A Guide To Downtown Austin Urban Living

One of the more recent developments in the AustinDowntown Austin is home to some of the finest
real estate market are the multitude of loftrestaurants in the city. Louie's 106 has enticed
condominiums springing up smack-right in the middle ofdowntowners with its Mediterranean tapas and steaks
downtown. This new push towards urban living reflectsfor years, and the Driskill Grill offers another close fine
an interest in a pedestrian-oriented community, optimaldining experience. Eddie V's and McCormick &
for those who work in Austin's business center, butSchmick offer seafood, and Sullivans, Ruth's Chris
also attractive to others who appreciate anSteak House and Fleming's are steak houses. The
abundance of amenities offered within walkingvarieties of food run the gamut as well from Spanish
distance. Downtown Austin has much to offer Austinfood at Malaga, to Italian at La Traviata, from sushi at
residents, whether they work, live, or visit this areaKenichi or Kyoto to Southwestern cuisine at Z-Tejas.
which truly represents the cultural heartbeat of the city.One the most attractive parts about Austin's
Austin's downtown is bursting with shops, cafes,downtown is its proximity to the nature and beauty
galleries and nightlife. Whether looking for antiques atfound at Lady Bird Lake, as well as the Town Lake
the beloved Whit Hanks, seeking esoteric ethnicparks and trails. The plentiful outdoor activities provide
treasures at Tesoros, or shopping for home furnishingsthe urban dweller with opportunities to walk, run, bike,
at Bella Home or Zanzibar, the shops are local, and theand boat - all within walking distance of the sleek and
wares are unique. In addition to Starbucks, there aresophisticated apartment buildings springing up. Waterloo
plenty of cafes around, including Little City, and Drogo'sPark, Republic Square, and other smaller patches of
Cafe do Brazil. Art galleries, including Art on Fifth andgreen add to the options for outdoor activity.
Artworks, are scattered throughout the area, and theDowntowners will find their grocery needs admirably
nightlife well, it can't be beat.met by the flagship store of the Whole Foods Market
Most of the new lofts are far enough away from thechain. This Austin-based business launched their
entertainment districts to provide relative quiet, but areenormous new store in 2005, making fresh and
close enough to make a night out on the town just aorganic produce, dairy, meats and seafood available. In
short walk or cab ride away. The bars, music venuesaddition to staples, an on-site bakery and international
and restaurants of the famed Sixth Street district nowgroceries, Whole Foods offers an abundance of
have competition from the bustling young crowds ofprepared foods, from soups, salads and sandwiches,
the Red River scene. The Warehouse Districtto pizza, seafood and a raw foods stand.
continues to be one of the most vibrant entertainmentWith all of life's necessities within walking distance, it is
areas in the city, although the new 2nd Street shoppingno wonder that Downtown Austin real estate is
and dining area is thriving as well.thriving as a residential community.