The 50 best spots for cocktails in Austin

Upscale cocktails with a cool ambiance! If you like mixed drinks this is the place to go. They have a great mix of traditional cocktails and their own creations. It’s also very educational as the drinks are arranged by era from prohibition to today and ranked by boozy-ness! Lawerence was very friendly and patiently answered all of questions. Try the drink he created it - was sooooo good (it’s not listed on the website and I can’t remember the name)

Absolutely a must go spot in downtown for their cocktail list and other drinks. Not an extensive list of food and main dishes but the right spot if you're looking for the ambiance, nice music and upkeep atmosphere. In the heart of downtown ATX.

Dark and moody cocktail bar with an incredibly extensive menu. They have a section of their menu detailing cocktails throughout the ages— essentially a list of cocktails that were either created or popularized in different decades which was super cool. I enjoyed a unique take on an espresso martini. However I will note that it was disappointing that so many of their cocktails contain walnut liquor. I tried to order a different cocktail without this in it, but since it was pre-batched I was unable have it withheld. Docking a star for this because it should be easier to remove such a common allergen.

I enjoyed this place. So many drinks to choos from. I had an espresso martini which was delicious. Also ordered the happy hour potato pancakes. They were delicious but I could’ve used a knife. Place is dark and moody, if that’s your jam. I’ll be back to try more cocktails and eats.

Rating: 4/5 [dine in] We were excited to try The Roosevelt Room since they've won so many awards, but honestly, it fell short of our expectations. The place is dimly lit and gives off Prohibition-era vibes, but makes it hard to see -- especially if you're trying to take photos or videos without using flash. Service was great. Our server shared some interesting background about the bar, which added a nice touch to the experience. There is a $1 per person charge for staff benefits though. Their menu is probably the biggest drink menu I've ever seen, and the presentation is impressive. However, when it comes down to taste, the cocktails just didn't live up to the hype and at these prices, it's hard to justify. Zombie ($32): Served in a skull with flaming cinnamon powder -- very theatrical -- which was cool for a second, but then our friends noticed the powder got all over their side of the table and even on their phones. The cocktail tasted good, but nothing special. It's lighter than the Blue Blazer and not very spirit-forward. The ice also melts quickly, so drink it fast or it'll just taste watered down. Blue Blazer ($32): Your choice of spirit with ginger snap syrup, hot water, bitters, lemon peel, and nutmeg. Honestly, it tasted like straight alcohol and medicine. Wouldn't recommend unless you're just trying to get hammered. Overall, The Roosevelt Room is worth visiting for the showmanship and service, but the cocktails didn't quite justify the price tag for us.

After being out shopping on a very hot day, we walked past this place and decided to call in for a refreshing drink. It is a very cool bar with a very large selection of cocktails, all of which are responsibly priced for Austin. Our bartender Tomàs made the visit definitely worth it. He is very knowledgeable and recommended some really good cocktails but also made the time to have a chat with us and explain a bit about the bar. We are only in Austin for 4 nights but will definitely call back to this place before we go.

Went for drinks and enjoyed our time. Expansive menu but the server was really helpful. So many great cocktails. Loved the chalkboard above the bar details time periods and drinks!

Very cool spot, great location! Our server was on point. Drinks were excellent and the food was pretty darn good. Can’t wait to go back and try new things. Highly recommended! 👍🏼👍🏼

I took myself here on a solo date on Valentine's Day 2025. They had amazing seasonal drinks with picks that had a red heart on the end. The pulled pork sliders are to die for, and I'd drive all the way back just to get those again. Sitting at the bar as a solo patron was perfect, as I got to see my food and drink be prepared right in front of me. Talking to the servers who worked the bar was a fun touch of good ol' Texan hospitality that made me feel noticed and valued as a customer on a holiday meant for togetherness. The next time I'm in the Austin area, I WILL pay another visit to this amazing place!

Yes, very disappointed. The pricey glass of wine, was very lacking. The pasta dish was over cooked, even burnt and you couldn't chew the burnt parts and over all tasted terrible. We both got the pasta dish and couldn't believe how bad it was. The pricey glass of wine my friend had he liked it. My red glass of wine, I drank it. I would never order another glass. The only thing we liked was one of the two wait staff. And we enjoyed sitting outside. Thank you for allowing me to express our disappointment, P T Thomson

Didn’t eat any food but the drinks and ambience was great.

Great mid-century modern chill vibe and drinks were well made. I did not try the food but from what I saw and heard from the folks sitting next to us, the snacks were all amazing. I’ll definitely be back when I’m in Austin!

One of my favorites in Austin. Excellent bartenders pouring balanced cocktails, I would basically throw a dart at the drink list and then start. For food, I actually think the veggie burger is better than the meat burger (in both cases I add an egg). The Brussels sprouts are really popular as they are very good. I also had their special, a tahini cake ball I think, which was an excellent last morsel. The five stars for sure is for the drinks and the ambience: a classy neighborhood bar.

Great experience at this place. Friendly bartenders, great menu for food and drinks and super good happy hour. Cocktails were really good and they're also willing to create a cocktail for you and I love places where we have the freedom to order that and the bartenders have the willingness and creativity to make other drinks not on the menu. It gets packed and it's a pretty small place but very inviting. The fries were yummy and crispy, the brussel sprouts were yummy too but too salty and the butternut squash puree just didn't belong in the dish.

Checked out Small Victory for a date night, and it was a great spot for drinks. The place is pretty small, so it’s perfect for couples or small groups, but not ideal for large parties. The cocktails were top-notch, and the atmosphere had that classic speakeasy feel. Only thing missing? Food! Would’ve loved some loaded nachos or snacks to go with the drinks, but maybe that’s just me. Parking was a bit tricky—street parking was tough, so I ended up using a public lot nearby. Overall, a great spot for a cozy night out!

The rating is a bit inflated for this bar IMO… The atmosphere is a bit boring. Interior design is nothing special (no theme). Cocktails are mediocre. Cheap glassware, no garnish, basic presentation

Excellent date night choice for us! Menu drinks we had were all solid and our “bartender’s choice” option was also an absolute banger. From the greeting we received upon entry until our departure, the service was true hospitality. Our primary bartender was Lily and she made our experience extra great! I think every staff member made a point to check on us, refill water, be politely engaging, and did it with a genuine desire to enhance our visit. We didn’t have any food, but we’ll for sure be back for that (and of course drinks) next time. Thank you!

According to their thermostat it was a toasty 85 degrees inside… in July…. In Texas… They checked on us once with warm tap water. The drinks took a while so we were only able to order two small cocktails in a hour. If it’s your first time, you’re better off spending your money elsewhere, the bartenders connected better with people they knew already and didn’t say thank you or bye like they did with others. We spent $90 for 4 cocktails and mixed nuts. We left looking for a spot to end the night on a better note and found Higbies. Spent $65 for 4 cocktails, two shots, a bag of takis, good music, and funny bartenders.

Easily one of the best cocktail bars in Austin. They do all the classics well and have a fun menu to boot. Don’t sleep on the charcuterie boards either. Service was impeccable and bar staff is very knowledgeable. Kind of place you can order any cocktail with complete confidence.

LOVE this place! The staff have always been incredible here. It’s gets busy but it is a much more intimate spot for cocktails than most of the bars/lounges in Austin!

Amazing, cool environment, sort of like a speakeasy. Drinks and meat and cheese board were Awesome!

Amazing drinks menu, each and every cocktail is beautifully crafted. The menu is fun too and takes you through a journey. They change their menu periodically. It’s a speakeasy and not easy to find. Also, I recommend reservations in advance as this place is quite small and is famous and full. Had a great time!

Midnight Cowboy is everything I imagined it would be and more! A speakeasy always adds to the fun of a night out and this is one of the coolest I’ve been to. When you make a reservation (this is a must) you’re given a name to select on the callbox. Buzz the name and the host will let you in. I was served by Holly and what a gem she is! She walks you through the menu and describes how the staff came up with all of the concoctions. There’s quite a bit to choose from so use the table of contents! I had their take on the old fashioned, the King of Cups, and let me tell you, that puppy was STRONG but balanced. Truly one of the most unique old fashioned I’ve had. The presentation was top-notch with a smoked serving tray. 10/10 cocktail. (Pssst, this one drink is over 32% so keep that in mind) The next drink I ordered was the Elixir of Love, which is a more floral take on the aperol spritz. I had the pleasure of having this made table side and it just enhanced the experience. All cocktails are around $20 each but to me, the expeeience, atmosphere, service, and overall abv makes this more than a reasonably priced experience. With the setting being so intimate, it’ll never be too loud either, so this is a perfect date night spot or place to end the evening. It’s great for small groups, dates, or the solo traveller (like me!) If you can, ask for Holly! She’ll take the experience to the next level.

Midnight Cowboy is such a unique and unforgettable experience! The atmosphere is one-of-a-kind—intimate, cool, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a night of truly great cocktails. The drinks here are not just tasty but carefully crafted, with so much attention to detail. You can immediately tell the bartenders love what they do. One of the best parts is how special the whole experience feels. You do need to make a reservation in advance, and once you do, you get a secret entrance code to use at the door. It adds to the excitement and makes the night feel like something out of a movie. Our host was awesome and incredibly helpful, making sure we felt comfortable and guiding us through the menu if we had any questions. Overall, this is absolutely a must-visit in Austin if you want more than just a regular cocktail bar. Between the amazing drinks, the speakeasy vibes, and the thoughtful, welcoming service, Midnight Cowboy is easily one of my favorite spots in the city.

Midnight Cowboy is an excellent pre or post dining experience, or just as a jump off or close to an evening. The mixologists are masters of craft serving the best spritited and non-alcoholic creations. I love the new menu - both in design and recipe reprotoire - that I had to buy one as a keepsake. I will visit again soon.

Fun discrete, narrow bar marked along sixth street by a red bulb. Extensive rotating drink menu that unfortunately doesn't feature any prices. Our drinks were great and both around $19. It features about 8 booths along a central aisle leading to the bar and private rooms in the rear. We were lucky to get a seat without reservations, but we're reminded to leave by a certain time. The drink menu changes frequently, built around a theme. The most bold part of my drink's presentation and flavor was its smokiness. Dramatic, but unfortunately the smokiness not only spoke first among the flavors, it spoke loudest.

Very laid back environment with fun drink menu. The speakeasy vibe add to the mysterious atmosphere of the summer menu, inspired by the toro cards.

Love the intimate setting. There are only 8 tables. Technically, it's reservation-only, but walk-in might be accommodated near their opening time at 5 pm. Their cocktail menu is interesting, a 6-chapter story on cowboys vs. aliens (Texas with a quirky twist!): Highballs, Stirred and Down, Mahattanas and Martinis, Sours and Daisys, Terraformed Tiki Culture, Zero Proof. The categorisation (where it made sense) helped. I had the Chaps 'N' Spurs (Rye Whiskey, Planetary Xaymaca, Lo-Fi Gentian Amaro, Gènèpy, Demerara, Peychaud's Bitters), The Void (Reyka Vodka, Cold Brew, Coffee Liquer, Toasted Meringue), and Venusian Blood (Bacon Fat Washed, Del Maguey Mezcal, Beetroot, Lime). The exotic ingredients in the first manifested in a sophisticated flavour, the second is an interesting twist on the espresso martini given the addition of meringue, while the third was just brilliant beyond words in the harmonious flavour of beetroot with the other ingredients. Midnight Cowboy deserves a place in the top bars of the world. Oh, and I love the music there.

Super chill spot. Went there on a weekday and reserved a spot, pretty packed for a small spot. Great service, decent price for a cocktail bar downtown area. The server was friendly and nice. Will definitely go back to chill and relax with a drink or 2.

Interesting location in a converted parking garage in a building owned by Comedor. Dimly lit with a speakeasy vibe. It's reminiscent of the Drunken Unicorn in Atlanta. The sound system playing jazz records could be louder. The drinks are strong and curated perfectly. A bit on a pricey side though. Reservations are highly recommended if not required.

Cool spot that is definitely worth a visit. They have converted an old parking garage into a speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a dark and moody atmosphere. Intimate seating arrangement, it’s perfect for hanging with friends or even a date night. Recommend getting a reservation. Loved the cocktail offerings, my favorite was the “Indian Paintbrush.”

One of my favorite speakeasy's in town. The atmosphere is perfect for a date. Every cocktail I've ever had is incredible. Highly recommend going. Best to do reservations but I've found if there are only two of you they can typically get you a seat at the bar which is also a fun experience.

Definitely unique location and concept - located inside a parking garage. However, the interior design has not much relevance to cars or parking, which was a bit disappointing. Also the cocktails here are very basic (presentation and taste) But friendly team and good for a quick drink

Nice place to hang out with friends if you are looking for something quiet and intimate. Strong drinks.

Our favorite bar in Austin. It's tiny, so get a reservation. They can make anything. Bartender helped me discover my favorite drink, a Penicillin.

