Five Eateries to Try at NIWeek

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It may be hot as you-know-what in Austin this time of year, but luckily there are lots of places by the convention center where you can stop in to bask in the air conditioning and cool off with a drink and a good meal. There are plenty of good chain restaurants around the center, but here’s a list of some local favorites (within walking distance) that are worth checking out.

Iron Works BBQ – In Texas, barbecue means one thing: smoked, not grilled, meat. It’s usually beef, but we also do pork and chicken, and some people even smoke up less common critters like goat. Anyway, if your taste in food equals meat, meat, and more meat, definitely pay a visit to Iron Works for some classic Texas bbq. Try the beef ribs, which are huge and delicious.

G’Raj Majal Café – G’Raj Majal serves up tasty Indian food out of a large trailer a few blocks from the convention center. It’s only open for dinner (after 5 p.m.), but that’s probably for the best as there’s only outdoor seating. And, as I mentioned earlier, you may notice that it’s quite warm in Texas this time of year. The paneer naan is one of my favorites.

Kebabalicious – A favorite of the late-night crowd, Kebabalicious serves up Turkish-style kebab wraps out of a trailer. They operate at two locations, depending on whether you want to go for dinner or lunch, so check out the “Hours” link on their site before heading over to make sure you’re going to the right place.

Iron Cactus – It’s not a trip to Austin without some Mexican food, and this classic local restaurant and bar hits the spot. They have an extensive tequila list, so be sure to sample some within a Mexican martini or margarita. At night, it’s fun to sit on their rooftop patio and watch the 6^th Street action below.

Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill – This upscale casual restaurant is a favorite of convention-goers not only for its great food, but for its prime location across the street from the center on Red River. It’s good for lunch, but better for dinner, when you can spend some time getting to know their extensive cocktail menu.

These just a few of my downtown favorites, but for those of you who’ve been to Austin, where do you recommend going?

For some more things to do around town (but not necessarily within walking distance of the convention center) check out this video we made for NIWeek 2010.