🌵 This lakefront burger joint might be summer’s MVP

I’ve been thinking a lot about traffic. It’s one of the few things we can all hate together. No matter your politics, profession, or playlist, everyone’s got beef with brake lights.

And in theory, help is on the way. We’ve got self-driving cars already on the road in Austin—I’ve seen a few Waymos cruising solo. I haven’t spotted a Tesla driving itself yet, but it’s coming. There are tunnels in the works??!! I recently listened to a podcast on eVTOLs (flying cars, basically), and apparently… they actually work. Just waiting on the red tape.

Then there’s the podcar idea—tiny two- or four-person “public transport” vehicles that could run in the bike lanes. I’m sure the cyclists will love that.

But what really struck me is this: Austin is surprisingly easy to get around; if you’re not in rush hour traffic. I drove from the very south end to the very north end in about 20 minutes the other day. Try doing that in Dallas or Houston. Even at 2 a.m., you’re still on the road for 45 minutes minimum. Probably longer. 

So here’s to Austin. And here’s to a future with less traffic and more time for the good stuff.

Cheers,
Nolan

Pull up by boat or car, and prepare to kick back, Ski Shores Cafe is lake life at its finest. Perched right on Lake Austin, this breezy, dog-friendly spot delivers serious chill with a side of crispy catfish, smash burgers, and fish tacos that hit like a summer playlist.

The drinks are strong, the views are better, and the vibe is pure weekend. Come for the food, stay until you're debating buying a boat.

Read more here.

Fill out this form or call 512-291-7050 to get your first mow for $1 (when you sign up for regular service). Just mention this newsletter to get your deal!

The Gist: Part of River Place Corporate Park near RM 620 and RM 2222 could soon transform into a mixed-use space with 330 apartments, pickleball courts, green space, and a play area. Austin’s Zoning and Platting Commission approved the zoning change on July 1, with City Council set to give final authorization.

Why It Matters: The project would bring new housing and recreation to a prime Northwest Austin location while reusing existing office property.

Read more here.

This week we’re digging deeper—literally. We spotted a root-bound plant with spiraled roots, a reminder that cramped roots can stunt growth and leave plants vulnerable. The fix? Break up the root ball and blend native soil so roots spread wide.

On the bloom front, crepe myrtles and Texas sage finally burst into color about a week after the big rains. And Lake Travis? Up another 10 feet, now just shy of full. Good news all around.

Check it out HERE.

🪴 Brought to you by Top Choice Lawn Care

🎷 QHC Jazz Trio | Lakeway Library | Lakeway | 07/25 | More
Live jazz classics and smooth grooves from a talented local student trio.

💃 Dance Party | Public Library | Bee Cave | 07/26 | More
Celebrate summer’s end with music, dancing, and stars from SpongeBob the Musical!

👶 Baby Lapsit | Westbank Community Library | Austin | 07/29 | More
Sweet stories, songs, and bonding time for pre-walkers and their grown-ups.

🧵 Sorting Hat Embroidery | Laura Bush Community Library | Austin | 07/30 | More
Magical stitching fun for all skill levels with guided help and provided materials.

📚 Story Time | Sweetwater Clubhouse | Austin | 07/31 | More
Enjoy a fun all-ages story time plus a visit from the bookmobile.

🎭 The Viata Sessions: Don’t Tell Comedy | Hotel Viata | West Lake Hills | 07/25 | More
Secret comedy in a luxe hillside hideaway with optional wine tasting before the show.

🐐 GOGA Goat Yoga | Hill Country Galleria | Bee Cave | 07/26 | More
Stretch, smile, and flow with baby goats in this joy-filled indoor yoga class.

🧘 Yoga Nidra with Claudia | Del Sol Yoga | Austin | 07/27 | More
Deep rest and inner calm through guided yogic sleep in a peaceful setting.

📚 Glass of Wine Book Club | Lakeway Library | Lakeway | 07/28 | More
Sip and discuss The Cartographers in this relaxed, in-person and Zoom-friendly club.

🎷 All That Jazz: A Charlie Chaplin Tribute | The Auberge | Bee Cave | 07/31 | More
An elegant evening of live jazz, conversation, and cinematic nostalgia.

🚗 Heatwave Car Show | Travis County Exposition Center | Austin | 07/25–07/27 | More
Custom rides, drift demos, and high-octane excitement all weekend long.

🎵 The Fray + The Strike | ACL Live at The Moody Theater | Austin | 07/26 | More
An unforgettable night of anthems and powerhouse performances in an iconic Austin venue.

🤝 Austin Tech Mixer | Higbie's | Austin | 07/31 | More
Connect with top talent, founders, and innovators at Austin’s premier tech networking event.