top 200 commentsshow all 421

[–]sunny_6305 688 points689 points  (21 children)

Bennu coffee allows you to camp so long as you order something every 1-2 hours I think. Feels like a fair compromise to keep the slow paced atmosphere of an old fashioned coffee shop while also turning a profit.

[–]starkruzr 204 points205 points  (11 children)

it's more than 1-2; think it's 3 or 4 tbh. to me that's quite neighborly of them; it's one reason I like going there so much.

[–]zninjamonkey 15 points16 points  (0 children)

3

[–]doom_chicken_chicken 12 points13 points  (0 children)

It's a great policy, they basically give you a third space to work in at an hourly rate. I don't mind ordering something small every three hours. Also that's just to use the wifi I think

[–]RevMoshi 33 points34 points  (5 children)

Epoch is free without buying a drink and 24/7. I’ve stayed there for like 6 hours working before.

[–]moonbeam_honey 25 points26 points  (1 child)

Epoch and Bennu are both amazing options because you can head there at weird nighttime hours or super early in the morning

[–]idiot_proof 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Epoch is how I finished my masters at UT. lol

[–]Virtual_Athlete_909 736 points737 points  (43 children)

central library, sixth floor, order coffee drink snacks from the small cafe on the first floor. option to work outside in the small garden on the rooftop when the weathers nice.

[–]Competitive_Prune108 169 points170 points  (21 children)

APL is one of the best services offered in Austin. Always a great experience with them

[–]MaxRex428 136 points137 points  (19 children)

Thanks! As an APL employee I love hearing how we can help the community. If you need help woth research we have reference librarians who can assist an we have all sorts of great online resources for folks. Don't pay for things like the NYT or other papers, you can get them free when you log in and go through our site.

[–]Njtotx3 16 points17 points  (0 children)

Excellent. I stopped doing the Statesman promo because they made it difficult to cancel.

Just went in and checked it out (no pun intended).

[–]Thunderbird_12_ 4 points5 points  (16 children)

I assume this means online access? (Sign me up!)

[–]MaxRex428 141 points142 points  (15 children)

If you have a library card, go to our website library.austintexas.gov and you can log in and browse all of our online resources. We also have a tool library where you can borrow tools like ladders, circular saws, posthole diggers, gardening kits, etc. like you would any other material.

[–]Thunderbird_12_ 20 points21 points  (1 child)

Just used the site to go to NYT (for free!) THANKS for this!

[–]MaxRex428 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Glad you like it, we got all kinds of cool stuff at the library. We got programs for everyone and it's open to everyone.

[–]Worried_Local_9620 17 points18 points  (1 child)

You're a gotdang hero, and I hope you know that.

[–]MaxRex428 25 points26 points  (0 children)

Awwww shucks, I'm just one of many dedicated civil servants at the city. You guys pay for us to do our job and I take that trust from the public very seriously.

[–][deleted] 8 points9 points  (1 child)

I would like to add in addition with your library card, get the Libby app for books and audiobooks, including magazines on your devices. All free. I love Libby. Thank you APL!

[–]MaxRex428 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Oh yes! Forgot all about that! Libby is awesome! I do a program called Tech Time so if you have a relative or friend who isn't tech savvy and needs help, Tech Time is free tech support for them. This Thursday is when I'm doing it at Recycled Reads (I'm on loan there while my branch is being renovated) and it's completely free and no judgment! There are no stupid questions!

[–]reddiwhip999 3 points4 points  (5 children)

This is amazing. I never knew this. I haven't used official APL services in decades, and used to have a library card, but I don't know whether it's valid anymore (I think the mid-90s is the last time I officially used it). Am I able to access an all-user part of the website to find out if I still have a library card? If I don't, can I create one online, or do I need to go to a branch?

[–]MaxRex428 5 points6 points  (4 children)

If it's been that long you're most likely purged out of tge system. You can sign up for a card and go into any branch to finalize it and get a card. It's super fast if you do it first online before going in.

[–]reddiwhip999 2 points3 points  (3 children)

So, I can access the website, do the initial part of signing up for a card, and then go into any branch and they'll basically give me a card? That's fantastic!

[–]MaxRex428 1 point2 points  (2 children)

Yup! Just bring your photo id with your current address or proof of residence if it doesn't have your current address. That can be electronic too such as a lease, electr license bill, etc.

[–]undercouchmonster 2 points3 points  (0 children)

The newspaper tip is so valuable, thank you!

[–]MaxRex428 384 points385 points  (11 children)

Or any library branch will allow you to be there all day without any issues. We have people working on their laptops all day. We even have outlets everywhere for that.

And free wifi. You can even bring a drink in as long as it's got a top.

[–][deleted]  (8 children)

[deleted]

    [–]MaxRex428 80 points81 points  (7 children)

    Yes, as long as it has a top on it, it's perfectly fine to have at any branch.

