Top 10 Avocado Tries

Posted on 07/31/201909/04/2019 by Alicia Haugen

Don’t know if you heard, but National Avocado Day is finally here! This special day started back in 2015, as California was experiencing the peak of its avocado season. According the Hass Avocado Board, the consumption of avocados has quadrupled since the year 2000. In 2015, approximately 4.25 billion avos were consumed nationwide (that’s avo-crazy)!

We’re very excited to partake in the celebrations of this super food by looking at Frontdesk Guidebook favorites. Keep reading for some avo-mazing tries.

Charlotte, NC

Located in the Plaza Midwood disctric of Charlotte, NC is The Common Market. A tasty avo try would be the Greens N Stuff, that includes egg, avocado, baby spinach, alfalfa sprouts, Swiss cheese, and veganaise. To go along with National Avocado Day, they’re offering a wine tasting event.

Columbus, OH

In the German Village area of Columbus, Ohio is Hangover Easy. This special spot has every meal cure thought possible. We suggest the classic go-to Avocado Toast, that includes wheat toast with smashed avocado, and topped with two over eggs and fresh pico de gallo.

Indianapolis, IN

Downtown Indianapolis, IN is home to Hedge Row. Their original Pork Carnitas recipe includes roasted tomatillo salsa, avocado, red cabbage, and jalapeno for an extra kick.

Dallas, TX

Uncle Uber’s Sammich Shop in Deep Ellum of Dallas, TX is known for some great burgers. A great alternative for the veggie lovers visiting is the Veggie Bun ME, that includes gilled mushrooms, avocado, roasted red peppers, cucumber, carrot slaw, cilantro, thinly-sliced jalapeno with garlic mayo on a warm baguette.

Tampa, FL

The Blind Tiger Cafe located in Downtown Tampa whips up a fresh A.L.T (can you guess what’s on it). It has avocado, lettuce, tomato, layered between house made sriracha aioli, and is served between pressed Cuban bread.

St.Louis, MO

In Grand Center of St. Louis is Turn Restaurant. This interesting spot offers a classic with a twist. Try out the Arepa; on a corn cake with chorizo, over easy eggs, avocado, cheddar, and chili verde.

St.Petersburg, FL

A quirky indoor/outdoor in St. Pete is 2nd and Second. This classic American diner is located in the heart of St.Petersburg and offers Baked Avocado and Egg.

Milwaukee, WI

Close to Frontdesk home is Hi Hat Garage. A perfect meal to celebrate this national holiday is their Bravocado, made with fresh avocado, goat cheese, mixed greens, garlic aioli, on sourdough (you can add chicken or bacon if you like).

San Antonio, TX

The Original Blanco Cafe is a Downtown San Antonio favorite. Visitors should come by and share the Avocado Platter appetizer. Avo for all!

A Day on the San Antonio River Walk

Posted on 07/30/201903/27/2020 by Alicia Haugen

People come from all over the world to stroll the famous San Antonio River Walk. The 15-mile loop is located just below street level and flows off of the San Antonio River. Visitors come to see the sights that the River Walk has to offer; but there is more to do than just look around. This FREE attraction also offers a great deal of places to grab a bite to eat, drink, shop, and much more. There’s a reason why almost 13 million people visit the urban waterway each year.

The Visionary Behind it All

Who designed the San Antonio River Walk?

The River Walk was designed to mirror the vision that architecht R. H. H. Hugman had for San Antonio. A born and bred San Antonian, the city decided to honor Hugman’s vision by placing historical plaques along the River Walk that present informative facts and pictures for visitors to learn from, with a tour available so you can experience it all. The tour is offered as a self-tour, audio tour, and a walking tour making it a great option for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of the Riverwalk.

Top 7 Things to Do Along the Riverwalk

Take a River Walk Barge Tour

The easiest and most relaxing way to tour the San Antonio River Walk is by boat. The barge travels along a 2.5-mile route and allows visitors to see sights such as the statue of St. Anthony of Padua, the Alamo, the second tallest free-standing tower in the United States, and one of the most famous courthouses in Texas.

The barge tour also offers an additional 1.3 miles that takes you through the Museum Reach. There is a boat landing at the San Antonio Museum of Art where tourists can get out and see breathtaking views, including the Grotto, created by San Antonio artist Carlos Cortes.

Eat Dinner at the Casa Rio

San Antonio certainly has its share of authentic Mexican food. Casa Rio has been serving up traditional dishes since 1946. It’s located right off of the river and offers both inside and colorful outside seating.

Stop and Listen to a Mariachi Band

The loop is packed with mariachi music and you don’t have to look hard to find a group playing. Just follow your ears! Many people will stop along the way to enjoy the music as they explore the River Walk or will keep on traveling and will let the musicians provide the theme music for their trip.

