An art gallery in Austin, Yard Dog once specialized in showcasing folk art from the American South, but has since grown to feature art from all over North America. This is a great place to stop by and browse when visiting the shopping district.

Here, you'll find smaller pieces for sale, as well as work by well-known artists, like singer Daniel Johnston's cartoon art and Lisa Brawn's painted woodcuts. You can browse some of the inventory online, but there is nothing like viewing these creations in person. Regulars also suggest that Yard Dog Gallery puts on one of the best parties for Bloodshot Records during South By Southwest, so keep that in mind when planning your yearly festivities!

Yard Dog Gallery is open daily.

Yard Dog Gallery
1510 South Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 912-1613
www.yarddog.com
www.yelp.com/biz/yard-dog-gallery-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Les Chatfield

This upscale Mexican restaurant is named after chef Alma Alcocer, who was born in Mexico City and attended the legendary Le Cordon Bleu academy in Paris for culinary training. After her studies, she moved to Austin where she paired with restaurant magnate Carlos Rivero to open El Alma in 2012. The restaurant’s location is unique and charming; it’s built into a limestone hillside with a delightful outdoor patio.

Of course, the food is the biggest reason to take a trip here. Some of the menu’s most-loved dishes include the duck emmoladas—mole-covered enchiladas stuffed with healthy portions of tender, flavorful duck—as well as the shrimp chelada, a dish of seafood cooked in citrus, ceviche-style, and topped with beer.

Visit El Alma's website to learn more about this Austin restaurant!

El Alma
1025 Barton Springs Road
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 609-8923
www.elalmacafe.com
www.yelp.com/biz/el-alma-austin-2

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Steven Depolo

“What makes a perfect bite?”

Mimi’s answer is a bit sweet, a bit savory — a surprising combination of tastes and textures. No one does this better than the French, of course, so Mimi’s brings you a variety of French-inspired soups, sandwiches, and snacks. From goat cheese to orange zest, ingredients are sourced from France where possible, sauces are made in small batches, and chefs are trained in traditional techniques.

Locals like much of the retooled menu, singling out the croissants, pies, and desserts for special praise. Service is decent, and while there’s something for everyone here, diners point out that dishes are variably successful depending on your taste. There’s a full bar and reservations are recommended for nights and weekends.

Check Mimi’s site for menu details and location information.

Mimi’s Café
12316 Galleria Circle
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-9731
www.mimiscafe.com
www.yelp.com/biz/mimis-cafe-bee-cave

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/alexbrn