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Real Stepmoms. Biased Reviews.

Our Summer picks for Austin, Texas.

BEST DAY SPA: Mecca

Every woman I talk to says this is the place to go. Expect to spend money. Expect not to care.

BEST SALON AND STYLIST: Jose Luis

My favorite stylist just moved to Dubai, so she’s not exactly convenient anymore. I’ve been instructed (after I’m done mourning) to go see Blaine. I’m told that “he’s an angel straight from heaven.” And apparently, he studies the shape of your head before he even touches it.

BEST WAX: Anne Kelso Salon

I’ve been promised that this is the best wax in town. Ask for Debbie at the new South Congress location and be prepared for an efficient and thorough job. My girlfriend LoLa described the experience this way: “She jumped right in there, hands flying. No awkward moments. Twenty minutes tops and we were done. When it was over, we hugged it out.”

BEST TRAINER: Monica O’Sullivan, Pure Austin

Hands Down, the best workout I’ve ever had. Not only does her boot camp kick your arse, she gives your attitude towards health, beauty and exercise a positive spin. Her motto: strong bodies, strong minds. (see I heart boot camp)

BEST GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT: Hotel San Jose

We all know that a group of drunk women can make anyplace fun. However, many of us have class, sophistication and like to leave an evening with dignity, and the Hotel San Jose is the perfect choice for this. Enjoy drinks and catty conversation at the beautifully landscaped, poolside patio at this very hip hotel in the heart of SoCo.

BEST WINE BAR: Cru Wine Bar

A small chain and not an Austin original, but the urban sidewalk patio on Second Street and extensive arrangement of wine flights make this wine bar my first pick. Big city vibe. Try the sexy reds.

BEST DINNER WITH YOUR MAN: III Forks

There’s something about going out with my man that makes me want a juicy steak. By far, III Forks delivered the best piece of manly cattle I’ve had in some time, plus savory Southern sides and great service. Get a booth, order a bottle of red and eat slowly. Take time to digest a lovely night out free from the kids. Make sure you’re full before you head home.

BEST PLACE TO THROW DOWN: Gueros Taco Bar

Okay, I know it’s not some cool neighborhood bar that only the locals know about, but it remains for me the best fresh lime margarita that’s ever touched my lips (house original on the rocks, no salt). In fact, this is the place that got me to abandon my beloved vodka martinis and switch to tequila. These babies go down super smooth and mix well with Texas heat.

BEST JEWELER: Parts and Labour

Hand-crafted and original jewelry. This SoCo shop showcases local designers and is home to Mae-Mae Stiles m squared jewerly and unique pieces from the Naughty Secretary line. This whimsical and arty jewelry stands out. Strangers will stop you on the street and ask you where it came from. True story.

BEST BOUTIQUE: SoLa

Designer clothing, jewelry and inexpensive trendy shoes. It may skew a tad young, but I’ve found many things to satisfy the grown-up thirty(ish) year-old. In fact, I’ve been wearing some very fantastic yellow patent leather flats that look good on all ages. Always new stock that you won’t be finding in the malls.

BEST BOOK STORE: Book People

What can I say- it’s the biggest independent book store in Texas. Buy local. Keep Austin Weird.

BEST CAFÉ: Spider House

Funky, arty with a sprawling and colorful outdoor patio. Free internet access, great iced coffees and indoor booths for intellectual convos.

BEST GARDEN CENTER: The Great Outdoors

Sometimes the best way to get out of my head is to get into the yard. I’ve become quite the gardener since moving to Austin and I’m not alone. The Great Outdoors is quite the weekend hot spot and one of the most stunning nurseries I’ve found. A huge (and I mean gigantic) Oak shades a maze of native plants, trees and shrubs. The staff (I recommend Meredith) is absolutely knowledgeable. It’s an oasis of calm.

BEST PLACE TO COOL OFF: Barton Springs

I’m new to Austin and live in the neighborhood, so (of course) I feel compelled to mention the obvious. But, who doesn’t like floating in natural spring water, walking through the magnificant and nearby Zilker park or alongside the cherished Town Lake? I ask you. Who doesn’t like this?

Contribute! Send your top picks to:izzyrose@stepmothersmilk.com Be sure to put S-mom getaways in the title bar.