Tantra

Really incredible and kind service from the tall bartender with the glasses! Very very nice! I…read moreordered lemon pepper wings and a lime frozen marg! Both were good! The wings had a crisp on them that was out of this world! Perfect patio music playing in the background and an incredibly dog friendly outside area! They have both shaded and unshaded seats! This was a super nice place, I'd come back! Perfect after a day at the river ! And I saw they do karaoke and trivia !

Only came for drinks. Will come back soon, for food. Loved the ambiance. The bar server was very…read morepatient as I requested my drink to be prepared with extra limes. Great place to hang out, grab a drink and sit and mingle. Plenty of outdoor seating.

Back patio

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Riding in style

Shade Rooftop Patio

3.6(34 reviews)

a good vibe safe place and drinks are great staff is really cool and chill! Me and my girl had a…read moreball plus everything well a lot of stuff. The drinks are strong.

Located in downtown San Marcos in the very heart of "college town, USA," Shade offers a picturesque…read morerooftop view of downtown and surprisingly good adult beverages with modest prices all in a safe environment. I wasn't told about this establishment, rather I happened upon it while meandering about aimlessly on a Saturday afternoon in April. All the other bars at 2am seemed dead, so I saw the sign and decided to ascend the "stairway to drinks" in the easily overlooked front entrance. After hitting the top of the stairs, the place opens up to a very interesting experience. There are two main covered areas, a thought to keep in mind as it was rigorously sprinkling when I visited. First there's a well-stocked open bar area under a makeshift roof with TVs there to grab the attention if the phone isn't working. Sorry, that's a pet peeve of mine as so many people go out nowadays to bars and sit on a phone rather than socialize. What's the point!? Ok, lets get back to the review shall we? While the bar has a 270 degree seating area, there are some open tables without a roof. This yields to the largest area with a shack like roof covering picknick tables, benches all not exactly the most comfortable seating but cozy nonetheless. The fellow patrons were extremely nice and represented all spectrums of life. As for the drinks the bartender was extremely helpful in suggesting drinks of the day while being fast in severing over 30 people by himself. Kudos to slinging suds at a lightspeed pace. I don't fault the establishment for only having one person scheduled as 2pm isn't normally busy but when an impromptu bridal shower shows up, Shade showed out (meaning they handled it well)! My bourbon cocktail was perfectly balanced while their special drinks weren't overpowering yet had enough alcohol to kick start a motor into 5th gear after sitting idle for too long. Overall, I love this joint as it's everything one could realistically want in a bar. Even though their cocktails varieties are somewhat limited, sorry I wasn't ordering a "pickle-rita" they're very good and reasonably priced. The view is great no matter where which seat is selected and the people are fun and delightful. I highly suggest giving this place a shot as it checks all the boxes on an impromptu list. The only pause would be if it's raining hard, let it end before heading up the stairs.

Craft cocktails and cold beer under the twinkling lights...

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Ruby Slipper

The Davenport

4.0(55 reviews)

I stopped into The Davenport for a cocktail before a long night out on the San Marcos square, and I…read morewish I had stayed there longer. The Davenport has such a relaxed atmosphere, from the Sade playing inside to the energy of the bartenders, that it feels comfortable as a cocktail bar. We all ordered one drink each, with some ordering the Jonestown Kool-Aid or a Barbie's Bathwater. I ordered a classic Aviation, which I believe is one of the best cocktails around, and it was great. It was a little sharper than ones I've had before, but I was asked if it was good or if he needed to make it sweeter. I enjoyed it for what it is, and I thought the price was pretty fair. I think The Davenport is a great starter or closer on a night out, or simply a great place to stay for a while. The patio is nice and comfortable, especially once the sun goes down, and the vibes are well worth it. RIYL: Creative cocktails that don't break the bank

Emily, Andy, and MC are the perfect bartenders and hosts. My friend and I have thoroughly enjoyed…read moreour drinks, experience, and time at Davenport!! We will be coming back for the friendly environment and customized experience and drinks. we had the best time.

