Venues in Downtown Austin
1920's Club [MORE INFO] [MAP]
918 Congress Avenue
Owned and operated by the alternative lifestyle. Professional, mixed crowd. Quiet environment conducive to conversation. Martini bar with light jazz, especially from the 1920's. Full array of adult beverages. Unfortunately, 1920's does not serve food. However, there is a coffee shop right next door that has sandwiches and the 1920's staff doesn't mind if you bring food along with you. Wonderful upper mezzanine seating area with couches and comfy, fabric chairs. Although 1920's is located on Congress, it's up by the less busier part (by the Capital). Parking is not too much of an issue. If you can't find a space on Congress Avenue, usually a space can be located on a nearby street. Also, try the parking lot directly behind 1920's. The ownership and wait staff is welcoming of people of all lifestyles. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: Upstairs is inaccessible without assistance. Bitter End Brewery [MORE INFO] [MAP]
311 Colorado St.
The ritzy furniture and soft jazz give this bar a tastefully romantic atmosphere. On the weekends, acid jazz reigns at this reputedly haunted four-level bar. Elegance permeates this cozy club and is reflected in its chic clientele. If you're looking for a spot away from the chaos of Sixth Street, this bar combines youth and class inside a historic building just blocks away from other venues. While the Warehouse District is known for its upscale ambience, the B-Side takes this reputation one step beyond with its plush interior. The leopard-print velour-lined couches and beaded lamps make this the perfect place to splurge on icy extra-dirty martinis and innovative appetizers. Try the calamari served with roasted tomato chipotle sauce or, if you're a vegetarian, the red bell pepper humus with flatbread. If you're in a more casual mood, try one of the home-brewed ales, such as the EZ wheat, and a fresh-baked pretzel with stone-ground mustard. Comes recommended by Graham. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: Turns 21 and over only after the kitchen closes, usually around midnight. Cedar Door [MORE INFO] [MAP]
201 Brazos St
There's an inside bar with food and drinks, a large open deck, and that is all I know about the Cedar Door. Apparently the food and service are good, though. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (Wheelchair ramp clearly evident, some stairs at entrance.) Club De Ville [MORE INFO] [MAP]
900 Red River
A fairly even mix of Austin's pretty people and regular folks. Set below a limestone cliff, De Ville's large courtyard area is furnished with tables and chairs from Grandma's backyard. The bar fills up quickly with quite a bit of swank but very little pretense (it's hard to be snotty with a cobalt swordfish mounted over your head.) Servers with the best memories in Austin work the patio area. De Ville's Happy Hour is from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Chances are, if you're thirsty, it's on special. All drinks are made with freshly squeezed juice, and there are free pretzels if you need a fix. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (accessible.) Dog and Duck Pub [MORE INFO] [MAP]
406 West 17th Street
(512) 479-0598
Modeled after a British pub, with indoor and outdoor seating, many kinds of beer, food, and a nice (but sometimes crowded) ambience. Casual dress, moderate prices, a humidor available, and more. Comes recommended by Don. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (unknown) Driskill Hotel [MORE INFO] [MAP]
604 Brazos Street
Established in 1886 and recently renovated at great cost to return the hotel to its stunning original look of pure unbridled opulence, this world-famous hotel in the downtown area not only comes with its own ghost, but also a luxurious piano bar that is one of the finest places to eat in town. (I believe the bar has smoking and non-smoking sections.) ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (The entrance is ground level and the piano bar is accessible only by a staircase to the second floor or an elevator and roundabout path on the second floor.) Fado Irish Pub [MORE INFO] [MAP]
214 West 4th
Fado is packed with cheery students, professionals and expatriate Irish, all with tongues loosened by free-flowing Hibernian beverages. The pipes of Shane, Elvis and Van are sometimes replaced by live musicians. Guinness Bass Ale, Murphy's Irish Amber and Boddingtons Pub Ale all on tap. Extensive menu. Comes recommended by Graham. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (All the bars on this side of 4th Street are raised far off the ground on a concrete foundation, and are accessible only by crumbling concrete stairs. It is also possible to fall off the landing and into the street. 21 and over only.) Ginger Man Pub [MORE INFO] [MAP]
304 W. Fourth
