So, today I’m flying to Austin, Texas!
I’m super excited because I’ve while never been to Austin before, I’ve always had this strange obsession with the state of Texas as a whole. Maybe it’s because my dad is from there…or because my grandpa got kicked out of A&M for punching a guy in the nose in the forties–I just don’t know.
Actually, it’s probably just because I love sweet tea and pulled pork with my heart and soul. Yep, that’s it.
Hi dad! I heart you.
Anyways, the reason I’m going is pure vacation! Almanzo is from there and we are visiting his family, his college and his old stomping grounds. If you see me looking awkward and sweating profusely in an Aggie shirt at the game on Saturday, please say a friendly hello.
Oh, and tonight I’m hosting my first blog event at a popular bar downtown. I couldn’t believe when so many people actually said they really wanted to come!!! We are going to drink cocktails, eat tacos and talk about life as we know it. I’m psyched and naturally used that excuse to buy a new Anthropologie dress. Priorities, people…priorities.
Almanzo has (semi) agreed to be official camera man for the event so I’ll be back with fun photos of my first night in the Lonestar State—stay tuned!
Mmmmm barbecue. We will meet again in Texas. I will find you!!!
{ 134 comments… read them below or add one }
I love Beans with Meat, veggies and Sweet potatoes – nice close-up!
I love Beans with Meat, veggies and Sweet potatoes – nice close-up!
oops…didn’t mean to do that twice…and now it’s 3 times…
I’m so bummed I can’t make it! If you happen to scoot up to Dallas after your meetup, I’m here waiting with open arms. Haha.
Except to scoot anywhere in Texas means at least a 3 hour drive, silly huge state!
I’ve always wanted to go to Austin too! They have some awesome food, I’ve heard at least. Looking forward to seeing pictures from the blogger meet up, it sounds like a lot of fun.
Take pics of the dress!
I’ve heard great things about Austin! Looking forward to seeing your pics!
Hope this means you made it to the airport!
I am an A&M grad, and very interested in your story about your grandpa getting kicked out! I hope you enjoy the football game. There is nothing like A&M football!
Meeting the fam, that’s a pretty big step! I hear Austin is a great city- have fun
lol, remember when you used to be almost vegan? I hope you have a great time.
Have a great time! I hear Austin is tons of fun!
I wish I could make it tonight…. stupid grad school!! But enjoy your visit if I don’t see you and don’t go too crazy visiting the original Whole Foods. That place will suck you in!!! Also, Almanzo’s an Aggie?! Oh gosh…. I don’t know how I feel about that as a Longhorn!
Wooo! So excited you’re coming to Austin!!
I hope you get to eat some delicious BBQ!
so jealous! seeing that big lone star flag/state at the top just made me miss home even more…have some BBQ for me? pretty please?
I live in Austin, and if you want great BBQ, you HAVE TO go to the Salt Lick down in Dripping Springs – about a 20 minute drive south of Austin – PHENOMENAL.
Safe travels to Austin! We’re driving down tomorrow from Dallas for the holiday weekend. Wish I could be there tonight but maybe I’ll see you around town!
Have a great trip!
Sounds like it’s gonna be a fun trip, Jenna! Enjoy!
I am about 2 hours away near Houston! Wish I could make it tonight but I don’t think my boss would appreciate it. Or my kids. Or my husband.
Maybe next time. Have fun while you are in Texas! I don’t remember what football movie my husband was watching the other night and one of the quotes was: “(College?) Football in Texas is an institution!” If that ain’t the truth!
My best friend moved to Texas! She’s still getting used to it, but I think she’s diggin’ it
Sounds like you two are going to have a ball! Can’t wait to see some of Alamanzo’s photography 
My friend just drove from Boston to Austin…wish I tagged along to come eat tacos with ya. Have fun meeting Momma and Poppa Almanzo!!
I’ve never been to Texas but Austin is high on the list of places I want to visit!
Looking forward to seeing what eats you encounter in Texas. I have a feeling that the next couple of entries are going to leavee me full just from looking at them!
Do they have pulled pork in Texas? I thought Austin was a BEEF town!
(Eat some brisket. You won’t be sorry.)
Austin is so amazing. Have fun!
Have fun! You enjoy pure vacation time. And BBQ. Always have to enjoy BBQ in the south.
I want to see the dress!
That sounds like a blast. I’ve always wanted to go to Austin. Have fun!
