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.
With its menu of Italian bistro cuisine and charming interior, Enoteca Vespaio offers a less expensive but still fresh and high-quality alternative to Vespaio, its sister restaurant next door. Enoteca boasts offerings like the panini stuffed with housemade mozzarella cheese and roasted tomatoes, flat-crust pizzas, and rich portions of pasta. Fresh ingredients are in abundance. The dessert case at the entrance offers a glimpse at their tarts, cookies, and cannoli. Sunday brunch offers a selection of egg dishes and sweet breakfasts like pancakes and freshly made bread. The interior is small but welcoming, and the outdoor patio at Enoteca Vespaio allows diners to gaze at passers-by strolling down South Congress.
A bit off the beaten path, Draught House Pub & Brewery provides welcome relief from downtown's Sixth Street. The European pub atmosphere and exhaustive selection of imported drafts make this bar a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The seating is excellent, with high-backed wooden seats and very thick wooden tables. Come visit on Wednesday for pitcher night with free pizza or on Saturday with free bratwurst.
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.
This stylish restaurant is located in an elegant little bungalow in East Austin. Specializing the French cuisine, Justine's is known for its casual atmosphere and lively crowds of people. When in town, head over for a night-out with your group at this place and spend hours of fun as you relish French delicacies, sip refreshing cocktails, and watch the world go by in the breezy, spacious patio. Try their special escargots, in-house charcuterie, or steak tartare and pair it with a delicious glass of wine to complete the experience.
Barbarella is Austin's premiere dance club. Come here on any given night and you might hear your favorites from the 1980s as well as retro, soul, electro and indie music. People come here to enjoy a bit of nostalgia, or simply to dance. The club is also a venue for a number of shows and bands; it's part of the SXSW (South by Southwest) festival. So, for a fantastic time in Austin, hop over to Barbarella.
Milonga Room is a tiny space bar located in the Buenos Aires Cafe, an Argentine-inspired restaurant, and bar. Head to the bar after work or on the weekends to tease your taste buds with the creative cocktails which are well-made by the bartender or wine from the collection. Indulge in bar snacks like tapas that consists of olives, cheese, and picada or other Argentine traditional appetizers. From time to time while sipping on beverages enjoy the live stage performances by various local artists.
King Bee offers a psychedelic combination of classic cocktails, delicious pizzas, heady live music and dancing. Popular bands are invited to play retro and new gigs in a variety of genres, while patrons take to the dance floor. Since the dance area is not as large as at clubs, it is better to head here on weekdays when the bar is less crowded. Sip cocktails like Gin and Jam, Frozen Moscow Mule, and the lesser known Chi Chi Rodriguez, a blend of Puerto Rican rum, pineapple juice and Coconut-Horchata blend. You can also enjoy a variety of red and white wines from Spain, France, Germany, Washington and California. Some cocktails like Bee's Knees are served with elaborate garnishes, in this case a large orchid.
Whitestone Brewery is a popular local brewery and brewpub that serves some delicious and ingenuous brews. On offer are a variety of core brews as well as a number of seasonal and guest brews that are full of individuality and incredible flavors, making for exceptional flights. Step in, sample a few brews, and if you fancy, take away a growler or two of your favorites. The ambiance is friendly and casual and the taproom also frequently hosts local and private events and functions.
Salty Sow is a trendy local bar and restaurant featuring a casual yet chic atmosphere, relaxed yet lively vibe and a menu characterized by an eye towards sustainable, fresh, locally sourced produce. The eatery and bar features two individual dining areas suitable for a quieter evening out with conversation over drinks or a more lively space perfect for groups. Popular favorites on the menu include the triple-duck fat fries, Loch Duart salmon rillette, fried smashed potatoes, milk-braised pork shoulder and butterscotch bundino. A daily happy hour menu is available everyday between 4.30pm to 6.30 pm. A well-curated drinks menu featuring wines, craft cocktails and draft beers provides the perfect accompaniment to the meal. Sample signature drinks like the Miss Piggy or stick to classics like the Blood Orange Margarita; whatever you choose, the bartenders here know what they're doing, and the drinks can pack quite a punch. For reservations, events and group gatherings, contact the restaurant.
If you are a beer buff or if innovative brews interest you, Zilker Brewing Company and Taproom is a place which you must visit. This craft brewery uses the American Belgo style of brewing. This means that they take inspiration from American and English styles of brewing while making use of a particular strain of Belgian yeast. This creates a concoction which is unique and intriguing. You can check out the brewery and then sit in the taproom to enjoy large pours of their different beers. Get your own food to go with the brews or order in from the neighboring restaurants.
Barley Swine on Burnet Road has been treating its guests to some of Austin's most delicious seasonal fare since its establishment in the year 2010. The restaurant prides itself on procuring its ingredients from trusted local farmers and purveyors, thus providing them with a steady source of income. Executive Chef Bryce Gilmore and his talented team of culinary geniuses are known far and wide for their exquisite seasonal menu that features All American signatures like the Pork shoulder steak, Duck Breast, and the Aged beef tartare. Accompany your order with the immensely popular 'Parrot Season' or the 'Head, Shoulders, Bees & Toes' cocktail if you truly wish to indulge in a feast.