Aside from the beer taps and light fixtures, nearly everything in the Ginger Man is made of dark, varnished wood or exposed brick. Extra seating can be found in the large, well-maintained patio in back. The crowd is mixed but skewed toward young professionals. There are some 80 beers on tap and another 100-some in bottles. If you can't find your favorite Sub-Saharan Extra Pale Triple Stout here, you probably won't find it anywhere in Austin. There's not much stomach filler, save for some soft pretzels, empanadas and an array of jerky ... both beef and turkey. Recommended by Graham. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: Technically wheelchair accessible, but only through a back entrance that's closed after five and has to be opened by calling the bartender and asking him to come open it. Also as dark as a cave in most areas. 21 and over only. Habana Calle 6 [MORE INFO] [MAP]
709 E. Sixth Street
Spicy wings, curried empanada, yucca chips, chicken fricassee, and fish are just a sample of the Cuban and Puerto Rican menu available. The desserts are pretty fabulous too. The atmosphere is funky and laid-back, with retro tablecloths and rattan-covered folding chairs. Citysearch doesn't say, but it's probably non-smoking. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (accessible) Hula Hut [MORE INFO] [MAP]
3825 Lake Austin Blvd
476.4852
Since June of 1993, Chuy's Hula Hut has been a little piece of the tropics in Austin, Texas. Menu highlights include such delicacies as Coconut Fried Shrimp, lavish Pu Pu Platters, our famous South Bay Seasar Salad, and Hawaiian Fajitas.
The restaurant is decked out with tiki torches, bamboo walls, grass-thatched bars and thousands of colored lights. Music from traditional Hawaiian to surf rock floats out over the water. And if there happens to be a wait for dinner just head out to the Palapa bar for a Mango Margarita and watch as the sun sets over the shores of Lake Austin. Lovejoy's [MORE INFO] [MAP]
604 Neches Street
With plenty of ambience (if not necessarily space), the main attraction here is the full bar and nearly 100 beers, including a rotating selection of five homebrews served on draft. The menu is skimpy, but includes empanadas. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (21 and over only.) Magnolia Cafe Central [MORE INFO] [MAP]
2304 Lake Austin Blvd.
478.8645
The legendary home of the giant 24 hour menu, great homemade sauces, breakfast anytime, pasta, fish, burgers, steaks, you name it!
Yes, did we mention our PANCAKES?
Special menus are also available for lunches, dinners, and late night.
Special theme-night dinners, too.
Fresh food cooked with passion in a comfortable setting, kind of like your favorite aunt's giant kitchen, if she had one. Malagas Tapas and Bar [MORE INFO] [MAP]
208 West 4th Street
Malagas offers comfort, quality and fun in an elegant atmosphere. It has a delicious tapas menu and an extensive wine list. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (unknown) Mother Egans [MORE INFO] [MAP]
715 W. 6th St.
Mother Egan's can afford to call itself a neighborhood bar. It also offers a full menu, with such Irish favorites as corned beef and cabbage, shepherd's pie and fish and chips. The relaxed nature of the bar attracts an older professional crowd who always seem to be having a great time. Our of all the TGIB venues, Mother Egans seem to be an environment where the crowd mingles well. Venue comes recommended by Graham. There is no off street parking, so, you may find yourself walking a few blocks. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (21 and over only.) Mozart's [MORE INFO] [MAP]
3825 Lake Austin Blvd.
This very popular, upscale, classical Northern European coffeehouse offers the finest gourmet coffees from around the world. Our large selection of premium coffees is the cornerstone of Mozart's. Our Roastmaster selects the finest coffees, imported from around the world, and uniquely flame roasts our coffees in small batches, on-site every 48 hours to ensure the highest quality and freshness.
At Mozart's, we are more than just fine coffee. We offer a wide variety of cakes, tortes and cheesecakes, in the traditional German style, creating a selection that would make any mouth water. We have an on-site bakery and bake daily to provide the freshest, most delicious desserts in Austin.
Blink your eyes and transport yourself to the unmistakable charm of the Old World. We provide a romantic European-style atmosphere where you can entertain out-of-town guests, hold a business meeting, bring the family or just people watch from our 350 seat deck while enjoying the extraordinary view overlooking the hills on Lake Austin. Every Thursday through Sunday, come and enjoy live music while you relax on our upstairs deck under our huge oak trees or indulge yourself in the calm serene atmosphere of our grotto area located
right on the lake.