Espresso Martini

Barbie's Bath Water

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The Porch

3.3(31 reviews)

This used to be a fun an unique spot in San Marcos to hang out and grab a drink. But it has issues…read more Let me first start out with the good. The staff is FANTASTIC and very friendly. The bartenders are lead by the awesome Rene(i hope i'm spelling that right) and Miguel. I haven't learned the names of the others yet but I have never had an issue with any of them and they are always so polite. You can drink at the bar and even order food from the Taproom. Now for the bad or what needs to improve. The Porch used to have a nice outside 'porch' area with nice chairs and even porch swings. That I always felt was the selling point of this place as when sitting outside i would constantly hear passers by comment on the swings and even come in to sit on them. These have been replaced by very cheap metal chairs most of which are broken now and for some reason an elevated table with barstools which isn't in the porch motif. The interior used to have nice comfortable couches and chairs but pool tables have replaced those. Its fine I mean business change with new owners but it lost a little of what it was. I would be fine with all of that, except the outdoor chairs, if it wasn't so hot inside. The AC barely works if at all and half of the fans do not work so there is no air circulation and in Texas during the summer you want a nice cool place to relax. They need to fix the fans, cool off the interior and put some fans on the exterior. In the spring time, fall and winter its a great place to hang out, but until they fix the summer issues, I can't say. It is better than when they tried to be a disco club during the pandemic lol.

It was 100 degrees and needed a place to hangout and have a nice cold drink. This place is a bar…read moreand has that western appeal mixed with a sports pub. You can sit facing the street, inside with both a street view and TVs, or in the back where there are more TVs but a bit darker. The bar is smack in the middle with a cool circular projection screen above it. I ordered a Deep Eddy Grapefruit with Sprite and watched the FIFA World Cup. The bartender was cool. It is definitely a cool bar with great drinks.

Blah... Where's the Texas beers?

Bar

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The Taproom

3.9(473 reviews)

I love the food (great burgers), beer and service here. The reason for four stars is that although…read moreplace is a dive (with great potential) I can't get past the sticky floors, tables, chairs and doors. Definitely not for germaphobes...or anyone who can't handle years of bar residue.

Still amazing. Their beer selection never lets you down and their holiday specials make it a novel…read moreexperience while still keeping their classic, burger & brew dive vibe. The service is still on point and food is perfect.

Draft Wall

The Works

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Yellow rose beer

Black Rabbit Saloon

2.5(48 reviews)

this was the best eggplant parmigiana I've had at any restaurant, Why was it so tasty? I think it…read morewas the homemade tomato sauce and that it had not only parmesan and mozzarella cheeses but also burrata, which give the entre and creamy, magnificent taste. That, with a draft Stone Vanilla bean Porter beer made for a memorable dinner. Service was exceptional and the ambience was good. I'm going to order the eggplant again.

Walked in shortly after opening. We were the only ones in there, so I cannot comment on the crowd…read more The vibe is chill, it's dark and they have an extensive whiskey collection. The biggest I've seen. The bartender was young and friendly. I had a blueberry Collins that was refreshing. Tried an old fashioned and I will say that the bartender made one of the best I've ever had. The back end has some cool adult arcade games like skee ball and they even have a Photo Booth and a nice photo wall for your social media photos. They are open starting at 5 pm. I definitely recommend checking this place out if you want a good drink with chill ambiance and the option to play some fun games.

10 rotating beer taps, including seasonal and local brews!

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Full-service back bar in the game room as well.

Showdown

4.1(82 reviews)

•$

It has been awhile since I've been here. Great place to get a beer for sure. Also great place to…read morerun into people you haven't seen in a few years. There's a pool table, and plenty of seating, at the bar, tables, upstairs as well. Found out that they have food, which I didn't know. We got some burgers, to make sure they were good. And they were. Just good. I did love the fries, done week done, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I had onion rings with my burger, they were just alright. The service is good, plenty of bartenders. Super nice and helpful and patient, took me awhile to order. The bar has a mug system, not sure how it works, but they have discounts daily for mug owners. Pretty cool idea. Plenty of TVs on, music was playing.

