Great atmosphere love the live music and the drinks were expertly crafted. I wish I would have got…read morethe name of the band that was playing. I would love to come back when the kitchen is open and try some finger food.

This is a very nice, low-key, chill spot that feels upscale when you walk in, but still casual…read moreenough to relax and enjoy yourself. The ambience is really well done. It has a classy, tasteful speakeasy vibe without feeling overdone or pretentious. They also have a private room that would be great for a special group gathering or a more intimate celebration. The grand piano in the room adds a really elegant touch and makes the space feel even more elevated. We went on a Monday night, so it's hard to say what the normal energy is like on a busier evening, but the overall atmosphere was still very pleasant. Service was friendly and attentive, which I appreciated. The only thing I would have loved was a little more creativity or guidance with the cocktails. The space gives the impression that you're about to get a true mixologist-style experience, but the recommendations we received were pretty standard, like Old Fashioneds and martinis. We were hoping for something a little more unique or original, maybe a twist on a Sidecar or an elevated take on a classic Old Fashioned. That said, it's still a beautiful spot with great ambience, pleasant service, and a very nice overall feel. I would definitely go back, especially on a busier night to see the full vibe.

This spot completely caught me off guard, in the best way. Tucked into Gruene, it delivers a…read morecocktail experience that honestly rivals (and outshines) a lot of what i get back home in Austin. The drinks are the star here. Creative without being overdone, and clearly built with intention. I went for the Old Fashioned flight, which featured bourbon, rye, mezcal, and rum variations (they let me tailor it to my spirit interests) each one distinct, balanced, and actually worth slowing down to compare. It's not just a gimmick; it's a thoughtful way to showcase how versatile a single cocktail can be. Service matched the quality of the drinks as they were attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely welcoming without feeling forced. You can tell they care about what they're serving. The vibe is what really seals it. Lively but not chaotic, polished but still relaxed. It feels like a place you can settle into, whether you're starting the night or lingering for one more round. Didn't expect to find one of the better cocktail bars in the area out here, but this one absolutely delivers...and then some.

Emily and Amber were awesome bartenders. amazing recommendations all night. I am in love with…read morethem. thank you ladies!!!

Wow...I can't believe I've never reviewed the Grove before. I scoured my many pending drafts and…read moredon't have one. Anyway, it's been close to ten years (if not more) since I first visited the Grove and it's always been a good time! Large, open-air patio with tons of tables, an outdoor stage, bar, brat food truck, shops and others bars also located on property. Everyone is so super-friendly. It's one of the best places to just relax while live musicians perform. Real chill, laid-back, welcoming, all that you expect from Gruene.

Fun outdoor venue with a variety of musical acts. Everything is self-serve. You can sit on a bench,…read morea planter, by a fire pit, at a table. The crowd and the ambiance are casual and entertaining. Go on a Sunday afternoon and have some fun!

Rd Hidden is one of my preferred destinations - whether meeting a close friend or enjoying a solo…read morevisit - to unwind with a well-deserved beverage while catching up on personal finances. On a recent visit, a best friend reserved a spot for us, and we ended up staying for an extended, thoroughly enjoyable time. Special thanks to Parker for the attentive service. Thanks, Parker, you are amazing. This remains one of my top hidden gems.

Enjoyed my visit to the RD Speakeasy. It wasn't easy to find, but was worth the search! After I…read moremade the reservation online, I got the confirmation but not the password. So on the way, I texted and requested the password. After a brief search and knocking on several doors, I realized the entrance is behind the restaurant in its own small parking lot. Look for the green light and avoid searching around like a weirdo, like me lol. Once inside, I found the interior is cozy with seating for couples, small groups and bar seating. We asked the mixologist to put his own spin on old fashions and he delivered. I'm addicted to the spicy cinnamon version that he created! The quail pops were a nice little appetizer although they could have used a bit more seasoning. I think the drink and app prices were very reasonable. Service was laid back and friendly. My only reco would be to maybe put a bit more thought into the vintage decor and secret restroom. The restroom lock was hard to figure out, especially after a drink or two lol. Overall this Speakeasy is a great spot to add a bit of intrigue to your evening.

Pretty swanky facelift on this venue. Came in during the slower part of the day so would like to…read morereturn when fully alive with music. The happy hour Old Fashion is heavy on the bitters if that's your thing, wasn't as fancy as I had hoped. The appetizer mushrooms are nice bite size morsels, just a bit on the greasy side - perhaps higher heat might fix that. Ambience really is nice and would look forward to an evening with friends and live music in the future. You must pay for street parking and lot parking.

We absolutely love Tavern on Castell. The atmosphere is so cozy. Servers are always fast and…read morefriendly. The food items are always tasty and a really nice variety. The Texas Toothpicks are my fav! Highly recommend this establishment.

Here Nor There was a fantastic experience. The interior vibe is quite lovely. My partner and I sat…read morein one of the side velvet booths. I loved how personal that area felt. We were able to have a conversation without feeling like others were listening. The music is very different than the vibe of the actual area. They were playing different rap & hip-hop artists. It was loud, but I enjoyed it. It felt very Austin-y. Loved the drinks. There was one that had something to do with Bob's Lake, or something like that. That drink was absolutely delicious. We also got the caviar service, and I really enjoyed that. Was not crazy about the blinis, I believe they were made with black corn flour. The crème fraîche was very nice. Very nice night out. This place also doesn't feel overly expensive. It's expensive, but in a similar price range to other cocktail bars in the area.

