I've got a dirty secret. I'm a Texan.

I was born in Bryan, grew up in Dallas, and went to Rice University in Houston. Since then I've bounced back and forth between Texas and California, but whenever I can I try to make it back to Austin.

Over the next three weeks I'll be updating the OP blog daily with some of my favorite things to see, do, and eat while you're in Austin for the World Championships.

Death Proof

Robert Rodriguez just wrapped principal photography for "Machete", the feature film based on the fake trailer that appeared in Grindhouse. Rodriguez lives in Austin, as is his Troublemaker Studios production company.

Quentin Tarantino is a good friend of Rodriguez, and when he decided to set the first act of "Death Proof" in Austin, Tarantino sought out some local dives. Fans of the film know he ended up filming at the Texas Chili Factory and Guero's Taco Bar.

Texas Chili Parlor (1409 Lavaca St.) is surprisingly good. They actually have a full menu of burgers, sandwiches, enchiladas, and other dishes, but their speciality is obviously chili. Cheap drinks and a great ambiance makes this a place not to miss.

Guero's (1412 S. Congress Ave) food is average, and you'll definitely find better Mexican elsewhere. But if you have time to grab a couple of beers and hang out, the atmosphere is excellent. They have live music Thursday through Sunday, and stay open until 11pm. It's a great place when you sneak out of work a bit early, or before going out on the weekends.

We'll be discussing these posts and other things to do in Austin in this thread. The local players have put together an awesome PDF of Austin info as well, so be sure to check that out.

See y'all tomorrow!
Ben