Catch a Show at Aztec on the River

The Travel Channel claims Aztec on the River is the second-most popular attraction in Texas, right behind The Alamo. It was originally built in 1926 and is known as one of the more lavish motion picture palaces in the United States.

Leave a Lock on the Love Lock Bridge

The idea for a love lock bridge was started in Paris and was so popular that a few American cities have adopted the idea. San Antonio River Walk tourists often write little messages on the lock and then attach the lock to the fence outside of the Bexar County Courthouse Wedding Chapel.

Unwind at the Mokara Spa

Spend an afternoon relaxing at the Mokara Spa. Located inside the Mokara San Antonio hotel right along the River Walk, rejuvenation awaits you after a long day of exploring. The spa is vast and is home to a wide range of whirlpools, steam rooms, and saunas. After some well deserved pampering, you can sit poolside and take in incredible rooftop views of San Antonio.

Shopping at the Rivercenter Mall

The Rivercenter Mall is yet another grand structure along the San Antonio Riverwalk. The mall connects directly to the river, so close that it gives off the impression that you could swim right up to the fun. The mall offers four levels of shopping that host over 100 stores. It also features six restaurants and two movie theaters. You can spend all day in the Rivercenter Mall and still not see all that it has to offer.

Start Planning Your Trip To San Antonio

San Antonio is a tourists’ dream and the San Antonio River Walk is an absolute must-see during your visit. The River Walk has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for authentic Mexican food, a great place to shop, a museum filled with history, or everything in between.

Looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay during your trip to San Antonio? Frontdesk offers unique suites in the best neighborhoods throughout the city. We ensure that each and every guest finds their best visitor experience. If you have never been to San Antonio before, we promise there are a lot of great reasons to visit!

What Exactly is Memphis Known For?

Posted on 07/22/201903/27/2020 by Alicia Haugen

While Nashville is without a doubt known as a destination for country music fans to visit, Memphis itself is recognized as home of the Blues and the start of the Rock and Roll era. A must to check out while visiting is Beale Street, known for all of its iconic entertainment. Aside from the music world, Memphis is defined home for Tennessee barbeque; best known for both “dry” and “wet” pork ribs and pork shoulder with a tomato based barbeque sauce. There are a vast amount of BBQ joints throughout the city ranging from random hole in the walls to fancier sit-downs.

Carolina, a Project Manager with Frontdesk, got the inside scoop and personally tried a few that were recommended by locals themselves.

Central BBQ

Various locations throughout the city, most popular one is located in Midtown off of Central Ave (2249 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104). The place itself has a very low-key local feel with blues playing throughout the restaurant. Known for their Pork Nacho (which were delicious by the way) loaded with marinated slow-smoked pulled pork on a bed of tortilla chips topped with barbeque sauce, cheese sauce, shredded cheese, jalapenos and finished with a slight dusting of their famous BBQ Shake. Also recommended were Central BBQ‘s wings, specifically “jerked” styled and they even offer a Portabella sandwich as a vegetarian option!

The Rendevous

Locals call it “Vous”. This hot spot is typically packed with a combination of locals and tourists. With only one location, located in a hidden alley of downtown Memphis (52 S 2nd St. Memphis, TN 38103). Once you find the alley, you go through the main door and head down the steps and if you are lucky the hostess may even sit you right away. Since Memphis known for its dry rub pork ribs, we decided to give those a go! They were delicious. The plate itself comes with your choice of meat and a side of their famous mustard vinegar slaw and beans. You have the option to try out their two sauces which they conveniently have bottles at each table for your convenience.

Tops Bar-B-Q

This spot is quite popular. While it is local, Tops is considered a chain throughout Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi. All locations are small and have more of a casual grab and go vibe. Dining in is an option with basic booth and table seating. Some may even have a picnic bench or two outdoors and even a drive-thru. One of the employees stated its not a drive-thru joint, its good barbeque, made fast. Known for the perfect pork sandwich or lip smacking ribs.

Visiting MEMPHIS?

You’ll need Frontdesk’s Memphis Guidebook. It’s curated by local experts and filled with only the best bars, restaurants, and places to visit.

DOWNLOAD TODAY!

Other spots suggested by locals

Payne’s (1762 Lamar Ave, Memphis, TN 38114)
The Bar-B-Q Shop (1782 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104)
RP Tracks (3546 Walker Ave, Memphis, TN 38111)
Cozy Corner (735 North Pkwy, Memphis, TN 38105)
Elwood’s Shack (4523 Summer Ave, Memphis, TN 38122)
Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant (4381 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116)

If you are truly a BBQ fan, make sure you visit Memphis in May and check out The World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest, it is a four day competition held in Tom Lee Park in downtown Memphis. With teams traveling from around the world and across the United States to compete for the title of World Champion curating the best BBQ plates around.

