Pro Athlete, and Tennis Channel Correspondent, Nick Monroe, is the HELM team’s touchstone to the wide world of sports. We’re often catching up with the world ranked tennis player while on the road for tournament play from Melbourne to Prague. When he finally does land at home in Texas, the Austin native has a handful of local haunts he frequently visits. 

We asked Nick for a quintessential Sport Lover’s Guide to Austin and he happily obliged. Keep reading for his must list!

Sport Lovers Guide to Austin 

Best Sports Bar: Lavaca Street Bar 

This indoor / outdoor space at 4th St and Lavaca features plenty of screens, great food with big portions, and cozy atmosphere. The Mahi Mahi tacos are my favorite!

For Live Events: Ticket City

The atmosphere at the new Q2 Stadium is absolutely a draw worth checking out! When I need last minute tickets to a game I call Randy Cohen at Ticket City. Tell him Nick sent you for a 10% discount for tickets to Austin FC…or other live sporting events.

Family-Friendly Fun: Barton Springs

Austin has beautiful parks from Zilker to hiking the green belt. A at natural Barton Springs is a great family friendly choice for staying active on a visit. There’s paddle board and kayak rentals along with many dog friendly paths.

No Membership Required: Lady Bird Lake

A run around Lady Bird Lake is always a pleasure. I like to do 30 yard sprints at the adjacent Zilker Park or take advantage of the outdoor gym under the bridge. 

Best Healthy Fast Food: Snap! Kitchen

On the go, I’ll grab Snap Kitchen ready made meals. Their Shrimp Paella and Watermelon juice are two of my regular favorites when training. 

Favorite Recovery Ritual: DeSano Pizzeria

I train five days a week, and weekends are for recovery. My Sunday ritual is enjoying a DeSano pie with all the meats. You have to splurge. DeSano flies pizza ingredients in from Italy. Highly recommend it… My dog loves DeSano day.