South Lamar Street Hangouts
Updated: October 21, 2009
Back in the day, South Austin was known for its auto mechanics, and how residents from north of the river called people residing in this zip code, "Bubbas." While there are still loads of auto shops and the Bubba label persists, South Lamar now supports a slew of lovely eateries and independent businesses that can only be considered cool--old meets new, cute. If it's been a while since the last time you went to South Austin, here's another tip: Calling it "SoLa" may induce cringes.
A Stroll Through South Lamar
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Marigold - Gateway to India
Read Reviews2200 S. Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 (map)
Admit it: You secretly wanted to be in the final credit sequence in “Slumdog Millionaire,” too, but while bedazzled in scarves, bangles and a sari, the Indian classic dress garment. Head to this modern boutique for all the finest jewel-toned garb, along with henna, to make that “Jai Ho” number come to life. And while you’re at it, grab dinner, too. On Tuesdays, $12 gets you naan, rice and a choice of entrees and appetizers.
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Birds Barbershop
Read Reviews2110 S Lamar Blvd Ste B, Austin, TX 78704 (map)
This economy’s slow recovery doesn’t mean you should let yourself go, but the $100 haircuts should probably stop. Maintain that head-turning coif at this affordable, mostly walk-in barbershop, where the cut and color services occasionally come with a free beer or a band playing outside on the patio. And to pass the time: a foosball table and extensive magazine racks.
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Olivia
Read Reviews2043 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 (map)
One would never know how green this space is just from driving by, but there’s a secret garden behind this modern eatery, where lovely white bamboo plants and a patio create the perfect alfresco dining experience. The food impresses, too--so much so that Bon Appetit dubbed the spot one of America’s 10 best restaurants and published the house recipe for milk-braised pork and gnocchi.
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Irie Bean Coffee Bar
Read Reviews2310 South Lamar Bl., Suite 102, Austin, TX 78704 (map)
This very faintly Jamaican-themed coffee shop has it all: an array of snacks, treats and fresh fruit, locally roasted coffee and yes, free, speedy wi-fi. A super cute patio in back is a quiet escape from bustling South Lamar. A little space-hatch in the back looks like it should transport customers into orbit, but is just functional sculpture. Whether you visit coffee shops to chat or hang out or get lost in reading, this teeny spot has a couple of nooks to explore.
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Black Sheep Lodge
Write a review2108 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 (map)
This newest kid on the block already has an accolade from Texas Monthly, which deemed its Black and Blue Burger one of the best in the state. Locals love the patio which faces South Lamar, the fresh food and fun atmosphere (Hello, pool table and shuffleboard court).
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