My milestone birthday of 30 years old is this month and I had an early celebration at one of my favorite places in downtown Austin, DuMont’s Down Low.  However, instead of a birthday party, I planned a Funeral for My Youth, because who doesn’t love themed parties?!

This South Congress Hotel rustic eatery has been on my list for a long time to check out. The beautiful, minimal, neon sign draws my attention every time I’m in SoCo after dark.

My first stop in the Austin Restaurant Weeks conquest was The Hightower on the east side of Austin. The ambiance was far from perfect, the dinner and drinks were delicious, but pricey.

It's the start of Austin's Restaurant Weeks presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka! Each meal or drink purchased helps the Central Texas Food Bank's programs that serve nearly 50,000 people each week! The Food Bank can turn every one dollar donated into four meals for those in need in our Central Texas area!

Omakase in Japanese means “I will leave it to you” and that’s exactly what this dining experience entailed. At Uroko you’ll have an intimate, 12-course 45 minute omakase for only $65 a person!

Whether you are a vegan or lactose intolerant, like myself, we need more options for ice cream! I visited five shops with dairy-free and vegan options for people who cannot fully enjoy traditional ice cream!

Austin has an insurmountable amount of bars and restaurants that bring friends, family and strangers together over libations and laughter.

District might be in need of a refresh to match the experience and quality of its newer sister restaurant, Oasthouse. Luckily, it has the support from a very reputable restaurant owner.

If you find yourself out near downtown Austin around 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. between March and October, you might get to catch one of our most exciting animal attractions thousands of people come to Austin to experience.

You’ll be wanting to spend all of your money and evenings at this South Lamar bar and restaurant. With a bar over 130 years old, an eloquent greenhouse in the center of the restaurant, and a rooftop with partial downtown ATX views, what’s not to love?

Franklin’s Aaron Franklin + Uchi/Uchiko’s Tyson Cole = Match made in culinary heaven.

Here comes the start of ATX FYI. I’m excited to build a brand, a lifestyle and a trusted source of all things Austin!