Dallas - January 22, 2009

The Weekend Guide

What to Do This Weekend

You’re strapped for cash but not about to let your vacay days go to waste. Westward ho to Austin, where the tabs are cheap and the livin’ is easy.

SEE
Matt Stokes: These Are the Days
What: The free exhibit features the British artist’s take on Austin’s punk rock subculture with film installations and vintage memorabilia.
Why: It rocks.
When: Sat-Apr. 5. Artist talk, Sat., 3 p.m.
Where: Arthouse at the Jones Center, 700 Congress Ave. (512-453-5312).

STAY
Hotel Saint Cecilia
What: The artsy boutique hotel is now open, offering private bungalows, luxe apothecary loot, a chic heated pool, and in-room record players.
Why: It’s groovy.
When: You wanna splurge.
Where: 112 Academy Dr. (512-852-2400).

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown
What: The towering glass hideaway with easy access to Sixth Street nightlife recently completed a massive renovation and has one of the hottest hotel bars in town.
Why: Mention DailyCandy to receive 25 percent off the best room rate and Texas-made treats with turndown service.
When: Thru Mar. 1. (Not valid Valentine’s Day weekend.)
Where: 700 San Jacinto Blvd. (512-476-3700).

SWILL
Cissi’s Wine Bar
What: The hip SoCo market’s drinkery serves mouthwatering sips and bites.
Why: Oatmeal stout donuts with warm beer toffee sauce.
When: Happy hour hits.
Where: 1400 S. Congress Ave. (512-225-0521).

TASTE
Mmmpanadas
What: Local, artisan empanadas sold fresh from a mobile truck.
Why: You get the munchies.
When: Tues. & Wed., 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Thurs., 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m.; Fri. & Sat., 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m.
Where: At E. 5th & Brazos Sts. (512-788-2228).

INDULGE
CocoaModa
What: Pit stop at the new Parisian-style cafe for gourmet coffee and private label chocolates.
Why: Check “visit the Chocolate Capital of Texas” off your to-do list.
When: You need a sugar high.
Where: 518 S. Main St., Calvert (979-364-2190).