Rating: 4.4/5 [dine in] Our friends wouldn't stop talking about Whisler's $0.75 martini summer special on Wednesdays from 4-7 PM, so we finally made time to check it out. We got there around 5:30 PM and luckily didn't have to wait in line to get in. They handed us two white drink tickets for the martinis when we walked in. The bar inside was packed, and the three bartenders were cranking out flights of martinis nonstop. We had to wait a bit to order and get our drinks, but everyone was chill and patient, so it wasn't bad. After we got our drinks, we headed outside to find a spot. All the tables were full, so sharing was pretty common. We noticed there was also an outdoor bar, which is where we grabbed our second round. The space outside is bigger, but the line moved a lot slower. The martini glasses were on the smaller side, but for $0.75, we weren't expecting much. Surprisingly, the drinks were not watered down so I can see why Martini Wednesdays is such a hit! Cosmo Martini: Not bad--just a little too syrupy and sweet for us. Espresso Martini: Tasty, strong but not overpowering, with a well-balanced flavor. Our friend liked it so much, he ended up ordering four in total that night!

I have ordered Tierra Amarga and was expecting it to be more sour and fresh (cause of mezcal tequila) but both drink and special foam on top are was kinda sweet to me. But overall was a satisfying drink. Atmosphere was top notch (dim candle lights , vintage bar style and kinda had medieval architecture vibes inside. Was definitely an experience!!!

This place is where the hype outweighs the flavor. Big, crowded, and trying way too hard—each $25 cocktail was a messy mix of ingredients that tasted more like a bad smoothie than a drink. Bill was $100 for four drinks and left unimpressed. Cool vibe, but pure hipster tax.

We went here off of the advice of someone at a different bar. The place was packed. I totally did not like it. I'm not going to give this a 5 star rating nor am I going to give this a bad review with a 3 start rating. The crowd is very mixed here. Drinks are very expensive. It seemed that most of the drinks there are overly done and excessively sweet with too many ingredients. As a result this causes massive lines to build up just to get a drink (waited 25 minutes to get 2 drinks). The outside/ backyard is expansive but you'll have a hard time finding a seat. Hope this gave you an idea.

I was walking past when I found this cute little place. Needless to say I was not disappointed! The mezcal bar upstairs has almost an “illegal speakeasy” vibe to it just adding to the already amazing selection and service. Ideal date spot and some beautiful vibes and ambiance. Andy in the mezcal bar had outstanding service and worked with me on tastes and finding the right mezcal for me!

Great place to chill with friends and large groups. We were visiting Austin for 5 days and went here twice. We always found great people to grab a table with. Drinks are certainly more expensive than most areas but that's why you're here.

Super fun and eclectic bar with indoor and outdoor seating. Craft cocktails and very nice staff. They’ll also make you anything based on your flavor profiles too. We loved the cocktail happy hour menu and candlelit ambiance inside.

We came in during the week and were lucky to snag a spot at the bar. The place was packed! The theme of Moe's tavern is pretty fun and would definitely recommend to any Simpsons fan. Drinks and service were good

Nickel City during their Simpson’s Moe’s Tavern theme is an absolute blast! The place was packed, creating an energetic, fun vibe that really brought the theme to life. They did an awesome job with all the themed drinks, adding a playful touch that made the experience even better. Went with friends, and we all had a great time soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the creativity behind each drink. Perfect spot if you’re looking for a unique, lively night out!

Cannot visit Austin without going to Nickel city! The food is delicious, not the cocktails are even better!!! I always get the pink drink and tater tots!! Their bourbon selection is impressive!

We went here for national hot dog day! Had some great dogs, exactly what you want when you want the classic! Nice frosty beer too! Pet friendly as well!

Atmosphere was divey but still welcoming. Joey was awesome, super attentive and personable. I will come back just for him 🫶🏼

I stopped in for their Simpsons pop-up and it was very well executed! I loved how the servers were all dressed up as different characters. The cocktails, like the Flaming Moe, were delicious! The vibe was very fun and welcoming and the bartender even offered us free shots. Super fun and would highly recommend

Awesome place to get my last cocktail during my visit to Austin. This place has a friendly, welcoming staff, a dark yet swanky feel. Almost like a speak-easy meets your local bar. The food is delicious and the drinks are just right. I would not have known about this place but some friends in our group were staying at the hotel close by so this became their regular spot while in town as they fell in love with the staff. So we closed out our trip here for a nightcap and great conversation. I'll definitely be back next time I'm in town for a conference, comedy, or just to have fun.

This is a bar on Rainey Street. It has a chill vibe. There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. The drinks were pretty good and the bartenders were friendly. It’s great for people watching or just relaxing. There are lots of bachelor and bachelorette parties around here too.

The cocktails were excellent, friendly staff, good service, good vibes. Happy hour specials unbeatable. My favorite place on Rainey st.

We stopped here for happy hour and loved it! the bartender was great and full of energy, he was so nice. My drink was amazing, I can't remember the name but it has vodka and ginger beer. It has such a great outdoor space! I would total go back. I hated to leave!

JD at Half Step is the definition of mastery in motion. His presence behind the bar is calm, confident, and intentional — you feel like you’re in good hands from the moment he asks what you’d like. He reads people effortlessly and builds drinks that feel personal, not just mixed. The balance and flavor in every cocktail he makes show skill, but it’s the hospitality that makes the experience memorable. JD doesn’t just make drinks — he curates a moment. If you’re in Austin and appreciate craft done right, he’s someone you hope is behind the bar.

This is my favorite bar on Rainey! They have perfectly crafted cocktails, great live music and the best staff. I come here at least once a week and it’s consistently great.

Honestly, the best bar in Austin in my opinion. It has such old charm and character with live music, world class cocktails and tremendous people watching. This bar is a must go!

Great bar with amazing craft cocktails. I’m always impressed how the staff prepares the cocktails at the bar. They have 2 food trucks on location, one truck for spicy chicken and one truck for mini donuts. Their happy hours menu is also worth checking out. Really good drinks in affordable prices.

The place is super cute, with themed decoration and a great selection of drinks on the menu. The entrance was a bit confusing at first, but once I figured it out, I thought it was actually really charming. I work as a bartender somewhere else, so I can confidently say the drinks at Tiki are quite nice :) The bartender was very friendly, and the other staff checked in to see how our experience was going. I left with such a pleasant impression, I’d definitely recommend it for a date or a fun night out with friends.

This place is incredible! We popped in for a few drinks and honestly what a ride! When certain drinks are ordered, there’s a whole theatrical experience with lights and music. The bartenders are clearly loving what they do, and their energy makes the whole place come alive. The atmosphere is fantastic, fun, vibrant, and full of good vibes. The drinks are unbelievable and crafted to perfection. Perfect spot for couples, groups, or anyone looking for a lively and memorable night out!

I'm here for work and brought a group of my colleagues to Tiki Tatsu-ya for the evening. I've heard about Tiki Tatsu-ya for a number of years, but it really exceeded my expectations. The decor was dense, carefully thought out, and immersive. The drinks were not just delicious, but had small and fascinating riffs on traditional tiki classics (the addition of miso to the orgeat in their S.O.S. was a great example). But the hospitality of the staff was the best part--everyone we interacted with was warm, enthusiastic, and really made us happy to be there. This place deserves its reputation as one of the best tiki bars in the world.

YES! YES! YES! Best tiki bar I’ve ever been to! The dedication to the theme is incredible. I’m in love with this place. It makes Disneyland feel like it’s not trying hard enough. The drinks were super yummy. Loved the strip n go naked…had two of those 🥴 the taro tots were super good too. Great snack to have while sipping on cocktails. I even loved the bathroom. With the pirate reading god knows what, the parrot hanging up from the ceiling. The staff were super friendly and genuinely seemed happy to be there. I def want to come back here and try all the other drinks. Especially the ones they catch on fire tableside!

We were visiting from HTX, and this is the Best tiki bar I’ve been to ☺️ from checking in to service to walking out, we had a great first experience. The drinks were yummy, they do have a couple of items they can make non-alcoholic, and the food was delicious. We got the kalua pork lettuce wraps, salmon miso poke 10/10, and the crab lagoon.

This bar is so cool!! I never knew this existed. The bar is so awesome. Their drinks are extravagant! The staff is really great. I highly recommend reservations, but sometimes you can get away with walking in and bar seating.

The downfall of this restaurant, in our opinion, is the service, or lack thereof. The hostesses were pleasant, but not overly welcoming. The bar staff was preoccupied setting up the restaurant, even though it was late afternoon. They only had a couple of occupied tables when we got there. The employees behind the bar spent their time chatting with each other and didn't engage with us much. Part of the fun of a tiki bar is the ambiance and the experience. For us, the drinks were good but for $18 they tasted like other Tiki Bar drinks. This experience just lacked anything special for us. Probably won't be back.

Expecting a firehouse but somehow ended up at a cute speakeasy where you enter through a bookcase in the wall? Just another regular Friday night in Austin. In all seriousness though, Firehouse is a decent speakeasy where half the fun is in taking photos at the sliding bookcase and the other half is after you wait about 20 minutes for your drinks. We ordered the passion fruit daiquiri and old fashioned (they couldn’t make a strawberry daiquiri variation, not sure if they couldn’t or wouldn’t). The drinks are good and strong but in a dimly lit speakeasy with a strange floor plan it never really felt worth the wait. There is sometimes live music which we unfortunately didn’t catch so there’s likely nights where the energy is much higher and you wouldn’t even notice. The speakeasy is on the far more accessible side (definitely not for parking, but it’s 6th so you should Uber anyways) which is good for those who want a casual find and might be fine with waiting for their drinks. It comes across as more of a lounge so be aware of that before expecting a lot of it. But in an area littered with other options, Firehouse feels a bit lacking. We’d recommend it as a warmup bar if you’re going out for a night on 6th but wouldn’t put it down as the highlight.

We love the Firehouse Lounge. The bartenders are artist! Could have better background music but other than that, we love having cocktails here.

WARNING! KEEP YOUR RECEIPT AND CHECK THE AMOUNT THAT POSTS TO YOUR ACCOUNT BECAUSE THEY ADD BIGGER TIPS FOR THEMSELVES!!! It's a shame too bcuz my friends and I had a good night but I just checked my card to see that they added an extra $10 on top of the tip I'd already given for 2 drinks.

During my stay I most enjoyed the happy hour tacos! Birria ones were my favorite, taste-price was performative :) It was nice to have this bar, I attended early hours but they had many different shows on their schedule.

I had a okay experience at Firehouse Lounge; the atmosphere truly captured the essence of a speakeasy with its hidden entrance behind a bookcase. The music choice was great. The drinks were decent, although they could have been better. I ordered the Old Fashioned. However, I did notice that the bartenders seemed a bit unhappy and not very friendly during my visit.

My first time at a hostel. Enjoyed my stay and met some interesting people at the common kitchen area. Chose the female dorm room option, which made me feel comfortable. Located at a busy and happening place in Austin so it was fairly convenient for me (Also be aware that it won't be super quiet at night). Basic amenities were available.

The perfect spot for a date imo! Intimate, with a hint of mystery. We saw a live band and the sound was incredible.

Drinks are definitely overpriced, small size. Honestly, happy hour is the only time it feels worth it. Bartender wasn’t the most welcoming, sadly! a smile would’ve made the experience better. The pool’s more for looks than lounging, it’s super shallow. And heads up! just snacks, no real food. To be real, I’d only come back for happy hour or a special event.

Cocktails are so freaking cute And the bartenders are always so nice. The cocktail she made me was a mix between the egg cocktail and she added banana liqueur and was SO good. Also they have jello shots!

Really low key place we found open on Christmas Day late in the afternoon. Beautifully decorated. Inviting and friendly and they even had free cookies and donuts on the bar. We each had a hot toddy and it was delicious. Dog friendly establishment as well. Just a very cool place. They have a pool or a hot tub (?) outside. Not sure which. But I should have taken pictures. My bad.

It's a little Miami-esque get away on the east side. Adorable, funky, good flavors, great staff. Nice vibe in the slower business hours for a better get away experience!

This is a funky little place on the east side that has not quite a watering pool, but rather a fountain in their outdoor courtyard, and the inside bar is pretty funky as to be expected on the east side. I went during Hanukkah and it was such a relief to have a nice place, celebrate it for the community whoever wanted to join

My wife and I dropped by for drinks earlg on Fri. around 4pm...parking on the street was easy, and we really enjoyed the poolside vibe and umbrella atmosphere. We were unfortunate enough to have a gust of wind pull our umbrella down on top of us, but only drinks were lost, no injuries, and the bartenders wete quick to comp refills. we began w Aperol Spritzes, but loved our mezcal drinks even more. They had some hot dog booth setup by the pool which was cool, too. Honestly, this is simply a nice place to sit outside, enjoy sun and shade, and sip on nice drinks crafted by some people that know their craft. Dogs were welcome, too. We'll be back. Happy Hour (3-6) was good, but we ordered off that menu for the mezcal and were happy.

Love this place. Super cool and chill vibe with DJs sometimes inside and outside. Drinks are clever and really good too. Great sound system outside!

This is definitely the place to visit! Service has been amazing as soon as you walk in. Very friendly staff who wanna make sure you have a great time. We sat at the bar and had a great time talking with Aiden the bartender. Let me tell you the guy knows his drinks and is very talented at what he does. I would highly recommend this for a date night or just a nice cocktail to enjoy.

This was my first time going to a Speakeasy and it did not disappoint! Every detail was so thoughtfully curated and it was an amazing experience. This definitely takes the spot of #1 in my books! From the amazing service, drinks, and ambience this place is definitely something not to miss if you are in Austin or visiting!

