EAT: CONTIGO
It doesn’t get much more Austin or Texas than Contigo. They’ve been entertaining family and friends for over 30 years at their Contigo Ranch in Fredericksburg, so it only makes sense they have such a special place in Austin. Countless hunting trips, weekend retreats, cattle roundups, barbecues, parties, horseshoe and washers tournaments (and pachangas) serve as supreme inspiration for the restaurant. We give the entire menu a strong A+ in taste and creativity, and we also find the bar snacks and drink menu fantastic. At Contigo, it’s best to sit outside - we’ve done it every hour of the day, and you just can’t go wrong. But on a cold night, to sit fireside and wrap up in one of their beautiful blankets is the best! They serve “Fresh, Quality, Bar Food,” and they utilize the freshest ingredients they can find. The Texas Okra (garlic, shallot, jalapeno, sherry vinegar, walnuts, cherry tomatoes) or 40 oz Bone-In Ribeye that serves up to four are top of our list and both exceptional! There’s always friendly company and warmly hospitable. It’s hard to do community right, but Contigo has it down pat. (PS- right around when we were both getting started, we did a fun video with the founder, Ben - you can see it here!)
RELAX: KAMMOK
Born and bred in Austin, the Kammok crew says they are “High Performance Gear to Elevate Camp,” but we say that they are so much more than that. Hanging, chillin’, napping, relaxin’ and all sorts of crazy camping - Kammok has got it all covered. Once you delve into their hammocks or shelters, there’s no going back. You’ll discover that it’s overly apparent that they have an avid crowd of rabid supporters. Just check out their new Bobcat Quilt here - sure to change your life. Shop all their gear on their website or find a retailer near you. Whether you camp or not, these guys will change your chill game.
VIEW: TRAVIS HALLMARK
Another one of our favorite hard working artists, Travis Hallmark, is talented to the maximus. Photography is his weapon, and he’s out there slayin’ it daily. His work focusing on people in performance and subjects with their products of trade are what originally caught our eye, but the food photography he’s doing these days is utterly outstanding - come on, those colors?! Vivid, bright, sharp and memorable, his adept images will definitely stay with you for quite some time. Follow his Instagram here and see what we mean.
STAY: HOTEL COVELL
While in LA, we’re always sure to visit Hotel Covell. With feeling of privacy in Los Feliz (including a private sun deck), this independent establishment is focused on luxury and satisfaction. H.C.’s boutique suites are highly designed for the complete experience of comfort, peace and style. Each suite feels like an apartment, complete with an array of amenities that are actually ideal for hosting friends and guests. They strive to be your home-away-from-home, and it really does feel that way. The attention to detail can’t be missed, and the hotel rests atop a world renowned Wine + Beer bar, Bar Covell, which is also a must visit.
RIDE: REVIVAL CYCLES
There are motorcycle shops, and there’s Revival. They have an enormous, ever-growing warehouse that houses and refurbishes hand-built motorcycles, and many a classic Porsche or a vintage Landcruiser as well. Located in East Austin, these dudes also ride around the world and are globally known. They have a huge footprint in the world of bikes and throw wildly massive and impressive bike shows, races, and parties that are beyond influential in the motorcycle community. From the ardent owners and team of hard working gurus, to their handmade leather bags and accessories, online instructional videos, and appearances on the likes of Jay Leno’s Garage (not to mention their trendsetting retail store on South Congress), it’s pretty much fact that Revival Cycles will never die. (Another PS- Many moons ago we also did a fun video with the founders of Revival - and you can see that one here!)
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