Best Singles Bars in Austin

If Austin-area jazz lovers feel ignored, it is justified; the local music scene, multi-faceted as it may be, has always neglected their genre of choice. However, what the region lacks in quantity, the Elephant Room more than makes up for in quality. It has been deemed as one of the finest venues in the country by none other than Wynton Marsalis (and subsequently honored by a unanimous resolution of the Texas Senate for having earned the jazz legend's admiration). The appeal stems largely from the club's unceasing lineup of regional favorites, touring greats, and, once in a while, plain ol' jam sessions consisting of anyone who cares to take the stage.

This venue, south of the river, is a throwback to the 1950s. Roots rock and country reign supreme in this bar, where one can often find men in leather jackets and classic Cadillacs out front. With live music nightly, tributes to Elvis, and celebrations of Hank William's birthday, this place is great for dancing, drinking and kicking back on the high stools. Happy hours feature some of Austin's favorite songwriters. The venue has broadened its range of live music to include occasional indie rock.

The Butterfly Bar is widely hailed as serving some of the best cocktail mixes in town. Get seated on their large outdoor patio and sip on an exotic list of cocktails prepared by friendly and experienced bartenders. It also has an impressive wine and beer collection. The light snacks and the yummy cheesecakes make for good accompaniments with drinks. All in all, this intimate space meets high standards, while also having reasonably priced drinks.

With its little stage having played host to some big names over the decades, Hole in the Wall has long been regarded as one of the city's most storied venues. Today, it mostly serves as a launching pad for local up-and-comers ranging in size and genre from 9-piece bluegrass bands to individual singer-songwriters. And although the nature of the crowd itself is subject to similarly sudden shifts (this often being a function of the performing schedule), the bar's proximity to UT brings in a steady flow of students and associated youngsters, most of whom come in for pitchers of Shiner and Lone Star.

The Firehouse Lounge, tucked away behind a bookcase in the Firehouse Hostel, offers traditionally made drinks, meat and cheese platters, a welcoming ambiance, and a selection of fine live music. Their handmade, top-notch beverages are made with just the freshest ingredients by professionally educated and highly skilled employees who are here to give you an all-around first-rate beverage service. Elevate your evening scene and come enjoy what the Firehouse has to offer.

Located in the historic downtown Driskill Hotel, at the center of the entertainment district, Driskill Bar boasts of some of the finest drinks in Austin. Its chic, rather lavish interiors set the first good impression, with its exquisitely carpeted floors, dim-lighting and elegantly upholstered furniture. The drink choices are plentiful, including the selection of wine. Best known for its innovative cocktails, the bartenders signatures concoctions like as the Barton Springs, Spyglass and The Batini, are not-to-be-missed. The cigar selection is quite adequate for those who care to indulge in life's little pleasures. Whether you are looking for top quality scotch, champagne, or maybe just a little mixed drink to soften the day, the bartender can satisfy your need. Add extraordinary happy hours and great live music to the existing excitement and you have a bar that you simply can't miss.

Lounge at the bar with a group of friends, shoot some pool or play some video games at Shangri-La. Umbrella drinks, jukebox tunes, and an array of beers on tap make for an interesting mix of local patrons. The outdoor area features plenty of tables and the popular Royale with Cheese food truck can be found serving late night grub. With different events throughout the month, there is always something going on down here! Call or see the website for more information.