What is more welcoming than a bear with champagne to cleanse the pallet? I’ll tell ya! Aidan. He was the best bartender. He was full of the best recommendations of places to eat and drink in Austin, as well the best drink maker. The hospitality was top notch, The drinks at this place are some of the best we have ever had - and we come from a drinking town. 12/10 highly recommend visiting this place. So cool to find down an alley, and have one of the best bar experiences for a vacation. Thank you!!

Here Nor There offers a super cool and intentional experience. There's no signage out front, and you need to book ahead and receive a passcode to get into the alley where the entrance is. You're greeted at the door with a glass of prosecco, and shown to your seat. At the times I've gone, the menu was Texas themed, with drinks created to represent different places in Texas, along with accompanying illustrations. The cocktails were all presented beautifully, and some cocktails even have an interactive element served with them. The food is largely bar snacks - a bar mix, flatbread with dip, charcuterie, etc etc but it was all very good. I highly recommend the trio of tartlettes to end your night out on a sweet note. On top of all this, the staff on both of my visits have been wonderful, attentive, and knowledgeable about everything on the menu. This is definitely high on my list of places in Austin for a date night out.

An incredibly unique experience, both from getting into the bar where they give you a little appetizer drink, and the drinks themselves. Clearly crafted by someone who puts an intense amount of care into their craft. Also the art on the menu is stunning

Great bar! Dark, chilled vibes with a smooth mix of R&B beats. On arrival, you’re greeted with a glass of bubbles and shown to your table, such a lovely touch. We had Eileen as our server and she was absolutely wonderful, friendly, attentive, and on the ball. The moment your glass was nearly empty, she was right there to check in. The service was genuinely outstanding. The drinks were smooth, beautifully balanced, and very easy to drink. You do need to book via their app to get an access code for entry. We didn’t realise this at first and luckily ended up at In Plain Sight (the small intimate bar above), where the bartender kindly helped us secure a reservation. We went on a Sunday night and got lucky, but I’d highly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment. And definitely stop by In Plain Sight for a pre-drink. Their cocktails are next level!

Came in with a reservation and was seated immediately. Despite sitting at the bar and attempting to make eye contact with the bartenders, I sat there nearly 30 Minutes before eventually flagging down a waitress and asking to place an order. (Meanwhile, the bartender helped the couple next to me to a second drink). Service improved after that and drinks were super unique and well balanced, but at the price point, service leaves much to be desired

This place was so cute! It’s very chic and business casual. Most people who were in the cafe were there to work but it was a great vibe :) I got an Ube latte which was delicious! The cashier/barista was very nice and helped me understand the different latte flavors. Coffee was well priced. I did not get a chance to try their cocktails or food yet.

In general, this spot is just outstanding. I’ve been here a couple of times to do some remote work and every time it’s been a solid experience. The atmosphere is relaxed but still has that modern, stylish vibe that makes you want to stay for hours. Their Wi-Fi is insanely fast (I clocked it at over 450 Mbps), which is a lifesaver if you’re working. The drinks and cocktails are genuinely good — not your average coffee shop stuff — and the service has always been on point. The location is also a big plus. Easy to get to, plenty of parking around, and it feels like a perfect balance between a coffee shop and a cocktail bar. Honestly, it’s one of those places you can come for work during the day and seamlessly stay for a drink in the evening. Definitely one of my go-to spots in Austin — highly recommend checking it out.

I stop by every time I'm in Austin and it never disappoints. I always go for whatever specialty spritz they have available on the menu—my favorite one ever was a strawberry-coconut infused elderflower spritz from a few years back, and I still think about it ALL the time. I even DMed the business on Instagram for the recipe, and they were kind enough to send it to me. On my most recent visit, I sat at the bar and was able to get some work done on my laptop which was nice. I tried the seasonal spritz which was Italicus, Pisco, Pear, Prosecco, and Sparkling Sicilian Lemonade. It was SO delicious. I also grabbed an iced Ube Matcha Latte to go, and it was fantastic as well. Consistently a great spot with creative drinks and a warm, welcoming vibe.

Cute place! We were a walk in for two of us on a Saturday night and they were able to seat us. We love that they had mocktails and hot tea! The atmosphere was great with fun disco ball lighting, and we were able to sit and chit chat in comfort

the prices here are outrageous. we paid 9.46 for a matcha. they lowkey scammed us and added a 1.50 hidden "latte fee" before tax on top of a $7 drink. def not worth the price

Espresso martini is on point. And the customer service was lovely. Vibes were elegant and inviting. Will definitely be back!

I see why the reviews on here aren’t great, not a bad spot but drinks are incredibly overpriced for what they are, you’d expect not to get a chipped glass at that point too. There’s many better places in downtown Austin to get cocktails

Coolest place in Austin I've been to so far! Literally a chill vibe.. whisky and bourbon specialties.. great band on a Wednesday night! They have three pool tables and great happy hour specials! Check this place out!

Great bar in Austin near all the action with fun vibes, happy hour specials, and pool tables. Special shout out to our bartender Anthony who was so nice and generous. We need more people like him in the world ☺️

Heaven on earth? Huge selection whiskey bar + rum bar + tequila & mezcal bar. Nuff said. Excellent whiskey bartender with lots of knowledge and willingness to explain and recommend. You can sample a bunch by doing 1oz pours.

Seven Grand is a pretty fancy bar for whiskey and tequila. They have a good selection of both. The amazing thing is that they have separate sections for both liquors! Nice seating area both inside and outside. Charming bar shelf beautifully decorated. The bartender seemed very knowledgeable. Their cocktails didn't surprise me too much but the whiskeys were amazing, especially the smoked ones.

Great spot for bourbon and cocktails. The staff was fantastic. Our bartender was knowledgeable and accommodating. The bourbon list was extensive and has some local flavor to it. When we were here they had live music. Pretty cool spot for locals and tourists, alike. Bring your girlfriend here. She'll love it.

On the other side of Willie and Janis you’re going to find thee Best Whiskey Bar in Austin. Friendly, eccentric and chill. Rows upon rows of whiskey or just ask for a recommendation- which GM Stephanie *loves* to give. And honestly? Just do what she says, you won’t regret it. Afterwards, walk out back and grab some carnitas tacos and then setup a pool table to enjoy your evening. This is an experience that Will Not Disappoint.

Cool place nice patio with lots of fans. I went to have a cigar The choices were good but I had to give my licence to get a lighter The bartender was a little short and seemed a little overwhelmed.

Cool spot with great vibes. Happy hour most days and Half off martinis on Sunday - they offer 6 total including dirty, dry, espresso and a frozen Mexican martini. The food is also really great - the zucchini fritters, and the cheeseburger are fantastic! Lots of seats inside and outside so plenty to choose from. Will be back very soon!

My husband and I are regulars at Holiday. They boast the perfect combination of atmosphere, food, and drinks. There’s no pretense behind anything they do, it’s just good shit. I recommend this place to anyone who’s looking for a good cocktail and a good time. They never fail us 🍸🍝 p.s. of course try their famous martinis, but my go-to is a gin gimlet 🙂‍↔️

Holiday is simple, nice and inviting. We didn’t know what to expect walking in, but this place just feels comfortable. The place is bigger than it looks from the outside. There’s a nice indoor area with the bar and plenty of tables. If you walk out to use the restroom, you’ll see there’s additional outdoor seating that can accommodate several others. The lighting was great and the menu was simple, but perfect. We didn’t order food here, but grabbed a few drinks. They have a variety of drinks and since we’re in the holiday season, they had a nice selection of holiday drinks. I ended up getting the Coquito and my wife ordered martini flight. The martinis were strong! She enjoyed them, but it seem like they were almost all gin. The Coquito was perfect. They give you small serving glasses with your drink, so if you want a bigger drink, you’ll probably have to order two. There’s a nice bar area and we saw about four people working back there. The staff was nice and friendly and the layout of the place was good, although it’s not just one big open room. There’s an addition off to the side of the main room. Overall i’d give this 4.5 stars, a thumbs up and a recommendation.

LOVE THIS PLACE. The service is always excellent. I have brought large groups of friends here and we always have a great time. I couldn't recommend this place enough. The vibe is perfect. I can actually hear the people I'm with which is always a plus lol.

My husband and I came to Holiday for a few drinks and were very impressed by its sleek aesthetic, complex cocktails and delicious snacks. We didn’t catch the bartender’s name but she was great and friendly. Definitely would recommend to a friend!

The inside is tiny but there's a huge patio area. We came for the olive oil cake and fries. They were both delicious. We sat at the bar this time as it was raining. Would love to come back and enjoy their patio space and try more of their food options.

OMG！ onion dip and potato chips is phenomenal! smoky wagyu burger JUST YUMMY! steak super juicy and tender. It’s really feels like a HOLIDAY

Awesome experience! Enter through Moonshine and Hostess takes you through a gated basement to enter the speakeasy. Enjoyed listening to the history of the building/location, etc... Drinks were good but the experience/atmosphere was better.

Amazing selection! We went here Saturday this past week for our wedding anniversary, the guys there I think their names were Brian and Cameron, we’re so nice and very helpful. My husband is a big scotch guy and he was in heaven there! We had dinner upstairs so we didn’t try the food offered there but we heard good things. Romantic atmosphere, fantastic service, delicious drinks. 10/10

Excellent speakeasy with delicious drinks and great service. The moody vibes, great music selection and huge spirits selection make this a place that we can’t wait to come back and visit!

Kinfolk was an incredible experience from beginning to end. The staff was accommodating and incredibly fun, with great suggestions and going above and beyond. We sat in the back communal room, which was gorgeous and filled to the brim with rare bottles of liquor. Prices were fair overall, and the cocktails were delicious as well. Kinfolk is a required visit for me anytime I'm in Austin now.

Definitely a great spot! Amazing vibes, great elegant drinks! Of the ones we tried, I liked the most the First Time Caller. Drinks are complex in flavour, strong and smooth. Didn’t try their custom drinks so can’t really speak on those. Service was good, nice crowd, good ambience. I would recommend this speakeasy once in a while. Drinks are about $20 each.

Absolutely phenomenal experience at Kinfolk! Cameron was the best mixologist we’ve had in this lifetime, the drinks he created for us were divine. We each had very different preferences and he knocked it out of the park for each and every one. Highly recommend checking this out if you’re in Austin!

The type of Modern Speakeasy that Austin Needs, especially for Whisky drinkers and liquor connoisseurs . You check into Moonshine Grill, and when your reservation is ready, you are taken down a set of stairs, through a door into the tiny cellar located downstairs. At first, it blows you away and as you adjust to the space, it gets more intriguing and cozy. The space is quite tiny, cozy, very dim, and delivers on a personal level. There is a small bar with a dedicate bar staff, BUT, the "community table" and "library" is where the magic happens. The library surrounds the community table, which is spacious enough to move intimately around the people present. Their collection of rum, and whisky would satisfy any rum/whisky drinker. These are the selections I was paying attention to mainly. The staff in the lounge are super welcoming, friendly and easy to have a conversation with. They give extremely great recommendations and take you through a journey when it comes to their libations. I had a great time sampling some of their whisky collection, and they also provided me with dropper where I could experiment opening up the whisky flavors. That's how you know a spot knows their whisky. The space is great. The staff is great. The atmosphere is cozy. The drinks are bomb; a definite must try. One thing that I loved at this place is the prices of their drinks - by no means are over the top. I think the drinks are extremely fairly priced, and of high quality. While it is reservation only, but hands down worth the wait to get one.

Cool Concept, Great Service – Just Missed the Welcome Toast Visited this Japanese-style speakeasy and really enjoyed the overall vibe and service. The concept is unique and the space feels intimate, with a clear focus on creating a curated experience around both food and drink. There’s a $10 booking fee, which is supposed to include a welcome toast from the bar—but unfortunately, we never received ours. That was a bit of a letdown, especially since it was part of the booking fee. We were seated at the bar at first, and the bartender was super friendly, introduced himself right away, and walked us through the menu in detail. After a bit, a group sat next to us that made us feel uncomfortable, and without us even saying anything, the staff noticed and offered to move us to a table. That kind of attentiveness really stood out and was genuinely appreciated. As for the food: - Escargots – just okay, nothing memorable. - Nasu fries – a bit too sour for my taste, but interesting. - Maki roll with fish – decent, but there was a surprise kick of spice that wasn’t mentioned on the menu. Not sure if it came from the soy sauce or another ingredient, but a heads-up would’ve been nice. - Wagyu nigiri – really good, would definitely order again. - Sando dessert – a fun and tasty finish, with a churro-like twist that made it stand out. The cocktails were well-crafted, though definitely on the pricey side. Drinks are charged by the ounce, and pricing depends on the spirit you choose for the base—so something to keep in mind if you're budgeting. Despite the missed welcome toast, the staff was knowledgeable and attentive, clearly passionate about both the drinks and the overall experience. I’d return—now knowing exactly what I’d order and what to skip next time.

