Austin's Coffee

I rarely come to Austin's because during my graduate school days I had several very unproductive experiences here trying to get things done. One night I was working on a paper and I decided to come to Austin's thinking that I might be productive. The space is quite small and I sat down where I could at a table with my lap top and a sandwich. There was ridiculously loud horror movie playing that everyone was laughing and talking over. The commotion is a good sign as the teenage hipster all have a welcoming and fun community hang out at Austin's but for a "serious graduate student" like myself this was the worst environment possible. Finally I went outside on the porch that overlooks Fairbanks avenue as cars whiz by. Just when I got myself situated outside, the movie inside had ended and everyone came outdoors for a smoke break. So now these teenage hipsters were laughing, talking loudly and unintentionally blowing smoke in my direction. Well, at least the movie was over so I went back inside to try and get something done until I found out that another movies was starting in just 5 minutes. I gave up and went home.

The last time I was at Austin's Josh Bales, a friend of mine, was here playing his brand of poppy chic pleasing country for all of the girls that go to my church. The place was crowded, my friend Karie Brown was here selling her plumery (artsy trinkets and hair pieces made from feathers) and the atmosphere wasn't half bad. Still I wasn't convinced to become an Austin's fan.

All that being said, today is much better. I walked here and realized just how close it is to home. Although I did pass Cup O Soul and probably would have gone there had it not been one of my purposes to write about Austin's for this blog. After a pleasant walk here I was greeted by a friendly young woman who recommended a passion fruit green tea on ice (pictured above) that is really hitting the spot on a hot day. One of the trademarks here is that with each order you get a Hershey's Kiss on your plate and I have always thought that to be a nice touch. In addition I found a nice spot on a comfy retro couch with an electrical outlet located conveniently next to me. In addition I have a table to sit my things on and the wi-fi is working well. Life is good!

I used to meet with friends from church to hang out, talk and play board games here at Austin's. Named after the trendy city that is home to The University of Texas this is great place to study or to meet friends. Just avoid movie nights.