"Most things in life could be improved by being on the water. And doing work is no exception. Mozart’s has been a Tarrytown staple for over three decades, both as a place for getting work done and for casual catch-ups when the weather is nice (it’s about 60% patio). Coffee and cold brew are both self-serve and bottomless—which is great for long work sessions—and there’s a big list of housemade pastries and desserts if you need a little snack. And if you want something heavier, just head to the tiki-meets-Tex-Mex spot Hula Hut next door for some Hawaiian fajitas and a margarita. But we can’t promise you’ll get much work done after that." - nicolai mccrary, matthew jacobs
"This West Austin coffee shop’s expansive tree-shaded patio is right on the lake, making it perfect for leisurely drinks and snacks. Many sober dates have taken place here over pretty cakes and Italian sodas. In addition to the water views and the trees of Red Bud Isle across the lake, Mozart’s often hosts events or live music, making for a picture-perfect outing." - Erin Russell
"The spacious Lake Austin cafe wins for beautiful scenery (Water! Birds! Fish!). Though the coffee, Italian sodas, and baked goods take second place to the view, they’re really quite good. There are indoor areas with big windows, but why not get right next to the water?" - Erin Russell
"The Lake Austin coffee shop will be hosting its annual holiday light — now with installations on land and water (with boats!) rather than moving lights. It started on Friday, November 29, and runs through Saturday, January 4. The cafe revamped its ticketing style so that people can book time slots (as opposed to the previous table reservations) from 5 to 7:30 p.m. or 7:30 to 10 p.m.; tickets are $5 with service fees for adults and it’s free for children 11 years old and younger. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas." - Nadia Chaudhury
"Enjoy a gorgeous lakeside view while sitting on the massive patio at the Westfield cafe. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas." - Darcie Duttweiler