We went to watertrade for my birthday and it was the BEST experience from the moment we walked in. The note in my phone about this place starts “the most incredible tasting meal of my life.” I mean it! The restaurant is intimate and dimly lit with comfy but oh so classy seating. We would have been happy at the bar, but wound up being seated at a small couch with a table that had plenty of room for the spread of food and drinks we enjoyed. The hostess and server were super informative and took such great care of us. We were greeted with a welcome toast of sake, immediately put in an order of oysters, and spent a good amount of time looking at a thoughtfully crafted drink menu. I loved that the drink menu was organized by seasons and there was a good mix of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks that all sounded unique and special. I liked our food strategy- we went through the menu and put in an order of a bunch of things, then we went back at the end and reordered our favorites! The oysters with roe were quite possibly the best thing I’ve ever tasted… so good (bright, fresh, fun texture!) we put in another smaller order at the end of the meal so it could be the last thing we tasted, too. We ordered the Jurojin’s dram and the Yaeyama Baby! For our first drinks. Yeayama was like nothing I’ve had before, and the flavor was really satisfying…I kept stealing sips, and the shortbread that came with it was tender and a fun complement to the drink. Jurojin’s dram was a little spicy and smoky but still bright and light with citrus. After oysters, we shared the chef’s choice sushi roll which was perfectly spicy and salty with a tiny pipette of soy sauce that was more than enough for us! Next came a white fish with super delicate mandarin pieces and yellow flower petals and Ocean Trust (Ponzu, asian pear, lemon balm, frozen tomato, cucumber, cucumber weed). We wound up getting the ocean trust again because it was also the best combination of fresh flavors and textures! There was a special sushi roll for gay pride month —Spanish ham with sardines and a white sauce and vinegar dip. Yum! The Wagyu bites were smoky and melt in your mouth tender, and I’m glad we got a couple per our server’s suggestion so we could each savor our own. We ordered the Aji Sashimi twice, too! It was perfectly smoky and salty…but also sashimi, so SO fresh! I can’t remember the name of the last drink we shared, but it was sweet but balanced. The escargot did not get a big shoutout in my note, but not because it wasn’t delicious. Served with shredded carrot and potato chips, like everything else it was balanced, interesting, and so special. I didn’t see the bill, and I’m glad because, even though it was a birthday treat, I’m sure I would have felt a little guilty. Even with the variety of foods we savored, dinner was light. I would not come here starving unless you’re ready to drop a tiny fortune. Grab a snack before hand, and enjoy every bite!

Amazing drinks and bites! My friend and I came here for cocktails and were amazed by the restaurant. The bar is very dark and ambient, I absolutely loved the intimate atmosphere. Drinks were amazing. Don’t miss out on the bites they gave from their sister restaurant, my friend and I had the best sashimi in our life here!

This place is really cute but we were rushed, when we first walked in they told us we can only sit at the bar for 30 minutes even though there weren’t many people there. They took awhile to make our drinks & immediately when the drinks came out the hostess told the bartenders to give us our checks. The bartenders were nice and the drinks were good but they were $20+ each.

Intimate ambiance. Quality drinks and small bites. Super friendly bartenders. So happy we stumbled in here!

In a city full of great eats, this place is an absolute gem. Come hungry or not. Sexy, comfortable space. Beautiful bar. Relaxed and friendly service. Inventive, complex, and highly diverse cocktail menu. Small food menu full of creative takes. I don’t think you can order wrong.

Maybe the best cocktail bar in Austin. For sure the best looking cocktail menu. While I don’t want anyone else to know about this place so we can still get in, they should know they’re appreciated! Bartenders are top notch.

The view is absolutely beautiful—perfect for a relaxing weekend meal. I ordered the salmon bowl, which was super flavorful and fresh. The portions were just right. I also had the Miami Nice cocktail—it was delicious, light, and flavorful without being heavy. The atmosphere is great, and reservation is highly recommended—it gets busy! Would definitely come back.

We came here with a reservation on a Saturday night and were seated immediately on the patio. We had a nice table however the service was not good. Our first server took a while to greet us and when we asked for bottled water (the tap water tastes like dirty dishes) she came by again to confirm that we had to pay for bottled water. She brought our cocktails and the mezcal negroni was bad. After speaking with the bartender about their mezcal selections and ordering a new drink, we were passed off to another server without being notified. Our second server Toddy was nice and checked on us multiple times. He recovered our experience here. We ordered the cheese board and Caesar salad. Both items were just ok, I liked the cheese board more. The old fashioneds we ordered were really sweet. The view/ambiance was nice but won’t be back.

I ordered the market fish dish on the menu and they served me scallops lol, not sure when scallops became a fish group! Having said that the food tasted good, although the portions were definitely very small. I also tried the sufi swirl desert since I had space from the tiny dinner portion, and it was very pretty but tasted only ok. Beautiful views of the river and bridge though. Price guide (as of Sep 2025): Market "fish" $28 White wine $18 Sufi swirl $10 Tax $4.63

The drinks were okay. They had a lot of that pellet ice, and what felt like little alcohol. I don't know why restaurants use that ice because it melts and dilutes the drink so much quicker. The food was amazing, especially the charcuterie board. The staff was average, friendly but there were moments you wondered where they were when you wanted to order something more.

Todd was absolutely perfect he knew all the insider stuff and how to make this date getaway evening Amazing. He recommended the food and beverage that were excellent. He paid attention to the little things that made our night. Top service for sure., We will be back and totally recommend this spot because of people like Todd and the lovely little hostesses who were so beautiful and kind!

Went here foe an afternoon lunch date. Very cool location overlooking Ladybird Lake. Staff was friendly and the food was fantastic. Definitely recommend

P6 is where Austin goes to flirt with itself—sunset views, sexy cocktails, and that smug little “yeah, we’re that pretty” attitude. Perched atop The Line Hotel, this spot delivers sweeping downtown and river views so good they practically come with their own influencer filter. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the bats at dusk doing their dramatic group exit like it’s the Final Rose Ceremony for insects. We just did drinks (A+), but the Caesar salad and charcuterie boards were working the runway hard. Massive drink list—wine, beer, cocktails—all curated like a bougie adult playground. Service was flawless. Ambience? Basically a rooftop love letter to Austin. Returning ASAP with a bib and zero shame.

This is a five star restaurant but keep in mind, This is not five star as in fine dining nor as in a hearty meal. This is more like small meals that you share with your friends over drinks. It’s definitely a night time before the club vibe, but I would not recommend this if you want a solid dinner or if you are wanting fine dining. The vibe is immaculate. It is Full of foliage and it is rooftop though not all seating, you can see over the rooftop so make sure to specify that in your reservation. The seating is also more casual and vibe like not necessarily table settings like you would imagine. I highly recommend reservations. To get there you have to go down a street and then go up an elevator. There should be a guy at a podium. Who helps you get there it’s above a hotel. The wings were great. The drinks were all right. Parking is going to be paid whether street or garage.

Such a great spot! The open-air vibe with all the greenery is beautiful, and the seating is really comfy. We loved the tropical cocktails. The poke bowls were fresh, flavorful, and the portions were just right. Shoutout to our server Dee… she was so sweet and made the whole experience even better. Definitely coming back!

Oh my god... If Meghan is not the best waitress I have come across on my entire tour of America... She was so sweet, and even looked out for me when a random guy started hitting on me, and honestly, she was so attentive , sweet , and friendly. I felt at home despite being so far away from home. Meghan, you honestly made this whole experience par excellence. So attentive ,so caring , and thank you again... You made this feel like such a a safe and welcoming space. Legends !

Zanibar Is a 10/10 experience. They have the ambiance that you for looking for intimacy or with a group. The aesthetic set up is very pleasing to the eye. They are located at the perfect spot downtown as you can see the lady bird lake and also see the busy skyline of Downtown Austin. The servers were amazing. Steve helped us a-lot with celebrating my girlfriend’s birthday. They have a great selection of unique drinks and also a solid selection for food as well.

Skinner was our bartender/server and he was awesome! It was the war of the fans. Some people wanted them on, and some people wanted them off, and it was very considerate the way he handled things. He made great drinks and we will definitely be back.

The food and drinks are fresh, tasty, and surprisingly reasonably priced. The music and scenery set the right atmosphere. The crew is fun with the tropical outfits, and especially Christopher W. providing delightful and fast service at the bar and bringing it poolside for fun in the sun!

Had a wonderful time with family. Super spacious and the food was good. Elisha was so sweet and gave us the best experience. Bringing extra plates and wiping down the table again without even asking..she was perfect. We will be back!

Cute spot, the band was really good, the tacos outside are really yummy- I got the Al pastor (no onions) and veggie mushroom and potatoes. They were a good size and tasty. I would come back here with a group. It was nice that they had free entry before 7:30, but no re-entry after that time without paying cover charge.

Visiting The White Horse in Austin was such an incredible experience and easily one of the highlights of my trip. This spot truly captures the heart and soul of Texas nightlife. From the moment I walked in, the energy was contagious — a mix of locals and visitors all coming together to enjoy a good time. The atmosphere is effortlessly cool, laid-back yet full of life, making it the perfect place to spend a night out. The live country music is without a doubt the star of the show. The bands that play here are phenomenal, delivering authentic sounds that make you want to hit the dance floor immediately. Whether you’re an experienced two-stepper or just watching from the sidelines, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the rhythm and vibe of the crowd. On top of the music, the drinks were excellent. The bartenders know how to mix strong, tasty cocktails, and the beer selection is spot on for a night of dancing and hanging out. Prices are very reasonable too, which only adds to the charm. Overall, The White Horse is more than just a bar — it’s an experience. Great music, great drinks, and an atmosphere that’s truly Austin. I can’t wait to go back.

You HAVE to go!!! What a gem of a place. Watching the locals dancing the two-step was brilliant. Live band. Good sound system. Just a great experience of a honky tonk. Loved it.

Atmosphere was awesome! Everything you'd want in the fusion between a honky-tonk and dive bar. There was a surprise show which was Silverada the night I went. Packed house, good tunes, and good vibes all the way around!

Great place with a cool atmosphere and the stage sounds incredible. Went on a monday night and still there was a lot of people and some top level musicians.

Good bar decent bands easy walk from 6th street decent food wagon for a bite to eat tacos ect

Best honky tonk around. Friendly place always has a live band, so much fun to dance and watch other Texas two step. Some pool outside if you ain’t into that

We came here after hearing that they were going to close for good. This is a nice place to sit and eat and visit with friends. I’ll be sad to see it go. The green beans were really good. And the pain killer cocktail was of course delicious. I got the burger and it was ok. Nothing special. The best thing about dining here is the atmosphere and outdoor areas. Very nice when the weather is good.

Superb open air dining centered around shared tables and bar style seating. Being a dog friendly spot brought us here, but wow were we impressed with the food. Everything tasted incredibly fresh, perfectly seasoned and craftily balanced together. The watermelon salad is well worth trying, it’s a unique combination. The rabbit & dumplings was (as warned) a little heavy for a hot summers day, the burger was meaty but not greasy. The chicken schnitzel was the delight of the meal and it was actually given to us as a “freebie” to try. Jose, the general manager disguised as a waiter, knew the answer to every question and oozed passion for food and the craft of what they have going on here at Contigo. His recommendations and conversation throughout our meal was super helpful. Did I mention the El Pepino cocktail with a bowl of their fresh spicy popcorn?! All in all, a real gem to have found on our first night in Austin!

I really loved this place! Their gorgeous patio gives it a lovely ambiance. We got there at 4:30 on a Wednesday which was a perfect time to enjoy the happy hour specials for the next few hours. Tried three appetizers (queso, roasted carrot salad, and tempura green beans) and they were all delicious. Tables were spaced apart which was great for Covid precautions and for having a conversation at a decent volume. Service was also outstanding. I'll be back!

The whole outdoor atmosphere was great. Plenty of sitting with lots of space to hang out with friends, grab a nice drink and some food. You can bring your pets because all the tables are outside with the exception of two tables by the bar. The bar has an outside window so you can order without having to go around or wait for a waitress. Menu isn’t that big, but it has fresh ingredients. Went with a group of friends and we all got the burgers because, everything else didn’t sound that appealing to have for dinner, for brunch yes, dinner? Not so much. Burger was juicy and had a good seasoning. We tried the popcorn which was delicious and different and also tried the olives. Service was friendly. Prices were ok. I think is a cool place to drink and have some snacks but not for having a meal.

Our server, Jack, was the best we’ve had anywhere in a long time. In the blink of an eye he returned with guava and regular margaritas. We sat in the covered part. It was a little hot but totally tolerable. We started with crispy green beans and fried cheese curds. My husband and I split the tri tip. It was a little tough but served with corn and cucumber to add some moisture. I liked it. My son had the chicken achiote and he enjoyed it a lot. We ordered the almond joy cookie and homemade granola type ice cream. Def pass on the dessert and save the calories. There is plenty of parking and loads of outdoor space. We will be back.

Full bar with great selection of beer and wine. Some good choices for cocktails. Service was good, but the menu was disappointing. Other than one veggie option and a fried catfish sandwich, every other option was a variation on beef. My tri tips was good, but others in our party were looking for some variety in the mains.

Really decent place. Solid menu, good variety, friendly staff. The bartender didn't know how to make a proper drink, but maybe this was a one off. My dog was able to go with me - Always looking for dog friendly places and this is a good one. Atmosphere outside was really nice, got a burger and the tri tip steak. Chefs presentation was on point and the food didn't disappoint. Tucked away in the burbs, but a nice little joint to go to every now and again. Will return.

