Austin Chronicle Best of 2020: Celebrating the City's Top-rated Businesses and Culture!

Discover the best of Austin in 2020 with Austin Chronicle's annual list. From food to music to arts, find out what made the cut.

Get ready to dive in and explore the best of Austin! The Austin Chronicle, the city's premier alternative weekly newspaper, has just unveiled its much-awaited list of the Best of Austin 2020. From the latest culinary hotspots to the freshest music acts and the coolest art galleries, this year's edition celebrates the most innovative, creative, and inspiring people, places, and things that make Austin a one-of-a-kind destination. Whether you're a local looking to discover something new or a visitor planning your next trip, this comprehensive guide is your ultimate gateway to the heart and soul of Austin.

If you're a foodie, you'll be drooling over the top picks for the best restaurant, bar, food truck, coffee shop, and bakery in town. From authentic Tex-Mex joints to upscale sushi spots, there's something for every palate and budget. And don't forget to check out the winners of the Best New Restaurant and Best Chef categories, which showcase the latest trends and talents in Austin's vibrant culinary scene.

Music lovers, rejoice! The Best of Austin 2020 also features the hottest bands, DJs, and venues that keep the city's live music scene thriving year-round. From legendary stages like the Continental Club and the Mohawk to hidden gems like Cactus Cafe and Hotel Vegas, you'll find plenty of reasons to rock out in Austin. And if you're curious about the up-and-coming artists who are shaping the future of music, check out the Best New Band and Best Electronic Act winners.

Art aficionados, get ready to be amazed by the Best of Austin 2020's selection of top galleries, museums, and exhibitions. From contemporary art to classic masterpieces, from street murals to avant-garde installations, Austin's art scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. And with the Best Museum and Best Art Event winners, you'll discover the best places to immerse yourself in Austin's rich cultural heritage and cutting-edge creativity.

But that's not all. The Best of Austin 2020 also honors the city's best shops, services, sports and recreation, media, and more. Want to know where to find the best vintage clothes, pet supplies, or vinyl records? Looking for the best yoga studio, bike trail, or park? Curious about the best local podcast, radio show, or newspaper column? The Austin Chronicle has got you covered with its comprehensive and insightful picks.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of the Austin Chronicle's Best of Austin 2020 and start exploring the city like a pro. Whether you're a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, you'll discover new and exciting ways to experience Austin's vibrant culture, cuisine, music, and art scene. And who knows? You might even find your new favorite spot in town.

Introduction

The Austin Chronicle is a weekly newspaper that covers the news, events, and culture of Austin, Texas. Every year, the paper releases its Best of Austin list, which highlights the best businesses, restaurants, bars, and attractions in the city. The 2020 list was released recently, and it features many exciting new additions.

Best New Restaurant: Sour Duck Market

Sour Duck Market is a new restaurant that opened in East Austin earlier this year. The restaurant specializes in wood-fired sourdough bread, but it also serves a variety of other dishes, such as smoked meats and pickled vegetables. The restaurant's outdoor seating area has become a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy a meal.

Best Live Music Venue: ACL Live at the Moody Theater

ACL Live at the Moody Theater is a concert venue located in downtown Austin. The venue is known for hosting big-name acts such as Willie Nelson, Radiohead, and Foo Fighters. In addition to concerts, the venue also hosts comedy shows, private events, and more.

Best BBQ Joint: Franklin Barbecue

Franklin Barbecue is a legendary BBQ joint in Austin that has been serving up some of the best brisket in the city for over a decade. The restaurant is open for lunch only, and customers often wait in line for hours to get their hands on the delicious meat.

Best Brewery: St. Elmo Brewing Company

St. Elmo Brewing Company is a local brewery that specializes in craft beers. The brewery's taproom is a popular spot for locals to gather and sample the latest brews. The brewery also hosts events such as trivia nights and live music performances.

Best Food Truck: Dee Dee

Dee Dee is a Thai food truck that has become a local favorite in Austin. The truck serves up dishes such as pad thai, green curry, and papaya salad. The truck's owners, husband-and-wife team Justin and Lakana Trubiana, are known for their friendly service and delicious food.

Best Bookstore: BookPeople

BookPeople is a locally-owned bookstore that has been serving the Austin community for over 40 years. The store features a wide selection of books, as well as author events and book clubs. The store's cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a popular spot for book lovers.

