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Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA’s Best in Austin List – 2024

This post is written by Noah Graham. 

Austin, Texas – a city that pulsates with energy, creativity, and a unique blend of cultures. Known for its eclectic music scene, mouthwatering cuisine, and tons of outdoor activities, Austin offers an unforgettable experience for locals, visitors, and students. Whether you’re a foodie tasting the latest culinary delights, a music lover ready to discover a new sound, or an outdoor enthusiast eager to explore the city’s natural swimming pools, Austin has something for everyone!

Our Full-Time MBA Ambassador Committee and MBA program staff compiled a list of their Top Ten Things to Do in Austin.

 

10. Blue Starlite Drive-in Theater

Cars lined up to watch a drive-in movie with the Austin skyline in the distance

Image courtesy of Visit Austin

Looking for a unique movie experience? Check out Blue Starlite Drive-In Theater! As a staple of Austin, Blue Starlite has been offering relaxing, outdoor viewings since 2009. Choose between multiple locations ranging from the quiet serenity of Central I-35 to the buzzing atmosphere of Downtown Austin. Locations offer a variety of classic films or new and recent movies! With additional indoor and easy food-delivery options, this drive-in makes for an unforgettable night.

Visit the website to learn more about showtimes and locations! Showtimes vary by location.

 

9. De Nada Cantina

An overhead view of a table of food being shared by two people. They are enjoying chips and beverages which playing with dominoes

Image courtesy of De Nada Cantina

In the mood for tacos and drinks? Check out “Austin’s Loveliest little taco spot”, De Nada Cantina! As a winner of The Austin Chronicle’s “Best of Austin” award for 2023, this spot has some of the best authentic tacos and margaritas. Stop by during Happy Hour from 3:30 – 6:30 PM  and browse the extensive drink selection or stop by close to midnight to try some of their late-night menu. When visiting Austin, you can’t miss out on De Nada Cantina.

Open from 11AM – 12AM Monday through Saturday and 11AM – 10PM on Sundays. Visit the website to see more of the amazing dishes and drinks they have to offer!

 

8. The Domain

Outdoor view of the domain. People walking in an open space with restaurants and stores along the side.

Photo Courtesy of Visit Austin.

In need of a shopping spree? Visit Austin’s premier destination for all things fashion, luxury, dining, and family fun – The Domain. This massive outdoor shopping center hosts over 100 unique shops and restaurants.  Shop the latest styles from traditional stores like H&M, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, and Zara to luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton,  Lululemon, Rolex, and more! Grab a bite to eat at Blue Sushi Sake Grill, Maggiano’s, Gloria’s, Culinary Dropout, or Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, then top off the trip with a visit to The Yard Milkshake Bar. The Domain offers an all-inclusive destination where leisure meets luxury. 

Open 10AM – 8PM Monday through Thursday, 10AM – 9PM Friday and Saturday, and 10AM – 6PM on Sundays. Visit the official website for more information on hours and the plethora of shops available.

 

7. Honeymoon Spirit Lounge

Beautiful bar with colorful furniture and moody lighting

Image courtesy of Honey Moon Spirit Lounge – Yelp

In the mood for a high-end dining experience? Visit the Honeymoon Spirit Lounge on W. 34th! Bring your friends and enjoy savory dishes such as the Seoul Hot Fried Chicken and Cider Glazed Crispy Pork Belly, or take a look at the impressive 3-page drink selection and get a custom cocktail. Boasting a beautiful array of dinner, brunch, and drink options, this beautiful restaurant has both the decor and food presentation that will leave you impressed. 

Open 4PM – 10PM Tuesday through Thursday, 4PM – 11PM Friday & Saturday, and 10:30AM – 3:30PM Brunch on Saturday & Sunday. Check out the website for more info!

 

6. Lady Bird Lake Trail & Greenbelt

Into biking? Bring some friends and visit Lady Bird Lake Trail! This 10-mile-long walking/biking trail is a beautiful way to traverse and see more of Austin. Some even use it to commute from one side of the city to the other! Along the way, you can check out Capital Cruises Bat Watching Tours, home of the largest electric paddle wheel boat in the country, and see the bat colonies under Congress Bridge. This staple of Austin is a center of fitness, fun, and community.

