Farewell to an Austin Icon

:Have you ever wondered how it feels to say goodbye to a beloved Austin institution that's been serving up classic Tex-Mex for four decades? In this heartfelt episode of The JB and Sandy Show, the crew kicks things off with sad news: the iconic South Congress location of El Mercado is closing its doors for good this Wednesday, December 17th – but don't worry, the Burnet Road spot lives on, and you can still grab their famous salsa at HEB! The team dives into Austin's ever-changing landscape, debating Torchy's vs. Taco Deli (you're one or the other, right?), sharing hilarious foil-eating mishaps, and reminiscing about classics like Matt's El Rancho and the "all-American taco." They also reflect on saying farewell to longtime spots like Catfish Parlor and ponder what's next for that prime SoCo real estate (condos, anyone?).Things heat up with the Story We Love: Austin City Council just greenlit Southwest Airlines' huge expansion at ABIA, bringing 2,000 new jobs with an jaw-dropping average salary of $180,000! Could this mean more direct flights, cheaper fares, and Austin-based pilots and crews? The gang breaks it all down.Then, hop in the Wayback Machine as Sandy finally dives into the legendary Mad Men – four episodes in and already hooked on Don Draper's mysterious past (is he a deserter?!), the nonstop smoking and cocktails, pointy bras, and that shocking picnic litter scene. JB raves about rewatching it endlessly, while they marvel at the 1960s office antics and unforgettable characters like Christina Hendricks.Memorable moments include: "You're going to eat a little bit of foil" from Taco Deli tacos, tales of accidentally devouring In-N-Out wrapper paper, and laughs over vintage lingerie that looked like "the Egyptian pyramids." Cold weather debates, hot chocolate rants, and Pioneer Woman's shoutout to Austin's Trail of Lights round out this fun, nostalgic ride through Austin life and pop culture.Don't miss this mix of local heartbreak, big news, and binge-worthy TV talk – tune in now before El Mercado's final day slips away! Hit play, subscribe for more daily Austin vibes, leave us a review, and share with your fellow Texans who bleed breakfast tacos and Mad Men drama.