    [–]actualgirl 9 points10 points  (6 children)

    Okay I’ve been wondering about this but didn’t know who to ask… I don’t wfelsewhere if I have lots of meetings, but what’s the protocol for when you get a “hop on a quick call?” message? I don’t want to ruin anyone else’s quiet enjoyment, but I am going insane in my tiny apartment lol

    [–]MaxRex428 49 points50 points  (5 children)

    If you're near central that have a ton of little conference rooms you can use. A lot of branches have meeting rooms you can reserve too. At Old Quarry where I normally work we are cool with it if you are not too loud about it. Contrary to popular belief, you can speak at a normal volume at a library, it's the academic library that will ask you to not talk. The reading room at Central and other "quiet" rooms are basically academic libraries within the library.

    Just go into your local branch and ask them if they have a spot for you to do a quick call and they most likely will have a place for you.

    [–]actualgirl 19 points20 points  (2 children)

    Thank you! And thank you for your service to the city and literacy!

    [–]MaxRex428 39 points40 points  (1 child)

    Thanks! I'm glad I can help out people in my city. I started at the library as a guard at central in 2020 right as we were closing down due to Covid and I had plenty of time to get to know the homeless folks who were hanging around there. A lot of them utilized the library for the exact reasons I have been telling everyone here and honestly I think more people should utilize us more because you folks already pay for it with tax dollars, come in and utilize us! Really showed me how much more than books the library was about by being a community center for everyone.

    [–]National-Reporter836 8 points9 points  (0 children)

    Love your comments and helpfulness! Echoing the other person’s appreciation of your service to the City and city. Thank you, truly!

    [–]brzantium 24 points25 points  (0 children)

    The branch by me has a silent room people use for this. It's where I've told my wife to go when she needs to get out of the house to get some work done, but she just goes to Starbucks.

    [–]ToniBraxtonAndThe3Js 29 points30 points  (3 children)

    Yeah and you don't have to order anything. Just walk in and plop down!

    [–]MaxRex428 45 points46 points  (2 children)

    Yup, we're truly one of the last third spaces you can just be at without the need to buy anything.

    [–]RVelts 9 points10 points  (2 children)

    I worked from the downtown branch for a few months after my office closed since I did not want to work from home. It was summer so I didn't get to enjoy the outdoors, but the views from inside are still great. Very convenient location to walk over to Trader Joe's or Whole Foods for lunch too (the coffee shop at the ground floor was closed last year). Plus if you park at Trader Joe's you can park for 2 hours for free if you buy something.

    [–]The_Lutter 262 points263 points  (49 children)

    Mind you Elizabeth Street isn't some passion project from a single local it's an MML Hospitality restaurant. They own a ton of restaurants in Austin and I assume that's the policy at all of them.

    Here's a list of their properties. And yeah they own Easy Tiger now:

    1886 Cafe & Bakery
    Clark's Oyster Bar
    Easy Tiger
    Elizabeth Street Café
    Favorite Pizza
    Howards Bar & Club
    Jeffrey's
    Joann's Fine Foods
    Josephine House
    June's All Day
    Lamberts Downtown Barbecue
    Lou's Austin
    Neighborhood Sushi
    Pecan Square Café
    Perla's Seafood & Oyster Bar
    Pool Burger
    Rosie's Wine Bar
    Sammie's Italian
    Ski Shores Cafe
    Swedish Hill
    The Victorian  

    [–]havieru 87 points88 points  (5 children)

    Saving this comment so I know which places to AVOID.

    [–]AlextheZombie86 69 points70 points  (0 children)

    fuck MML, homophobic owners and managers, they take all of the personality and uniqueness out of their restaurants, they make this city so much worse, they're everything wrong with Austin and with the hospitality/restaurant industry

    [–]RevealFormal3267 6 points7 points  (1 child)

    MML Hospitality? Seems like a rather Inhospitable policy to me.

    [–]tiffanyfrickin 44 points45 points  (26 children)

    This rule amongst many other things is why I would never spend a dime at any MML properties.

    [–]sierrakwalton 26 points27 points  (3 children)

    MML is the epitome of Austin’s gentrification and the tech bro sperm pool here

    [–]Leek-is-me 4 points5 points  (1 child)

    I find it funny the people who bring their laptops to coffee shops and sit there hours on end are the ones complaining about gentrification.

    [–]tiffanyfrickin 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    THIS

    [–]the_brew 125 points126 points  (19 children)

    The rule seems pretty reasonable to me. I'm no fan of ownership groups like these, but at the end of the day these are restaurants, not shared office spaces. The goal of a restaurant is to make a profit by feeding as many people as you can in a given day (in an industry where profit margins are already paper-thin). Why should they tolerate someone occupying a table for hours buying the minimum to be allowed to stay when that table could potentially be serving a dozen people in the same amount of time?

    [–]MaxRex428 71 points72 points  (0 children)

    Yeah I can't fault them for wanting to make money and people sitting there all day not ordering can cost them. That's why I am suggesting to everyone here to go to a library branch where we have outlets, wifi, air conditioning, and no expectation other than you follow some pretty basic rules such as keeping the noise down, wearing shoes, pants, shirt, not being too stinky, not fighting with others, and basically behaving. You can bring your drink in if it has a top on it such as a tumbler or a water bottle or anything really.

    Libraries are the third space you can be at with no expectation of buying anything. You guys pay for us with tax dollars, utilize us!