Best Art Gallery: Blanton Museum of Art

The Blanton Museum of Art is a museum located on the University of Texas at Austin campus. The museum features an extensive collection of art from around the world, as well as rotating exhibits. The museum also hosts events such as lectures and workshops.

Best Cocktail Bar: Whisler's

Whisler's is a cocktail bar located in East Austin. The bar features a wide selection of craft cocktails, as well as beer and wine. The bar's outdoor patio is a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy a drink.

Best Record Store: Waterloo Records

Waterloo Records is a record store located in downtown Austin. The store features a wide selection of vinyl records, CDs, and other music-related merchandise. The store's knowledgeable staff and frequent in-store performances make it a popular destination for music lovers.

Conclusion

The Best of Austin list is a great resource for locals and visitors alike who are looking to explore all that Austin has to offer. Whether you're looking for a new restaurant to try, a live music venue to check out, or a book to read, the list has something for everyone.

The Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 is a comprehensive guide to the city's best offerings across various categories. From food to music, art, shopping, and fitness, this guide highlights Austin's diverse and vibrant communities' top picks. Here's a look at some of the categories and the winners.

Best New Restaurant: A Look at Austin's Latest Culinary Hotspots

Austin is known for its culinary scene, and every year, new restaurants pop up, bringing fresh flavors and innovative concepts to the table. The Best New Restaurant category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 features some of the city's latest culinary hotspots. The winner for this year is DipDipDip Tatsu-ya, a Japanese-inspired hot pot restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Located on Burnet Road, DipDipDip Tatsu-ya brings the art of Japanese hot pot to Austin. The restaurant's concept is simple yet sophisticated: diners cook their own meats, seafood, and vegetables in a simmering broth of their choice, using chopsticks and dipping sauces to flavor each bite. The menu features a variety of broths, meats, and vegetables, as well as appetizers, sides, and desserts. If you're looking for a new dining experience in Austin, DipDipDip Tatsu-ya is a must-try. With its cozy ambiance, attentive service, and delicious food, it's no wonder why it's the Best New Restaurant in the city.

Top Music Venues: Where to Catch the Best Live Shows in Town

Austin is also known for its vibrant music scene, and the Top Music Venues category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 lists some of the best places to catch live shows in town. The winner for this year is Stubb's BBQ, a legendary venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music.Located on Red River Street, Stubb's BBQ is not only a music venue but also a restaurant that serves up delicious BBQ and sides. The venue's outdoor stage has a capacity of 2,000 people, making it one of the largest outdoor venues in Austin. From indie rock to country, blues, and hip hop, Stubb's BBQ hosts a diverse range of acts that cater to all music tastes.If you're a music lover, don't miss a chance to catch a show at Stubb's BBQ. With its iconic status, great food, and top-notch sound system, it's no wonder why it's the Top Music Venue in Austin.

Best Local Artists: A Spotlight on Austin's Creative Community

Austin is home to a thriving creative community, and the Best Local Artists category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 highlights some of the city's most talented artists. The winner for this year is Deborah Roberts, a mixed-media artist whose work explores themes of beauty, identity, and race.Roberts' art is thought-provoking, powerful, and beautiful. She uses collage, painting, and drawing to create portraits that challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity. Her work has been exhibited in major museums and galleries, and she has received numerous awards and grants for her contributions to the art world.If you're interested in art, make sure to check out Deborah Roberts' work. Her pieces are not only visually stunning but also socially and culturally relevant, making her one of the best local artists in Austin.

Favorite Happy Hour Spots: Where to Unwind After a Long Day

After a long day of work or exploring the city, there's nothing better than unwinding with a refreshing drink and some tasty bites. The Favorite Happy Hour Spots category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 features some of the best places in town to do just that. The winner for this year is Licha's Cantina, a Mexican-inspired bar and restaurant that offers great happy hour deals.Located on East 6th Street, Licha's Cantina serves up delicious cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as tasty snacks and small plates. Their happy hour specials include $5 margaritas, $3 beers, and half-priced appetizers. The ambiance is cozy and casual, perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a solo drink after work.If you're looking for a great happy hour spot in Austin, Licha's Cantina is definitely worth a visit. With its friendly staff, delicious drinks, and affordable prices, it's no wonder why it's the favorite happy hour spot in the city.

