The experience at Bess Bistro all begins with the seasonally-inspired menus, which boast meats, seafood, and vegetables from local purveyors and produce—everything from tomatoes and cucumbers to melons and basil—from Bess’s own one-acre farm outside the city. The creativity extends to the look and feel of Bess, where an underground candlelit speakeasy makes for perfect romantic occasions. Intimate alcoves are lit with custom hand-blown glass chandeliers by Simon Pierce, and brick columns, iron railings, and pecan woodwork provide a complementary backdrop to antique mirrors and luxe fabrics from Belgium. A glass of wine at Austin’s only 100 percent pewter bar—shipped directly from Montbazon, France—is a must, and the lush landscaped rooftop terrace proves a wonderful spot to take in the city view. Bess is one of Austin’s most innovative and inviting spaces in the heart of West Sixth Street.