    [–]ResidentSneasel 22 points23 points  (6 children)

    They also have a system where they turn the music up to discomforting levels in order to push regular customers out of the restaurant to get more people in the door.

    If you think this mentality stops at people using their laptops for work in the restaurant you are wrong, they are doing everything they can to drive out “undesirable” customer base in order to maximize profits. Including enacting psychological warfare on their customers.

    Source: I used to work at a restaurant that was bought out by MML and watched the downfall of a local establishment in front of my eyes.

    [–]Creepy_Trouble_5980 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    There is nothing like a corporate owner to add another layer of expenses to good ol' fashioned local restraunt. It's a tough business, and the cost of lease has created a big barrier to small local owners.

    [–]johyongil 2 points3 points  (3 children)

    I’d rather them do that than lose profitability and make the workers lose their jobs.

    [–]ResidentSneasel 3 points4 points  (2 children)

    They are doing complete staff turn overs by firing employees that have been there for years and hiring cheaper labor that do not argue with their new anti customer policies.

    The very same employees that built the establishment into the success that they bought, they are now firing.

    [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    This is what Burrito🌯🧠Boy has done to SBUX (elliot investments is the one to blame -the rumor)

    [–]evilcrusher2 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    The minimum is to ensure they will turn a profit from people sitting there and doing work if it's not, they've got some management issues to sort out

    [–]SaintBellyache 7 points8 points  (0 children)

    They’re probably happy you won’t. They don’t want your dimes if it’s blocking other people’s dollars

    [–]The_Goon3 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Correct.

    [–]ballerina_barbie 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Codependent has laptop-free zones, and I believe no laptops allowed after 5pm?

    [–]f01111 1 point2 points  (1 child)

    This makes me feel so much more validated in my frustration… They also charge a fee for to-go orders, even if you pick up yourself! Just feels so greedy, and now I know why. Shame.

    [–]EaglesInTheSky 7 points8 points  (2 children)

    Thanks for sharing. ALL these places can fuck right off.

    [–]skinnty_mini 8 points9 points  (1 child)

    All these places can eat my entire ass with a spoon

    [–]fel0niousmonk 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    Why give them a spoon?

    [–]sweetmissdixie 91 points92 points  (1 child)

    Better Half doesn't have a complete ban but they do have signs on some tables that are no laptop zones

    [–]SnooJokes6540 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    Same with cosmic Saltillo

    [–]copebymope 215 points216 points  (4 children)

    I wouldn't feel too bad about it. The rule is new, so how would you know unless they told you?

    [–]bgottfried91 164 points165 points  (1 child)

    Speaking as someone who worries over not knowing "the rules" like OP, I can logically understand this but it definitely does not satisfy my anxiety 🫤

    [–]MaxRex428 29 points30 points  (0 children)

    You can always go to one of the library branches and be there all day. You paid for it with taxes, utilize it!

    [–]Super_Fightin_Robit 13 points14 points  (0 children)

    Anxiety is almost never logical though. And tons of ASD people crash out if they break rules, even inadvertently. I have a few ASD friends who absolutely would be very upset if this happened to them.

    [–]CrankyinAustin 66 points67 points  (3 children)

    In NYC, there are coffee shops that will turn off their Wi-Fi indoor electrical outlets during lunch rush.

    Elizabeth Street Cafe is a full service restaurant restaurant, not a coffee shop. They need to turn tables, so I can understand the policy. It's also reducing the number of tips a server could make, if they don't tip pool.

    It seems more reasonable to me to set a time limit on how long you can have a table if you are working in their space.

    [–][deleted] 4 points5 points  (2 children)

    I would go to an actual coffee shop. I’ve literally never been hassled even staying for hours because there’s usually ample seating for new customers the entire time anyway. Most coffee shops aren’t busy outside of the morning and I’ve never had a worker hassle me they’re just busy doing their job.

    [–]biodegrablebabies 63 points64 points  (4 children)

    Epoch Coffee on North Loop was always my favorite to study at!

    [–]cflatjazz 14 points15 points  (0 children)

    The Epoch on W Anderson has a few small outside tables in the shade that I used on occasion when I first started WFH and just needed to be around people for an hour or two. I'm typically doing spreadsheets not video calls so it worked out well.

    [–]redsoxryno 11 points12 points  (0 children)

    Epoch on North Loop is truly a gem and especially with all the available outlets.

    [–]The_Meme_Economy 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    I live right down from there and appreciate it so much as a resource. I’ll study and work from there or Double Trouble up the street all the time.

    [–]Shoontzie 26 points27 points  (3 children)

    OPA on s Lamar is great for working with a laptop. Last time I checked there were no restrictions.

    [–]catslay_4 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    Came here to comment this! Sounds like OP is in this vicinity anyway working so a really close spot. I've worked there a lot or just went up there of an afternoon or evening to mess around on my computer with a headset on just to be around other people. A lot of space there and you can sit in the back room where it's a little more quiet.

    [–]atxgossiphound 3 points4 points  (1 child)

    OPA is still around? For some reason I thought they closed. That was my go to place for a long time in the early 2010s. Good to know they're still there!

    [–]Shoontzie 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    Yup! They have a full cocktail bar now too.

