Striking views and a luxe life in Texas’ top school district
Located just minutes west of downtown, Westlake is one of, if not the, most coveted places to call home within the city of Austin and the state of Texas. Homes perched high on hilltops enjoy sweeping Hill Country and city views, children attend world-class schools, and residents are only a short drive from downtown and other central neighborhoods. Both longtime Austinites and those new to the city have aspired to make the 78746 ZIP Code their home for its charm, peaceful tranquility, and overall elevated standard of living.
First incorporated as an individual suburb in the ‘50s, the community of Westlake rapidly grew throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s for its close proximity to downtown and quiet, rural feel. Though Westlake feels worlds away, locals truly are a stone's throw from a bustling culinary scene, exciting sports venues, and fascinating landmarks, while remaining in the midst of the quiet comfort of the hills.
Westlake locals enjoy active days and quiet evenings. Children attend the best schools in the state, and high-paying jobs are just a short drive away. Westlake is situated between Loop 360 and the Mopac Expressway, providing two convenient freeways to residents. Most errands can be taken care of without wandering too far away with Westlake being home to multiple grocery stores, both casual and upscale dining options, and Barton Creek Mall situated on the southern edge of the neighborhood, just off of Loop 360. Put simply, Westlake residents enjoy an elevated standard of living, experienced within some of the most beautiful homes in the city.
Westlake might be a quiet suburb but this doesn’t mean it is lacking in delectable options for dinner and beyond. From rustic, woodfired pizzas, to fragrant Thai soups, this neighborhood packs a punch in the entertainment category.
Award-winning modern Thai food is served at Sway. This upscale location features stunning decor, downtown views enjoyed from the rooftop patio, and a varied menu. Pad Thai, curries, crab-fried rice, and brightly colored cocktails are some of the top sellers of the swanky neighborhood favorite.
Coffee, wine, and more can be enjoyed on a breezy patio or in an airy dining room at The Grove. Crabcakes, woodfired pizzas, and a perfectly sweet and savory steak salad are popular dishes, all of which pair excellently with a wine flight from their lengthy list. At night, the oak trees are adorned with sparkling lights, making for one memorable evening out. The Grove is also connected to the Lola Savannah coffee shop, one of the more popular places to start off the day in Westlake.
Nearby, another lunch hotspot is found at Blue Dahlia Bistro. Light sandwiches, tartines, salads, and desserts with French flair make for perfect midday treats enjoyed in a cozy, European-inspired dining room, or on their shady patio.
Since 1994, Marye's Gourmet Pizza has made life more simple for all Westlake residents. Homemade pizzas, pastas, salads, and take and bake options are lifesavers on those sometimes chaotic evenings when cooking a full three-course meal just isn’t in the cards. Much more than your standard pie joint, Marye’s features a bright interior, craft brews on tap, and a menu with a few modern additions to old-school favorites.
Westlake is fraught with beautiful scenery, offering miles and miles of trails to explore. One of the city's more festive trails enjoyed by all is the Trail of Lights. For over 55 years, this family-favorite happenings has been one of Austin’s most highly anticipated events, and Westlake residents are lucky enough to live near the entrance to the Zilker Park celebration. Throughout the entirety of the year, the easy access to Zilker Park and its 350 acres of outdoor recreation is another perk cherished by locals. If a day at the park isn’t in the cards, shopping at Barton Creek Mall will certainly suffice. Nordstrom, Apple, Sephora, and Williams Sonoma are just a few popular shops found within one of Austin’s longtime favorite shopping destinations.
Look no further than Westlake for the best schools in the city and state. These schools are found at:
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