Hyde Park is a cozy, historic neighborhood in central Austin. Hyde Park is known for its old fashioned feel and close knit neighbors. Hyde Park means experiencing Austin at a slower pace with a more local vibe You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time walking the tree lined streets of this area. I have lived in Hyde Park for over five years, and every day I still like walking around and exploring.
A Walk Through Hyde Park
The absolute best thing to do in Hyde Park is go on a walk. Optimize for visiting when the weather is ideal for walking, anywhere from October to April. I recommend walking up and down avenues F, G, and H between 38th and 45th street. Stop along the way to read about the various historic houses. This Old House fans may recognize a renovated 1926 Craftsman house from a few years back.
Walk by the Elisabet Ney Museum, and stop in to learn about the life and work of the Austin sculptor. Visit nearby Shipe Park to enjoy swimming, basketball, tennis, or people watching. This urban park is well loved by its neighbors and a meeting place for many.
Where to Eat Breakfast
There are good breakfast options in Hyde Park, depending on what you may be in the mood for. One of my favorite stops is at the Biscuits + Groovy trailer located at Duval and 51st street. Their biscuits and gravy are delicious, but I prefer to get a single biscuit with whatever homemade jam they are offering. The breakfast scramble is a solid choice, and they can make it (or anything else on the menu) vegetarian or vegan.
For more of a traditional Austin breakfast, I recommend getting a breakfast taco or migas at Julio’s Cafe. Everything here is hearty and authentic Tex-Mex style. A fun fact about Julio’s is that it is one of governor Rick Perry’s favorite restaurants. He gave it a shout out years ago in Texas Monthly, and they have an autographed picture of him on the wall.
Top Choices For Lunch
One of my favorite spots for lunch in Hyde Park is Avenue B Grocery & Market. This little neighborhood grocery store was built in 1909, and it’s now famous for its wholesome sandwiches. The Queen B is the most filling vegetarian sandwich I’ve ever had, and the Club is piled with goodies. I also advise checking what’s on special, especially for sides and desserts. You can enjoy your sandwich outside at a picnic table with a cane sugar soda in a glass bottle.
Mother’s Cafe is a great spot for down home, vegetarian food. The portions are large, and the complementary chips and salsa are some of the best in Austin. I love to get the Bueno Burger (100% vegetarian) topped with avocado. The enchiladas are a healthy twist on standard Austin fare. I recommend any of them with the spicy cashew chipotle sauce.
The Best Coffee Break
Hyde Park, like most of Austin, has good independent coffee shops. I love to go to Dolce Vita for a cappuccino. No one in Austin does a better one, and I’m addicted to the biscotti they serve with it. Every coffee drink at Dolce Vita is worth having, and while they offer soy and almond milk in addition to cow’s milk, decaf is not an option.
If you like some pastry with your coffee, then I recommend checking out Quack’s Bakery. Their cold brewed iced toddy is one of the best in Austin, and it pairs perfectly with a frosted cookie.