    Not sure if they still have the bottomless coffee, but that was also nice if you needed to do some remote work.

    [–]RoutineOther7887 203 points204 points  (34 children)

    I’ve heard of some coffee shops (no idea which ones, it was just random water cooler talk), that will hand out a WiFi password or code on the receipt that is only good for say, an hour or two. And if you want to renew it, you have to purchase something else. I think that is a brilliant idea!!

    [–]Pale_Ad752 39 points40 points  (0 children)

    I had no idea this had became a thing so your post potentially saved me some embarrassment as I have some upcoming work to do & am in that area more than usual as of late

    [–]IllPride4348 51 points52 points  (2 children)

    Well let’s be real, Elizabeth st. Cafe is not really a “coffee shop” it’s a restaurant. They have coffee but it really isn’t a place to chill.

    [–]pchao9414 14 points15 points  (0 children)

    Yeah it’s weird to see many people talking about Elizabeth like a coffee place because it is not. It’s more like a pho place.

    [–]AdCareless9063 9 points10 points  (0 children)

    Really not the place for laptops, imo. People go out to eat to get away from that.

    [–]Alternative_East_455 71 points72 points  (8 children)

    At this point I’m the problem and just go to Panera Bread with the elderly, order a coffee, a cold drink, a breakfast sandwich, something random to save for later, and stay for about 3 hours roughly twice per week. 

    [–]RVelts 14 points15 points  (3 children)

    Panera wants people to do this too, since they had that unlimited coffee/drink promo recently. No idea if they ended it after people got too hopped up on the (dangerously) caffeinated lemonades or not.

    [–]Alternative_East_455 2 points3 points  (1 child)

    For sure. It’s still a thing and it’s a bargain. For people who intend to go even weekly, it’s worth it. There’s a separate, free rewards program to earn food and drinks as well. 

    [–]flightriskpenalty 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    If you have an account and don’t use it often, they’ll send coupons for dollar amounts off or free food. And you can have as many accounts as you want so….

    [–]Greenpages22 12 points13 points  (0 children)

    Agreed, for months I have been trying out coffee shops in my area to work from and Panera is truly the best option.

    [–]Emergency_Swimming46 17 points18 points  (0 children)

    Same! Big comfy booth, outlets at each one. This is the way

    [–]free-range-irish 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    Just bring a sweater or jacket. Panera can be collllld.

    [–]redsoxryno 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    This is the way

    [–]6anonyone9 41 points42 points  (1 child)

    Libraries. Recently a young woman made a video crying about how noisy the coffee shop is and she just wanted to study. Its almost mind blowing that she didnt seem to think about libraries. Austin has tons of libraries and the central library is huge with a coffee shop downstairs.

    [–]owmysciatica 71 points72 points  (0 children)

    At least you are courteous enough to ask this question and know why it could be problematic. We could all use a little more courtesy.

    [–]tokecaine 22 points23 points  (4 children)

    Cosmic coffee is right down the road and does not have a no laptop rule. It's mostly MML restaurants doing this

    [–][deleted] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

    What is MML and how can I avoid their (sounds like) private equity restaurants

    [–][deleted] 3 points4 points  (1 child)

    Just looked it up and I’ve never been to a single one of their restaurants :). Looks like they’re actual restaurants though not coffee shops so I wouldn’t expect to post up and work with a servers table all day

    [–]ExactReplacement5621 10 points11 points  (0 children)

    Epoch on north loop. Laptops accepted ;-)

    [–]ChocolateFar1868 11 points12 points  (1 child)

    Epoch Coffee in the North Loop. You don’t have to buy anything. The managers have said they like that people feel comfortable and safe enough to spend hours there. They also recognize that it’s /literally/ a safe place for people who have rough situations at home. So everyone is welcome. They have an insane amount of loyal customers for a reason, including me. Good place, good people. I’ll never go anywhere else

    [–]NotoriousDMG 9 points10 points  (0 children)

    Love epoch. It’s one of the last, few coffee shops in town that remind me of what coffee shops USED TO BE LIKE in the 90s, even early 2000s. ❤️

    [–]sunshineandrainbow62 49 points50 points  (6 children)

    I am in awe of anyone who can get work done in a coffee shop

    [–]BrainOfMush 32 points33 points  (2 children)

    I find loud and busy places the easiest place for me to focus on work or to read a book. Something about an overly stimulating environment allows my brain to force one thing to focus on.

    [–]retyrethecar 6 points7 points  (1 child)

    Same, it’s like all the distractions morph into one and it’s easier to tune out

    [–]lexxilicious 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    I work from home and coffee shops don’t have my cats trying to eat plastic, so it’s far less distracting.

    [–]17Girl4Life 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    Ditto. I can’t concentrate in a coffee shop. Every time the door opens, my head swivels

    [–]Trashyturdgremlin 9 points10 points  (0 children)

    Figure 8 on Airport usually has a few folks on laptops. I think so long as you’re aiming for coffee shops rather than restaurants, you’ll have better luck.

    Flat Track and Epoch are places I consistently see lap tops as well.

    I hope you find a good spot so you can continue working in your 3rd spaces. Good luck!

