Dominican Joe is an independently-owned coffee shop located on the intersection of Riverside and South Congress. As the name suggests, this shop serves coffee farmed in the Dominican Republic. Not only is this java ecologically friendly and delicious, but it also helps support farmers who are trying to lift themselves out of a devastated economy. Dominican Joe doesn't stop there. Using the profits from the store, Dominican Joe helps support Makarios, a non-profit that helps educate impoverished children.

The cafe also serves pastries, plus lunch and breakfast items sourced from local eateries. You can even order a thick yogurt based smoothie made with healthy ingredients, like berries and peaches. Free Wi-Fi is offered.

Dominican Joe
515 South Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 448-3919
http://www.dominicanjoe.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/dominican-joe-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/wordridden

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2014!

Right off South Congress is Snack Bar, an intimate eatery serving up some delicious organic, local fare. Self-described as "indie", Snack Bar proudly boasts an authentic Austin vibe, from the local food to the Texas craft beers.

Here, meats and eggs are hormone free, humanely treated, and raised on pastures. The menu is healthy and offers plenty of vegan and gluten free options. Try the fried eggs with leek, cabbage, shrimp, and bacon, or go for the bagel topped with salmon, cream cheese, and dill. Other entrees include the avocado quinoa with pineapples and banana peppers, braised lamb with couscous and dates, and the goat tostadas with avocado and pico de gallo.

Wash everything down with local craft beers from Lone Star and Fireman's #4 to Wytchmaker and Scratchin' Hippo. Regulars love the relaxing atmosphere, outdoor fire, and the dog-friendly policy at Snack Bar.

Snack Bar
1224 South Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 445-2626
http://snackbaraustin.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/snack-bar-austin

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/twicepix