Ooh, I hear wonderful things about Austin. Great music scene.
And of COURSE people are going to RSVP to your blogger meet-up! You’re awesome!
I went to college in Austin – UT – it is a great city – you will love it! Have fun at the game – A&M should beat SFA!
So exciting…I love Texas…everything’s bigger you know!
Have fun in Texas! You know what they say: Everything is BIG in Texas…make sure your vacay is that way too
Yummo–>BBQ was one of my fav things to eat before becoming vegetarian!
I am bummed that I don’t live in Austin anymore! Blogger meet up, sweet tea and pulled pork….Texas, I miss you. I’ll be back there in October for a great big special event but I’m totally gutted to be missing this! Have fun!
I’m from Austin AND an Aggie. Can’t believe I’m missing out on thissss.
p.s. even though it is way out in butt-f-ing Egypt, if you want BBQ, there is only one place to go. and that is The Salt Lick. do not question me, just gooooo!!!!!!!!!
Oh and I agree with the previous commenter….go for the brisket…..save pulled pork for eastern bbq
You’re going to LOVE Austin! I’m a born and raised Texan we pride ourselves for that
Oh I’m so jealous! I’m an Aggie living in Illinois and I MISS HOME!!!! Soak it up for me! I’d say have fun but I already know you’ll have a blast.
PS – Lola is right on with the Salt Lick! Go!
You know the football game is in Houston this weekend? Have a great time in Austin. Can’t wait to see your pictures!
Go to the SALT LICK while you’re in Austin. Seriously. Force Almanzo to take you. The food is good but the atmosphere is what makes the place. And then, coax him into taking you to Amy’s for frozen custard. I highly recommend the Mexican Vanilla. So. Good.
Sounds like a blast! ???BBQ???
haha, those question marks should be hearts! why did it do that?
Pulled pork is one of the reasons I couldn’t be a vegetarian. Oooh and turkey at Thanksgiving!
Have fun and enjoy the game. I am so excited college football starts this week/weekend!
Have a safe trip.
I’ve never been to Texas. Have fun!!
I’ve only been to Dallas and I loved it! Love the state, Love the people, Love the food! Maybe it’s because it has to do with the cow thing? And I, of course, love cows. I think I could live there. Would love to one day visit Austin and San Antonio as well. Have a great time and can’t wait to see the pics.
Have a great time!
That sounds like so much fun! Meeting the family, huh? Ruh ro! :p
Ahhh another person that shares my Texas obsession. After living on the East Coast my whole life, Austin is definitely my number living destination for after I graduate college in May (eek!). So psyched to read about your vacation! And I love the direction you’re taking your blog in!
I don’t blame you for having a thing for Texas! I’d so head down there if I wasn’t already crazy busy this weekend! And if Austin was a frickin’ 7 hour drive from my neck of the woods.
Though, I’m not sure how much pulled pork you’ll see here (most places I’ve been don’t even offer it!). We’re all about brisket and sausage!
Sounds like fun!! I enjoy reading your blog every single day!!!! The energy that you write with puts a smile on my face! Have fun in Austin!
Haha, love that you bought a new anthro dress! HAve fun in Texas!
i’ve always had this weird urge to go to texas too but i’m not even sure why. maybe bc the shopping is supposed to be awesome there? or bc they claim everything is bigger there? does that include the men? i likey.
WOOOOOOOOOOOOO~! Yay Texas! Get ready for the heat
Please don’t tell anyone in Austin that Almanzo went to A&M – this is Longhorn country!
Try out Salt Lick and Rudy’s for good barbecue!
I’ve never been to Texas, but I would so love to visit! For now, I’ll just have to live through you and your blog.
Have fun! 
You are so going to love Texas food and Aggie football is a whole ‘nother world. Hope they “score” a lot.
Love the new website header.
YeeHaw! Welcome to Texas. Two words SALT. LICK. Almanzo will know, and if he truly loves you, he will take you there. If he doesnt, it might not be meant to be
Despite being a born and bread New Englander, I spent three years of college in Texas. Quite an experience! I was mostly in Houston, but we took a few trips to Austin which I quite enjoyed. Have fun.
I love these kind of posts of yours!
These speak to me more than dessert recipes….but I am just not really a dessert
kinda woman!
Have a wonderful trip! Are you nervous about meeting Adam’s folks?They are gonna
love you to bits!