Came by with my wife to kill an hour before eating at Foreign & Domestic. It's a cute place with a nice sitting area out back to go with the inside atea. We ordered some pimento cheese w French crostinis and pickled vegetables to eat with our drinks. My wife enjoyed an N/A equivalent of an aperol spritz ehile I had a bourbon sour w bitters that was pretty tasty. The salt on the crostinis and strongly pickled veggies paired perfectly. Nice music--mellow--played in the background and our bartender was friendly and very helpful identifying my drink choice. Happy Hour had some great deals, too. We'll be back.

This place is a gem, I can’t believe I’ve never been here. The cocktails are amazing, normal cocktail prices so it’s not cheap but if ya want cheaper cocktails you can go next door. The green drink is truly delicious, every single flavor mentioned in the drink description can actually be tasted in the drink. Literally, it’s a perfect description, sometimes they list ingredients and you can’t taste a thing, not with this drink. The Oh Yoko is boozy but not overwhelmingly so and the Ides of March is a grappa drink I can actually consume. I normally HATE GRAPPA, but the bartender called me out for talking smack about Grappa and told me to try this cocktail and to my surprise it was drinkable. Overall the prices are reasonable, the ambiance is nice for a date OR to just go on your own, the other customers at the bar were friendly and the bartender could banter with the best of them. Highly recommend this spot and will definitely be back again

Been once before. Was a nice little spot. Tried to go twice over the past few months, but went 10 mins after their opening time online, door unlocked but as we walked in we’re told they will be opening late.

Chill, small, and cool little spot with great cocktails, service was great, will be back

Exceptional cocktails in a neighborhood bar atmosphere. Recommend the Aoshima Island but they're all fantastic. If you're thinking "I need to enjoy a moment" just come here.

I didn’t know I could be so smitten, so quickly with a bar. This place is the quintessential neighborhood pub. It’s small, not loud (music is set low) so you can have a conversation, it’s well-lit so you can see who you’re talking to, and it’s just so damn welcoming. I don’t even drink! My wife had a drink and I had a water and I couldn’t have been happier with the experience. It’s just a great spot to unwind and have a good conversation.

One of the rare true cocktail bars in Austin. They do need to keep a few eggs on hand for Boston sours, but otherwise the innovative cocktails here were fantastic

Loved this bar. Great drinks and cool space inside and out! The bartenders were also great, and let me tell you, I could have drank 5 more of those “Freeze Knees” if I was lookin’ for trouble 😜

We had an engagement party at King Bee and had the best time! They allowed us in early to decorate. Staff was phenomenal and the party was a huge success bc of KB. I felt like the bartenders were especially wonderful. The emails sent to management were responded to in a timely matter. Would I go there again? Hell yeah I would! Everyone loved it.

Love King Bee for their cocktails, fun atmosphere and great music. Current food truck makes amazing hand rolls.

Drinks are strong! Lol. Outside area is nice and chill, and inside there's live music some days, and it has a pool table.

Loved the atmosphere, drinks, food and outdoor seating. I highly recommend two drinks Frozen Bees Knees & Don't mez with Texas. Make sure to have your rim dipped in Besitos Chamoy!

What a gem! We were recommended this while bar hopping on a Sunday night. We walked into a burlesque/jazz/blues ensembles and immediately hooked. Service was quick and the ladies had my wife and I mesmerized.

This place is amazing. Such a great place to get a great drink and relax. Super low key place with AMAZING cocktails. Their frozen Bee’s Knees turned me into a regular. And to top it off, the food truck in the back serves some of the best fried fish I’ve ever had.

Chill place to grab a drink, you can also get pizza from All Day pizza. Tried their Zero proof mock tails, taste was amazing and unique. Prices were slightly higher range, but worth the taste.

A very open cocktail bar. Great for groups during to the available standing room. There are a few NA beverages, I'd recommend the Senza Spritz on a hot Austin day, its refreshing. The price point is average for this part of town. And the service is fast. What more can I say 😏

Super chill place to grab a drink. Front patio and back patio. Bartenders are solid.

We happened upon this place on a Saturday afternoon and loved it. The inside is so cutely decorated. They had a DJ playing very chill music. The pizza in the back was delicious! Drinks are definitely on the higher price side but they are tasty. Would be a great place to bring out of town friends or even a date!

All day HH Mondays and Tuesdays, nice vibe. Front patio is nice, pretty. Rear is kinda meh, but plenty seating and great in cooler weather. Food truck out back too, but they're closed on certain days. On TJOSE days, outside food is allowed in bar/establishment

My second time at Daydreamer, and I will absolutely be back! Reggie was incredibly attentive and crafted some of the yummiest drinks I’ve had in Austin in a while. The ambience is vibey and I will absolutely be back!

Stopped in to check out a new cocktail menu in the area and pleasantly surprised. The half dozen drinks or group tried were all great including the gin fizz. Staff was really excited and happy to accommodate - I feel like this can be a less overwhelming option to whislers when in the area. Definitely coming back to try the bites ASAP

I wanted to like this place so bad! It was a bunch of little things that added up. Servers were reasonably friendly but just kinda dropped a menu on the table. Other craft cocktail places kinda explain the menu a bit, the themes, steer you to something that is a good fit for you. But not here. Also I think being in a basement it must be kinda musty or something as my girlfriends sinuses instantly plugged up. The drinks were OK, not outstanding. I guess for $22 for a cocktail I expect an experience on par with other cocktail bars, which are in the $16-$18 range. By the time I tipped and got out of there I paid $60 for two drinks. With so many other solid offerings in Austin I won’t repeat.

Amazing atmosphere in this small setting, cocktail “Niche” was superb and the bartenders did an amazing job with the drinks and recommended the Spicy Dark Crème Brulee! Can’t recommend this place high enough- you’re so lucky to find a place in Austin that can make a drink and carry on conversation- cheers to Andrew & Jackie for their candor and professional way they handle cocktails!

Me and my best friend did a cute date night at Milonga Room and when I say I don’t know how we didn’t find this place sooner, it truly is a hidden gem. Cozy velvet seating, candlelit tables, and an intimate speakeasy vibe check. And the cocktails are absolute works of art. The Carajillo was rich, velvety, and perfectly balanced, a delicious blend of espresso and sweet vanilla warmth. The Aperol Spritz was bright, bubbly, and refreshing, like a little burst of summer in a glass. Every drink feels custom made, with the bartenders walking you through the flavor notes and making sure it’s exactly to your liking. But what truly sets this place apart is the service. Andrew, the manager, is a master of hospitality, warm, welcoming, and effortlessly making you feel like a regular from the moment you walk in. Whether it’s a date night, a celebration, or just an excuse to treat yourself, Milonga Room turns an evening out into an unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to come back(:

Milonga Room is an intimate and artsy lounge with the best cocktails on East 6th. This speakeasy under Buenos Aires Cafe makes you feel like you’re in a stylish 1940s Argentinian living room, it’s an excellent romantic date spot or place to grab drinks post dinner. The drinks are truly an art at Milonga Room– we were blown away by the incredible taste of the cocktails and unique balance of flavors. Additionally, the bartenders were super friendly and knowledgeable, and they went out of their way to make sure we enjoyed our experience (shoutout to Andrew!) My absolute favorite was the The Francessa, a delicate lavender cream cocktail with a beautiful hand crafted aesthetic. After just one sip I added Milonga Room to my list of best cocktails in Austin! We also enjoyed the Palermo (light and refreshing) and their spin on an espresso martini, the Carajillo Del Alma. Last but not least, one of the best parts of the Milonga Room is you can order empanadas and light bites from the restaurant above! Who knew cocktails paired so well with chimichurri.

A wonderful cocktail bar which specializes in amaro-forward drinks across the spectrum. The decor is prohibition-era and there are food options from the bakery upstairs. Enter around back to the left of the stairs.

My new favorite cocktail bar in Austin. Service was top, top notch. The music and ambience was unique and delightful. Order the Fernetadito your taste buds will thank you later.

I was pleasantly surprised by Milonga. Despite having to have a reservation to get in, the bar itself is funk and laid back. Completely lacks the pretentiousness that other reservation-only establishments have. Drinks were pricey but they are priced exactly how you would expect at a too Austin cocktail bar. We had four different cocktails and each were fantastic. Food was very reasonably priced and came with huge servings. Tastes delicious, too. Great place for a date night and a night with some close friends.

A big shout out to Swift’s Attic for an incredible introduction to their new Executive Chef Nay Castillo. If you’re looking for flavors that pop with clear identity, Chef Castillo puts a lot of dimensions (sweet, sour, bitter, cold, crunchy, hot, melty, crispy) in each of the dishes. The big test was whether my wife’s sophisticated palate would enjoy it, and it’s a testament that we walked away a happy and very full family. What an amazing dinner and service! Our favorites were the hamachi crudo, lamb pops, and fried chicken. My son demolished the edamame with multi-salts and pop rocks. We had an amazing time. Go check out Swift’s Attic and Chef Castillo’s new menu!

First time in Austin and we had a great meal here! The Papi Churro dessert was a heavenly mix of flavors.

Came here with a large group. We did family style and tried many of the dishes. The favorites were the corn bread with pickled veggies (new for me, but loved the combo, was pleasantly very surprised) and the wagyu short rib. The wagyu was falling apart and super flavorful. The Brussels sprouts were standard but did not stand out. The pad Thai style dish was maybe a weaker of the bunch. That said, you can’t go wrong with most of the menu here. We ordered almost one of everything and not much was left by the end of the meal! Also, the drinks are definitely worth a try. I’m not much for drinking but got ODB loose cannon to go with dinner and it was super yummy! Service was wonderful ✨

Dark moody vibes. We were seated in the lounge by the DJ so it was quite loud but they were nice enough to turn down the volume when we asked. They told us we had to order at the bar since our area wasn't going to be serviced, but we were still checked on enough that it wasn't a big deal. This place is on the pricier side with tapas-sized portions, but most of the dishes we ordered were good. Wagyu Short Rib ($32): galbi-braised wagyu short rib, black garlic dirty rice, pickled mushrooms, galbi reduction. Solid dish overall. The short rib was tender and the flavors were cohesive. Salt & Pepper Gulf Shrimp ($25): lettuce, herbs, sunflower sprouts, sautéed sweet peppers & onions, tiger cry sauce. Really good with a unique batter--one of our favorite dishes. But they only give you like 4-5 shrimps. Duck Gumbo ($22): duck breast, grilled orange duck sausage, charred local okra, rice. Sounded be like than it tasted. Didn't see much duck meat or love the taste, and it was too salty for me. Popcorn Pork Cheeks ($19): chicken-fried Niman Ranch pork cheeks, mala chili crisp, bread & butter pickles. Nicely fried and you can really taste that mala chili. Great starter to share. Tiger Apricot ($14): bacon-wrapped apricot, arugula, chipotle honey mascarpone, cilantro emulsion. Delicious. All the flavors worked really well together. Nice sweet and savory combo. Passionfruit Margarita ($19): Lalo tequila, Giffard passionfruit, house sweet & sour. Tasted like straight alcohol--no real passionfruit flavor. I Don't Want No Shrub ($18): Roku gin, honey, yuzu, BLiS Ginegar, habanero shrub, lemon. Strong with a distinct shrub flavor. Tasted better than the passionfruit margarita, but I liked the Strawberry Lemon Drop more since it's sweeter. Strawberry Lemon Drop ($15 | $7 HH): Tito's vodka, strawberry, lemon, tarragon simple. Best-tasting drink of the three. The strawberry balances out the lemon really well.

I have dined here on 1 occasion with my daughter and another with my wife. Both experiences were delightful. The menu is different and so incredible and changes from time to time. The atmosphere is unique and the lighting is soft. It’s many galaxies away from the feel of a chain or box type restaurant. It’s nice to dine somewhere with a special look and feel.

The most incredible new menu, Megan was an absolute delight and SO GREAT about my food allergies (also take her drink recs), the TARTARE is a MUST! Amazing vibe all around

Swift’s is fantastic. They have a great happy hour with lots of fun drinks and food specials. The staff are all friendly and the liquor selection is amazing. I especially like the whiskey and scotch flights they offer. This is a good choice for a date night in the heart of Austin.

Curra’s never disappoints! Their authentic mole is rich, complex, and layered with flavor in a way only true Mexican kitchens can achieve. And of course, you can’t visit without trying their iconic aguacate margarita. So refreshing and dangerously smooth and delicious! By to mention, unlike anything else in Austin. Even on a packed night, the staff went above and beyond, offering me a drink while I waited for a table. Little gestures like that speak volumes about their ability hospitality and keep me coming back. If you want a place where the food is as memorable as the service, Curra’s is it.

We came into Curra's the Monday after Grand Prix weekend when all restaurants seems overbooked. We were seated immediately for a late lunch around 1-2pm. Staff were very fast and attentive and explained the menu for us. This was very different than what we're used to with California-Mexican food. The spice level is intense, but we really enjoyed the bright flavors as well. The dishes might have been a tad too spicy for us, and we have decent spice tolerance, but we'd come back just to try more of their menu. I ordered the patos en mole tacos, and my dad got the cochinita pixel, both so flavorful and satisfying. We would definitely come back.

100/10 this place has the best food on the dang planet. If you only eat at one place in Austin Texas make this it! The huevos motuleños and huevos Curras are absolutely incredible. The margaritas are delicious. The service is friendly. The atmosphere is uniquely Austin Texas. This is absolutely one of our very favorite restaurants in the world. We cannot recommend it highly enough!

