🌵 Zilker Loop shuttle returns just in time for Memorial Day weekend

Howdy Amigos,

Welcome to all the new readers! We’re now over 2,500 strong (with 250+ joining just this week). Glad you’re here.

Summer is almost here… and not a moment too soon. The end of the school year is somehow both exciting and emotionally exhausting. Parties, field trips, awards, more parties—it’s like May is trying to prove a point.

Soon, though, we enter West Austin summer mode:

• 20% head to Colorado
• 20% live on the lake
• 100% avoid standing in full sun at 3 p.m.

But summer’s also sweet. Family life slows down just enough. I’m looking forward to letting the kids stay up a little too late while playing in the sprinkler ON THE TRAMPOLINE and obviously counting that as their bath.

Cheers,
Nolan

Recommended

🥩 CARVE American Grille – Barton Creek

Upscale but unpretentious, CARVE brings big flavor and Texas charm to Barton Creek. The steaks are amazing—especially the 22oz ribeye and 14oz NY strip—but the lobster corn dogs and corn brûlée really steal the show.

With inventive cocktails (shoutout to the Negroni Blanco) and warm, attentive service, it’s perfect for date night or group dinners. Don’t skip the Bread Tower or the house-made macaroni—and definitely come hungry! For more details, click here.

🥗 Conscious Kitchen ATX – West Lake Hills

Tucked behind Yoga Vida, this raw vegan gem is redefining healthy eating in the most delicious way. Mother-daughter owned, it’s a peaceful grab-and-go spot with vibrant pizzas, quiches, and veggie burgers that even non-vegans rave about.

Don’t miss the pecan pie or coffee cake (made with chicory!). It’s nutrient-dense, feel-good food that tastes like pure joy—and yes, your carnivore friend will probably love it too. For more details, click here.

🥞 Maple Street Biscuit Company – Bee Cave

A warm, friendly breakfast and lunch spot with the best fresh, buttery biscuits—especially the goat cheese & pepper jelly ones! The maple-flavored coffee and spicy gravy keep folks coming back.

The staff is super warm and friendly and it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back, tasty meal. For more details, click here.

🔥 HOTWORX – Austin

Located in Austin’s Four Points area, HOTWORX offers 24/7 access to infrared sauna workouts like Hot Yoga, Pilates, and HIIT. Members love the clean, welcoming space and friendly staff.

With flexible scheduling and a variety of classes, it’s a great spot for an efficient, rejuvenating workout. For more details, click HERE.

🍷 SAF Wine Bar & Nosh – Lakeway

Just opened on May 8, SAF Wine Bar & Nosh is Lakeway’s newest spot to sip and snack. Tucked in Lakeway Town Center 2, it offers 23 wines by the glass, 80 by the bottle, and a menu full of flatbreads, desserts, and beautifully curated boards.

It’s locally owned, open Wednesday–Sunday evenings, and already becoming a favorite for relaxed nights out in the neighborhood. Learn more HERE.

🚧 Bee Cave Approves SH 71 Medians

Bee Cave is moving forward on a long-debated plan to add medians along a key stretch of Texas 71 between Hamilton Pool Road and Bee Creek Road. City leaders say the change will improve traffic flow and safety, with more upgrades likely ahead.

The council also approved hotel tax funding for two arts projects: $31,875 for the Texas Youth Music Festival in October and $6,000 for updates to the Bee Cave Sculpture Park, including new sculptures and signage. Both measures received strong support from the community. Read more here.

🚌 Zilker Loop Shuttle Is Back

Free, air-conditioned shuttles return to Zilker Park starting 05/24, making it easier to enjoy Barton Springs, Barton Creek, and the playground—without the parking headache. Running from the Stratford Lot, the Zilker Loop helps cut down on weekend traffic and runs through 09/01. Here’s the schedule:

• Saturdays & Sundays: 12–6 p.m.

• Operating holidays:
   • Memorial Day (05/26)
   • Juneteenth (06/19)
   • Independence Day (07/04)
   • Labor Day (09/01)

No pets or coolers on board. First two hours of Stratford parking are free with code. Read more here.

🏘️ Acacia Cliffs Vote Looms

The future of West Austin’s Acacia Cliffs apartments is up for City Council vote today, on 05/22, with residents and officials still debating a rezoning proposal under Austin’s DB90 program. The plan would replace 290 naturally affordable units with up to 700 new apartments—10–12% income-restricted.

Supporters say it's a chance to add housing; critics fear it incentivizes displacement. Council Member Marc Duchen is seeking stronger tenant protections, while others warn the complex could still be redeveloped without DB90. Read more here.

🎉 Austin Greek Festival | Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church | Austin | 05/23–05/25 | More
Greek food, dance, music, and culture all weekend—fun for the whole family!

🚴‍♂️ Plant Powered Peddlers | Kiker Elementary School | Austin | 05/24 | More
Chill group bike ride on the Veloway, ending with lunch at Vegan Yacht.

🌺 Aloha Pool Party | Lakeway Swim Center | Lakeway | 05/24 | More
Limbo contest, hula dancing, and Chick-fil-A with Polynesian flair.

🎶 Barton Fest | Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa | Austin | 05/25 | More
Live music, gourmet bites, local sips, and family fun in Hill Country style.

🌱 Little Sprouts | Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center | Austin | 05/28 | More
Nature play for kids 3-5 with stories, sensory fun, and a walk.

🎸 Jack Ingram Live | Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa | Austin | 05/23 | More
Texas country icon kicks off summer with hits, Hill Country views, and craft cocktails.

🔥 Al Fuego 2025 | Jester King Brewery | Austin | 05/24 | More
Live-fire cookery, top chefs, cold beer—Hot Luck’s legendary backyard bash returns.

🎸 MACH 5 | Little Woodrow’s | Bee Cave | 05/24 | More
High-energy rock and roll under the stars—don’t miss this lively night out.

🥋 MMA Super Seminar | Meta Mixed Martial Arts | Austin | 05/25 | More
Train with legends Bas Rutten, Nick Hemmers, and Duane Ludwig in one epic session.

🎸 Live Music Series | Waterloo Ice House Escarpment | Austin | 05/27 | More
Catch Joseph Deeb & the VooDudes playing Americana roots rock with originals and covers.

🏌️‍♀️ Birdies & Bubbles | Fazio Canyons Golf Course | Austin | 05/28 | More
Sparkling drinks, golf clinic, and prizes—just for women, all skill levels welcome.

🎸 Thursday Blues Jam | Oasthouse South | Austin | 05/29 | More
Full band blues jam with patio vibes, great eats, and surprise guests weekly.

In case you missed last week’s issue or need a refresher, check it out here!