Happy Texan Travels
Have fun! People from Texas sure are proud of where they’re from so be glad you’re in an Aggie’s shirt for the game
Have fun in Texas! Even though I’m a veggie, I’ve always had a burning desire to visit Texas, particularly San Antonio! haha
Can’t wait to read about your event! Good luck
You will love Austin. Arguably my fave city in Texas. For bbq, check out the Salt Lick and Rudy’s. You won’t be disappointed!
Hope you have a fabulous time…the blogger meet up is going to be great I bet.
you had me at pulled pork and sweet tea. Eat extra for all of your blog readers that wish they could be in the south enjoying sweet tea and bbq too.
That’s funny, I’ve ONLY been to Austin. It was for a swim meet, though, so we mostly saw the pool. Have fun!
Enjoy your trip Jenna! I’ve never been to Texas so I’m really excited to see what the food is like down there. I can only imagine!
Have fun in Texas! Definitely jealous that you’re going there. Austin is such an awesome and fun city! If this blog party goes well, I hope you’ll come down to Georgia for an event!
Can’t wait to meet you tonight! Yee haw!
I loved Austin so much when I went last year. Tons of good places to eat and everyone was so nice. Have a blast!
I think you’ll love Texas! Can’t wait to meet you and everyone tonight!
You’re coming at a great time because we’re having a cold spell right now- it’s only 98 degrees today!! (it’s usually around 110 at this time of year). Austin is awesome- go visit the Alamo while you’re in the general vacinity!
Travel safely and enjoy TACOS!
Have fun! I live in Austin, LOVE IT! That bar you are having your event at rocks!!!
If you get the chance, check out the Whole Foods Main Store downtown, Moonshine, and some of that great live ,music we are known for:)
Enjoy and Keep Austin Weird!
B
I am originally from Austin and so excited for you– you’re going to have a blast! The food possibilities are ENDLESS so I will make only one suggestion of many, many great options: GourDoughs (http://www.gourdoughs.com/). Gourmet donut food truck… need I say more.
Also, PLEASE do not wear an A&M shirt.
I hope you have a blast!
i grew up in austin-i think it’s an awesome place, except for the heat and humidity. but i would feel bad if i didn’t let you know that unfortunately, texas is not known for it’s pulled pork bbq or sweet tea. what it is known for is its beef brisket bbq! and the restaurants that other people have mentioned are great! hope you have a great time!
Have fun, I visited Austin once a few years ago and thought it was awesome.
Awesome! I am in Texas….but you are definitely going to the wrong school!
Whee – sounds like fun! Lol..my parents are Aggies and I practically grew up on campus, so I got all excited about your post – that and the fact that Almonzo’s an Aggie.
I hope you have a blast, Jenna! Texas really does have the best barbecue and Mexican food. I’ll actually be in Texas too tonight (and the next week), only I’m in Houston! 
How FUN!! I had a funny time at American Airlines school in Dallas once…am looking forward to reading your escapades!! Meeting the folks, eh?
Today my head has been in Paris, specifically with all the Hollywood $$$$ pouring in there–so many films being made and the #1 drink at the Ritz Bar…The Serendipity. Did a post, but dang if I could find the recipe. They sell more of them than martinis. Made with Calvados.
Can’t wait for pix of your Austin blog event!!
have fun! my husband lived in TX for 5 yrs and always talks about how great it is.
WHOOP! I’ll be at the game too and if the weather on Saturday is anything like it has been walking to and from classes this week, you’ll definitely be sweaty. Is this your first Aggie football game? You’re going to looove it.
Have such a great time. I’m jealous you’ll be in Austin for the weekend. Spending 4 years there while at UT were some of the best times of my life. HOOK ‘EM!!
And make sure you hit up SoCo (SOuth COngress) for some good eats as well. You’ll find all the awesome airstream food trailers : Mighty Cone, Sugar Mama’s, list goes ON! And down on SoCo, you’ve got great Italian at Vespaio and a rockin’ slice of pizza at HomeSlice. Welcome! (and yes, maybe rethink the maroon. everyone looks better in burnt orange! ) ; )
I live in Austin too, best city in Texas!
Here’s my top restaurants:
Sushi- Uchi
Italian- Vespaio
Tex Mex- Matt’s El Rancho
Gourmet mexican- La Condesa
BBQ- Lambert’s
Brunch- South Congress Cafe, Z Tejas & LAMBERTS! (Only on Sun. for Lambert’s)
Enjoy!