Great spot for Tex Mex without a crazy wait. It’s a cozy spot with great service. They have happy hour from 3-6 everyday with drink and app specials. The food comes out very fast. It was very well made and delicious.

I love this place. Great authentic food, excellent service and a beautiful atmosphere. Bring your family, go for a happy hour, just you and your dog with a book- oh and do yourself a favor and order the margarita flight!!

Initially, the impression of this establishment was that it would offer a suitable dining experience with satisfactory service. I can confirm that the food was of high quality, with superb taste; however, there should be more generous portion sizes, and if a smaller portion is served, the price should reflect that. Regrettably, the coffee was tasteless and unappealing; I will not be purchasing coffee here again. The staff member serving us displayed a problematic attitude from the beginning, despite our being courteous and not difficult. For example, I requested another coffee due to a sugar stain; although I tried it with regular brown sugar, the taste remained unpleasant—indeed, gross. The server's attitude was unprofessional, characterized by eye-rolling and sighing, as if she were exhausted. At the end of our visit, when we requested separate tickets, she sighed again, implying difficulty in processing the bill. Additionally, she did not check if my companions wished to order more soda. I could have left a generous tip, but her attitude discouraged this. My companions mentioned that this was their first and last visit; they also noted that the waitress at Denny's on Oltorf was more genuine and pleasant. I attempted to contact the manager to report these issues; however, the representative who answered was unwilling to provide her name or the manager’s, and I informed them I would follow up via email.

Best place in town for Avocado Margaritas. Wish they still had octopus with their ceviche. Always great service. Love to sit on the patio and watch the sunset.

Incredible food. Wonderful, all made from scratch. Meat and sauces were incredible. I had a cocktail, it was delicious and light. Can't recommend highly enough, will be back. Gerry was the perfect waiter, and was so helpful in choosing the right meals for us. His recommendations were spot on.

This restaurant offers an authentic Mexican dining experience, with incredibly friendly staff and delicious food. It’s also quite vegetarian-friendly. We tried the chocolate tamales with marigold ice cream, and they were absolutely amazing.

Unremarkable surroundings showcase average tasting food. Pork was a 4-5 star but duck gamey and not prepared well. Drinks are pricey even for Austin. Waiter was very sweet but novice at best.

El Naranjo’s food is always excellent. Their menu often features drinks and dishes inspired by specific states in Mexico. I’ve had and enjoyed their dinner before (highly recommend the filete and house-made ice cream), but this was my first time having brunch. The queso fundido (with handmade corn tortillas), ceviche and huevos benedictos were all impressive. I definitely scarfed down the queso before managing a photo (oops). And I definitely couldn’t go without a jar or 4 of their salsa macha. They do ship, but I still tend to purchase extra whenever I’m in Austin.

Went for brunch and we loved it! everything was delicious and fairly affordable. The mole was some of the best we have ever had, and the chilaquiles were super fresh and zingy.

We visited this place mainly for the chiles en nogada, the fact that they serve them it's already a win and they were good. Tortillas here are really good as well, kinda reminds me of my home town.

We’ve been going to El Naranjo since their previous location and always enjoyed the food. Unfortunately, this is the third time we’ve found human hair in our food at the new location. The first time we thought it might’ve been an accident, but after two more times, it’s completely unacceptable. It’s a real shame because the food itself is great, but the hygiene standards are clearly not. It seems like employees aren’t wearing hairnets or following proper sanitation practices, and that’s just not okay for any restaurant. Until they address this issue seriously, we won’t be coming back.

My boyfriend and I had the absolute best dining experience at Péché in Austin! The vibe was cozy and romantic—perfect for a date night. We started with a couple of mock-tails, and even without the alcohol, they were incredibly crafted and full of flavor. For food, we shared the mac ‘n’ cheese (so rich and creamy—definitely a must), the Ibérico pork, and the grilled beef tenderloin. Every single bite was to die for. The quality, flavors, and presentation were just exceptional. Highly recommend Péché for anyone looking to impress on a date night or just enjoy a phenomenal meal. We’ll definitely be back!

Dinner at Péché was such a treat. The moody, vintage atmosphere made it feel like a hidden gem in downtown Austin. The cocktails were outstanding creative, balanced, and clearly crafted with care. For dinner, the veal and duck confit mac & cheese were rich and delicious, perfect for sharing. Service was warm and attentive without being overbearing. Overall, Péché is the kind of place that makes a night out feel special. 10/10

Cute pub atmosphere with a fantastic selection of liquor, especially whiskey. Kind service and tasty bites if you order french fries, bring an army. The bowl of french fries is larger than most fully grown pumpkins. Definitely get the lamb loin, that thing is unbelievable.

I’d give 5.1 stars if I could! So glad we found these guys as they are a rare breed of true craft cocktail bar, w delicious French fare w just the right amount of Tejas twist to make them truly unique n the dining landscape. We got extra lucky and dropped n on a monday when they offer all-day happy hour on select drink and food offerings, so of course we had to add dessert after taking advantage of this great deal. The food was fabulous and some folks could actually each get their own salad then share an app and an entree as they salads are very generous, fresh and delicious w not too heavy dressings. Our dishes were creative and savory and brought out piping hot. I will definitely be back here to explore there not to big of a menu as they had soooo many delicious looking unique dishes. Great service by the way! PS- this is a cool old repurposed building which I loved to see…more folks should do that.

Peché has become one of my absolute favorite spots in Austin — I’ve been here many times, and every visit is a pleasure. The menu is full of gems, but a few dishes always stand out for me. Their escargots are consistently excellent, prepared with just the right touch that makes them rich yet delicate. The bone marrow is nothing short of perfection — if you’re someone who appreciates true culinary delicacies, it’s a must-try. I also can’t get enough of their bouillabaisse, which is flavorful and comforting, and the pasta with peas, which may sound simple but is done so beautifully that it becomes unforgettable. Beyond the food, the service is amazing — professional, attentive, and warm without ever feeling overbearing. The ambiance ties it all together: elegant, cozy, and inviting, making every dinner feel special. If you’re looking for a place in Austin that combines exceptional food, thoughtful service, and a wonderful atmosphere, Peché is the place. Highly recommended!

I learn about my pallet ever time I eat somewhere new. Its a beautiful thing. The deviled eggs, orzo, and salads were great. On the other hand The charcuterie tray looks like a designer dog and cat food plate then I turned around and saw people eating bone marrow out of a bone like my dogs do. I get it okay it’s probably a fancy thing acquired taste and all but for me feeling like I was eating the same food that looks and smells like cat and dog food grossed me out. Get the deviled eggs and blueberry crepes or just keep walking. Cute atmosphere, gave them a 4 for that and its a hopping place.

It was such a delight dining at Péché! I recommend the escargot and mac & cheese! One of my favorite details about the restaurant were the cat portraits. Also, the sinful cocktail that I ordered was the Luna Rosa which was the BEST cocktails I have ever tried. Thank you for this experience! (:

The creativity behind these dishes are enhanced through their execution. The place has a fun and friendly vibe and they've designed it to handle crowds really well. I sat at the bar and ordered there. Tried their edamame, pork belly and brisket. Phenomenal! Taste, plating, ticket time, everything - it was awesome. They were PACKED and absolutely killing it. I don't think I'll be able to visit Austin again without making this mandatory stop! 👏

Loro has been a favorite for many years - the frozen espresso is a refreshing, creamy start. Brisket and turkey are my go tos but the salmon with ponzu is light. The charred broccoli is unreal— crisp, smoky, spicy. The fusion of Asian and Texas BBQ is spot on, and if you visit at peak times, enjoy a cocktail while you wait in the yard and be sure to leave with a cookie “for later”…

Great dining experience. Lots of indoor and outdoor seating options. Fast, efficient service model. Tasty Asian fusion dishes. Recommended dishes: - Chicken Karaage - more like Korean style fried chicken, but was very tasty. - Arugula & Melon Salad - seemingly strange combination was surprisingly good. - Char Siew Pork Belly - tad sweet but bursting with flavor - Sesame Rice Noodles - was an excellent companion to balance out the strong flavors of the Char Siew

One of our favorite meals while in Austin. Setup is somewhat similar to a BBQ place where you seat yourself and order for yourself at the bar. Non-alcoholic drinks were very good. The BBQ was amazing. Loved it all.

This place was great! We came a little before 4 on a Sunday and it wasnt busy. You order at the bar and they bring the food to your table. They had a cider on tap (Texas Keeper) and had a can (East Austin Cider) option too. The Mexican Martini was a little flat, and didnt really taste like anything. We got the pork belly rice bowl and tofu rice bowl. They were both excellent. The pork belly came with some garlic and spicy fish sauce that was delicious. The coconut rice was lite ans fluffy. The schezuan tofu was absolutely delicious, crunchy and flavorful. Our friends got the ribs which were good, but came with some pickled carrots that were the star of the show!

Loro is an Austin staple when you are looking for a spin on smoked meats. I love the Asian inspired flavors. My partner and I came hungry, so we over ordered. The seaweed salad came last, and it was too saucy. We also got the shrimp rice bowl which was excellent and the perfect portion. We ended up taking this whole dish to go. The star of the night was the sake smoked half chicken and karrage. The smoked chicken was soooo delicious. It was so moist, perfectly seasoned, and was accompanied by lettuce and herbs to make lettuce wraps. The karrage is a generous portion and really good. The sesame noodles were excellent as well. We left there super happy. The staff is very kind and attentive for being counter service. We went around 6:30pm on a Saturday. We were able to seat ourselves before the host set up kicked in. It was continuously busy all night. It is loud and dark in the inside.

Finally tried Loro for the first time this weekend after having it on our list for a while. Overall we had a great experience. Really liked the casual vibe and the large amount of outdoor seating. We tried several things on the menu and enjoyed it all. Definitely some unique items that I don’t think you can get anywhere else in Austin. Definitely give it a try.

Parking - there is a lot behind the restaurant, it was very easy to miss and you have to drive down an alleyway in order to see the sign for it. Otherwise there was some street parking nearby. I had high expectations but was overall underwhelmed with this experience. The service was great, the servers are very attentive (almost TOO attentive). The food was just very average, overpriced, and depending on what you get, can be very salty. The biscuits were very good - one of the better items we got. The beef belly was a bit chewy and underwhelming in flavor. The beef short ribs were good, but again nothing special, but the grits were extremely salty. The pork chops were tasty and probably the best thing that we had ordered. The lane cake dessert was very dry and tasteless on its own, but paired with a dessert wine actually made it very tasty. For drinks we got the birthday suit (nothing special) and the sauv blanc (good). Overall, for the price and for what you get, I would not recommend coming here.

Beautiful ambiance, amazing food and gracious hosts! Couldn’t have asked for a better experience on a wonderful evening! Their palate cleanser was just perfect! Shaved ice, basil, salt and lemon! Truly resets your taste buds! Their Vegetarian options were simply delicious! Starting with First course, their Tomato Tartine was just delicious - Focassia bread and tomato leaves, they just balance and create an amazing taste! Second course, Grilled Little Gem - Hands down, the best salad I’ve had in Austin. Crispy shallots provide a crunch, lemony flavor adds taste to the salad! Third course, Squash Melange - Too good!! Salted honey butter was divine, perfectly paired with bread! The squash soup was earthy and simply delicious! Dessert - Texas Fig layer cake - apple crumbs, chantilly cake, baked apple - perfect balance of taste! Absolutely worth it! Do try and enjoy!

Excellent service for an anniversary dinner. Unique and quaint location. Attention to detail was very well appreciated. The food was an experience. The appetizers were delicious and interesting. The meals were nice and tasty. Husband got the Wagyu, which was excellent. I got the snapper, it was small, but okay. The desserts were just okay, I didn’t like the strong taste of the bourbon on the cobbler and the plantain ice cream was not great.

To start with we went back in Feb of 2025, service was exemplary. Exceptionally friendly and attentive. Made thoughtful recommendations based on our preferences and the cocktails that were recommended were outstanding! The starter was great. I think we had a whipped cauliflower dish and we absolutely loved it. Sadly biscuits were lack luster (it's the south.. I guess maybe I have high expectations for biscuits?) For entrees got the catfish and pork chops. Both were mediocre. The porkchop was mostly cold but the flavor was nice but being served slightly above room temperature wasn't what I'd hoped for. The catfish was nice though a tad salty. I'm told the rice served along with it was the highlight. The desert was actually quite bad. We got one to split and between the two of us couldn't force ourselves to finish it. I'd go back just for cocktails and maybe an app as a happy hour with friends, but can't say I'll return for an anniversary dinner again.

Glad we were able to eat at this Michelin starred restaurant and a check off my list of Austin restaurants to eat at. The restaurant itself was beautiful and the ambience was nice. Felt like we were dining in grandmother's house. The service was exceptional and couldn't wait to enjoy the meal once we were seated. The first two courses of chicken liver mouse (my first course) and oysters rockefeller (wife's first course) and then the beef tartar as well as tuna crude for our second course was amazing. Great presentation and flavor. The third course of the supplemental Wagyu Ribeye and Dayboat Fish (Red Snapper) were just okay for us as others might have enjoyed this based on their own flavor profiles. I thought the Wagyu was mostly fatty from piece that I had received and was a little tough to cut into at certain times. The presentation was beautiful and the potatoes along with the jus were tasty. I just thought the steak would have been a little more impressive. The Dayboat Fish or Red Snapper was great if you just ate the fish however the mop sauce was a little too salty. Even when eating everything together which is the preferred way, still ate a little too salty, once again for our taste only as others may see different. The desserts were nice and a great way to end the night. Overall it was a great experience.

