Technically, there are six Alamo Drafthouse locations in Austin. The popular belief is that, if you're in Austin and you want to see a movie, this is the place to be; it's a theater where you can order drinks and food from a strong menu to be served to you during the film (the aisles are wide enough to accommodate dining tables). Arrive one hour prior to showtime to find a good seat and to start ordering if you're going to dine heartily here - last call is 45 to 30 minutes before the movie ends.
Set in a functional parking garage is this speakeasy-style cocktail bar called Garage. Look out for a large sign that screams cocktails and is nestled in a dimly lit parking lot, and you will have found the bar. This is a great place to enjoy inventive and perfectly crafted cocktails in an intimate and cozy setting. Make sure to eat a hearty meal before you visit this bar, as they do not serve any food!
The gay-friendly Cheer Up Charlie's is a friendly neighborhood bar with a wholesome atmosphere serving only vegan food and a delicious range of organic wines and beer to match. Live music is the real draw at this intimate venue that beckons a diverse range of customers who assemble here to enjoy music's universal language. This establishment is famed for its free concerts with plenty of theme parties and fantastic events, so make sure you check on those in advance and grab your gang to have an entertaining outing.
Great food, awesome brews and a fantastic vibe sums up Banger's in short. For the long form, this beer garden on historic Rainey Street offers quality pints as well as artisanal farm-to-table food. With an endless list of refreshing beers that accompany the comfort food on its menu, Banger's is easily one of the most popular joints iin Austin. Additionally, the outdoor beer garden with long tables is reminiscent of those in Munich and when the weather is right, its a great place to take one or two of Banger's 30 or so housemade sausages alongside a frosty pint.
Half Step is a swanky cocktail bar that serves artisanal drinks put together by amazing bartenders who can be seen working their magic at the bar. Remember the Maine, Prescription Julep, and Kentucky Colonel are some of the cocktails worth a sip, and all ingredients are made in house. Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, and both offer a great ambiance for an enjoyable evening. Live music can be experienced on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Violet Crown Social Club is a lively dive bar that is a great night out spot to hang out with friends or groups. The interiors of the bar truly lives up to its name with red booths lining the interiors and dim dark lights. The bar has a great selection of draft beers and some amazing bites to go with it. Make sure to try their pizzas that are simply amazing. They have a lovely patio area that is warmly lit for those wanting to relax and unwind in an outdoor atmosphere. Make sure to carry a valid ID to enter this bar.