Austin, Texas is a city known for its vibrant music scene, delicious food, and unique venues. Three of the city’s most iconic establishments are Spider House Cafe and Ballroom, Fonda San Miguel, and The Hole in the Wall. While each of these places may seem vastly different from one another at first glance, they all share a common thread – they are institutions that have stood the test of time and have become beloved icons of the Austin community.
Spider House Cafe and Ballroom, located in the heart of the University of Texas campus, is a quirky and eclectic spot that has been a staple of the Austin music scene for over 20 years. It’s a place where you can grab a cup of coffee, enjoy some live music, and soak up the vibrant energy of the city. Spider House is known for its outdoor seating area, which is adorned with funky decor, twinkling lights, and plenty of greenery. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and music videos.
Fonda San Miguel, on the other hand, is a refined and elegant restaurant that has been serving up traditional Mexican cuisine for over 40 years. The restaurant was founded by Tom Gilliland and Miguel Ravago, two friends who were passionate about bringing authentic Mexican flavors to Austin. Today, Fonda San Miguel is considered one of the best Mexican restaurants in the country, and has won numerous awards for its food and atmosphere. The restaurant’s colorful decor, intricate tilework, and beautiful artwork make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Finally, The Hole in the Wall is a legendary music venue that has been a fixture of the Austin music scene since 1974. It’s a place where countless musicians have played their first gigs, and where established acts like Townes Van Zandt and Willie Nelson have performed intimate shows. The Hole in the Wall is a dive bar in the best sense of the term – it’s a place where you can grab a cheap beer, listen to some great music, and feel like you’re a part of something special.
So, what connects these three Austin institutions? It’s their ability to adapt and evolve with the times while staying true to their roots. Spider House has expanded its menu and added a ballroom for private events, but it still retains its funky and laid-back vibe. Fonda San Miguel has updated its menu to include more contemporary Mexican dishes, but it still maintains its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The Hole in the Wall has undergone renovations and updates over the years, but it still feels like the same cozy, welcoming place that it was over 40 years ago.
In a city that’s constantly changing and growing, it’s comforting to know that there are places like Spider House Cafe and Ballroom, Fonda San Miguel, and The Hole in the Wall that remain constants in the Austin community. These institutions are more than just restaurants and music venues – they’re symbols of the city’s unique character and spirit.
Sources:
– “About Spider House.” Spider House Cafe and Ballroom. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://spiderhouse.com/about/.
– “About Fonda San Miguel.” Fonda San Miguel. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.fondasanmiguel.com/about-us.
– “History.” The Hole in the Wall. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.holeinthewallaustin.com/history.