I’m a little sad you’ll be in an Aggie shirt since I’m a born and bread longhorn, but I married an Aggie and they are good men
You’ll love Austin. I agree with the Salt Lick recommendation but not so much Rudy’s. It’s chain bbq. I’m sure your man knows good places to eat, but Moonshine and Parkside are our two faves. Try them out if you get a chance. Moonshine is more comfort food like buffalo meatloaf, steak, sweet potatoes etc (but they have great fish, too) and Parkside’s menu changes with the seasons and is very fresh and always interesting. Oh and Parkside is owned by a guy who also owns several really good restaurants in College Station (aggie country). We lived there for a year while my hubby was finishing up vet school and La Bodega (think fish tacos and shrimp/mango enchiladas) was one of our weekly treats out. He also owns Cafe Excel and Excel Steakhouse
yay for austin! i’m sad to miss your event, but i’m sure you’ll have a great time here. you’re coming at a good time—it’s not *too* hot!
have so much fun!!!! Southern food = the best ever!
September is a GREAT time to head down to Texas!!! enjoy the BBQ’s <3
xoxo
May I recommend the Eastside Cafe for breakfast/brunch. You’ll love the grounds–chickens lay all the eggs served there, organic greens, veggies galore, cute gift shop–all great to explore while you wait ofr a table.
Baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread… sign me up!
Have an AWESOME time. A dear friend of mine just moved to Austin from WI, and I can’t wait to visit him there. I’ll look forward to your must-see (must-eat?) destinations!
Have fun in Texas!!
Ohh I LOVE barbeque!! Have fun in Texas!
By the way, I love the new look of your blog!
I am a Texan, and it is a unique and wonderful place…but Texans isn’t about sweet tea or pulled pork. Try beer (Shiner Bock!) and brisket instead.
And of course, in Austin, lots of Mexican food and margaritas!
Per my earlier comment: I mean Texas isn’t about sweet tea or pulled pork…not *Texans* isn’t about…Doh!
Yeehaw! You will love Austin, Have fun tonight.
I am with you girl, I heart Texas in a big way and I couldn’t possibly be from a more different place, Connecticut. I went to Austin for the first time this year and LOVED it. I can’t wait to go back. Have a blast.
OH! And although I’m sure your man will be hosting you at all the best local spots, I am going to second the Salt Lick rec for “real” BBQ which is something this northern gal doesn’t ever get to experience.
Enjoy your vacation!! you’ll have to see if everything is really bigger in texas!
Austin is an AMAZING city. I loved it when I visited!! I wish you’d come to Alabama for a get together! I’d come drink cocktails and eat tacos! (I probably wouldn’t wear a Bama shirt though…. you know, since I’m an Auburn fan…)
I agree with Christie. PLEASE don’t wear an Aggie T-Shirt to the game in Austin. As a Texan (no official affiliation to UT or A&M) I want you to LOVE our state, and Longhorns and Aggies take school pride VERY seriously. Wearing an Aggie shirt to a Longhorn game might result in people being rude or offensive in the name of rivalry (as you are on UT ground when they are not playing A&M) and I would hate for any “friendly” school rivalry to leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Many people have mentioned great places to eat. I would also suggest Flip Happy Crepes… it was on the Food Network and when I was working in Austin last year, it was my favorite quick lunch spot.
Also, get yourself a breakfast taco while in texas… it is a definite must!
Have a great time!
Have a safe and wonderful trip!!
I can feel your excitement through the computer screen! Have a great break!!!
sounds like fun! Pure vacation? Heck yeah!
I have visited Austin one time and didn’t want to leave. It is such a cool city with so much to do and see. Most importantly the food there is incredible!! I had some awesome BBQ from Rudy’s. The place is really cool because it’s kind of like a deli counter only they are slicing up fresh, smoked brisket, turkey, and pork! They also let you sample sides and the various meats. YOU HAVE TO GO TO OASIS ON LAKE TRAVIS! You cannot get great food, drinks and a view like this anywhere! So fresh, flavorful, and delicious. Plus most of the tables are on their multi-tiered patio, overlooking Lake Travis. It is such a great dining experience. Also, I would highly recommend Chee Zee. I had an amazing meal and the place is really cool on the inside. Being a baker, you MUST at least go there for dessert! Their case of treats will make you salivate. We’re talking Carrot Cake Cheese Cake, Flourless Chocolate Tortes, and so much more! The Carrot Cake Cheese Cake was like having out of this world cheesecake between layers of the most moist, delicious, carrot cake I’ve ever had. Ok, let me wipe the drool off of my keyboard and end this post! I’m sure Almanzo knows where all of the other good eats are, but these were my favorite! Have a great trip!