Experience the difference of Mozart's Coffee Roasters and Bakery. Opal Divine's [MORE INFO] [MAP]
700 West 6th Street
A favorite for many TGIB'ers, Opal's is a good mix of lounge, English bar and boisterous game room. Rather than an evening's destination, this is the sort of place where post-college, twenty-something darts-and-beer types meet to wind down after work. Great food menu and good selection of adult beverages, outside and inside seating. Friendly environment and excellent, efficient service. Opal Divines has been the venue for many TGIB's and we have always felt welcomed by the wonderful staff. If there is a down side, it's the parking. There is off street parking, but rarely will you find an available space. So, you may find yourself walking a few blocks. SpeakEasy [MORE INFO] [MAP]
412-D Congress Avenue
This multi-level club is situated in the Warehouse district of Austin. After entering through the alleyway behind Congress Avenue, listen to various live swing bands. Upstairs patrons enjoy a pleasant garden atmosphere on the roof with an excellent view of downtown Austin and the Colorado River. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (Some Binet members have been turned away due to dress code considerations, and it is 21 and over only.) Whole Foods Market [MORE INFO] [MAP]
525 N. Lamar Blvd.
The new landmark store. Whole Foods Market represents a fresh and often surprising approach to the grocery shopping experience - as cooking demonstrations, food sampling, sit-down dining and takeout selections mingle with thousands of fresh and all natural ingredients in every department. The store retains the charm and accessibility of its first location, with an intimate, village-style layout and passionate, attentive Team Members eager to assist guests.
Venues in North Austin
Buffet Palace Restaurant [MORE INFO] [MAP]
1012 W Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78757
(512) 458-2999
Something for everyone! Easy to manage groups as it's serve yourself. Central Market Cafe North [MORE INFO] [MAP]
4001 North Lamar
The cafe caters to finicky eaters. The menu is very diverse with lots of fresh and healthy options. Limited selection of wine and beer, although they do have diet rootbeer on tap which is always wonderful. Great sandwiches and pizzas. The environment inside is rather Spartan and screaming kids can sometimes grate on one's nerves. There is a nice outside patio with live music in season. Parking is never an issue as Central Market has ample off-street parking available. Club Maxx [MORE INFO] [MAP]
6121 N. IH-35
Located inside the Red Lion Hotel at the intersection of IH-35 and 290, this bar and grill serves alcohol and mixed drinks in addition to burgers, salads, nachos, and Mexican food in large but reasonably-priced portions. The interior is roomy, with nice tables (free-standing and along the walls) and lighting, and at least one area that is semi-private. Worth checking out. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (accessible?) Dave and Busters [MORE INFO] [MAP]
9333 Research Blvd.
Dave and Buster's combines the latest arcade games and a sports bar into one building. Unlike the typical sports bar with a Pac-Man game placed back in some dark, deserted corner, D&B's puts everything up front with a giant game room and large enough bar to seat plenty. Drinks and games are a tad bit on the pricey side. Bring plenty of cash rather you plan on drinking the night away or getting lost in an eight-car race or flight simulator. Keep tabs on your spending though; tokens have been replaced with a debit card system that makes it somewhat difficult to tell how much each game costs. Along with the drinks and games, D&B's also has a good selection of food, with personal pizzas, seafood, steaks and ribs. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (unknown) JC's Bar and Grille [MORE INFO] [MAP]
5804 N. IH-35
A good-sized restaurant and tavern with a full bar that doesn't get too busy and boasts good chocolate cake and steaks. Entertainment is provided by live bands on Friday nights, while pool tables, side rooms, and male vs. female games on the TVs allow everyone to entertain themselves. Recommended by Talulah Rachel. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (accessible) Kerby Lane Cafe North [MORE INFO] [MAP]
