Don’t be fooled by the unassuming malls and weathered buildings that dot Airport Boulevard: while this stretch between I-35 and Hwy 290 lacks SoCo flash, it’s a hub for various restaurants, original shops and timeless dives. Head to this trendy North Austin street to explore new businesses and rediscover great, proven haunts.

To explore

While Airport Boulevard lost two of its beloved institutions, I Luv Video and ColdTowne Theater, in 2020, entertaining hijackings still abound. Shop for vintage yarns on Austin Pets Alive! Saving or stock up on games and collectibles at Joy toy, both of which offer curbside pickup and in-store shopping. Located just north of 290, Kick Butt Coffee hosts an open mic night of poetry and comedy on Sundays, while a social club Great has live DJs and offers a free swimming pool to all service sector employees on Sundays and Mondays. Thinking of getting a new tattoo? Make an appointment to get premium body art at True Blue Tattoo.

Sip

Refresh yourself with an iced saifa, the sweet Vietnamese coffee in Coffee and eat Sa-Tén. The Asian coffee shop also offers Japanese-inspired sandwiches, curry bowls, and toast like sriracha smoked salmon toast. Pass Vamanos during happy hour for a prickly pear margarita, or choose from its extensive menu of tequilas, mezcal and sotol. Close the night at Barfly’s, a 20-year-old dive bar known for its strong flows and even stronger jukebox selections.

To please yourself

Variety is the spice of life at Casey’s New Orleans Snowballs, which allows customers to add up to three flavors and one scoop of ice cream per snow cone. Get a box of the best-selling Texas Chewie Pecan pralines at Lammes candies, a family business since 1885. Early risers and night owls can purchase fresh donuts and coffee via Mrs Johnson BakeryDrive-thru from 7:30 p.m. to noon every day.

Having dinner

Start your morning with one of the OmelettryThe 11 main courses, such as Popeye’s Favorite omelet stuffed with spinach, bacon and sautéed onions. Serving arguably Austin’s best coastal fare, restaurant and fish market Quality seafood has been around for over 80 years. Arrive 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday for $ 1 Gulf oysters and 25-cent peel-and-eat shrimp, and don’t miss the boiled lobster special on Saturdays. To make your homemade ice cream without dairy products, Sweet ritual uses ingredients such as nuts, coconut milk and avocado. Other notable options include grilled pastrami and burgers topped with a latke. JewBoy Burgers and steamed bao rolls Heo Eatery and Bun Belly.