Attentive bar tenders. Low key locals ( went 6ish on a Thursday the week after parents dropped off…read morestudents) crowd probably much different hours later& weekends. Didn't eat. Only had a few drinks. It's dive bar vibes.

Decor

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2.15.25

Freddy C's Lounge

3.7(17 reviews)

Met up with an old friend. Just happens San Marcos is our half way point to meet. Neither of us…read morehave been to Freddy C's. The bar is like split in two. Not sure if the other half is the same bar or a different bar. But I walked straight in and sat at the bar. While I was waiting for him I ordered a drink. I said anything sweet and vodka based. He said do you like strawberry, I said, I love strawberry. Then he said he would fix me something nice. And he was right. Strawberry lemonade. The drink has a mellow strawberry flavor, so it's actually not too sweet. Had like 4 drinks. The bar was pretty quiet for a Saturday night. It's in the heart of down town San Marcos I would imagine. Looked like the town hall was across the street. There was a group of people that came in, maybe a dad and his son, and son's friends. Maybe a birthday celebration. they actually were doing shots and they ordered one too many and offered it to me. Thank you kind Sir! Sweet of you. No idea what the shot was when I joined their toast. Down the shot went and I was like, no way did I just do that. Like is this really a thing? Pickle juice? Seriously? Haha. Well, just popped my cherry, pickle back shot. Had a great night catching up. Laughs, drinks, memories, and well, it was just nice to step away for a short time. Parking situation. It's all street parking. Didn't have a difficult time finding a spot. And pretty much everything is walkable.

Left my purse at the bar, when I asked if I left it a lady told me she'd would go look and never…read morecame back to give me an update. I noticed all the bartenders were at the end of the bar laughing and joking so I left. As I'm walking out they walk out with my purse. Everything was there but my wallet with $100 cash, a vintage heart locket necklace, my debit and credit cards and my student ID was definitely stolen. When I tried to act upset about it they harassed me, laughed at me and shined a bright flashlight in my face. Not sure if it was the bartenders or another customer but they just handled the situation horribly, will not be coming back.

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Taken from Facebook page

Axis

3.2(13 reviews)

Bouncers have developed a reputation for taking ids and only returning them for a cash fee. My…read moredaughter's real, government issued id was taken and they wouldn't return it without another proof of id. (Which of course she didn't carry much with her when going out.) They claimed not to believe she was as tall as her id stated. Police were called, but it was going to be a while before they would arrive. They did this to several women while she stood there waiting for the police. One paid $70 to get her id back. My daughter's friend paid $40 to get it back and be done with the situation. I am livid at the fact that these guys would take advantage of potential customers and blackmail them for extra cash! Management needs to know the scam the door guys are working.

He was amazing. Bartender af. Made me a tequila sunrise instead of a tequila soda and told me I…read morebetter like it. I did. 20/10 recommend

Our Logo

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Putt Pub

4.2(53 reviews)

0.3 mi

My husband and I had a great time playing pool, ping pong and putt putt!! It was a very hot day…read morebut the fans were a nice touch! Friendly staff

I think the bartenders and the staff at nachoholics where great they commented for me and all of my…read morefamilies needs, Took care of me like I was their family. Thank you nachoholics especially Cole. And thank you to the bar at pub pub we're getting me right especially when my bitch wife was around and the handsome young man(Connor udemi) at the bar was extremely attentive and made great bevs. 12/10

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Ping pong champs!

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24 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Michael I.