12602 Research Blvd.
(512) 258-7757
Mongolian BBQ [MORE INFO] [MAP]
9200 N Lamar Blvd Ste 100
North By Northwest [MORE INFO] [MAP]
10010 N Capital of Texas Hwy
Conveniently located behind the Gateway Shopping Center at Capitol of Texas Highway and Stonelake Boulevard. North By Northwest brings together quality beers with outstanding lunch and dinner selections. This venue comes recommended by Robbie who says they have a fabulous room off the bar with banquettes along the wall and chairs and small tables ... and, reasonable lighting! NXNW is happy to reserve this room for us as long as someone in the group is willing to hold the room with a credit card. They don't need a minimum number of people to reserve the room, but someone needs to show or they'll charge our card a fee. Somewhat upscale atmosphere. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (unknown) Olive Garden Italian Restaurant [MORE INFO] [MAP]
8833 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757
(512) 459-0701
Fun and filling, a wide variety menu provides something for everyone. The huge salad will even satisfy the vegetarian palate. Tangerine's at the Renaissance [MORE INFO] [MAP]
9721 Arboretum Blvd
795.6040
Like other 1980s icons that retain their appeal, Tangerine's--an upscale, not to mention large-scale, disco within the Renaissance Hotel--cranks out recently nostalgic tunes, such as Cameo or Flock of Seagulls, for a diverse crowd of white-collar hotel guests (think footloose trade-show attendees), locals and dance fans. If kickin' it with the business jet set is your thing, this is the place for you.
It's all about deals and dancing here. Arguably one of Austin's best happy hours, from 4pm to 7pm, Wednesday through Friday, you get to belly up to an inviting spread of free hors d'oeuvres, empanadas, a complimentary pasta bar buffet and on Friday, complimentary beef and chicken fajitas. In addition to the food, there are $2 domestic beers and $3 drink specials. Corporate events for up to 400 strong are also a reason to hit Tangerine's. Threadgills North [MORE INFO] [MAP]
6416 N. Lamar Blvd.
(512) 451-5440
Casual dining since 1981 with an emphasis on homestyle Southern food. Includes a railroad car that has been converted into a dining area (always popular with kids). Texas tunes on the jukebox and intermittent live performances in the back room at night add to the ambiance. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (accessible) Triumph Cafe [MORE INFO] [MAP]
3808 Spicewood Springs Rd
(512) 343-1875
Coffee shop and Vietnamese food. Trudy's North [MORE INFO] [MAP]
8820 Burnet Rd
454.1474
Trudy's has been serving up its award-winning migas, salsa and margaritas at this north location since 1988. A large Tex-Mex menu appeases veggie lovers and carnivores alike with spinach quesadillas and sizzling beef, chicken or portobello fajitas. All entrees include the ever-popular rice and beans. Monday is all-day happy hour, so take advantage of drink specials on margaritas and beer. The bar boasts a variety of specialty margaritas and tequilas. And definitely try the most infamous drink, the wickedly tasty Mexican martini (limit two).
Venues in South Austin
Artz Rib House [MORE INFO] [MAP]
2330 South Lamar Blvd.
Fine Texas barbeque (and vegetarian dishes as well) in a nice-looking establishment with tables on several levels and a live band every night except Wednesday. The seafood gumbo soup comes highly recommended by Citysearch, who gave the venue a perfect 10 for its food. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: Wheelchair-accessible, some interior levels separated by one step at a time. Austin Java Company [MORE INFO] [MAP]
1608 Barton Springs Road
(512) 482-9450
Bouldin Creek Coffeehouse and Cafe [MORE INFO] [MAP]
1501 South First Street
A neighborhood coffeehouse in a small building with a huge deck in back and a lot of outdoor seating. The food is vegetarian with some vegan fare and breakfast is served all day. Drinks include smoothies and tasty coffee drinks. Central Market Cafe South [MORE INFO] [MAP]
4477 South Lamar
The cafe caters to finicky eaters. The menu is very diverse with lots of fresh and healthy options. Limited selection of wine and beer, although they do have diet rootbeer on tap which is always wonderful. Great sandwiches and pizzas. There is a nice outside patio with live music in season. Parking is never an issue as Central Market has ample off-street parking available. Galaxy Cafe [MORE INFO] [MAP]
9911 Brodie Lane, Suite 750, Austin, TX 78748
512.233.6000
This is a lovely little restaurant that combines fast-food style ordering at the counter with restaurant-style service. Interesting decor and a menu that also starts off fast-food and ends up chic cafe. Groups can wander in and order at their leisure. Green Mesquite BBQ & More [MORE INFO] [MAP]
1400 Barton Springs Road
You'll find a wide variety of BBQ dishes here (as well as vegetarian fare, burgers, sandwiches, tacos, chicken-fried steak, and more). A great western-style atmosphere and jukebox make this a relaxing place to dine and converse. This is a non-smoking establishment. Recommended by RKF. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (accessible) Kerby Lane Cafe [MORE INFO] [MAP]
2700 South Lamar Blvd.
(512) 445-4451
Magnolia Cafe South [MORE INFO] [MAP]
1920 S. Congress Ave.
445.0000
The legendary home of the giant 24 hour menu, great homemade sauces, breakfast anytime, pasta, fish, burgers, steaks, you name it!
