrange delivery through their app. Snap also offers a 21-day "commit" program, which offers healthy takes on hearty meals like gluten-free beef stroganoff, bison quinoa hash, chicken butternut squash macaroni, and fettucine and vegetable “alfredo.” The cooking style is relatively free from the niche health foods that turn some people off of clean eating, making it an easy transition for health-food rookies.