Located on the UT campus, this small dark cavern is a singer/songwriter paradise. The venue attracts local artists as well as nationally recognized ones. Acoustic combos also play here. The Cafe is rather small, so the acoustics are great and the audience is filled with both devoted music fans and the university crowd. It can be difficult to find; call ahead for walking directions on campus.
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.
All restaurants could do with a famous patron, but the owners of Güero's Taco Bar proudly have a whole heap to choose from. The restaurant has a couple of dining rooms, one of which is built around the kitchen, giving it a very homely feel, and the outdoor bar is especially popular anytime the weather is nice (which is often). Check out the fish taco and the queso flameado, or the breakfast tacos. Don't forget to chug down the famous margaritas made with fresh lime juice or have a shot of first-class tequila.
Whisler's was an old bar formerly known as Rabbit's which has been revamped by the owner. The bar has a rustic charm to it. From the dimly lit chandeliers to the veteran looking walls and the extending patio, the place has a beauty of its own and so do the drinks on the menu. Whisler's is know for its friendly bartenders and lively cocktails that they craft. They also serve a few non-alcoholic drinks. It is a great place for groups to unwind in Austin.
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.
Saxon Pub, located on South Lamar, has a very intimate setting and possesses a classy atmosphere. Live bands and more make this pub quite a hang-out for the locals. Although there is no food available here, you can always bring your own food or even order for that matter. Sports is broadcast on the multiple screens during the day. Saxon Pub is a great place to unwind with some refreshing beer. A comfy ambiance to say the least. Cheers!