HAPPY HOUR BEFORE DINNER

This is the first real opportunity with everyone being together to crank the dial a bit. There are different energy levels all around the party at this point so you take it upon yourself to put something together that will juice the guys that have been in the sun all day and satisfy the cravings of the dad who flew in from DC an hour ago. 

Maybe there is a small bite involved but this is more about setting the rest of the night up for success. Good cocktails, good scene, and room for everyone. Luckily, this is one of Austin’s strongest points. Patios, friend. Find them. 

You manage to figure out the Wax Myrtle’s entry situation and end up on a roof deck drinking orange wine (it doesn’t taste like oranges) because you heard it’s all Kendall Jenner downs outside of stolen tequila these days. Don’t @ me. 

The outdoor bar there is the perfect place to set up shop for a bit while you watch Points Guy check his phone every 4 minutes making sure you won’t miss the reservation he booked for later on. There’s a pool featuring bikinis that offer less surface area than a napkin and foliage that looks like you’re just off the fairway with your tee shot at Bethpage. 

The most important part? Energy. The best way to do it? Well that other thing - but for longer than 15 minutes? Enter the Carajillo. 

It’s an espresso martini if it went to Cabo for a wedding and came back with bronzed skin and no sign of giardia. Pure Licor 43 and coffee that I’m relatively sure is illegal to purchase in the states due to its potency. No wasted space and you get from point A to point B in a straight line. 

Introduce those to the rest of the squad and try not to offend anyone with the pronunciation. 

Eventually, Points Guy starts to round up the troops for the next spot. First full squad dinner in Austin, TX. Plenty to think about… 

++: Perla’s, Clark’s, Lolo, Summer House,