Best Outdoor Activities: Exploring Austin's Natural Beauty

Austin is blessed with beautiful parks, lakes, and trails, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Best Outdoor Activities category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 lists some of the best places to explore Austin's natural beauty. The winner for this year is Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.Located in Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool is a refreshing oasis in the heart of Austin. The pool's water is always at a cool 68 degrees, making it perfect for a summer dip or a winter swim. Surrounding the pool are lush trees and grassy areas, where you can relax and soak up the sun. There are also hiking and biking trails nearby, making it easy to combine your outdoor activities.If you're a nature lover, don't miss a chance to visit Barton Springs Pool. With its crystal-clear water, stunning scenery, and diverse wildlife, it's no wonder why it's the best outdoor activity in Austin.

Best Boutique Shops: Where to Find Unique Gifts and Treasures

Austin is known for its eclectic shopping scene, and the Best Boutique Shops category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 features some of the best places to find unique gifts and treasures. The winner for this year is Blue Elephant Boutique, a women's clothing store that offers stylish and affordable pieces.Located on South Lamar Boulevard, Blue Elephant Boutique has a curated collection of clothing, accessories, and jewelry that cater to all tastes and styles. From boho chic to classic elegance, their pieces are versatile and easy to wear. They also offer great customer service and a welcoming atmosphere, making shopping a breeze.If you're looking for a unique shopping experience in Austin, Blue Elephant Boutique is a must-visit. With its trendy and affordable pieces, friendly staff, and cozy ambiance, it's no wonder why it's the best boutique shop in the city.

Top Fitness Studios: Staying Fit and Healthy in Austin

Staying fit and healthy is essential for a balanced and happy life, and Austin has plenty of fitness options to choose from. The Top Fitness Studios category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 lists some of the best places to work out in town. The winner for this year is Modo Yoga Austin, a hot yoga studio that offers a variety of classes for all levels.Located on Guadalupe Street, Modo Yoga Austin is a welcoming and inclusive studio that focuses on community and mindfulness. Their classes are heated to 98 degrees, which helps detoxify the body and increase flexibility. They also offer workshops, events, and teacher training programs, making it easy to deepen your yoga practice.If you're looking for a great workout in Austin, Modo Yoga Austin is definitely worth a try. With its supportive community, experienced teachers, and transformative classes, it's no wonder why it's the top fitness studio in the city.

Best Coffee Shops: Fueling Your Day with Delicious Java

Coffee is a must-have for many people, and Austin has a thriving coffee scene that offers a variety of roasts, blends, and brewing methods. The Best Coffee Shops category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 lists some of the best places to fuel your day with delicious java. The winner for this year is Cenote, a cozy cafe that serves up great coffee, food, and drinks.Located on East Cesar Chavez Street, Cenote has a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for working or relaxing. Their coffee is locally sourced and roasted, ensuring freshness and quality. They also offer a variety of breakfast, lunch, and brunch options, as well as beer, wine, and cocktails.If you're a coffee lover, don't miss a chance to visit Cenote. With its delicious coffee, tasty food, and friendly staff, it's no wonder why it's the best coffee shop in Austin.

Top Brunch Spots: Enjoying a Leisurely Weekend Meal

Brunch is a beloved tradition in Austin, and the Top Brunch Spots category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 features some of the best places to enjoy a leisurely weekend meal. The winner for this year is Launderette, a chic restaurant that serves up delicious brunch dishes with a twist.Located on Holly Street, Launderette has a bright and airy ambiance that is perfect for brunch. Their menu features a variety of sweet and savory dishes, including their famous grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup, avocado toast with smoked salmon, and blueberry ricotta pancakes. They also offer great cocktails and mocktails, as well as outdoor seating.If you're a brunch enthusiast, don't miss a chance to visit Launderette. With its delicious food, stylish decor, and friendly staff, it's no wonder why it's the top brunch spot in Austin.