Links:
http://www.rudys.com
http://www.oasis-austin.com
http://www.chez-zee.com
oh my – have an awesome time!!
go to Franklin BBQ. YUM! check it out on yelp.
I’m a Texas girl born and bred who’s living in Japan at the moment. My friend manages an amazing restaurant on 6th Street called Parkside! You should definitely try it out while you’re there!
Enjoy the beef BBQ – brisket and ribs, YUM!
And I would second the caution about the Aggie shirt at a Texas game. You will be persona non grata, for sure!
Try out Flip Happy Crepes for me! I saw it on the Food Network and it looks like such a cute little palce!
I’m so sad I won’t be in town when you visit!! I can’t wait to hear more about your trip!
How fun! I am from Dallas and still live there, but went to college in Austin. (Clearly, I will have to ignore any photos of you in A&M gear. Nothing personal.) It’s a fun place, definitely visit Trudy’s and Central Market. I’m not sure if you have CM in California, but even if you do you need to visit the original on Lamar.
Hope you have a great trip!
Welcome to Austin!!! Love BBQ, but I always crave Mexican food! You should definitely try Polvo’s on S. 1st Street…their margaritas are amazing!
You and Almanzo must be doing pretty well to be going on such a trip together. I;m happy for you guys.
I have a weird obsession with texas too and chocolate chip cookies! I think we would get along just fine!
One word for you….Salt Lick. Its Delicious!!!!!
I wish I could visit Austin for the Amazing Flagship Whole Foods that exists there!!!
So College Station is pretty small, I am really hoping you go to a place called Hurricane Harry’s on Saturday night after the game..then I will see you, for sure. It is not a big place. PS tell Adam to bring you to Hurricane Harry’s, it really is a fun place to dance!!
Have fun meeting the boy’s family
!
Eatliverun CS crew!
Cannot wait to see your pictures, I hope you have so much fun! I have heard Texas is *awesome*! You should organize a blog event in San Diego, it is pretty cool down here, and you would def have one attendee, just sayin….
I agree with the others on not wearing the Aggie shirt. The school pride thing is a huge deal in Texas. If you have time you should most definitely check out Snap Kitchen at the Triangle location. We’re opening one in Houston where I will be the RD on site. It’s an amazing place with 80% all natural and organic foods, locally grown, seasonal, etc. We also have a “dine green” certification and most of our foods are gluten free and diabetic freindly. http://www.snapkitchen.com
Also, Texans aren’t big on BBQ pork
and you won’t find much sweet tea either. Austin is a great place and I’m sure you’ll love it!
Ok, wearing an A&M shirt at a game it college station is a great idea! I meant, just walking around Austin you probably wouldn’t get the best reception. Also, you MUST check out Central Market. The company is owned by HEB a big chain grocery store only here and Texas (and a few in Mexico).
so sad I missed your meet up…but I may or may not try to find you throughout the city and make you sign my cook books..haha jk. Enjoy Texas and our heat!
Good luck with the event! I can’t wait to see your new Anthropologie dress. I think I need to find some sort of excuse to buy one too.
That store is amazing!
Well, you’re in luck! The Anthropologie in Austin is RIGHT ACROSS from the Flagship Whole Foods!
Have fun- LOVE AUSTIN!
Oh, I was just saying I need to go to Anthro and get a new dress! Have fun in Austin, it’s a blast! I swear, I should have been born down south….
I second the recommendation for Rudy’s BBQ!!!!
Have fun in texas. That last picture looks really really good.
Glad to have you here! I’m up in Dallas, but welcome to Austin!
Make sure to give an update on what you think of Austin! I live too close to not have gone yet….I’ve heard great things!
OMG!!! I live right between Austin and San Antonio!!!! That’s really funny about your grandpa because I actually go to school at A&M!!! Let me know if your grandpa wants to rehash the A&M memories….I’m sure there is a lot more in College Station now than in the 40′s, lol.
Enjoy the cows, boots and eats!!
Gig ‘Em AGS! WHOOP!
Just found your blog and totally lost it when I read your grandpa got kicked out of A&M! I am an Aggie living in Ohio and it always warms my heart to see someone talk about Texas A&M.
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