9 years ago

I stopped here on a business trip with a friend from the area. We had a conference call with some business associates from Florida that we had to do that morning, and figured why not sit down for a cup of coffee while we did it. Everything was pleasant and the coffee was good until it was brought to my attention that the business employed a man that was viciously racist and wanted all white people to die. I know it sounds like I am exagerrating, but I am not. I immediately put down my coffee because I was afraid that if this person was working at that time of the morning that he may be putting something in my cup or something like that. I just didn't feel comfortable their once I heard this. It's shame though because otherwise its a lovely establishment but honestly I don't think I could feel safe there until I know that this person will not be working there at any point from now on. read more

Morgan N.

Elite 15

202

15 years ago

I just moved back to San Marcos last week, been nearly 2 years since I'd been to my old favorite coffee house, Tantra......NOT ANYMORE Lost charm, lost that old "hippie" feel.... New owners just don't get it Well, talk about "streamlining," Thats what the new owner said to me when we had paid $22 for a couple drip coffee's and a couple awful egg sandwich's. They have streamlined their profits out of your pockets and into theirs! They are trying to become a corporate coffee clone. You know who I mean...... They offer only 2 choices on drip coffee. only good one left was "harrar" Tantra's best from before. I wouldn't be surprised to see community coffee, pikes place and verona there next! Y'll know those names........ Sad change read more

Mary W.

1 year ago

FYI-Tantra is no longer serving food. So all the photos of fresh salads tacos, and sandwiches are no longer available. Here is the post from Instagram: "Big changes are brewing at Tantra We're officially closing our kitchen and will no longer be serving in-house made food. The last day will be Monday, June 30! As bittersweet as that is, it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter -- one that's all about music, community, and a dang ole good drink in your hand!" Eli Z. identified at the top of this page as the owner needs to update the description of this business. read more

Joy R.

12 years ago

I love love love the atmosphere, bluegrass night, and espresso drinks! However, I keep running into this old creepy guy who likes to talk up the college freshman aged girls who makes me extremely uncomfortable. I want to frequent this place, but I don't want to come there to consistently feel... gross. Ladies, be discerning with who is talking to you there. This is the sole reason for my low rating. I can't enjoy a place if there's a creep around patronizing the younger women. read more

Dan M.

12 years ago

Best coffee in town! I seriously love this place. It's got a great atmosphere and their drinks are excellent. My favorites are the Lilly and their iced Busy Bee. If you're in San Marcos and need a good drink or just a good place to relax, look no furthers. But Tantra isn't just another coffee shop, they've got music, food, and great people. It's worth checking out, for sure! read more

Johnny T.

9 years ago

Hires racists who hates all white people. His own words "Through a constant, ideological struggle in which we aim to deconstruct "whiteness" and everything attached to it, we will win." "White death will mean liberation for all." "Whiteness will be over because we want it to be." "Until then, remember this: I hate you because you shouldn't exist." read more

Tegan T.

19 days ago

This is my favorite coffee shop of all time ! It's the only cafe I go to in San Marcos because of how much the atmosphere and drinks can't be replicated anywhere else ! The service is always amazing, and workers are beyond friendly and helpful. read more

Sarah S.

12 years ago

This place is great! I love how much outdoor seating there is and the distance between tables is good for some privacy. The wait for food is a little longer that I had hoped but overall great coffee and atmosphere. Definitely coming here again. read more

Ginger E.

9 years ago

This business fired one of its employees, an activist person of color, because some white supremacists called in and demanded it. I will never give my dollars to a business that lets white supremacists decide who gets to work there. read more

Susan H.

10 years ago

great cozy place for a coffee or tea. I absolutely love supporting local businesses. I wish I could come here more often. If you want to meet someone for a relaxing coffee, this place is the place to go. read more

Evan F.

11 years ago

Been going there for nine years, it's like home. The people are always friendly. Just don't bring outside food or drinks!

Russel J.

9 years ago

Hires racists who will tell you they hate white people to your face and spit in your coffee. Disgusting place

Mike W.

10 years ago

Tall skinny cashier kept licking his lips at me, kind of weird. Any other guys have this issue with him?

