Music City is experiencing rapid growth and development in categories beyond the town’s homegrown country music—its booming food and lifestyle scene is hosting imports from Brooklyn to New Orleans, mixing and matching raw Southern roots with contemporary and refined finesse. The Southern empire is making waves—ride along the three-hour drive from Memphis and take advantage of the capital city’s trends and classics.
Texas’ capital city is home of eclectic and iconic sights, vibrant music (culminated in the annual South by Southwest experience), and what Memphians refer to as the “other” barbecue. Austin’s aspects are booming in all directions, whether from a geographical or culinary perspective. Despite its density in new restaurants and recreational offerings, the opportunities to eat, drink, and indulge in the “Keep Austin Weird” culture are approachable and accessible.
I first arrived at Wilson Café in late May, when Alex offered to meet me from his Jonesboro office for a late Saturday lunch. We were instantly enamored by the elevated small-town style behind the Southern fixins' and staff hospitality, as well as the immaculate interiors of the year-old restaurant.