Best Neighborhoods: A Guide to Austin's Diverse and Vibrant Communities

Austin is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. The Best Neighborhoods category in the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 lists some of the best places to live, work, and play in Austin. The winner for this year is East Austin, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that has undergone significant changes in recent years.East Austin is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries, as well as its historic homes and cultural landmarks. It's also home to several parks, including the popular Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail. Despite its rapid growth and development, East Austin has managed to maintain its authenticity and sense of community, making it a beloved neighborhood among locals and visitors alike.If you're looking for a great place to explore in Austin, East Austin is definitely worth a visit. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and exciting developments, it's no wonder why it's the best neighborhood in the city.In conclusion, the Austin Chronicle's Best of 2020 is a comprehensive guide to the best offerings in Austin across various categories. From food to music, art, shopping, and fitness, this guide highlights the city's diverse and vibrant communities' top picks. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something for everyone in Austin, and the Best of 2020 guide is a great place to start exploring.

Austin Chronicle Best of 2020: A Review

Overview

The Austin Chronicle is a weekly, alternative newspaper that has been serving the capital city of Texas since 1981. Every year, the paper releases its Best of Austin issue, which features the city's top restaurants, bars, shops, and other attractions. The 2020 edition of the Best of Austin was released in October and covered everything from the best BBQ joints to the best podcasters.

Pros

The Austin Chronicle Best of Austin issue is a great resource for locals and visitors alike. Here are some of the pros of the 2020 edition:

The issue is well-researched and curated. The Austin Chronicle staff members spend months visiting and evaluating businesses to determine the winners.
The issue covers a wide range of categories, so there is something for everyone. Whether you're looking for the best vegan restaurant or the best place to buy vintage clothing, you'll find it in the Best of Austin issue.
The issue features insider tips and recommendations from experts. The Austin Chronicle staff members are all Austin natives who know the city inside and out, so they can offer valuable insights that you won't find anywhere else.

Cons

While the Austin Chronicle Best of Austin issue is a great resource, there are a few cons to keep in mind:

The issue is only published once a year, so some of the information may become outdated quickly. Businesses can change ownership, menu items can be added or removed, and new places can open, so it's important to check for updates regularly.
The issue is limited to businesses that are located within the city limits of Austin. If you're looking for recommendations in the surrounding areas, you'll need to consult other resources.
Some readers may find the issue overwhelming. With so many categories and winners, it can be difficult to know where to start. It's important to approach the issue with a plan and focus on the categories that are most relevant to you.

Table Comparison

Here is a comparison table of some of the categories covered in the Austin Chronicle Best of Austin 2020:

Category	Winner	Runner-Up
Best BBQ	Franklin Barbecue	La Barbecue
Best Coffee Shop	Houndstooth Coffee	Cuvée Coffee
Best Pizza	Home Slice Pizza	Pizza Nizza
Best Record Store	Waterloo Records	End of an Ear
Best Radio Station	KUTX 98.9 FM	KOOP 91.7 FM

In conclusion, the Austin Chronicle Best of Austin 2020 issue is a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore the city's best businesses and attractions. While there are some drawbacks to keep in mind, overall the issue is well-researched and curated, and offers insider tips and recommendations that you won't find anywhere else.

Closing Message for Austin Chronicle Best of 2020

As we come to the end of our article on the Austin Chronicle Best of 2020, we hope that you have found it informative and entertaining. Our team has worked hard to put together a comprehensive list of the best restaurants, bars, music venues, and more in Austin, Texas.

If you are planning to visit or move to Austin, this guide is the perfect resource for you. We have highlighted some of the most popular and highly recommended establishments in the city, as well as some hidden gems that only the locals know about.

Whether you are a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a good time, Austin has something to offer everyone. From the trendy South Congress neighborhood to the historic East Side, there is always a new adventure waiting around the corner.

But don't just take our word for it - go out and explore the city for yourself! Use our guide as a starting point and discover your own favorite spots in Austin.

If you are a resident of Austin, we encourage you to support these local businesses by visiting them and spreading the word. Many of these establishments are family-owned and operated, and they rely on the support of their community to stay afloat.

2020 has been a challenging year for everyone, but especially for small businesses. We hope that our guide will help to boost their visibility and drive more customers to their doors.

As we look ahead to 2021, we are optimistic about the future of Austin and the resilience of its people. We know that the city will continue to thrive and evolve, and we can't wait to see what's in store.

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the Austin Chronicle Best of 2020. We hope that you have enjoyed it and that it has inspired you to explore all that this amazing city has to offer.

Remember to support local businesses, stay safe, and have fun!