6TH STREET. To start, 1886 Café and Bakery serves great sandwiches and casual American fare, and their grilled cheese panini is second to none. But their desserts ­ rich, complex concoctions with mood-altering properties ­ cause folks to swoon. To try: chocolate mousse cake (with bittersweet chocolate-caramel mousse over a layer of moist devil's food cake) and lemon chiffon cake (with layers of blueberry compote and rosemary-scented lemon cream). Even ice cream sundaes are noteworthy: Peanut Butter Fantasia is peanut butter ice cream, caramel, and a peanut butter cookie, while Second Wind adds hot fudge, biscotti, and chocolate espresso beans to cappuccino ice cream.

ROUND ROCK. Festive atmosphere ­ think colorful neon, cactus and agave plants, bustling service, and lively music ­ is the perfect complement to Antonio's vivacious Tex-Mex food. All your favorites are present and are well-prepared with fresh ingredients and appealing presentation. Choose from burritos, tacos, chili, queso dip, and plenty of vegetarian options. Everyone is sure to find something tasty, and there's a good selection of tequilas, too!

SOUTH AUSTIN. With its lively purple and lime green exterior, Bouldin Creek offers a perk before you even walk in the door. Inside, you'll find a bright, inviting space with ample room for studying, reading, or chatting with friends. Of course, a coffee house must have great java, and Bouldin Creek does, along with a tasty vegetarian menu and a good selection of teas, beers, and wines. Breakfast is served all day, and a cozy outdoor patio is terrific in warm weather. WiFi access is available.

SOUTH CONGRESS AVENUE. Austin's diverse local flavor includes this authentic Argentinean café, where patrons sip Vienna roast coffee and engage in quiet conversation over piping hot empanadas and <i>tostado de jamon y queso</i> (toasted ham and cheese). The charming, cozy ambience is reminiscent of the busy streets of Buenos Aires. Relax on the shaded patio, or take a hummus wrap and espresso to go.

DOWNTOWN. [Currently undergoing renovations; please call for details.] Simply elegant is how you'll regard this lauded restaurant's European cuisine with Southwestern flair, masterfully prepared. It's a certain destination for power dinners and is often frequented by movie stars, politicians, and Austin's movers and shakers. As a bonus, the dining room affords patrons an excellent view of Austin's annual summer bat flight at the Congress Street bridge.