Austin’s East Riverside-Oltorf neighborhood serves up some of the best hiking trails and dining in the city. The area, which may appear at first glance as a collection of shopping centers and fast food joints, has seen robust growth in recent years, exploding with new apartment complexes to keep up with the city’s population growth. But you don’t have to look hard to find the neighborhood’s gems. Here’s where to start:
I’m honestly shocked I managed to get a photo at Palo Seco 512 before inhaling my tacos. (Kelsey Bradshaw/City Cast Austin)
Palo Seco 512 is located in a gas station parking lot. Head there for birria tacos that are somehow both juicy and crispy. Pair your tacos with a gas station Coke for a perfect lunch.
Cafe Creme is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it coffee shop. The menu includes huge, beautiful cherry danishes, ham and cheese croissants, and the smoothest cold brew coffee around.
This is a photo of Secret Beach from June, but I bet the water is higher now with all the rain we’ve been getting! (Kelsey Bradshaw/City Cast Austin)
Secret Beach is a small, rocky alcove along the Colorado River in Roy G. Guerrero Park. It’s the perfect spot for a dip on a hot day and it just got some updates! Look for a new set of wooden stairs as you head down. Make sure you pack a camping chair and some snacks.
I can’t not recommend the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail! It’s one of Austin’s best features and extends east to South Pleasant Valley Road. It’s the best place for it all – biking, running, and walking your pup.
Frazier’s Long and Low is home to huge corn dogs with a sweet and savory breading. Its butterscotch-brown leather booths, outdoor seating and beer and spirits menu give it a dive bar vibe.