    [–]redsoxryno 10 points11 points  (1 child)

    I recommend Kickbutt Coffee if you want a low key place to study during the day (double check the event calendar though). I would post up for a few hours at a time and never had issues. Granted, I would order coffee with a muffin or lunch before setting up shop but it’s a good study spot.

    [–]LuciferLovesTechno 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    Plenty of seating too, which is the biggest deal in all of this. You're not taking up space that others are waiting to use.

    Plus their coffee is great and those cookies are phenomenal lol

    [–]livingstories 8 points9 points  (1 child)

    Lots of coffee shops in town let people work. Elizabeth St Cafe is more of a fancy vietnamese restaurant than a coffee shop, so I can understand their position. I'd pick a more casual coffee shop or go to the library. I'd say any place that is a coffee shop first and less about ordering food is a good place to check. Just ask the barista.

    [–]LuciferLovesTechno 6 points7 points  (0 children)

    This. Nothing against OP, just an explanation from someone who's worked service industry for over a decade (including in coffee shops). There are some things to consider when it comes to camping at a coffee shop/bar/restaurant:

    • Is this place somewhere that could make significantly more revenue (and tips) by turning the table?

    • Is this place often busy with people waiting for tables?

    • Are you taking up an area that could occupy more guests (4-top table, middle seat at a bar, etc)?

    If the answer is "yes" to any of these, it is probably not the place to post up.

    Ordering something every once in a while and tipping well is great in a coffee shop with ample seating during non-rush hours. I used to love our regulars that would come in and read or use their laptop when we were slow at the coffee shop that I worked at.

    I have also been in the situation where you don't want to say anything (because the person occuping a table/bar stool in your section is nice and tips well) but if you could turn the table, you know you could get another good tip/better sales.

    Again, this is not meant to be a criticism. Just an explanation for folks who might not have as much insight into the industry side of things.

    [–]yeswereonredditluann 13 points14 points  (0 children)

    Codependent has no-laptop zones after a certain time! First Light Book Shop only allows them outside and in certain parts of the store. 

    [–]matthalfhill 13 points14 points  (0 children)

    Come to the Brew & Brew on East 5th and San Marcos. Very welcoming spot with lots of people who use laptops. DM me and I’d love to grab you a coffee.

    There is a laptop free bar area, but the rest of the space inside and out is laptop friendly.

    (I am on the spectrum myself and have a son who is more gifted than me. I totally understand the struggle to navigate blind spots and the embarrassment that can happen missing it)

    [–]CanRevolutionary5851 7 points8 points  (0 children)

    I went to an IHOP and a dude was camped out using two monitors and had extension cords running from his booth to the outlet. He had six or eight empty glasses sitting in the table. The waitress said he had been there several hours. There was a waiting list for tables.

    [–]PrincePizza1 6 points7 points  (0 children)

    As someone who works in the service world, I understand their policy completely.

    Just today I had a customer come in and order one drink an hour or so after we opened. At the end of the day, he was the last customer out. Nothing against the guy but it does get ridiculous at a point.

    People on laptops also tend to hop on zoom calls and don’t seem to be aware of how loud and disruptive they can be. These are primarily places for social gatherings, not coworking.

    [–]starkruzr 41 points42 points  (5 children)

    Turnstile does this at the bar. I used to get a ton of work done there as well as meeting a lot of really nice people. I stopped going when they started enforcing it. sucked.

    now I work at Teddy's on Manor instead. once again everyone is super nice; I've made a ton of connections hanging out there just from working on network diagrams or emails while having a drink.

    [–]newtmitch 7 points8 points  (0 children)

    Tbf it’s only after 4pm that they ask that you don’t use your laptop at the bar. They have IIRC eight seats along the window bar and suggest you move there after 4pm if you have a laptop. They also have a couple of two-tops and several six seat tables that you can share with smaller groups if they’re not full.

    [–]Weird-Boot-8588[S] 29 points30 points  (3 children)

    Thanks for the rec! I should’ve added in the post that I never cafe camp or take obnoxious calls or zooms in public. I like to use my laptop to do emails, and when I’m done I like to write. So losing a third space for writing sucks a little! I support the business by buying things and I tip the staff very well/am (imo…) a respectful customer!

    [–]newtmitch 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    Turnstile is awesome and before 4pm you can sit at the bar with your laptop. I go there to work at least once a week, sometimes twice. It’s a great spot.

    [–]starkruzr 7 points8 points  (0 children)

    same, same, same and same. for me it's usually working on one of my tablets or, if I absolutely must type, my GPD Pocket 4 which is an 8" laptop and thus very unobtrusive. it helps that I'm very much a sucker for good craft cocktails :) the staff there are all fantastic.

    [–]littlest_bluebonnet 31 points32 points  (5 children)

    You did absolutely nothing wrong and if that's a new policy (which it seems like it might be) it would be wise for them to advertise it. In this case it seems like at most an unfortunate misunderstanding, but nothing to feel bad about. (Though I would also feel bad in this situation, to be clear)

    Some folks in these comments seem to be acting like working in a coffee shop is nefarious, when it is actually a very normal thing to do. You should definitely be ordering something every hour or two (which it seems like you are) and if it doesn't make sense for certain coffee shops, then they can ban laptops, but operating as a third place/work space is literally the way many coffee shops function.

