Spring is made for mint juleps, perfect for outdoor sipping. Mix up muddled mint, sugar, and bourbon, serve it up in that elegant silver cup, and it’s good to go. It doesn't hurt that it pairs well with Derby Day on Saturday, May 7, either.

Austin's mint julep options include traditional drinks at Seven Grand, a brandy one from Roosevelt Room, a peach iteration at Mattie’s, and others.

Keeping with the julep theme, here is Eater’s updated Derby Day guide. For other specific drink needs, check out Austin’s best margaritas, as well as the city’s cocktail heatmap, essential bars, and iconic drinks.

Health experts consider dining out to be a high-risk activity for the unvaccinated; it may pose a risk for the vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial COVID transmission. The latest CDC guidance is here; find a COVID-19 vaccination site here.