Thanks so much for everyone's tips and suggestions. I had a great time during my short trip to Austin (despite the heat and humidity) and I'm going to seriously consider UT as I think about business school. I thought Austin's mix of traditional Texas feel, its college town atmosphere, and hippie-ish air was really intriguing. Anyway, a short rundown of the places I ate: Smitty's & Kreuz's: I hit both of these places during a lunchtime trip to Lockhart. At each place I tried some beef shoulder (as opposed to the fattier brisket) and a sausage ring. Both places were amazing, better than any BBQ I've ever had. I did think Smitty's was a little better. The beef was a little more tender and a little less fatty than at Kreuz's. I also thought Kreuz's was a little too salty, but that might just be me. I would definitely go back to either one though, and I'll have to check out Black's next time I'm in the area to complete the trifecta. Magnolia Cafe: Hit Magnolia (on Lake Austin Blvd., not S. Congress) for a quick breakfast. Tried the migas, as recommended, and thought it was great. It was the first time I'd ever had it, but I definitely want to have more of it. Wish it had been a little spicier, but again, personal preference. Thought the OJ was quite good as well! Hut's Hamburgers: Had the Wolfman Jack burger (sour cream, dicied chilies, jack cheese, bacon) and some onion rings and fries. Not the best burger I've ever had, but it sure hit the spot at the time. Also had perhaps the best vanilla coke I've ever had. Threadgill's: Had the chicken fried steak with cheese grits and red beans and rice on the side. The chicken fried steak was one of the better versions I've had, freshly and crisply fried with the cream gravy being just salty enough. The cheese grits were decadently gooey and tasty but the red beans and rice were a poor choice - bland and just sort of there, making no impression(I probably should've known better). Good lemonade too! Sandy's Hamburgers/Frozen Custard: Had a bacon cheeseburger and a large vanilla cone. Burger was big and tasty and the custard was rich and a great antidote to the weather. Amy's Ice Cream: As I drove into town on the way to my hotel, I stopped for a cup of the Sweet Cream flavor, a deliciously cold cup of sugary goodness. I'll have to go back to try the Shiner flavor. Now I'm just waiting for the next chance I have to make it back. What a great town!
