Austin LGBTQ-Owned Business Guide

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By Elexa Martinez

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An Austin treasure for 45 years, I know that I will always find something I just have to have every time I walk into Bookwoman. I have been so happy with all the unique reads I have discovered and of course have a running list of future wants. The owner and staff are super helpful, when they have been out of what I'm looking for they will call me when it gets in again. It’s a must for any reader.

If you're on the hunt to finding the perfect cup of coffee, head to Patika on S. Lamar. The coffee is so smooth and my favorite, the mocha, is like a dark chocolate—not too sweet but just sweet enough. I have it with the oat milk but they offer many options and I am sure it is wonderful with any you prefer. If you’re wanting a bite, definitely snag one of their biscuits that are super fresh and just the right amount of sweet, savory, crispy and fluffy.

Happy hour specials, great food and a view! Jacoby’s is a must really any time, but their all night happy hour on Wednesdays are a hit for my family. The burgers are top notch and the fries are just the right amount of crispy. If you like it a little spicy, they have the best chili sauce that we discovered when having the $5 deviled egg starters—on which, by the way, go the extra step and have the bacon added. You won’t regret it, they are delicious.

I love this unique shop on the east side of Austin. The staff is super friendly, and I love that all the art is designed by LGBTQIA+ people. I can always find something I just have to have. Great Pride wears, accessories, gifts and my favorite, shirts with a statement. I want them all! I love that Austin has a place that showcases these artist where we can all support the community.

From a trailer to a beautiful new restaurant with a great deck in east Austin. You will find some of the yummiest barbecue. The brisket is so moist, with the perfect amount of smoke. Be sure to try it with their two unique barbecue sauces, and a side of their fresh dill mustard potato salad. As a born and raised Texan, I love my barbecue and they fulfill this Texan’s cravings.

Thrifting has been a long time favorite hobby of mine. While playing tourist in my own city, I stumbled upon my favorite little thrift shop, Treasure City in east Austin. They have great prices and some of the cutest finds. You are sure to find some treasures you will love and maybe even bump into friend or two like I do.

April showers bring May flowers. I so enjoy walking though the lanes of all the beautiful plants, flowers and greenery. With the relaxing sounds of all their beautiful water fountains running throughout the garden area. I know I can find the perfect gift for any plant or gardening lover. If you are working on your landscaping, Garden Seventeen probably has what you need for any outdoor landscaping project.

With so many hot days here in Austin, finding a nice spot for a cold sweet treat is a must. With so many Austin locations that offer unique and creative combinations of flavors, you are sure to find one that will hit the spot. We love chocolate, and every chocolate flavor we have had, we loved. Also, be sure to have a cone—the homemade waffle cones are light, crisp and the perfect way to enjoy a scoop.

The iconic Jo’s is a must-visit in Austin. Always a good cup of coffee with the Belgian bomber being a very unique iced coffee on those warm Austin days. I really love the downtown location. I recommend the burger, or snag someone you love and head to the “I love you so much” location on S Congress to snap a pic and grab a cup of Jo.

My absolute favorite scone in town is at Crema, a sweet South Austin bakery and coffee shop. They have so many delicious pastries and the scones, I highly recommend. These ladies really have taken "serve the community" to a whole new level. Not only do they serve us with their delicious bites and yummy coffee, they have gone above and beyond helping the community during the past year and a half.