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How To Spend a Day Supporting LGBTQ+ Austin Businesses

Posted on August 13, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Kelsey Bradshaw

Kelsey Bradshaw

Slices of brisket, ribs, a basket of pickles and potato salad sit on a sheet of brown paper.

I am writing this story at lunchtime and this photo is making me hungry! (jpellgen/ Flickr)

We have a whole day planned for you that involves spending your money supporting LGBTQ+-owned businesses. The best news of all: You can use this itinerary any time of year, not just during Pride month, going on now!

☕ Good Morning! Let’s Get Coffee.

Visit Patika at its South Lamar or Congress Avenue locations for a coffee of your choice and a breakfast sandwich ($11.75), which comes with fried egg, tomato jam, bacon, and spicy aji amarillo mayo on a pretzel bun. The coffee shop is owned by Andy Wigginton and Nick Krupa and includes a brunch menu if you wake up late!

📕 Shop for a Gay Book.

BookWoman, which calls itself the “queerest, feminist-est bookstore” in Texas, posted a “Gay Book of the Day” during National Pride Month in June and I recommend using it as a shopping guide. It’s the perfect way to use up some of that caffeinated energy.

😋 Let’s Lunch.

It’s time for my favorite recommendation: La Barbecue. Prepare to stand in line but know the brisket, pickles, and ribs are worth waiting for. The restaurant is owned by Ali Clem, who opened the barbecue joint in 2012 with her late wife, LeAnn Mueller.

🍨 After a Nap, Pregame With Ice Cream.

Before we head out for the night, cool down with a scoop or two from Lick Honest Ice Creams, which has three Austin locations. I never knew I could stray from my beloved chocolate ice cream until I tried Lick’s roasted beets and fresh mint flavor. It’s that good. The shop, which is owned by Chad Palmatier and Anthony Sobotik, also has locations in San Antonio, Houston, and College Station.

🌈 It’s Time Head to Fourth Street.

Obviously, you have to end the night over on Fourth Street, west of Congress Avenue. Spend your money on cocktails and dance at Rain on 4th, Highland Lounge, and Coconut Club. Catch a drag show at Oilcan Harry’s and grab a late-night bite at Iron Bear.

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