The capital of Texas may be known for its thriving live music venues and adored “keep Austin weird” motto, but just 25 minutes from the bustling downtown area sits Northwest Austin. A quieter part of the city home to grassy parks, The Domain (see below), eateries, and the fun-meets-funky Lone Star Court – our new-age motor court with a decidedly modern and high-design twist. Here’s our quick take on what to experience in each compass direction that will fill your days with new and authentic Austin adventures
NORTH: The Domain
To find the perfect keepsake from your Austin visit, you’ll want to make your way through the Domain where you can select from over 70 shops like nationally known Tiffany and Co. and Louis Vuitton to local boutiques. When you need a break from the shopping, stop in to one of the many restaurants, bars, and coffee shops lining the parklike setting for some much needed fuel, from sushi to homemade Italian. 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, 512-873-8099, simon.com/mall/the-domain
SOUTH: Franklin BBQ, 25 minute drive
You know a place has good food when their hours are listed as “11 a.m.–sold out,” often not even reaching late afternoon before the day’s stock of brisket, ribs, and coleslaw have been devoured. Just 12 years old, Franklin BBQ has already won dozens of culinary awards for their classically honed Southern menu. Get a pulled pork sandwich and ribs in-house, and a bourbon pecan pie to go.
900 E 11th Street, 512-653-1187, franklinbbq.com
EAST: Circle Brewing Co., 3 minute drive
There is no denying that Austin’s craft beer scene is thriving; the number of breweries in the city has more than doubled since 2010.
So, if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed about which of the 30 to check out, start near your home base. Circle Brewing Co., less than a mile from Lone Star Court, offers all you’d want in a brewery: outside seating, a cozy bar, a knowledgeable staff, fun crowds, and of course, a copious selection of beer. 2340 W Braker Lane, Suite B,
WEST: OASTHOUSE, 24 minute drive
Owned by two brothers who also happen to be the veteran chefs, this authentic restaurant serves up a cuisine different than any other in the area – German- inspired pub fare with a Texas spin. Stop in for their brunch for a taste of their popular Currywurst (eggs poached in tomato and carmelized onion gravy), or later on for a decadent dessert, like their seasonal crumble with a candy store’s–worth of optional toppings like bananas, brown sugar, and toasted pecans. 8300 N FM 620, Unit E, 737-222-5779,oasthouseaustin.com
Lone Star Court is a neon-and-pastel paean to the 1950s, but nothing evokes swinging, swaggering retro Texas like the hotel’s teal 1954 Buick Roadmaster. The car is 90-percent original, and it’s no stranger to daily gawking and photo ops.
Kick back in its leather bench seats, or run a hand over its sleek dashboard, and it’s like traveling through time to an era when hoop skirts and malted milkshakes reigned supreme.
LONE STAR COURT APPOINTS JAMES WILSON AS EXECUTIVE CHEF
Lone Star Court, a Valencia Hotel Group property in Austin, Texas, is excited to announce James Wilson as executive chef of the retro-inspired boutique hotel and on-site bar and restaurant, The Water Trough.
“We are thrilled to welcome James to the Lone Star Court team,” said William Barba, general manager of the hotel. “Aside from his impressive background, he leads by example and offers a deep understanding of the hospitality and service we aim to provide to our guests.”
A SEASONED PROFESSIONAL
Originally from North Carolina, Wilson started cooking in a professional kitchen when he was just 13 years old. After discovering a passion for creating recipes with local and sustainable ingredients, Wilson fine-tuned his craft at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin. His career has taken him across the country to dining establishments including the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol, Morrison Management Specialists and ATX FIT CHEF.
Wilson comes to Lone Star Court from the University of Texas Southwestern where he served as executive chef. During his time there, Wilson oversaw all kitchen functions, managed a team of more than 250 people and elevated the banquet and catering functions across the brand.
ON THE HORIZON
As the new executive chef at Lone Star Court, Wilson will oversee all of the property’s culinary programs including group catering, room service and full-service eatery, The Water Trough.
“I’m overjoyed to be joining the Lone Star Court team,” said Wilson. “The property showcases true Southern hospitality and I look forward to engraining that thoughtfulness into each dish we serve.”
A high-res headshot of Chef Wilson can be downloaded here. For more information about Lone Star Court, please visit lonestarcourt.comor call 512.814.2625.
MEDIA CONTACT:
bread & Butter – lsc@wearebreadandbutter.com
MEDIA CONTACT
bread & Butter