Tucked between Granny's Tacos and Vintage Heart Coffee, Boteco is situated in the heart of one enclave of the local food scene in Austin. Like many of Austin's top eateries, Boteco doesn't have a formal kitchen and dining room but rather operates out of a food truck. This actually allows its chef to be more creative, not restrained by the confines of a classic menu or the costs that come with a more traditional space.

This means you can expect hot, authentic Brazilian fare at Boteco Food Truck. Named for the Brazilian term for a local watering hole, Boteco dishes out street fare that delights Austin diners. Dig into a plate of yuca fries, the Brazilian version of classic French fries, perhaps on the side of the feijoada completa, the "national dish of Brazil." It includes black bean stew teeming with pork, ribs, and sausage as well as rice, collard greens, toasted yuca, Pimenta Biquinho peppers, and an orange slice. Stop by for something truly unique this week!

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Håvar og Solveig

With the popularity of all things "craft" soaring, it’s little wonder that cocktails are undergoing something of a renaissance. But there’s one place in particular that seems to be drawing visitors by throwing it back to the old days of drinking—think pre-1920s. It’s called Peche, and it’s well worth your time.

Located on West 4th Street in Austin, Peche made its name by being the first absinthe bar in the city. As such, it has an excellent selection of absinthes, but what makes it even more special is the kind of cocktails it serves to patrons. With a specialization in pre-Prohibition-style drinks, you can be sure you’re getting something out of the ordinary here. Of course, sophisticated drinks need sophisticated foods, and this spot makes no mistake in offering an excellent variety of French-inspired dishes, like braised short ribs and duck confit. The next time you’re in the mood for an elevated meal, keep this bar in mind.

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr Michelle Lai Lai

(512) Brewery is a business so local and focused on the art of craft brewing that it doesn't even have a tasting room. The entire space is dedicated solely to brewing great beer and shipping it out to bars and stores around Austin. That doesn't mean you can't grab a glass at (512), though.

Sign up for the brewery tour on Saturday, December 17th, and you'll have the chance to sample beers as you watch them being brewed. The one-hour tour is only $10 and includes a souvenir glass as well as small pours of the various suds being whipped up at the brewery that day. Designated drivers can take the tour for free, and they receive a free pint glass or $5 off merchandise in return for skipping the samples.

(512) Brewery Tour
When: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 17
Where: (512) Brewing Company, 407 Radam Lane, Austin, TX
Cost: $10
www.eventbrite.com/e/512-brewery-tour-dec17-2016-1230pm-tickets-29055902988
www.512brewing.com/2013/02/tours-now-weekly-at-512

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr Maria Eklind