The interesting thing about pizza is how many regional styles there are. New York has their thin crusts, Chicago the deep dish, but Detroit? And not only that, Detroit-style pizza in Texas? It’s real. Via 313 (with that number being the area code of the Detroit metropolitan area) was opened by two brothers from Michigan in a small trailer in East Austin with the intention of showing the town a new style of pizza pies. Detroit-style pizza is made in a square pan like a classic Sicilian, but with a little twist – it’s “upside down.” To make it, you start with dough, then add meat, cheese, and other toppings, and then finally finish with the sauce on top before throwing it in the oven. It seems ridiculous, but it works, and Via 313 has built a dedicated clientele who love it. Their topping combinations are delicious, their crust is perfect. Well worth the trip.

Via 313
1111B E. 6th Street
Austin, TX 78702
(512) 939-1927
http://www.yelp.com/biz/via-313-pizza-austin

Warm weather beckons us outdoors, and enjoying a picnic is a great way to enjoy a beautiful day. If you’re thinking about planning a picnic outing sometime soon, below are some tried-and-true picnic tips and staples that will ensure you enjoy a relaxing time outside.

Pack something to sit on
Unless you’re certain there are picnic tables available, be sure to pack a blanket or some folding chairs. Having a comfortable place to sit is key to enjoying your picnic.

Make foods that can be enjoyed at room temperature
If you’re thinking about having a meal outdoors, it’s best to pack foods that can be served at room temperature. Trying to keep foods hot or cold can be an unnecessary hassle.

Prepare finger foods
To make things super simple, especially if you’re picnicking with kids, make finger foods. Foods you can enjoy with your hands are great because you don’t have to worry about utensils, which just add to clean-up afterwards.

Keep it green
Instead of bringing throw-away items like plastic water bottles and paper plates, think about packing items that can be used again – like an aluminum bottle for your beverage and reusable Tupperware. That way your picnic can be both convenient and “green”.

Prepare for sun and bugs
When you’re spending any prolonged time outside, it’s essential to wear sunscreen. So, be sure to bring some on your picnic with you to protect your skin. Also, having bug spray handy and help keep away any unwanted critters.

Nestled inside the ZEN Food Mart Convenience Store, Wholly Cow Burgers is a purveyor of food that uses local, organic, and hormone & chemical free grass-fed beef. It's a high quality ingredient that, along with the local, organic produce used here, makes for some really wonderful food. The menu consists of several burger combinations as well as some classic beef and chicken sandwiches like the reuben and club. There are vegetarian options, too! Wholly Cow is also open for breakfast, where you'll find a nice selection of breakfast tacos in addition to french toast and some great breakfast sandwiches. A great thing about the location is that the store where it's located also has other great items like fresh fruit and produce, and a wide selection of wine and beer. That's quality and convenience!

Wholly Cow
3010 S. Lamar Boulevard
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 394-8156
http://www.yelp.com/biz/wholly-cow-austin