The Austin Greenbelt is the best location for hikers and explorers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, rock climbing, bouldering, swimming, or just casually walking. The Greenbelt got its name from the lush trees, hidden waterfalls, and swimming holes. Learn more about the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail.

 

5. Mozart’s Coffee Roasters

Get energized with Mozart’s Coffee Roasters! Located on Lake Austin, you’ll be able to enjoy their endless coffee bar and delicious custom bakery items while gazing into the beautiful Austin scenery. Come early in the day to indulge in coffee and paddleboarding or stay later to enjoy the sweet treats and live music. With consistent community events, a beautiful location, and unlimited coffee, you won’t want to miss Mozart’s.

Open 7AM – 12AM everyday. See the website for more info!

 

4. Mueller Lake Park & Farmers Market

photo of the lake at Mueller Park

Image courtesy of The Austin Things.

Step into a world of outdoor recreation and community at Mueller Lake Park! Created by the Mueller Community as a walkable town with a welcoming atmosphere, this beautiful area includes a 3-mile running trail loop, dog-friendly community park, an amphitheater, dozens of tasty restaurants like Dish Society and Colleen’s Kitchen, and happy hour spots like Blue Lacy. On Sundays, Muller Park hosts Austin’s Best Farmers’ Market with over 120 vendors of art and produce. So whether it’s food, exercise, or community you’re looking for, you’ll never run out of entertainment at Mueller Lake Park. 

Open from 5AM – 10PM every day. Farmer’s Market opened on Sundays. Visit their website to learn more about future events and nearby restaurants!

 

3. East 6th Street

A large back-patio filled with people enjoying drinks

Image courtesy of The Infatuation

Live music venue in the back porch of a dive bar.

Image courtesy of Tribeza.com / Roger Ho

Immerse yourself in the center of Austin’s busy nightlife – East 6th Street. Notorious for its abundance of trendy restaurants, mouth-watering food trucks, and lively bars, East 6th is never short of a party. Whether you’re looking for a high-class dining experience at Suerte or Canje, wanting to kick back with friends at bars like Zilker Brewing Co., Nickel City, Latchkey, and Violet Crown Social Club, or anything in between, there’s something for everyone to have a great night. It doesn’t matter if you’re an Austin local or an eager newcomer, East 6th is a place for everyone to get together and experience Austin’s nightlife culture.

Honorable Mention: Barbarella on Red River Street

“It’s a McCombs tradition to end your Thursday night dancing to 2000s music at the club affectionately known as ‘Barbs’! Stop by after your night out at the Red River Cultural District Food Court – a diverse, delicious collection of food trucks right outside.” – Colby Bermel

 

2. Kemuri Tatsu-Ya

A delicious arrangement of Japanese and Texan food.

Image courtesy of Kemuri Tatsu-Ya

Discover Austin’s very own Japanese & Texan fusion restaurant, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya! Whether it’s a savory brisket, fresh tuna collar, or chili cheese Takoyaki you’re looking for, this restaurant offers delicious Japanese flavors with a Texan twist. Don’t miss out on their wide array of expertly crafted cocktails that suit perfectly with the bold and savory dishes. With a diverse menu, extensive drink selection, and warm atmosphere, this is a place that stands out even among Austin’s already incredible food choices.

Open from 5PM – 10PM most days. Check out the website to see more about hours and menu items!

 

1. Zilker Park

Aerial view of Zilker park. A clear sky over a river that runs through a lush park

Image courtesy of nowplayingaustin

Located in the heart of Austin, Zilker Park invites you to explore its many activities! Go swimming at Barton Springs Pool, play volleyball, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens, or see a concert at the Hillside Theater! Make sure to soak up the sun by renting a paddleboard from Zilker Boat Rentals or taking a dip in Barton Springs Pool! Not to mention, the very convenient free shuttle service! Pack your picnics, grab some friends, and immerse yourself in the spirit of Austin.

Open from 5AM – 10PM everyday. Visit the Zilker website to learn about all of its amenities.


Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events or take a peek into student life on Instagram. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to the MBA Admissions Team. We look forward to connecting with you on your journey to success.

Hook ‘Em!

Celebrating Black History Month with 7 Black-Owned Businesses in Austin

Written by Elain Yao.

As Black History Month comes to an end, we reflect, honor, and celebrate the history, achievements, and contributions of the Black community here at McCombs and in the greater city of Austin. Learn about 7 Black-owned businesses around Austin that you can support throughout the year and check out how our Black Graduate Business Association celebrated Black History Month.  

Support Black-Owned Businesses Around Austin

Bird Bird Biscuit

Website | Instagram

Founders, Friends, and Owners Brian Batch and Ryan McElroy. Photo courtesy of Bird Bird Biscuit.

Co-founded in 2018 by Brian Batch and Ryan McElroy, Bird Bird Biscuit is a chicken and biscuit restaurant that has spent years crafting the most delectable recipes for its menu. Located on 2701 Manor Rd in Austin, Texas, Bird Bird Biscuit has gained its reputation for providing customers with great service, flavorful food, and allergy-friendly food items.

Austin Daiquiri Factory

Website | Instagram

Margarita from Austin Daiquiri Factory. Photo courtesy of Austin Daiquiri Factory Instagram.

Austin Daiquiri Factory is woman-owned and family-operated. Iesha Griffin opened Austin Daiquiri Factory in 2021 as an East Austin to-go Daiquiri shop offering 7 base flavors, 16 signature drinks, and the option to build your own frozen drink. All daiquiris are made with real fruit and real cane sugar. They are also 100% gluten, sulfite, GMO, and preservative-free! Located at 2000 E. 12th street.

Tony’s Jamaican Food

Website

Owners, Kim Scott and Tony Scott. Photo courtesy of Tony’s Jamaican Food.

Located north of Austin in Pflugerville, Texas, Tony’s Jamaican Food offers its customers a comforting slice of Caribbean cuisine. Founded in 2018 by Tony Scott and his wife Kim, Tony’s Jamaican Food prides itself on its customer service and authentic dishes like jerk chicken and oxtail.

Cranky Granny’s

Website | Instagarm

Owner Sianni Dean (right) and Granny (left), Sianni’s grandmother and inspiration.

Founded, owned, and operated by Sianni Dean as a tribute to her grandmother, Cranky Granny’s opened its doors in 2021 as a Black-woman-owned business sweet rolls shop. Located in Round Rock, Texas, Cranky Granny’s offers delicious pastries, from cookies and cream to peach cobbler.

Nana’s Prayer Tattoos

Instagram

Imani Tatum, owner. Photo courtesy of Mikala Compton/American-Statesman.

Founded in July 2021, Imani Tatum opened Nana’s Prayers Tattoo Studio with a dream of exploring tattoo art. Located at 715 W Powell Ln in Austin, Texas, her studio features tattoo artists Imani (@twiggytattoos), Patricio (@victimofbirth), B (@b_infante_), and Xóchítl (@chiflada.tatts). Imani describes tattoos as a way of connecting with her ancestors and named her business after her grandmother.

Black Pearl Books

Website | Instagram

Owner Katrina Brooks (middle), poses with her family and husband/co-owner, Eric Brooks. Photo courtesy of Black Pearl Books.

Founded in 2019, Black Pearl Books began its business as an online store that participated in markets and pop-ups. Currently located at 7112 Burnet Rd in Austin, Texas, Black Pearl Books is a fully family-run black-woman-owned business that aspires to utilize literature to promote inclusivity and diversity.

Black Austin Tours

Website | Instagram

Founder and native Austinite, Javier Wallace. Photo courtesy of Black Austin Tours.

Founded in 2019 by Javier Wallace, Black Austin Tours aims to spotlight Black voices within Austin’s city history. The tour company informs people about Black community leaders and trailblazers that are not currently celebrated in conventional history books. Black Austin Tours currently offers in-person walking and virtual tours.

If you are interested in learning more about Black-owned businesses in Austin’s metropolitan area, read more about them in Jade Fabello’s How to Spend a Day in Austin Supporting Black-Owned Businesses piece for Thrillist.