For how much you're paying, we found the originality and taste of the dishes not really mind blowing. Also given that their dine in option was only prix fixe, we had high expectations. Perhaps we didn't make the right choices? The first two courses, we had the oysters, tomato crustini, chilled corn soup. All were mediocre in our opinion and the chilled corn soup was too salty. I was a bit disappointed with their dessert as well - we ordered two different kinds and both fell flat. I believe mine was the apple cake and my partner had the dark chocolate mousse or something along these lines. My partner didn't finish his. The biscuits were great and so was the wagyu steak was excellent though and very tasty with the fingerling potatoes.

Order the pork chop. I don’t like pork chops, ever, and I’m telling you to order it. One of the best bites of food I’ve had. The cold corn chowder…incredible. Also their pastrami appetizer was a great bite. The fish of the day was red snapper and it was good. The “cornbread” it was served on tasted like and had texture similar to a soggy corn tortilla or a chewy tamale, so that was disappointing and I actually didn’t eat much of it. Also don’t order the peach cobbler. It tastes like you took a shot of vodka and the cake base is hard and crumbly. Had high expectations for this and was severely let down. Overall I do recommend this place and would come back. The service was great and food was well timed.

This was my first time at Aba, and we came in with high expectations since we love Mediterranean food. I’ve had the chance to try several Mediterranean restaurants in Austin, and honestly, the one that stands out the most for me is The Peacock. At Aba, the only dish I truly enjoyed was the crispy short rib hummus—it was delicious. However, the rest of the food felt more like Mediterranean food truck quality. It wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t anything special, especially considering the prices. The main dish we ordered had overcooked, tough meat, which was disappointing. The restaurant itself is beautiful, with lovely décor and a lively atmosphere, but for me, the food doesn’t live up to the hype or the 4.7 star rating. Service was about a 6/10, cocktails a 6/10, and overall, I’d rate the food around a 4 or 5 out of 10. We didn’t even order dessert because we felt underwhelmed after the main courses. If you’re looking for a more elevated Mediterranean dining experience in Austin, I’d recommend The Peacock instead.

We had an amazing experience at Aba! From the moment we walked in, everything exceeded our expectations. The atmosphere was beautiful, relaxing, and full of great energy. Our server Aiden truly made the evening special — attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. He went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect, and his recommendations were spot-on. The food was absolutely delicious — we had Lamb & Beef Kefta, Charred Eggplant, and Beef Tenderloin Kebab with a mix of rice and salad. Every dish was cooked perfectly, full of flavor, and beautifully presented. We also enjoyed San Pellegrino Sparkling Water alongside our meal, which complemented everything nicely. Highly recommend Aba for anyone looking for an outstanding dining experience with incredible service. Thank you, Aiden, for making our night memorable — we’ll definitely be coming back!

I had such a wonderful dining experience at Aba Restaurant in Austin! Everything from the service to the food was excellent. Noel was my server and was so friendly, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu—she made the experience even better. I ordered the short rib hummus, fried potatoes, and salmon kabobs, and every dish was flavorful, fresh, and beautifully prepared. You can really taste the quality in every bite. Thank you to Noel and the entire Aba Austin team for such a memorable dinner. This restaurant is a must-visit if you’re looking for delicious Mediterranean-inspired food, great ambiance, and top-notch service!

The service is subpar for the expectations of this space. The Happy Hour wines are nice, but don’t expect to try anything on that menu unless you have a seat at one of the 10 bar tops & there’s no event going on outside, taking up a third of those spaces- a bartender rudely explained that. The food is good, but not worth the premium- if you’d like an authentic experience, try one of the locally owned spots. Beautiful tree on the outside patio. Overall, a restaurant best used for business meetings on Congress, not for people seeking a genuine hospitality experience.

Good foood - great ambience. My favorite was the falafel. They even gave my friend A free frozen yogurt, dessert for her birthday. Parking garage is was overpriced and Aba gives only a $3 validation towards a $25 parking.

I really enjoyed my visit to Aba Austin. The ambiance is warm and stylish, making it a great spot for different occasions. The food was fresh and delicious, though the kabobs were a little too lemony for my taste. Service was attentive, and overall it was a memorable dining experience that I’d recommend and certainly marked for a future visit!

Trifecta of greatness! Wonderfully executed, fast, accurate process even though the waiter knew this was our first time. He calmly listened to every question and answered in detail following up with great insight on what we had ordered. Super cool experience! We WILL be back! New bestie!

Went for an afternoon drink with my gf after work. We took our dog lolly like we do a lot, so on that note you can have dogs in their outdoor seating- downside is that’s only about 4 tables. (We didn’t ask if they could be inside, just assumed it was a no). I got the frozen espresso martini which was really good, probably the best version of this particular frozen cocktail I’ve had in Austin. Mf gf got another menu cocktail (I can’t remember the name of it) but it was pretty and she liked the taste. 1 thing that does keep this place a little east side like, they have $3 lone star and $4 modelo. While we enjoyed our drinks my gf got hungry so we ordered the poke nachos and chicken sandwich. Mf gf loved the poke nachos (she’s the seafood person) the “chips” were like that wonton breading type, they were very light and a good snack. The menu says “market price” for these and the day we went that red $25. The chicken sandwich was very good, the flavors of everything meshed well1 it comes with pickled carrots and we put those on the sandwich as well, it also comes with a garlic mayo which is has a strong garlic flavor but I liked it. My only complaint about the sandwich is it was about $14 and you get 3 little slices, I get the aesthetic but for that price I want the whole sandwich. The service is was great, even though we sat outside. I will say sitting outside isn’t the best experience (not at the fault of the establishment) but the road is pretty loud with groups of loud people walking by. I would come back again, for the cocktails for sure- but next time we’ll sit inside

I came to ah dang den on a Thursday after 9 PM when they have their weekly event called sanctuary. It was very lively, I love the DJs that were playing that night, I came here, January 18, had a blast. The drinks at the bar were delicious, they have lone stars for three bucks, if you’re wanting to drink in budget, one of the most affordable options I’ve seen in east sixth! Their cocktails are well-made and the vibe is amazing, I loved coming out here tonight. 10/10

This is definitely a spot for drinks as they were fantastic. The food was a little disappointing at best. Some dishes did not taste very fresh and we only had a few bites of those. We would go back for drinks only next time

Coleyworld approved 💜 This place is so special to us. We had our first date here 6 years ago and came back tonight for the first time since then. Food was even better tonight than it was 6 years ago. Our favorite dish was the cauliflower. It was maybe the best I’ve ever had. The katsu and the shrimp/pork things were also delicious. The dipping sauces are crucial to adding bursts of flavor in every bite. I love the postcard you get with your check. On our first date, we both took a postcard home from here and wrote love messages on them and sent them to each other. We’re going to do the same with the postcards we got tonight. Recommend this place for a romantic and special evening with your partner 🤗🥰

Interesting concept. But… Drinks and food are not priced properly. Cocktail price exceeds some of the best bars in Chicago. I didn’t like the drinks tbh; the balance seems off to me. Poor music selection. Just wired to play Techno in a colonial Chinese theme bar. I understand it’s east Austin, but it’s just strange, and we had a hard time to hear each others. Service is below average. Seems like they are short on staff, but I approve every staff’s outfits tho🔥. Overall, this place is probably one and done for me. It’s not terrible but also not great for the price.

Simply put, over priced fusion food. Don't get me wrong, it tasted acceptable, but it wasn't fine dining for the price you pay. The drinks are exorbitantly priced. The food was basic fusion food. The papaya salad just lacked typical Thai flavors. As if they forgot to add lime juice and fish sauce, basically, they forgot the sauce. It had zero spice, not that it needed to be spicy, it was missing that pepper flavor. We got three different dumplings. In the end, none had anything special. I could have gone anywhere else and got more for my money along with more flavor. The decor goes for an acute eclectic feel that gives it a casual feel, but yet you are going to pay fine dining prices. If you can get the dumpling anywhere, you better get an experience for the money you spend. Going here is less of a value, more of a donation.

This restaurant is beautiful. The decor, lighting, and seating make the visit worthwhile. I went with a friend on a Friday night. They had a live DJ, which contributed to the already fun atmosphere. Their signature cocktails are creative, visually pleasing, and tasty. I had A Love Letter for Mickie. It was well balance and not overly sweet. My friend and I shared their goat cheese rangoons, steamed bao bun, and dan dan noodles. I enjoyed all of the flavors. The steamed bao bun was on the spicer side, so if you are not accustom to spice you may want to try another dish. The price points are on the higher side but overall, this is a place worth trying.

Simona is such a neighborhood treasure. The coffee is always spot-on, the cocktails are creative, and the space has that perfect mix of cozy and stylish that makes you want to linger. Simona also has an undercover garage. I think it's up to 4 hours of free parking.

While exploring Austin, we stopped by Simona’s Coffee + Cocktails, tucked inside the stylish Colton House Hotel on South Congress. What a vibe! The space blends mid-century design with cozy modern touches think velvet seating, warm lighting, and inviting nooks that make you want to linger awhile. We grabbed an iced coffee and tea, then found a quiet spot on the terrace to relax. The outdoor seating is shaded and peaceful, perfect for catching up with friends or just people-watching with a cool drink in hand. Indoors, the decor feels like a cross between a boutique lounge and an artist’s studio refined but not fussy. If you’re looking for a chill place to start your day or wind down in the evening, Simona’s is the spot. They serve both craft cocktails and specialty coffee, so whether you’re a latte lover or a cocktail enthusiast, you’ll feel right at home. Don’t forget to explore the hotel’s art-filled lobby and take a few shots around the terrace the natural light is perfect for photos!

In my opinion the best coffee shop to work at in Austin. So much seating options both inside and outside and the validated parking garage so I never have to worry about fighting for a spot. I wish their coffee was better, but I still come back for the vibes

Awesome local coffee bar with drinks as well. Small, two level with patio seating as well. Garage parking available, -all photos by Wendy B.

Went for an evening coffee and to my surprise, it’s probably one of the closest places/lounges in Austin. Loved the ambience and outdoor patio!

Love everything about this place! Bartenders were extremely friendly and welcoming, and drinks were incredible. Strikes the perfect balance of classy cocktail bar and cozy coffee shop.

One of my favorite little spots in Austin! The staff is amazing, special shoutout to Vaughn, the ambiance is so nice, and the drinks are phenomenal. I love their coffee, chai, but particularly, I always come here for their espresso cocktails, particularly their carajillos. To. Die. For.

Place is great. Food is delicious, great variety of drinks and a nice vibe to just hangout at. My only complaint is the birds. It's best that you avoid sitting somewhere underneath the tree in the center. The birds stay there a lot and WILL poop on you and in your food. They already pooped on me and in my beer and I don't like constantly looking out for my food getting pooped in.

Really cool spot! The design is so fun and I really enjoyed sitting outside. I just wasn’t a huge fan of the ramen and beer add in. The ramen wasn’t bad, I just thought it was missing a little flavor and the portion size was smaller than what I’m used to. The cold foam beer they have is really cool, I just wish I would’ve gotten it without the ginger add in because unfortunately it tasted pretty off and like cleaning product. I would still probably come back though and try something else because the ambiance was great and I appreciated the friendly staff!

First time here and we had such a delightful time , service was amazing got recommended the most delicious items and the food came out quicker than we thought it would ! We recommend coming to try if you haven’t !

Dog friendly patio, with great beer and appetizers. We really enjoyed the beer and the apps we got were amazing, spicy gyoza, beef slider and chicken kaarage! I think a live DJ was about to start too!

This place is so awesome and affordable. Great spot for dates or being with friends and family. Really nice outdoor seating. Pretty authentic compared to what I eat when I’m in Japan. Oh and nice available parking.

Rating: 3.6/5 [dine in] This is a cute Japanese outdoor patio spot for summer dining. I heard the food comes from the same kitchen as Ramen Tatsuya, but it didn’t taste the same. The ramen portions were smaller, and overall, the flavors didn’t hit quite as well. Service was good for a busy 4th of July evening. Tsukemen / Dipping Broth ($16.50): Condensed pork bone dipping broth, yuzu zest, chashu pork, menma, scallions, bonito mayu, ajitama, lime, nori. It was just okay. The broth lacked that depth and umami flavor you'd expect from a dipping ramen and didn’t cling well to the noodles. The soft-boiled egg was good, but overall it felt like there wasn’t enough protein, so we ended up with leftover noodles. Kizami Sweet & Sour Yodas ($8): Shredded Brussels sprouts, Fuji apples, apricot, bonito, black pepper, garlic, sesame. This sounded interesting so we gave it a try, and it ended up being my favorite item of the night. Refreshing, light, and perfect as a palate cleanser. Karaage ($8): Japanese-style twice fried chicken with garlic mayo and chili sauce. Unfortunately, this was dry and underwhelming. There wasn’t much batter, and the chicken pieces were small. You really need the chili mayo for flavor and moisture. Honestly, I prefer the frozen Japanese brand over this. Chashu Rice Bowl ($8): Pork belly, scallion, pickled red ginger. Nice presentation, but the chashu wasn't as flavorful as I would like it to be. Not bad, just not memorable—I've had better elsewhere.

