Lou's

Lou’s has a couple of locations in Austin, but this one right next to Barton Springs makes for a convenient stop after a day in the water. A slow-roasted rotisserie chicken might not be the first food that pops into your head after emerging from a 68-degree cold plunge, but just ask yourself what your ancestors would have craved in the Renaissance era, had Barton Springs existed. Of course, Lou’s has more than just rotisserie chickens. There are also burgers, fried chicken, creamy frozen custard, and a whole lot more. But start with some smashed cucumbers, order a hibiscus paloma, then prepare to get your fingers a little messy with a half chicken, just like your forefathers would have wanted. 

photo credit: Nicolai McCrary