This year's SXSW is trying to go carbon neutral and it wants your help. How about trying to lower your carbon footprint by going car-less for the week? Since you're already downtown at the convention center, there's no reason not to take advantage of all the great restaurants, cafes, and dives within walking distance.
- Las Manitas -- Known to some as the Avenue Cafe, this little Mexican hole in the wall serves up a mean plate of migas and an even better plate of enchiladas. It's quaint, it's cozy and it can get pretty busy, but its an Austin Tex-Mex classic. 211 Congress Ave
- Moonshine Grill -- Their brunch menu is practically the city's official hangover cure, complete with champagne mimosas and an excellent bloody mary. It's built in a 19th century saloon and lucky for you, it's actually behind the convention center -- literally right behind it. 303 Red River
- Doña Emilias -- Dining out South American style may not do much for your carbon footprint, but the steaks and seafood are excellent despite the destruction. The have been known to make a killer mojito. 101 San Jacinto
- Kyoto -- If you're looking for some great sushi and a sweet deal, you can stroll over to Kyoto. This place is the bees knees around 6pm, that's when happy hour starts and all sushi is half price. Be advised, their happy hour only lasts 45 minutes -- so it's technically a happy 3/4 hour. 315 Congress Ave
- Ironworks BBQ -- Another very convenient choice, Ironworks is on the same block as the convention center. The restaurant is literally built in a former iron workshop, so it's a bit of an experience. Not the best BBQ in town, but definitely the best BBQ downtown. Because you really can't visit Texas without eating barbecue, unless of course you're vegetarian. 100 Red River
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