Cedar Street Courtyard   

As a longtime pillar of Austin's live music scene, the Cedar Street Courtyard attracts some of the top touring acts to be found anywhere in the area. On any given night, a sizable crowd of youngish techies -- clad in cell phones and knit shirts -- may be seen gathered around the stage (located towards the back of the sub-level courtyard from which the venue draws its name), dividing their attention between the evening's performance and a scattered supply of potential girlfriends. Those striking out with the latter will have no problem in obtaining a quick recovery drink -- two fully stocked bars easily provide for the thirsty hordes with endless variants on the martini. Other resident libations include cutely named drinks such as the Yeltsin -- a hearty helping of chilled Stolichnaya vodka served in a Kahlua-lined glass and topped off with a single Maraschino cherry. A selection of fine cigars helps to further ensure that no hand need be left unoccupied. -- Barrett Brown