One of the classiest bars on Sixth Street, this long, narrow bar lets you sit and gaze at passers-by or fellow patrons. The lighting is extremely attractive, generating a genuine New York feel. You will enjoy sitting in one of the high-arched cushioned booths and catching glances of fellow patrons from the mirrored walls. The bar has an excellent music selection. If it is not too busy, play a round of pool or head upstairs to the dance floor.

This restaurant/bar is a great place for groups of friends who are trying to have a good time while enjoying the view. It is conveniently located by Lake Austin, with a fabulous view of the lake and the gorgeous houses on the other side. Though be aware that its popularity might mean you have to wait to be seated, especially if you want to sit outside. Great drinks are served daily accompanied by snacks and appetizers. Their prices are affordable, and the happy hour is especially popular with the college crowd. -Ana Victoria Perez

This is the place to get great Salvadorean coffee in the Austin area. The Coffee Cup provides its customers with gourmet coffee from El Salvador that is akin to no other type of coffee. Not only does The Coffee Cup produce quality cups of coffee but there are enough light snacks to curb any food craving. With tasty treats like their fresh banana bread and yogurt parfait, its no wonder there is a large group of loyal patrons. Their blends of coffee has become so popular that customers are able to order coffee online.

Juan Pelota Cafe has quickly become a fixture in the Austin community. The Cafe is located inside Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop, making this a popular place with the local cyclists who tend to stop by while on their way to check-out the latest arrivals in the bike shop or while waiting for their bikes to be fixed. Juan Pelota knows its customers and have named their drinks after cycling heroes or after alpine climbing routes. With a menu focused mostly on quality made coffee there's also tea, smoothies and breakfast options.

This is not just another Austin coffeehouse. What makes this place different is their willingness to help needy kids back in the Dominican Republic. A portion of every purchase goes to an organization committed to improving the educational and economical development of kids. The place is big, though always full. You have many choices of coffee to choose from, and even some flavors that are not available at other coffee shops. If you are interested and want more information about their commitment to kids, check out their website. You can also buy their coffee online, in case you want to take some coffee back home with you. -Victoria Perez

The Marchesa Hall & Theatre was established in early 2010 and has gone on to become a very popular events space and a theater hall in a very short span. The place showcases all kinds of events right from plays, comedy acts, and other events. Different halls within this center are also given out on rent for private and business use like parties and corporate meetings. With latest equipment on hire and spacious stage, all the events that take place here are worth attending. To know more about the place, check website.

Carousel Lounge is a mildly unorthodox bar in Austin, with a crazy circus theme-pink elephant and lion-tamer murals including a carousel for real behind the bar. Known for their unpredictable on stage acts whether they are are amazing musical acts or the sensuous belly-dancers. Opened in the '60s, this bar is still the favorite of many and satisfying to most of its customers.

The brains behind Asti probably got the inspiration for Fino when having a meal while perusing through an atlas. The cuisine is broadly categorized as Mediterranean but includes French, Spanish, Italian and Greek. This holds true for the wine list of around 90 labels as well, which include the staple French and Italian but also have vintages from Portugal and far away Australia. The tapas bar is a good bet as it lets you taste a bit of everything. Tuesdays are Spanish nights and Fino has Happy Hour everyday. Keep in mind, there are no rules or maybe just one and that is to come to Fino with an open mind and an empty stomach.

Artz Rib House is a smoke-free heaven for meat lovers. The smoked brisket and pork ribs are its specialties. All items are served with potato salad, onions and pinto beans. If you're in the mood for some hearty soup then try their seafood gumbo or garlic soup, both are worth it. If folk music is your kind of thing, then you should come here on Sundays for Bluegrass Jam.

For truly exotic food that you won't find at every street corner in Texas, try the subtle cuisine of Persia only at Alborz Persian Cuisine. In true Middle Eastern style, the reception is warm and welcoming and the menu consists of food evocative of the Arabian Nights-sensuous and bold. The menu highlights are the Kashk-o-Bademjan-a rich, smoky, baked-eggplant starter topped with dry yogurt, mint, walnuts and garlic and Chelo Kabob-e-Koobideh-ground beef kabob with char-grilled tomatoes with herbs and onions. The dessert menu has delightful items such as Persian ice cream with rosewater, pistachios and saffron. On special days, guests can enjoy these delectable preparations while watching the graceful movements of the belly dancers.