You can't go wrong, whether it's La Barbecue, Terry Black's, The Salt Lick, or somewhere else. Barbecue joints may only sell early in the day so plan accordingly!
Favorites include Chuy's (where Melanie bartended in college) or Torchy's Tacos (fast casual for queso and tacos). Both have several locations around the city!
Steps away from Hotel Ella is the centerpiece to the UT Campus, where the UT Tower sits at the main campus mall with great views of the State Capitol. We suggest a walk around campus to take in the University if you have time!
For a variety of great restaurants and shopping, try exploring South Congress Avenue just south of downtown! Aba (Mediterranean), Homeslice Pizza and Hoppdoddy Burger Bar are some favorites in the area, but there is a variety of great restaurants and shops and you can't go wrong!
Weather permitting, for the best outdoor views of the city we recommend a walk or run along Lady Bird Lake! Great entrances are available on the north or south side of the lake near the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge along Lamar Blvd. More great views and open space are available at Zilker Park, which has a variety of access points on Barton Springs Road between Mopac Expressway (Highway 1) and the Barton Street Bridge.