You're gonna love the vibe of this speakeasy. I visited for the first time on a Wednesday evening…read moreand enjoyed a handcrafted menu (literally, the menu is hand drawn) full of unique and delectable cocktails. There is something for everyone--no kidding. I loved their spin on a Paloma and my friends enjoyed standard items like old fashions and Moscow mules. Very very comfortable lounge seating, plush velvet and other soft textiles with leatherette coasters. Very elevated and calm. Music is perfect but kinda loud so conversation is a bit of a struggle. It is very very very dark in there so it's super intimate and features candles and mini tap light lamps. If you have sight or mobility issues, you may not like this venue from a safety standpoint. Steep incline stairs lead down to this dungeon like hold. I would return in a heartbeat. Must have the password. Exclusive and decadent is the mood. So if it matches you, you have to visit!

The Elephant Room is one of Austin's most widely known jazz venues. It is located below street…read morelevel on Congress Avenue. If you are claustrophobic, this might not be the best place for you. From the street level, you walk down steps to enter the club. This basement club delivers an authentic jazz experience. The dim lighting, narrow long room, and close seating create an intimate atmosphere. Live jazz musicians are hosted every night of the week, often with multiple sets, featuring a mix of local musicians, rotating house bands, and visiting musicians. Because of the tight space, you are always close to the stage. Tonight's headliner was the Concept Orchestra. Cover tonight was $7. Cocktails range $14-16. The room was pretty tightly packed creating positive vibes.

Elephant Room in Austin is a cozy basement bar that keeps you cool while you listen to shades of…read moresmooth jazz and blues. It is a fun little place with nice folks working there. The stage is a little weird angled relative to the audience but I guess that's a space constraint. While they do not serve food, that I know of, they have a standard selection of well drinks and cocktails to enjoy. You are coming here for the live music and underground vibes. If you are looking for a relaxed spot in Austin to beat the heat, grab a drink, and catch some amazing live tunes, Elephant Room is a fantastic place to spend an evening.

After class, I had the bright idea to go grab a cocktail. It was an excellent class--the teacher…read moreand I put on a therapeutic show. So I went to Bar 1919 in Southtown, a tucked-away speakeasy-style bar. I'd heard it could be difficult to find, and that mystery is part of the charm. Once I stepped inside, I was struck by how polished and inviting it felt: low amber lighting, dark wood, intimate seating, and a quiet hum of conversation that made the room feel removed from the rest of the city. The atmosphere was elegant without feeling stiff. The dim light glowed against the bar, and the cozy layout made it easy to settle in. There was something satisfying about searching for the entrance and then emerging into such a carefully designed space. [NAME] took care of me, and the service was warm and attentive. I was there by myself, but I never felt awkward sitting alone. The bartender checked in without hovering and made the experience feel relaxed from beginning to end. He also made me a from-scratch cocktail. [COCKTAIL NAME/INGREDIENTS] The drink was beautifully balanced, with [YOUR WORDS ABOUT THE TASTE/QUALITY OF THE DRINK]. The aroma rose from the glass before the first sip, and the flavors unfolded gradually rather than overwhelming one another. It tasted fresh, deliberate, and carefully prepared. I also had [FOOD], and [YOUR WORDS ABOUT THE FOOD]. The dish arrived [DESCRIBE PRESENTATION OR TEMPERATURE], with [DESCRIBE TEXTURE, AROMA, OR FLAVOR]. Each bite added another layer to the experience, and it paired especially well with the cocktail. Bar 1919 was exactly what I needed that night: a small escape with thoughtful service, a handcrafted drink, and satisfying food. The hidden entrance gives it a sense of discovery, while the intimate setting makes it easy to linger. Excellent idea.

This is my go-to spot for an after-dinner nightcap or a relaxed place to meet for drinks and…read moreconversation. The service has consistently been exceptional, and I particularly appreciate their impressive bourbon and whiskey selection. Over the years, I've visited for everything from informal business discussions to evenings spent with close friends. The intimate lighting, softly glowing candlelight, and thoughtfully curated ambiance create a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. Combined with a moderate noise level that allows for comfortable conversation, it's an ideal setting for both meaningful catch-ups and professional engagements.

Super cool bar for drinks and snacks. We were a group of 10 and the bartender didn't miss a beat.read more

My review is on the chili. I had a wonderful bowl of chili and a salad for lunch. It was the best…read morebowl of chili I've ever had. The meat was chunky and so tender. If y'all are craving a warm bowl of chili, run over here, you won't regret it!

Super fun speakeasy in an alley behind dirty 6th. I got a pretty good banana cocktail. It's nice to…read morefind quiet options for the less wild of us, who find ourselves in the area unexpectedly on a Friday night.

PRO TIP: Look for the red light above a purple door tucked in an alley, near a dumpster, behind…read moredirty six. Definitely sketch-- be wary of your surroundings. It's nerve-wracking when you tell your friends, "I know a spot," and then lead them down an alley behind Dirty Sixth... but here we are. In true speakeasy fashion, once you're inside, it's a complete 180. The space is quaint, dark, moody, and intimate. Like all places in Austin, I'd recommend making reservations in advanced since seating is limited. The vibe is relaxed and low-key, with solid craft cocktails--exactly what I was looking for in my thirties girls' night out. Service is mid.