The 2025 edition of America’s Credit Unions Marketing, PR, and Development Council Conference happens in Austin, TX (March 23 – 26, 2025), and we’re excited to be a sponsor the Diamond Award cocktail reception again! Like last year, we’re not going to hit you over the head with sales pitches about why you’ll enjoy working with us (talk to some of the other CUs at the conference we’re privileged to work with). This is a list compiled from input from team members and friends. Hopefully, you’ll find at least one place you enjoy!
All times and distances are based on walking from the Hilton Austin unless otherwise noted.
Proud Mary Cafe
Approximate Distance/Time from Hilton: ~3 miles, ~13 minutes (take Uber/Lyft/Lime/Bird)
This one comes as a recommendation from Julian’s coffee-nerd friend. A simple scan of coffees available to purchase and cafe menus suggests this place is a must-visit. Skip the conference breakfast and slide over to Proud Mary’s for breakfast and your caffeine fix.
Interstellar BBQ
Approximate Distance/Time from Hilton: ~19 miles, ~31 minutes (take Uber/Lyft/Lime/Bird)
This BBQ joint has a Michelin star! If you still need some convincing, then let’s try this:
- Oak for the fire
- The brisket
- Pulled lamb shoulder
- Peach tea glazed pork belly
Grab a friend and get more than you can handle so that you can nosh on BBQ in your hotel room after a day on the conference floor.
La Barbecue
Approximate Distance/Time from Hilton: ~1.8 miles, ~11 minutes (take Uber/Lyft/Lime/Bird)
This is another Michelin-starred barbecue joint in Austin (3 total are starred). The owner, Alison Clem, is a top-ranked barbecue chef in the world. This place comes as a strong recommendation from a friend who says everything on the menu must be had, but if you only go once, get the brisket, sausage, and ribs (beef or pork).
Ember Kitchen
Approximate Distance/Time from Hilton: ~1.2 miles, ~10 minutes (take Uber/Lyft/Lime/Bird)
This one comes in as a top-three recommendation from another friend in the food industry. Ember Kitchen uses a Josper for live-fire cooking and puts a Latin twist on its menu. If you’re not familiar with live-fire cooking, watch the Chef’s Table episode with Francis Mallman to get started. There’s a lot to love about their menu, but you should try the chicken, Wagyu steak, filet mignon, scallops, salpicon de pulpo, and crispy tamal ahogada.
Small Victory Bar
Approximate Distance/Time from Hilton: ~0.4 miles, ~9 minutes (walk)
Ascend the winding parking garage staircase, and you’ll enter a small bar, but it is a gem. The whole place feels like Austin with its casual yet sophisticated vibe. The bartenders are experts at their craft and friendly. Try something new or a twist on a favorite. Grab some colleagues or new conference friends and have a relaxing evening at Small Victory.
Here Nor There
Approximate Distance/Time from Hilton: ~0.3 miles, ~8 minutes (walk)
Here Nor There is not exclusive, but you do need to make a reservation through their app. Once you get there, the eclectic decor adds charm to the relaxed atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. Be sure to try the Milk & Honey.