Hip Residential Neighborhood Close to the Action

Overview

Bouldin Creek is one of Austin’s oldest neighborhood, originally created at the turn of the century. With several historic homes remaining from that era, and countless more from the period of rapid growth in the 1920s and 30s that followed, this neighborhood has an undeniable historic charm. Bouldin Creek is also highly diverse, with a variety of cultures, backgrounds, and architectural styles blending together, resulting in a neighborhood that is uniquely Austin.

Bouldin Creek borders the South Congress area to the east, and the major commercial area centered around South First to the west, with it’s marked Hispanic influence, forms another backbone of the neighborhood. Given its proximity to these areas and to Downtown, there are certainly areas of Bouldin Creek that have changed as result of gentrification, but the historic nature of the neighborhood and eccentricity of its residents mean it will always be a little bit different. For those who doubt the “weirdness” of South Austin, look no further than David Ansel, a famous resident who left his job in the tech sector to become The Soup Peddler; no one better captures the spirit of the neighborhood.

Bouldin Creek’s diverse roots are visible everywhere. In just a quick walk around the neighborhood, one can find a historic Victorian mansion once belonging to famous activist John Henry Faulk, the St. Anne African Methodist Episcopal Church (originally constructed in 1916) on Newton Street, and the beautiful mission-style Holy Name of Mary Orthodox Church at South Third Street. In the South First area, the Mexican bakeries, tattoo shops, art galleries, and unusual shops reflect the diversity of the neighborhood and the resident’s desire to support local business. Another integral part of the neighborhood is the Texas School for the Deaf; its enormous campus occupies the entire area bounded by South Congress, Elizabeth Street, Barton Springs Road, and South First. Originally created in the mid-19th century, the school underwent a massive renovation and expansion during the early-90s.

What to do

Bouldin Creek is home to countless local businesses, particularly restaurants, coffee shops, hang-outs, and shopping. Along South First, check out Polvo’s Mexican Restaurant, which serves homemade interior-style Mexican food and excellent margaritas. It’s a great place to get together with coworkers, family, or friends, especially on the large covered patio during the Spring and Summer. There’s also Bouldin Creek Coffee House and Café, an quirky, bohemian coffee space that doubles as an outstanding vegetarian restaurant. There’s also a location of the infamous Kerbey Lane Cafe on South Lamar for late-night pancakes. One of Austin’s most ubiquitous fine-dining establishments, Green Pastures, is located on Live Oak street in the former home of John Henry Faulk. The Victorian mansion has been converted into an excellent restaurant, equally suited for a romantic dinner excursion or an upscale wedding party. Green Pastures, like the rest of the neighborhood, has a history of accepting everyone: 18 years before desegregation was required by other Austin restaurants, they served customers of all races.

On the South Lamar side of the neighborhood, there’s another Austin restaurant that is simply impossible to speak too highly of: Uchi. Expert chef and sushi master Tyson Cole prepares cutting-edge Japanese cuisine, and his food has been featured in countless national publications such as Food and Wine and Bon Apetit magazines. Put quite simply, this is some of the best fine-dining in town, and the atmosphere (the building is a converted home) is warm and inviting.

For those inclined to shop, the best locations are just to the east on South Congress or just to the West on South First and Lamar Street. Some very cool stores such as Sabia Boutique (skin-care, cosmetics, and gifts), South Austin Music (one of Austin’s coolest music stores), and Resistencia Bookstore (an activist bookstore with truly unique offerings).

No trip to South Austin is complete without catching a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse, Austin’s favorite movie theater. Though there are four locations in Austin, including a cool new converted theatre at The Ritz on Sixth Street Downtown, this original is still the best. Enjoy the latest releases and order from a full menu of food, wine, and draught beer without leaving your seat. This is a truly great spot for the classic dinner-and-a-movie date, all in one place. But for a bit more rowdy time, don’t miss their special events: the Austin Air Guitar contest, in particular, is a local favorite and always draws a huge crowd.

Why live here?

For hip young couples and families who want a neighborhood with some history while staying close to the action, Bouldin Creek is the place to be. With proximity to South Congress and Downtown, and a diverse neighborhood with thriving local businesses, there’s never a dull moment.

Quick Facts

Household Income

$41,293

Recent Job Growth

2.73%

Median Home Value

$399,000

Median Home Age

33

Appreciation (2007)

1.01%

Percentage Renting

67.27%