The Upper Decks, Austin

Culinary expert Dane Kibadeaux spread epicurean comfort across The Upper Deck's three levels of outdoor dining. The menu of upscale bar food has burgers at its heart—towering patties adorned with crisp bacon, sauteed mushrooms, and other tasty toppings, cradled between toasted, sesame seed buns. Diners can wash down their meals with a drink from either the indoor or outdoor bar, which pours everything from classic draft beers and Argentine red wine to blood-orange margaritas and Manhattans.

In addition to its alfresco seating, the bar features a sleek interior with numerous flat-screen TVs, arcade games, and a billiards room with plush leather seats to cradle aspiring sports commentators as they coin new onomatopoeias. Weekly events, including a fantasy poker league, dart tournaments, and poetry slams, provide screen-free entertainment.