Celebrating Black History Month with Black Graduate Business Association 

BGBA Leaders hold up a hook 'em hand sign on the stairs of Rowling Hall.

The Black Graduate Business Association Leadership team.

Black Graduate Business Association (BGBA) is a student organization founded in 1985. BGBA members represent a variety of academic concentrations and political, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Members’ business interests range from the public to the private sector, entrepreneurship, and national and international markets in various areas of the business world. As a professional organization of predominantly Black students pursuing an MBA, the BGBA’s purpose is to provide a nexus through fellowship to broaden, enhance and promote the successful futures of its members.

Check out how BGBA celebrated Black history and the Black community this past month. ⬇️ 

Azzy Francis, VP of Communications, hosted a McCombs Instagram Takeover during the march to the capitol on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. 

BGBA also hosted a Black History Bike Tour focused on exploring the black history of Austin, an Art Galleries at Black Studies Tour, and a Storytelling session with other student leaders at McCombs. 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Tina Mabley (@rowlingwithdeantina)

BGBA hosts events for MBA students throughout the year. Follow BGBA on Instagram to connect and learn more. ⬇️ 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by BGBA @ Texas McCombs (@mccombsbgba)

Contact BlackGraduateBusinessAssociation@mccombs.utexas.edu to talk to current members. 


Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events, or take a peek into student life on Instagram. Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Top Ten Best Austin Coffee Shops for MBAs

Texas McCombs MBA students studying  at the center of Austin, Texas – our Full-Time, Evening and Executive MBAs, plus our Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston  MBAs at least a few times a year – have the unique opportunity to explore the exciting businesses, art, music, and culture that make up Austin.

With the cooler weather moving into Texas this season, students are taking advantage of the vibrant local coffee shop scene. If your MBA journey brings you to Austin, we suggest checking out the places below– with a selection of coffee, tea, and even local beer, wine or spirits, these are great places to hang out with your classmates, get work done, or meet new people.

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Texas MBA Alumni @ SXSW Interactive

SXSW Interactive and McCombs Entrepreneurship Night are quickly approaching! Several of our talented Texas MBA alumni and current student entrepreneurs will be present on March 12 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. to talk about their startups and network with attendees. Check out which alumni and current students will be attending below and find out more about UT Austin’s presence at SXSW with #UTatSXSW.

Company Name
Alumni
Grad Year
Entrepreneurship Night?
SXSWi Trade Show?
Bravo Tip or Pay Maria Luna 1993 Yes Sunday, March 13, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
YouRefund Omar Garza 2017 Yes Sunday, March 13,  10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Merivis Foundation Kate Perez 2015 No Sunday, March 13,
2 p.m. -6 p.m.
Renovate Simply Will Mitchell 2015 Yes Sunday, March 13,
2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
 3 Day Startup Cam Houser  2010  Yes Monday, March 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
 soFetch Renae Donus  2000  Yes Monday, March 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
TradePending Brice Englert 2004 Yes Monday, March 14,
2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
TripRiff Jeremy Sapriel 2016 Yes Monday, March 14,
2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Cybernance Charlie Leonard 2015 No Tuesday, March 15, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Knock Knock Rebecca Tongsinoon 2008 Yes Tuesday, March 15, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lady Epicure Gourmet Tenaj Ferguson 2017 Yes Tuesday, March 15,
2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Ordoro Naruby Schlenker 2010 No Tuesday, March 15,
2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Plot Guru Justin Key 2016 No Wednesday, March 16, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Skoop Martin Oberli 2006 Yes Wednesday, March 16, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
BeatBox Beverages Aimy Steadman 2013 Yes  
eyeQ Michael Garel 2012 Yes  

It’s not too late to register to attend McCombs Entrepreneurship Night! All attendees will need to RSVP below:

Register for McCombs Entrepreneurship Night
Note: Due to capacity restrictions, registration does not guarantee entry.

The Texas MBA will also have a booth at the SXSW Interactive Trade Show, Sunday, March 13 through Wednesday, March 16. If you’re attending the conference and/or Trade Show, please stop by our booth to say hello and for the chance to win some Texas MBA swag!

 

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