Yes, did we mention our PANCAKES?
Special menus are also available for lunches, dinners, and late night.
Special theme-night dinners, too.
Fresh food cooked with passion in a comfortable setting, kind of like your favorite aunt's giant kitchen, if she had one Mimosa Cafe [MORE INFO] [MAP]
1500 Barton Springs Road
A Japanese cuisine and sushi bar with a good selection of vegetarian dishes (and other inexpensive meals) as well and a good beer menu. It's a big place with a large outdoor patio. Non-smoking. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (accessible) Old Alligator Grill [MORE INFO] [MAP]
3003 S. Lamar Blvd. #A
416.1243
Mardi Gras banners and assorted Cajun tchotchkes adorn the walls, and a stuffed 'gator hangs from the ceiling at this Big Easy-inspired hangout. The bar gets rockin' during happy hour, but the laid-back vibe and fun menu make for kid-friendly eating too. A back room offers pool tables and Golden Tee; the spacious outdoor patio's popular on breezy summer nights. Threadgills South [MORE INFO] [MAP]
6416 N. Lamar Blvd.
The South Austin version of the popular restaurant. Trudy's South [MORE INFO] [MAP]
4141 S Capital of Texas Hwy
326.9899
Trudy's has been serving up its award-winning migas, salsa and margaritas at this north location since 1988. A large Tex-Mex menu appeases veggie lovers and carnivores alike with spinach quesadillas and sizzling beef, chicken or portobello fajitas. All entrees include the ever-popular rice and beans. Monday is all-day happy hour, so take advantage of drink specials on margaritas and beer. The bar boasts a variety of specialty margaritas and tequilas. And definitely try the most infamous drink, the wickedly tasty Mexican martini (limit two). Warehouse Saloon & Billiards [MORE INFO] [MAP]
509 E. Ben White Boulevard
443.0222
The Warehouse is a large pool hall with 25 tables, also featuring video games, pinball and shuffleboard. In addition to the regular pool-hall activities, the Warehouse is also part sports bar, with multiple televisions showing sports action, including pay-per-view events. They have a marathon happy hour that runs from 11am until 7pm every day of the week.
Venues in the UT Area
Kerby Lane Cafe UT [MORE INFO] [MAP]
2606 Guadalupe St.
(512) 477-5717
Spider House [MORE INFO] [MAP]
2908 Fruth
Whatever mood you're in, odds are you'll feel comfortable somewhere inside the Spider House. Light or dark. Indoors or out. Manic or depressive. Take your pick and you'll be fine. The barely renovated WWII-era frame house sits comfortably on a huge lot bordering the TriBeTru (triangle behind Trudy's) just north of UT's campus. Seating options run the gamut from vinyl restaurant booths to mismatched dinette sets to funky, well-worn armchairs. Al fresco seating options are also extensive, from metal-topped beer tables on the wraparound porch to the rough wooden picnic sets in the multi-textured cobblestone courtyard. With its chaotic jumble of plastic chairs, rusting patio furniture, and smooth-swinging bench gliders, the outdoor seating area feels like a tea room decorated by Fred Sanford. ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES: (accessible) Trudy's UT [MORE INFO] [MAP]
409 W 30th St
477.2935
Trudy's has been serving up its award-winning migas, salsa and margaritas at this north location since 1988. A large Tex-Mex menu appeases veggie lovers and carnivores alike with spinach quesadillas and sizzling beef, chicken or portobello fajitas. All entrees include the ever-popular rice and beans. Monday is all-day happy hour, so take advantage of drink specials on margaritas and beer. The bar boasts a variety of specialty margaritas and tequilas. And definitely try the most infamous drink, the wickedly tasty Mexican martini (limit two).
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