Incredibly delicious. The kirin foam was interesting and frosty. The chicken karagge was a perfect appetizer, but the star of the show was the spicy chilled ramen. I can't describe how really delicious and savory the chilled is while being refreshing. I hope this stays on the menu rather than just being seasonal. It's a perfect main dish for a hot summer Texas day.

I've been here a few times and have always enjoyed the atmosphere. This time stopping in I noticed the bartenders were so hostile and unfriendly? I don't expect much I mean its a dive bar but they were straight up rude. Maybe we caught Rachel and Nick on a bad day..

Wow! Love this concept. My gf and I are huge Christmas season fans, so not only do we get to go somewhere as the holidays approach, we can also get that hit of nostalgia all year Staff was Very friendly, the bartender even shook my hand and introduced himself Price was above average for Austin on this side of town, about $10 for a draft hazy IPA. If it was a few dollars cheaper I could see us coming here more often (which would actually lead to more money spent in total… their loss) Parking was Nerve-racking. Pay Close Attention or you Will Be towed/ticketed This was in my bookmarks already to go, but I accidentally landed next door on another bookmark for Pedroso’s pizza next door (excellent pizza!). So that’s a great combo. They’ll even deliver to your seat at the bar! Atmosphere and service = 5 stars Price and parking = 3 stars Overall = 4 stars

Had a blast, bartenders were friendly and kind. The atmosphere is fun and quirky. The other patrons were super friendly as well! One of my favorite bars in Austin (Loved the photo ops too)

The staff is friendly and I love how "normal" and comfortable this bar feels... despite the completely chaotic decorations. I don't even like Christmas and I think this place is awesome. The vibe is really chill and not uptight and sterile like some local bars can be.

I love the vibe of this place. It was a spontaneous stop on my weekend and I’m happy I took the time. Drew behind the bar was amazing and super friendly. Chatted with a couple of patrons while sipping on a delicious eggnog for a little holiday spirit.

Great year-round Christmas themed bar that is a taste of old Austin vibes. Can get busy on peak weekend hours, but I love coming for an early weekend birthday hang, or drinks after work. Their T-Shirt game is solid. Support your local watering hole!

I never write negative reviews. Just the worst bar I’ve ever been to and I’ve lived here my whole life. I gave this place 3 chances and that’s enough for me! The staff are extremely unprofessional and rude, I’ve never been treated like this at any other bar. On my very first visit, they accused me of having a fake ID… I just turned 21 and didn’t have a chance to get a nonvertical ID yet. Turn me away if my vertical ID was simply the reason, but don’t lie straight to my face and tell me my ID isn’t legit. The door guy and bartender were very aggressive. Every other time I’ve gone there the staff are just unpleasant. The people who work here aren’t very bright!! Go anywhere else for a drink.

Decor, food, cocktails, all delicious and all photo Worthy. The cocktails are averaging around $15 just at FYI. A group of coworkers and myself went here for recuperation hangout and it was exactly what we needed. The place is almost as gay as us

This place is definitely a fun spot after a day on the water paddle boarding! Food tasted great, but I would say the only downside is the cost. $20 for a burger and fries is a bit much. Not a drinker, but the cocktails looked great! I was brought here by a friend and would come back here for sure!

Pool burger is one of my top spots in Austin! Their burgers are mouthwatering, and the crinkle fries are amazing. The atmosphere is always lively, and the staff are super friendly and chill. The drink menu is a total hit with refreshing flavors, and the drinks are definitely worth the cost! Highly recommend Pool Burger if you are in Austin.

We had a wonderful experience here. Food was great with many customization options available. Great vibe

Significant sections for drinks and burgers! The bartenders are so friendly and very knowledgeable about all menus. Ninety-seven degrees hot, but they have many mist fans everywhere, which makes me on the Beach! It will be perfect before or after you go Deep Eddy!

Great vibes but just not worth the money.. overpriced food and not that great tasting, limited seating.. my Mai Tai was good though..

These crinkle-cut fries make me so happy. The perfect amount of salt and crunchiness. The loyal forever is maybe one of the most satisfying burgers I’ve ever had. The ratio of cheese to meat to jalapeño. Yuuuuum.

First time here and really like this space. Converted gas station. Lots of seating inside and tons outside in break. Great looking area. Smoking friendly outside. That said, I ordered the breakfast tacos and they were quite poor. Flour tortillas weren't warmed up or crisped and really need it. A little too thin and lacked flavor. Had bacon and egg and fake chorizo and egg. Nether filling was great, but not bad. Bacon one needed more filling. Rating this a 4 star because I really like the vibe of this place and my friends did was better. I'll come again. But... I won't get these tacos again.

Kinda Tropical is everything you want in a chill Austin hangout spot. The vibe is laid-back but full of character — think tropical patio meets artsy industrial with plants everywhere and colorful touches that feel super inviting. The food? Absolutely hits the spot. Their small plates are perfect for sharing, and the flavors are fresh and creative. I especially loved the fries with house-made dipping sauces — simple, but done right. Great cocktails, too! You can tell they care about what they’re serving. It’s also surprisingly spacious, with both indoor and patio seating, making it ideal for any kind of hang — solo work session, date night, or catching up with friends. And bonus: it’s wheelchair accessible and open until midnight, which is a rare combo. If you’re anywhere near East 7th, don’t miss this place. It’s got that effortlessly cool Austin vibe down to a science.

Get the yucca fries. And be prepared for very friendly sparrows . Really hope this place keeps the native grapevine growing on its back fence. It provides such an ugly lovely shelter for the sparrows and blocked the view way better than the star Jasmine

My kids and I shared a burger, curly fries, and fruit bowl. The burger was excellent and both sides were large quantities and very tasty. Also had a good cold brew coffee and OJ for the toddler. Staff were friendly and welcoming. Inside and outside spaces both seemed good; we chose AC. Everything gave a chill and positive feel, but our drinks came out before we left the counter and the meal was out rapidly - but clearly fresh. Great lunch spot.

We visited Kinda Tropical for lunch as a group of three and had a great experience. The place has a cozy, laid-back vibe with a nice dining space and a welcoming backyard that adds to the charm. We tried the chicken sandwich, Thai coconut salad, and sesame salad. The chicken sandwich was decent, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for us, so I’d give it 3 stars. The Thai coconut salad was flavorful and refreshing, earning a solid 4 stars. The real standout was the sesame salad, which was fresh, well-balanced, and absolutely delicious – definitely deserving of 5 stars. Overall, Kinda Tropical offers a relaxed atmosphere and some standout dishes that make it worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for a chill spot to enjoy a meal with friends.

The Crispy Tofu Sandwich is genuinely the best food I've ever eaten in my life. The remainder of my days will be spent in melancholic remembrance of this delicious sandwich. I had to order a second one to savor the limited time I can spend at this establishment. In your first precious moment of biting into this sandwich, you will have a brief moment for your hindbrain to think, "Wow, that's a good bun!" However, the instant your teeth reach the crispiest tofu you've ever encountered, you will enter pure, primal, animal shock. I pray you have your wits about you as you take your first bite, lest you lose yourself. Savor this spirit-shaking moment, and then rejoice as you discover that you can experience it again, and again, and again, as each bite rocks your central nervous system just as the first did.

My friends and I came here and the two of us who ordered first paid in cash. The lady with a bun who took our order said “we’ve got a bunch of no-tippers over here” while my friend was looking for cash in her wallet for the tip jar. She ordered one $5 taco, by the way. There were five of us wanting to order so my friend and I stepped aside to allow others to order since there was a tip jar on the counter. I thought this was very unprofessional, especially since we are students and my friend was looking for cash. Also, when I got my salad, there was a clump of hair on the lettuce. This experience made me not want to come back.

Anthem, an Asian fusion with Texas flavors restaurant and bar, in Rainey Street Historic District of downtown Austin, is one of those few places where I would rate six stars if possible. My experience here was outstanding. The aesthetics of several dining areas, the Asian / Texas flavor combinations of their food, and the very friendly, attentive service, lend to a wonderful atmosphere. This air conditioned setting contrasted with the outdoor and open-indoor seating of many other Rainey Street establishments, which for me and my Yankee skin was quite preferred. The adult beverages here are outstanding; amazingly flavorful… and effective, so much so that I forgot to take food pictures. I know that I had the Brisket Tacos which were tender and delicious. It’s easy to make friends here, and find good conversation. Highly recommended.

We ordered smash burgers as mains and were pretty good but didn’t like the side of sweet potato fries. For the starter we had Rangoon which was pretty average but the second starter of guacamole was good. Nice ambiance with decent food.

What a delicious way to end our trip for ACL (Austin City Limits music festival)! I've been eyeing this Asian-fusion restaurant ever since we stayed around Rainey, and finally got a chance to see how it is. The decor alone reminds me of a mix of Mid-century Modern and Hawaiian/Polynesian. It's bright, cozy, and colorful, just like the food. I started with the popular Anthem Smashed Burger and an upgraded side of Furikake Fries. The Burger is quite good, if not a bit dry at first until you get a couple ore bites in and taste the salt & pepper aioli. On the hand, it's nice to have a crunchy, savory burger that's not drenched in sauce and you can actually enjoy the burger patty itself. The Furikake Fries are the star of the show for me, however. They're perfectly fried and seasoned with salt, sesame seed, and the very tasty furikake (Japanese seaweed). It is so delicious by itself, as well as with the Sriracha Ketchup! Sadly, they were having a bit of an issue with their oven so I won't be able to try the Upside Down Pineapple Bread Pudding, but they took care of me with the Hong Kong Waffle with Vanilla ice cream. There is a lot of components here with the green tea matcha bubble waffle sundae (I chose Vanilla ice cream), topped with Oreo cookie crumbles, Mochi candies, the iconic Pocky Japanese chocolate sticks, and sea salt caramel drizzle. If you have a sweet tooth, this dessert will definitely satisfy your craving!

Went here for a date night with my man at "blue hair time" 5:30 on a Thursday....we were the only people there and it was lovely! Great service, great drinks, and the food was excellent!! We had the Yummy Fries, Itchy Salmon, and Brisket Rangoons. Our favorite was the fries, but everything was delicious!! Definitely going back!!

Rating: 4.4/5 [dine in] Anthem's Happy Hour is one of the best in Austin. We come here often for their extensive happy hour menu, and it never disappoints. They recently extended their HH hours--now available Monday to Friday from 12-7 PM and all day Sunday. Service can be slow though so expect to wait a bit for your server. Lychee Lowdown ($8 HH): Really good - sweet and strong. EXSW Margarita ($8 HH): Our second go to drink. Magnum P.I. ($8 HH): Tastes a bit off; didn't get much pineapple rum flavor. Peach Fuzzy ($8 HH): Just okay - pretty basic. Frozen Blood Orange Margarita ($8 HH): Better than I expecte, and a great choice for a hot day. Thai Hippie Tofu ($8 HH): Delicious! Crispy, flavorful, and comes with a refreshing cucumber salad. Char-Buff Cauliflower ($12 HH): The tempura cauliflower is amazing--always a must-order appetizer. Crispy and tasty, especially with the Thai Green goddess dressing. JFC Popcorn Chicken ($12 HH): Comes in kung pao or honey Sriracha flavors. My husband got kung pao and asked for honey Sriracha on the side. The chicken is average, but the sauces are what really make it. Miso Mac Daddy ($10 HH): Surprisingly impressive. These mac & cheese balls taste similar to takoyaki--unique and enjoyable. Brisket Rangoons ($9 HH): Brisket was dry, and I couldn't really taste the five-spice--likely overpowered by the cheese. Yummy Fries ($12 HH): One of our favorites! The crispy sweet potato waffle fries are super addicting and full of flavor. Hawaiian Shrimp Ceviche ($14 HH): I don't usually go for ceviche, but this one was tasty and paired well with the tortilla chips. Salmon Poke ($13 HH): The first time we ordered it, the salmon wasn't fresh, but it was better the second time. The nori crisps were indeed crispy and pairs nicely with the poke. Itchy Salmon ($6 HH): Two pieces of baked Atlantic salmon on top of spicy crab mix, topped with Serrano, cilantro, and ponzu. These were just okay and didn't look appetizing either. Hilo Hawaiian Sandwich ($19) + Roasted Cauliflower ($2): Chopped brisket on a King's Hawaiian sweet bun with sesame slaw, French-fried onions, garlic dill pickle chips, kimchi aioli, pickled okra, and your choice of side. It sounded better than it tasted. The brisket was really dry. We thought the cauliflower side would be the same as the Char-Buff Cauliflower, but it wasn't. These were actually charred cauliflower--not tempura.

This is definitely a great brunch spot if you ever plan on Sunday funday on Rainey, you can start anthem 🫶🏾 food was amazing, drinks were reasonably priced and vibes were immaculate.. Came back here for dinner and wow it was the perfect spot for live music lovers and good vibes. The energy is electric, the crowd is friendly, and the drinks flow all night. A must-visit for a fun, lively Austin night out!

New favorite restaurant. The food was so good and the drinks were so creative and strong! The happy hour also made it super affordable. Could not recommend enough.