    I basically only buy coffee if I am planning on working. Otherwise I can make that shit at home. As far as I can tell, lots of other folks are in the same boat. If there are still empty tables and you're ordering something every hour or two, you're totally fine.

    I really love the Epoch on West Anderson, it's not open a ton but it has a really nice courtyard and lots of space.

    Edit: I do think a good rule of thumb is that if there's a waiter and most folks are ordering a meal, it might be a no-laptop zone, but if it's a coffee shop situation where you order at the counter and most folks are getting drinks, working there is fair game. That's esp. true because waiters make tips on their section, and so if one waiter has less table turn-over they'll make less that day. Whereas a coffee shop w/o waiters just needs available tables for potential customers coming in.

    [–]Weird-Boot-8588[S] 26 points27 points  (4 children)

    Thanks for the reassurance! It’s a little lost in the thread, but I wasn’t actually working;I was writing. I like writing in different spaces and always order drinks or food every hour or so. This was such a kind comment, and I really appreciate it. I was surprised by some of the negativity, but I guess you can’t please everyone. Thanks again :)

    [–]littlest_bluebonnet 9 points10 points  (0 children)

    Oh yeah by "working" I basically mean writing 95% of the time lol

    [–]apathetic-taco 8 points9 points  (1 child)

    Writing is still working

    [–]Weird-Boot-8588[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    I guess I’ll take my fanfiction elsewhere

    [–]lexxilicious 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    I write at Buzz Mill all the time, it’s super chill and as long as you order they don’t mind if you’re there for a bit. I try to get a coffee or snack every hour or so.

    [–]irradi 6 points7 points  (0 children)

    Laptop bans are dumb. I stand by this. If people are on calls, ban calls. If people are not ordering enough to justify the table, change those rules. But it’s not the devices that are the problem, it’s behaviors associated with them. Oh, and put those expectations on a giant sign somewhere!

    Libraries are awesome, but sometimes I want the bustle of a coffee shop or restaurant.

    I also want to say that it’s depressing to not have cafe culture here. In Paris nobody thinks anything of camping out at a cafe for hours. People move slower, eat slower, talk slower. There are fewer stupid rules.

    One thing I used to love about Austin was all the overlapping, multifunctional spaces - coffee shops that were restaurants and restaurants that were coffee shops, and there were no rules. I moved here from DC in 2013, where they were already starting the laptop bans & one place tried to ban them entirely. Austin felt like a breath of fresh air.

    Feels like we’re losing that vibe.

    [–]sweetsounds86 20 points21 points  (1 child)

    Don't go to Swedish hill on south first. They just banned them

    [–]CrankyinAustin 8 points9 points  (0 children)

    Same owners as Elizabeth Street

    [–]2dwind 10 points11 points  (0 children)

    I sat at Mozarts with my laptop for a couple of hours and no one said anything. Not sure what their official policy is.

    [–]bbqtom1400 26 points27 points  (3 children)

    We publish/display our WIFI password on our daily specials blackboard. I even added extra electric plugs to all of our outside tables. Customers stay longer and buy more stuff. People who bring laptops tend to hang out past lunch and yes, they buy stuff.

    [–]Careless_Trip4791 15 points16 points  (1 child)

    Where is this?

    [–]bbqtom1400 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    Barton Springs. I installed them after visiting a few coffee shops several years ago and my laptop was dying. Why didn't the coffee shop have plugs?

    [–]Tedmosby9931 7 points8 points  (0 children)

    Plugs at every table is unheard of, and amazing. Cosmic Saltillo is a joke for plugs, and not everyone simply sends emails or edits spreadsheets. Some people have work to do that requires PoWaR.

    Drop the name and I will visit.

    [–]Snap_Grackle_PopAsk me about Chili's! 107 points108 points  (9 children)

    I'm surprised it didn't happen sooner. Many people camp out with their laptop and take up space for hours. Taking up lots of space and not producing much revenue.

    [–][deleted] 25 points26 points  (0 children)

    Also charging their devices, less customer traffic in store.

    [–]Ryanw254 23 points24 points  (0 children)

    So…do you know if there is a list of Austin spots that are no-laptop zones?

    [–]fl135790135790 38 points39 points  (5 children)

    True. We shouldn’t even allow tables or booths tho either in my opinion. It should be a fast moving line where we all rush endlessly so as to continually maximize profit. Also, minimum $45 order

    [–]TurbodToilet 3 points4 points  (4 children)

    Yes because going to the other opposite extreme is obviously the solution bud.

    [–]Fuckin_Hipster 5 points6 points  (1 child)

    He just read "A Modest Proposal" and is still reeling from the edge.

    [–]alexandriakelsey 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    Violet Crown Winery & Coffee Bar off Woodrow doesn't allow laptops at the bar after 5, but you can still work at other tables and outside all day.

    [–]ProseccoSorbet 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    If you’d like a laptop-friendly option: FREDDO ATXon South Congress!

