7 New Things to Try in 2019
Explore, Expand, and Enrich
Words by Sam Lauron Photo byAshley Haguewood
There’s never a better motivator to try new things than the start of another a new year. From foodie adventures to unique hobbies, these are the seven things worth adding to your bucket list in the year ahead.
Natto from Kemuri-Tatsuya
Kemuri-Tatsuya garnered enthusiasm from the food community for its Texas-Japanese fusion concept, but it’s the lesser known portion of the menu where you’ll find the even more adventurous options. Labeled under Chinmi, which translates to “rare taste” or delicacy, these dishes have been given rankings ranging from “Not Funky” to “You Nasty.” One of the “nastier” dishes on the menu is Natto, otherwise known as fermented soy beans. While it’s said to be an acquired taste, you never know what you might like until you try it!
2713 E. 2nd St. | kemuri-tatsuya.com
Aerial classes at Sky Candy
Whether for fun or to shake up the way you work out, consider trying out an aerial class at Sky Candy. Using apparatuses like trapeze and silks, Sky Candy delivers a one-of-a-kind way to get moving. If it sounds intimidating, rest assured that beginners are eased into the world of aerial and circus arts. Before flying high in the sky, new students practice ground work in the Intro to Aerials class to get a feel for all of the apparatus and movements.
1023 Springdale Rd., 8A | skycandyaustin.com
Foster a shelter animal
As the nation’s largest no-kill city, Austin is home to thousands of animals who are living in shelters and need a place to call home. For those who are looking for a way to help out but aren’t yet ready to adopt, fostering a cat or a dog is a noble opportunity. Whether they need a break from the shelter or require a quiet space to recover from an injury or an illness, animals rely on foster families to give them a temporary home. And if you find yourself falling for your furry guest, then they can potentially become a permanent member of the family!
7201 Levander Loop, Bldg. A | austintexas.gov/department/aac
Axe throwing at Urban Axes
Not only can axe throwing be considered a form of exercise, but it can also act as a major stress reliever. If you’re looking for a fun way to let off some steam, then gather a group of friends or coworkers and head to Urban Axes. Since opening up their Austin location in 2017, Urban Axes has been a source of unique recreation that anyone can enjoy. The space is BYOB, so don’t forget to bring a cooler along.
812 Airport Blvd. | urbanaxes.com
Perform at an open mic night
If you have a passion for music, comedy, or spoken word, then make 2019 the year to get out of that comfort zone and on a stage. As the home to Austin’s longest running open mic night, Kick Butt Cafe offers a chance to do just that. The combination coffee shop and music venue hosts weekly open mic nights for music, comedy, and poetry. The open mic is first come, first served so get there early to grab a slot. On the flipside, going as a spectator guarantees a variety of entertainment and a chance to discover a new favorite artist.
5775 Airport Blvd. | kickbuttcoffee.com
Give back to the community
Whether it’s lending a hand at a local farm, joining the After School Program at the soon-to-open Boys and Girls Club flagship, or participating in a neighborhood cleanup hosted by Raasin in the Sun, there are plenty of ways to volunteer your time and resources and give back to the community.
urbanrootsatx.org | bgcaustin.org | raasininthesun.org
Pick up a creative hobby
Get in touch with your creativity by taking one of the many classes and workshops that this side of town has to offer. If there’s a skill or craft that you’re interested in learning, chances are high that there’s a nearby place that teaches it. One of those places is Ghost Pepper Glass, which offers a one-of-a-kind glass blowing experience. The team behind the space hosts demos, holds classes and even offers studio and equipment rental for those who become hooked on the art of glass blowing.
979 Springdale Rd. | ghostpepperglass.com
