Our Friend Chef David Bull’s 5 Favorite Things To Do In Austin
What's a chef's off day looks like
Chef David Bull is a household name in the Austin restaurant scene, and for good reason. From Second Bar + Kitchen’s famed Congress Burger to competing on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” Chef Bull has some serious culinary chops. We asked him to share his favorite things to do in and around Austin.
“I love taking a quick road trip out in the Texas Hill Country to Jester King Brewery. Always an entertaining day with great tastings of their brews like the Black Metal Imperial Stout and Wytchmaker Rye IPA.”

Hamilton Pool
“This place feels like an oasis in the middle of Austin’s greenbelt, with gorgeous rock formations and its iconic waterfall. Hamilton Pool is the perfect, secret spot for a picnic with family and friends.”

BBQ Road Trip
“There’s no better way to spend the weekend than venturing out to explore some of Central Texas’s incredible barbecue spots, discovering your own favorites across the Lone Star State.”
A few favorites:
- Cele Store (Manor, TX) — This one is only open 2 – 3 days a week, so you may need the call ahead. The setting is what really makes this spot!
- Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ (Austin, TX)
- Miller’s Smokehouse (Belton, TX)
- Snow’s BBQ (Lexington, TX)
- Kreuz Market Texas BBQ (Lockhart, TX)

Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
“A gorgeous, peaceful retreat to escape to. Filled with beautiful sculptures and landscapes, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden is a great place to unplug and relax.”

HOPE Outdoor Gallery
“I love how and where this graffiti park exists in the Castle Hill area of Austin. The entire idea of this park is inspiring on so many levels.”

Barton Springs
“As a local, Barton Springs feels like a mini-staycation. After a brisk walk or bike around Town Lake, the iconic swimming hole is my favorite spot to cool off.”

Central Texas BMX
“This is my favorite Sunday activity with my son Joseph. The largest BMX track in Texas, with races every Sunday, Central Texas BMX is a great family friendly venue and so much fun!”

You can taste David Bull's delicious creations at Second Bar + Kitchen.