Perhaps the only downside of eating at one of Austin's popular food trucks is that they always seem to have a line stretching away from the window, requiring would-be eaters to wait in the oppressive Texan sun. At la Barbecue, though, customers cross their fingers for a long line. The food truck offers a simple amenity to make the wait bearable, even pleasant: free beer.

Cool off your complimentary suds while you decide what to order. It should be a relatively easy decision, given the fact that la Barbecue's brisket is the favorite by far. However, pulled pork, sausage, turkey, and chopped beef are also on the menu. For some added flavor, order one of the specialty sandwiches like El Sancho Loco with your choice of meat and pickled red onions. Make sure you arrive well ahead of the lunch rush, though, because la Barbecue's opening hours are simply 11 a.m. to "sold out."

la Barbecue
902 E. Cesar Chavez
Austin, TX 78702
(512) 605-9696
www.labarbecue.com
www.yelp.com/biz/la-barbecue-austin-3

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr stevendepolo

The Ainsworth doesn't refer to a single sandwich at Fricano's Deli, but rather a concept. It's new each day. That's thanks to the creative sandwich makers at Fricano's who improvise the Ainsworth on a daily basis. Using whatever fresh ingredients they have on-hand that day, they pile a brand new sandwich into existence—maybe one that's never been on the menu before.

So it should come as no surprise that the Ainsworth is a popular item to order when you visit Fricano's Deli, but it's far from your only option. Another customer favorite is the spicy Reuben, a twist on the classic with the addition of pepperoncini peppers, pepperjack cheese, red onion, and "Rocket sauce." No matter which sandwich you choose, you can't go wrong with any of the spreads slathered inside. They range from a garlicky pesto to an Italian olive tapenade to roasted red pepper hummus.

Fricano's Deli
2405 Nueces Street
Austin, TX 78705
(512) 482-3322
www.fricanosdeli.com
www.yelp.com/biz/fricanos-deli-austin-15

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr torbakhopper

If you’re looking for ways to cut costs on everyday items around the home and in your day-to-day life, these simple tips can help you get started.

1. Lower your thermostat. When you leave for work for the day, turn down your thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees (or switch off the air conditioner in the summer). This could lower your bill up to 15% throughout the year. Also, consider applying inexpensive shrink film to your windows during the winter for added insulation.
2. Stop speeding. To save money on gas, drive the speed limit instead of over it. This can raise your fuel efficiency by up to 17%!
3. Make coffee at home. This also goes for eating out, grabbing a snack, or going out for happy hour after work—limit these outings to once or twice a week instead of every day.
4. Check the thrift store. Before you buy something new, such as an air conditioner or a winter coat, visit the thrift store or consignment shop first. You could save a great deal of money on something that’s in perfect condition!

5 big bills you can cut fast [Bankrate]
Lower Your Monthly Bills Checklist [Real Simple]
30 Ways To Cut Your Monthly Expenses [Lifehack]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr katerha