Top Free Things to Do in Tampa, Florida

Posted on 07/05/201909/04/2019 by Alicia Haugen

Traveling can be expensive; whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, it’s always nice to find something fun to do that doesn’t cost any money. Luckily for those traveling to Tampa looking for some free fun, there are endless opportunities to explore the city that won’t cost you a dime. Here are our favorite free things to do in Tampa, Florida!

The Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk may not be as famous as the San Antonio Riverwalk, but it’s awesome nonetheless. The Riverwalk stretches nearly three miles, offering all of the great oceanfront views while taking you right through the heart of downtown Tampa.

There are numerous entry points to the Tampa Riverwalk throughout the city and plenty of stops along the way. Some of those stops include some of Tampa’s best museums, which are also free of charge. It’s the perfect spot for your morning jog before your business meeting or a family stroll before brunch.

Manatee Viewing Center

The Manatee Viewing Center is an observation deck that features outstanding views of one of the ocean’s most magnificent mammals. Unfortunately, manatees are listed as an endangered species. Seeing this many manatees in a small body of water is certainly uncommon anywhere else in the world.

The observation deck is right outside of Tampa Bay’s Big Bend power plant, which causes the manatees to migrate toward the warmer water that’s discharged from the plant. The viewing center is more than just an observation deck. There’s also an educational building where you can learn more about manatees, embark on walking trails, or enjoy the many picnic areas. This is a great spot for the whole family.

Yuengling Brewing Company

There aren’t many breweries in the United States that offer free tours, but Yuengling does. Yuengling is known as America’s Oldest Brewery and guides Tampa visitors through an hour-long excursion through the brewery. Visitors get an insider’s look at the brewing process, and, of course, can sample some of their famous brews after the tour.

J.C. Newman Cigar Company

J.C. Newman is one of the largest cigar factories in all of Tampa – a city with a rich tradition of cigar companies. Unlike all the other’s in the Tampa area, J.C. Newman is the last operating cigar factory in the area. While they are certainly known for their premium cigars, the company also features a famous clock tower that chimes every hour. After checking out the clock, you can head inside to tour the museum or stop in their cigar shop.

The Beaches

The closest beach to the downtown area is Ben T. Davis Beach. According to USA Today, it is one of the best places to watch the sunset and is close to the new Courtney Campbell Trail.

Although there aren’t too many beaches right in Tampa, there are a few great ones within a short driving distance. Fred Howard Park, Indian Rocks Beach, Sand Key Park, and Honeymoon Island State Park are just a few on a long list of great beaches near Tampa.

Fourth Friday

Many cities choose a certain day of the month to have recurring downtown celebrations. Tampa chose the fourth Friday of each month for theirs. It’s a free event from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. and boasts tons of free activities for people of all ages.

The event takes place along the Riverwalk and there is usually live music from local musicians. All you have to do is stop by and pick up a wristband from one of the participating vendors and you can enjoy all the perks, including free admission to the Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa Bay History Center, and Tampa Theatre.

Florida Botanical Gardens

Another great free thing to do in Tampa is to take a trip to the Florida Botanical Gardens. There are roughly 90 acres of natural areas and 30 acres of gardens, showcasing native Florida plants. Not only is admission free, but you can also take a guided tour for free.

Visiting TAMPA?

You’ll need Frontdesk’s Tampa Guidebook. It’s curated by local experts and filled with only the best bars, restaurants, and places to visit.

DOWNLOAD TODAY!

Why We Love Tampa

Tampa is a diverse city filled with things to do for everyone, no matter your age or what you love to do. Take advantage of the free things to do that fill your time and save some of your extra dollars for one of the restaurants or bars featured in our guidebook!

Charlotte, NC

Columbus, OH

Indianapolis, IN

Dallas, TX

Tampa, FL

St.Louis, MO

St.Petersburg, FL

Milwaukee, WI

San Antonio, TX

The Visionary Behind it All

Who designed the San Antonio River Walk?

Top 7 Things to Do Along the Riverwalk

Take a River Walk Barge Tour

Eat Dinner at the Casa Rio

Stop and Listen to a Mariachi Band

Catch a Show at Aztec on the River

Leave a Lock on the Love Lock Bridge

Unwind at the Mokara Spa

Shopping at the Rivercenter Mall

Start Planning Your Trip To San Antonio

Visiting MEMPHIS?

DOWNLOAD TODAY!

The Tampa Riverwalk

Manatee Viewing Center

Yuengling Brewing Company

J.C. Newman Cigar Company

The Beaches

Fourth Friday

Florida Botanical Gardens

Why We Love Tampa

Need Assistance?

Call/Text: +1 414 240 2398

Email: hello@stayfrontdesk.com

THANK YOU.

THANK YOU.