48 Hours in Austin: Mediterranean food, lake house cocktails, and RnB vibes
This year, I decided to celebrate my birthday in Austin with a few of my girls. Back in my 20s, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the city—it felt too laid-back compared to the fast-paced energy of Houston and Dallas. But now that I’m in my 30s, Austin has started to grow on me. Its relaxed vibe, emphasis on outdoor activities, and walkable neighborhoods are exactly what I’ve come to appreciate. While I used to prefer the hustle and bustle, I’ve found that Austin’s easygoing charm is more my speed these days. So, with 48 hours and a plan to make the most of it, we dove right into everything this city has to offer.
Friday: Cozy VRBO, espresso martinis and game night
We kicked off our trip by settling into a cozy VRBO just 15 minutes from downtown Austin. It had everything we needed, and more importantly, was the perfect spot for the weekend vibes we had planned.
Dinner was at Aba, a Mediterranean restaurant that was hyped by my friends and did not disappoint. I ordered the pistachio-crusted halibut, which was well cooked and full of flavor. Of course I had to pair that with an espresso martini. Aba’s dreamy ambiance of soft lighting and lush greenery made it a full experience, not just a meal.
After dinner, we headed back to the VRBO for a game night, kicking things off with Spicy Uno. The laughs came easy, and the friendly competition kept us going late into the night. It was such a fun and laid-back way to end the first day.
Saturday: Brunch, Bouquets, and Nightlife
We started our Saturday with brunch at Quince Lakehouse. This spot sits right on Lake Austin and gave us mimosas, delicious food and great views of the lake. I ate vegetarian enchiladas that were packed with flavor and a good balance for the Prosecco and orange juice. There’s something about eating good food by the water that makes everything feel a little more special.
From there, we headed to Flor Keeps, a flower shop filled with stunning dried flower arrangements. What I like about these bouquets is they last up to a year! The shop was so thoughtfully curated, and I left with a small bouquet that now doubles as both a memory of Austin and chic home décor.
We closed out the trip at RnB Only, a party that travels nationally dedicated to R&B music. Outside of witnessing a minor brawl between the local who were escorted out, the vibe was on point, with a DJ spinning all the classics and some newer hits. We danced nonstop, screaming out lyrics to Mary J. Blige’s “Be Without You” to the top of our lungs and soaking in the energy of the crowd. It was the perfect way to cap off the weekend, celebrating my birthday with good music and the best company.
Takeaways from the trip
Austin gave us everything we wanted in just 48 hours—delicious food, unique shopping, and nightlife that didn’t disappoint. From the aesthetically-pleasing Mediterranean restaurant to dancing the night away, every moment filled into my birthday celebration and I’m so grateful for the friends and family who joined me.
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway packed with good food, relaxing vibes, and beatufilful scenery, Austin won’t disappoint. Two days, endless memories—this city knows how to show you a good time.