Texas is one of the country’s big destinations for barbecue, with a beef-centric menu and some serious slow-cooked flavor. The Hill Country is rife with barbecue joints, but locals will almost unanimously recommend J Mueller in Austin. Owner John Mueller hails from a barbecue dynasty in Taylor, Texas – his grandfather Louie’s restaurant is internationally known as one of the temples of Texas ‘cue. It took a lot for John to set out on his own, but he quickly found success in Austin. His business has had some ups and downs since then, but since opening the new location in Austin’s Bouldin Creek neighborhood, things have been looking up for Mueller. And for good reason – this is incredible barbecue, perfectly tender and flavorful. The brisket here is the meal of choice, and it’s done up as well as you can possibly do it. Beef ribs and sausage are also quite good. Note that this place has become a little more popular since it was profiled on Anthony Bourdain’s TV show.

J Mueller BBQ
1502 S. 1st Street
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 229-7366
http://www.yelp.com/biz/jmueller-bbq-austin

‘Fried chicken and Champagne? Why not?!’

That’s nearly the slogan at Max’s Wine Dive, which lets you know it’s not just another snooty wine bar. Gourmet comfort food, an eclectic selection of wine from around the world and a funky, relaxed setting with a jukebox is what’s earned them a host of fans. Stop by for lunch to chow down on a Puttanesca Caesar Salad, Shrimp & Grits or Max’s Signature Burger. The dinner menu features many of the same dishes as the lunch menu, including Max’s Famous Fried Chicken with mashed potatoes & greens, the Fried Egg Sandwich with applewood smoked bacon & gruyere, and the Texas Haute Dog with onion rings & French fries. Stop by for happy hour for nice food and drink specials. Open every day.

Max’s Wine Dive
207 San Jacinto Boulevard
Austin, TX 78701
Neighborhood: Downtown
(512) 904-0111
http://www.yelp.com/biz/maxs-wine-dive-austin

Looking for a place to chill out in under the big Texas sky? Head to Reimers Ranch Park, a huge, pristine swath of parkland that’s the largest in Travis Country at 2,427 acres. Three miles of continuous beach frontage on the Pedernales River makes it a great spot for fishing and swimming on hot summer days. There’s no shade, so bring an umbrella and sunscreen. It’s also a premier destination for world-class rock climbing. More than 18 miles of trails in varying lengths and levels of strenuousness make for excellent hiking and biking opportunities. Port-a-potties are the only amenities. Leashed dogs are allowed.

Open sunrise to sunset. Car admission is $10.

Reimers Ranch Park
24100 Hamilton Pool Rd
Austin, TX 78798
(512) 854-7275
http://www.yelp.com/biz/milton-reimers-ranch-park-austin