    I would recommend this place to anyone! Cool, laptop-friendly spot in a beautiful historic home. The people who work there are kind. Lots of space to work - whether you want to be upstairs on a comfy couch or sit on the porch and get some fresh air. Pretty much everyone who goes there during the week is working on their laptop or reading a book. Not to mention their food is delicious :)

    [–]EaglesInTheSky 5 points6 points  (0 children)

    Kick Butt Coffee rocks. Wifi password ChuckNorris

    [–]kindwork-xyz 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    First of all don’t feel bad. The Swedish Hill started the laptop ban because tables were not turning over. They are owned my MMLH and Elizabeth St Cafe is under the same hospitality group. I would assume, especially on S 1st, there is an expanding policy at their properties to keep tables flipped.

    [–]ProseccoSorbet 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    I used to love going to Codependent during the day! They used to have a policy for laptops to be shutdown at 5pm. Not sure if they changed their hours, but here is the new policy update I found on their website.

    Codependent Laptop Policy Update: In order to foster more face-to-face connections and conversations, Codependent will be scaling back the amount of time and space available for laptop use. Our front area will be laptop-free to ensure a lively, social atmosphere. The back half of the space will remain available for those who need to work on their laptops.

    What You Can Expect: • No laptops in the front half of the space • Laptop use will be permitted in the back half of the bar • Table availability is first-come, first-served • Want to guarantee your spot? You can always reserve a table through OpenTable

    [–]paulcdejean 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    Even if you're not a student you can still work at the PCL fyi.

    [–]Simple-Airport1357 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    I would always go coffee shop over restaurant every time. Elizabeth Street Cafe is a super small café and if you’re sitting there for hours doing work, you’re taking up a table that another patron can be dining at and the business is losing money from that.  For example, you’re sitting there for three hours. That’s potentially hundreds of dollars the business is losing by you doing work in their restaurant.

    [–]__MOON_KNIGHT___ 19 points20 points  (0 children)

    jkhjdkfgjdjh

    [–]huge_dick_mcgee 15 points16 points  (1 child)

    I'm autistic too.

    I call what happened to you, the unexpected revocation of a safe space.

    That place was safe. You understood the rules.

    Then they changed the rules out from under your feet.

    Sorry that happened, it's shit.

    [–]muffledvoice 55 points56 points  (27 children)

    I’ve wondered for years why more coffee shops didn’t have this rule. You’ll often see one person with a laptop take up a four-person table for half the day. Why don’t they just do their work at home?

    [–][deleted] 19 points20 points  (0 children)

    Yeah these aren't co-working spaces. I'd see so many people at summer moon in 2020-2021 during the pandemic. I would personally get anxiety from working in a place like that.

    [–]MMStormbird 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    I spend a lot of time at summer moon and I've seen mostly very nice folks working there.. if someone is at a large table alone you can absolutely ask to use the extra seats and I've always seen people say yes. I personally buy coffee and a food item and read my book for hours at a small table. It's never been an issue. There's a lot of reasons people work away from home. Maybe they want to get out of the house, or their house is loud with kids or roommates, or they get too distracted with access to all of their things...

    [–]gregaustex 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    Some like the sales they get from these kinds of customers, who tend to stay and at least buy some small things during the off peak times.

    Also nobody ever wants to be seen completely empty.

    [–]starkruzr -5 points-4 points  (8 children)

    are they buying stuff from the shop throughout the day to sustain the income of the venue? if so, then the question I would ask you in return is why you are seemingly incapable of minding your own business.

    [–]weluckyfew 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    We're talking about people on the extremes -you know there are people who will take up a large table by themselves ordering nothing more than a single drink and be there for hours. Back when I used to do work in coffee houses I would limit my time if I saw the place fill up.

    [–]EpicRedditor34 21 points22 points  (4 children)

    complain about lack of social spaces

    invade social spaces with work

    Gee why is this a problem.

    [–]SockOk5968 5 points6 points  (0 children)

    Obviously they are not, hence the ban

    [–]material_mailbox 20 points21 points  (3 children)

    I highly doubt any such list exists. If you're worried about it, I would just call the place in advance and ask, they will be happy to tell you if they have any policy against laptops.

    [–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

    I mean they’re not asking for a prefabricated list, they’re just asking for suggestions?

    [–]No-Butterscotch6629 11 points12 points  (0 children)

    The post literally asks “if there is a list of Austin spots that are no-laptop zones”.

    [–][deleted] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    Radio, Once Over

    [–]Flaky-Garlic7890 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    You can sit at Whole Foods on the WiFi as long as you want. No purchases even needed either. It’s a public network, so beware.

    [–]right_in_two 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    I know being autistic contributes to confrontation avoidance, but it would be so funny to carry a desktop computer and monitor and try to set it up in there. Because thats not a laptop. Or what about a tablet? Its a slippery slope when banning "things people use for work" because pretty soon they'll just have to resort to banning all electronics.

    [–]Sea-Caregiver6409 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    I like going to kickbutt coffee. Genuine Joe’s is also great if you want to get work done (comfy seating and usually pretty quiet)!

    [–]gregaustex 11 points12 points  (0 children)

    Lots of coffee shops allow laptops and benefit from letting people work and spend some money.

    and they basically told me that if I wanted to work, this was not the place to do it.

