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Allandale/Rosedale

Quintessential Central Austin Neighborhood with a Rich History

Overview

The Rosedale/Allandale neighborhood is located at the heart of Central Austin, with borders on 38th Street to the south, Mopac to the west, West Anderson Lane to the north, and Burnet Road to the east. With numerous single family homes, a wide variety of businesses, small commercial areas, and beautiful parks, this neighborhood is one of Central Austin's finest, and the Rosedale Neighborhood Association is serious about "working to keep the neighborhood a nice place to come home to."

This area had humble beginnings, and served primarily as farm and dairy land in the late 19th century; there's also a long history of florists and nurseries in the neighborhood, as evidenced by the huge variety of beautiful, mature trees. The majority of single-family homes were constructed during the 1930s and 1940s, and residents enjoy the allure of these classic homes; the high resale values in the neighborhood are reflective of it's historic charm. However, the countless renovation and new construction projects throughout the neighborhood lend a strong sense of growth and vitality to the area.

The neighborhood is mostly residential, but pockets of commercial development, particularly at the intersection of R.R. 2222 and Balcones Drive and at 45th Street and Burnet Road, offer local retail and restaurants. The areas largest shopping area, Northcross Mall, lies at the intersection of West Anderson Lane and Burnet Road, and features many large chain stores; a battle is currently raging among the area's residents about the development of a new Wal-Mart store coming to the area as well.

Rosedale/Allandale's appeal is grounded in far more than it's old-Austin charm: its location makes it one of Austin's most in-demand residential areas. Excellent access to transportation, quick access to Downtown and UT, and a wealth of local business make this an excellent to raise a family.

What to do

At the center of the south side of the neighborhood (the block bordered by 43rd Street, Rosedale Avenue, 44th Street, and Burnet Road) lies one of the area's best features: Ramsey Park. The park is maintained by the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, and features a swimming pool that is open during the summer months, outdoor tennis courts, a large playground, basketball courts, a baseball diamond, and picnic/BBQ facilities. When AISD isn't in session, it often seems like everyone from the neighborhood can be found hanging out at the park; swim team meetings, intramural baseball games, and ultimate Frisbee tournaments are just a few of the popular activities.

Another wonderful park, the Shoal Creek Greenbelt, is located on the west side of Rosedale, and is a favorite spot to take a run, walk the dog, go mountain biking, or just hang out. Over three miles of developed trails run all the way from 38th street to Cesar Chavez Street and Lamar Boulevard. Also, the enormous athletic complex and park at Northwest District Park hosts Northwest Little League baseball, and borders the blue-ribbon award winning Gullett Elementary School.

The Yarborough Library, located on Hancock just west of Burnet Road, is one of Austin's coolest libraries. The space it occupies was once the Americana Movie Theater, and the building still has its old-time movie theater exterior, including the original, old-school billboard.

When it's time to eat, the local favorites range from very casual to fine-dining. On the casual side, check out Billy's on Burnet, a local bar with a huge selection of draught beer and some truly excellent hamburgers. The owner Billy Forrester is always hanging around with a beer in hand telling stories and mingling with the crowd, and their Sunday Fish Fry is the best time to come and enjoy the scene. Another great casual spot is ZuZu Handmade Mexican Food, which serves fresh Mexican and some of the city's best flan.

For a local bakery and coffee shop, Upper Crust Bakery is among the best, offering delicious coffee, unbelievable pastries and desserts, and some of the most beautiful cakes in the city. And for coffee purists, nearby Pacha offers a large variety of organic, fair-trade coffee's and a hip community of artists, businesspeople, and students.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Fonda San Miguel Restaurant is an absolute must for an upscale dining experience – it's recognized as one of the finest interior Mexican restaurants in the country. The impeccably decorated bar area, complete with museum quality artwork and exotic plants, always draws a large crowd, and the main dining room is always packed with diners enjoying the delicious food and beautiful presentation that makes this an Austin landmark. You may just spot a celebrity or two: noteworthy diners include Quentin Tarantino and Jay Leno. Other noteworthy restaurants include Chez Zee American Bistro, which consistently wins awards for both their unbelievable desserts and their always-popular Sunday brunch, and Vin Bistro, an excellent wine bar and restaurant with half-price bottles of wine every Monday night.

Why live here?

For young families, young professionals, and anyone who loves classic old-Austin style, Rosedale is the place to be. The beautiful, classic homes, wide tree-shaded streets, and strong sense of community make this a wonderful place to raise a family, but it's also a great place to come and visit to get a sense of Austin's local flavor.

Quick Facts

Household Income

$45,471

Recent Job Growth

2.73%

Median Home Value

$355,500

Median Home Age

44

Appreciation (2007)

7.62%

Percentage Renting

53.88%

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