One of the best places in Austin for some uncomplicated Tex-Mex nestled in the old growth heart of Austin's charming Hyde Park neighborhood. Great chicken soup, enchiladas, or Mexican Martinis and perfect atmosphere. Ideal for porch sitting and people watching. Cash only, but there's an ATM on premises.

There's plenty of debate in Austin about the best breakfast tacos, and you can get them almost literally anywhere, but I personally love Taco Deli's fresh, local, high-quality ingredients and unfussy style. You can make cases for more authenticity, but TD's hard to beat for convenient, consistent, delicious tacos. My pick is the Migas Royal plate (local-tip: beat the crowds by calling in your order on the way and skipping the line)

This converted shipping container in my neighborhood has the best iced coffee in the world.

A great selection of top-end vintage synths and electronic instruments are in constant rotation at Switched On. Unlike some music stores, the vibe is always pretty chill and strolling in to mess around with whatever new keyboards or drum machines are on display at the time feels encouraged and non-judgemental. They also always have a nice array used of pedals and accessories to check out. On central, too-hip East Ceasar Chaves, it's also not too out of the way for the odd drop-in.

The Okay Mountain boys is where they build their own monstrosities, rent me a studio along with other artists and designers, and will eventually exhibit other people's work in this east side hive of activity.