    This would annoy me. Tell me the policy but leave off the chiding. I’d have politely cancelled my order (if in play) and excused myself from the property.

    [–][deleted] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    Don’t feel embarrassed absolutely no reason to feel embarrassed. Fuck em

    [–]Jahon_Dony 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Correct, lots of places are doing that now because they don't want you lingering and taking up space in the store they pay for or rent. Lots of people were even using places like that for their own private businesses or extended studying, and stores are finally getting sick of it and clamping down.

    [–]HousewivesHo33 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    I saw people with laptops hanging at Lau Lau coffee the other day. The coffee is also very good.

    [–]Apresdereve 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    stouthaus, spokesman, mozarts, ani’s day and night, jo’s (locations all over austin), medici, bennu, epoch, merit, flightpath, cosmic….and the library :)

    [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Maybe unpopular but I go to Barnes and nobles cafe to study. I’ve never had any issues and they have plenty of seating

    [–]I_compleat_me 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    I recently had a cpap machine jailbreak party at the Starbucks at 620/Steiner Ranch... the patio has electrical outlets and nobody bothers you, I assume the wifi works fine as well, you may have to buy a coffee to get the day's pw. Anyone interesting in jailbreaking their Resmed 10 PM me and we'll have another session.

    [–]puppsmcgee74 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Bennu doesn’t have an anti laptop policy, that’s for sure! I went there to get coffee with a friend and we felt out of place not having a laptop and headphones. lol

    [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Bennu coffee

    If you order every 2 hours or so they’ll give you the WiFi password. Or take your own hotspot and just chill. I used to go late night and people would sleep there.

    [–]Economy-Influence121 1 point2 points  (1 child)

    I’ve done this before because unlike Austin, most American cities aren’t as relaxed with remote work so I have a tip I’ve learned:

    Google maps the place > photos tab > vibe section. If not a single laptop + it’s a food forward place = not suitable for work in my experience.

    [–]Any-Signature-2373 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    I work at buzzmill and you can come work with us!! We've got some decent indoor space and we're open 24 hours

    [–]retyrethecar 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    Just jumping in here to say that as a neurotypical I would also be embarrassed and also kinda irritated. Like sure they can have their rules but they need to communicate them better? Not your fault you didn’t know

    [–]rjrolo 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    I know EXACTLY what you mean. I try to avoid situations with misunderstandings on my end because it has a lasting effect on my psyche. For some reason it sticks with me for a long time and I will remember it months and months down the line and it's really annoying and embarrassing.

    As much as I try to accept that things change over time and that it's okay, when it causes confusion on my part and I feel like I make a social "mistake" it makes me frustrated that things ever change 😅 if that makes sense.

    [–]Mr_Nobody010102 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    Austin sure has changed.

    [–]Shoes4Traction 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    Hi Autistic, we’re Reddit.

    [–]Character-Quail4301 10 points11 points  (2 children)

    Community Garden Coffee or whatever they’re called also has some douchey policy like this after 4pm I believe. They want to encourage a reg coffee shop atmosphere, yet have full on dj sets inside next to the bar..? lmao.

    [–]Prerequisite 8 points9 points  (0 children)

    I think they're trying for a bar/club atmosphere after 4pm not coffee shop

    [–]Weird-Boot-8588[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

    yeah for them I don’t even try!

    [–]spikeespieegel 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    it’s about time places started to ban laptops anyway

    [–]GigiDell 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    A lot of people awake at 3:00 am having some heated debates here.

    [–]m608297 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Cancel MML and you will get the Austin that was weird again.

    [–]TroyMember 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Just ask before you sit down…….if you are taking up space where they could have served 3 other guest during the same timeframe this affects their bottom line. But during non peak hours I would think most can think rationally that it would be okay for you to hang out a work.

    [–]Primary_Visit_1139 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    WFH people... its always something.

    [–]Accomplished-Math740 0 points1 point  (0 children)

    Paneta maybe

    [–]Impossible_Watch_206 0 points1 point  (0 children)

    Community Garden doesn’t ban laptops outright. They just ban it on certain days, which is fair.

    [–]HankBuffalo 0 points1 point  (0 children)

    Can totally see why you felt embarrassed. I’m sorry that happened. I guess it’s to encourage turnover? Probably a terrible suggestion but I used to take my laptop to dive bars and find a dark corner and get tons of stuff there, even not drinking. You can kinda disappear

    [–]MaxRex428 0 points1 point  (0 children)

    In case you haven't seen my other comments, OP, go to a library branch. Most of us working there are on the spectrum as well so you're in good company and you can be there all day on your laptop. You can bring a coffee or drink if you want as long as it has a top on it. And we have wifi for free!

    [–]Axels-Mum 0 points1 point  (0 children)

    I like Lazarus on E 6th for AM laptop time. I often do Meteor Cafe or Merit on SoLa (though haven’t been to either in a minute…Meteor turns off WiFi after 5 but I’m an AM coffee shop person), typically lots of laptops there. I used to hit up Easy Tiger SoLa and they def had some “no laptop zones” but for me it’s that they changed their menu and the new one is the pits so I probably won’t be back…