Austin’s Govalle neighborhood is one of the best parts of the city. It’s in East Austin and has enough to do and eat and drink that you could spend weeks getting through it all.
Here’s your checklist:
Boggy Creek Farm
In my humble opinion, Boggy Creek Farm is the best place in town to get fresh produce. The market is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and every time I’ve popped in, I’ve been greeted with bright and beautiful fruits and vegetables at nice prices.
Justine’s Brasserie
Justine’s Brasserie is a French restaurant that will have you feeling transported. It’s cozy and dark inside, has a nice outdoor area, and the food is delicious. I especially recommend getting to Justine’s during the winter months — the restaurant does up the decor in a new theme every year.
Holiday on 7th
I really love Holiday on 7th. It’s wonderful for a birthday party, a happy hour hang, or a first date. The restaurant does a $15 happy meal special on Wednesdays that includes a burger, fries, and mini cocktail. If burgers aren’t your jam, try whatever pasta is on the menu and thank me later.
Cabana Club
Whether you need a place to work, swim, drink, or gather with a bunch of friends, Cabana Club is the spot for you. The venue is perfect if you want to start your day with coffee and emails and end it in a pool with a cocktail.
Flitch Coffee
Flitch Coffee is such a treat. The truck is located on a lot that includes Pueblo Viejo, making for a perfect one-two punch of great coffee and tasty tacos. Try to avoid Flitch on weekends if you can — it can get packed!
Central Machine Works Brewery
Raise your hand if you’ve ever been to a birthday party at Central Machine Works Brewery! I assume every single one of you has your hand up! It’s a classic Austin birthday spot and for good reason: It’s huge, the pizzas are yummy, and lots of beer and frozen drinks are available.
De Nada Cantina
Land of pink cups and dangerous margaritas, De Nada Cantina serves up fried quesadillas and lots of colorful decor. This restaurant is a hot-button topic among Austinites, though. Some think it lives up to the hype and others don’t. Try it and let us know which side you land on!
OMG Squee
Mochi donuts, soft serve, macarons, and taiyaki are all on the menu at OMG Squee, the cutest dessert shop around. New ice cream and mochi flavors come out every month, so keep your eyes peeled for their latest creations.
Kinda Tropical
Kinda Tropical always comes in handy when you’re trying to figure out where to go for a night out with friends. The restaurant has really good wings and lots of frozens, plus a patio with plenty of misters for these hot Austin nights.
Sa-Tén
Sa-Tén is located at Canopy Austin, which is home to three art galleries, artist studios, and other creative offices. Stop in to Sa-Tén for a curry bowl or chicken katsu. Japanese cheesecake bread is also on the menu 👀
Bouldering Project
If you’ve been looking to try your hand at rock climbing without a rope, Bouldering Project is a really fantastic place to start. Day passes are $25 and shoes are available to rent. Go see what you’re made of!