David J.

9 years ago

This place employs Rudy Martinez, a racist who calls for white genocide. Do not spend your money here.

Anna W.

116

7 years ago

Super friendly staff and amazing selection of drinks! Would recommend to anyone needing a pick me up

Jon B.

15 years ago

This place is okay if you are in the bike riding 20ish crowd....good coffee

Debbie K.

14 years ago

Funky place with good coffee. Don't get here as often as I'd like!

Jason N.

15 years ago

If you like stinky hipsters this is the place for you.

Deia W.

9 years ago

Wonderful coffee and tasty food.

Caitlin M.

16 years ago

This place is for hippies only.

Tantra - coffee - Updated September 2026

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Such a quirky and delightful spot on the square. Stripped…read morewalls and potentially the original wooden floor, you get a peek at what this corner business might have looked like. Adorning these walls are picture of the San Marcos of the days of yore, with their own twist of hidden alien space ships and monsters from the Spring. We got a cortado and Don't be Chai (dirty chai) and treated ourselves to the ginormous espresso chocolate chip cookie. The service was maybe not as fast as a large chain, but the quality is impeccable. Best cortado I've had in SM. And they offer what tastes to be real chai, spicy and intense. Rather than the syrups at other joints. Parking is a nuisance, but well worth it.

I'm glad the Square has a solid coffee shop in a sea of bars. We went on Saturday around 11:30am…read moreand they still had quite a few pastries left. My wife chose the Bee Sting Cold Brew and said it was delicious. I simply got the muffin, which was pretty good. The thing I liked most about this coffee shop is the layout and it looks like a great spot to enjoy a coffee, study with friends, even work remote out of for a few hours.

Cafe Cortado

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After the disappointing showing across the street, decided to try the cute coffee caravan promising…read more"European inspired" Java. With a curated menu of both classic coffees and the sweeter fare, they did not disappoint. The iced cafe dobbio was rich and bitter in the best way. While I enjoyed this cold one, I might have preferred to take it hot with the perhaps last chilly day before the summer swelter begins. The staff was knowledgeable and ensure that they were preparing the order in a way I would enjoy. I will definitely be frequenting this spot and bring my coffee snob friend the next time.

My favorite type of way to have my morning drink and to find a spot with it in the name. Cute space…read morewith outdoor seating dedicated to correct European drinks of Java. Friendly barista with quick service. Nice find in the area.

Hays City Hideout Coffee House

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The Fairview

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I've lived in San Marcos for 15 years and I have tried many a coffee shops here, but can safely say…read morethis is THE coffee shop that I have been looking for all these years. You can tell right off the bat that the owners care about the quality of their products and service. The space itself is very welcoming and full of natural lighting and real plants. The products they carry are high-quality, and they even sell their own brand of roasted coffee called Bluebonnet Roasting Co. But that's not the real impressive part of it all. The best part is that their coffee is smooth and doesn't taste burnt or bitter or need tons of sugar and cream to mask the bitter coffee flavor. The coffee shines on its own. My favorite coffee bean is the Fairview Blend for espressos, but basically anything they brew is exceptional. I will only buy coffee here and am converted to buying their beans as well. The miso caramel latte has a very subtle and not-too-sweet flavor that suits my Asian tastebuds. Iykyk. The caramel dirty chai is also really good and satisfies a sweet craving. However, my favorite is the pour over, which really lets their coffee shine. The Americano is a close second for sure. You can tell that they take pride and are passionate about the quality of their coffee. They also are all very friendly and happy to answer questions you may have. The food here is exceptional as well. The biscuits they serve on Fridays and Saturdays...don't get me started. They're buttery, flakey, and the homemade jams are so good! Their focaccia bread sandwiches are amazing. The breakfast focaccia sandwich with thick cut bacon is my favorite so far. I normally only make coffee at home since I'm very picky when it comes to coffee, but since I've been introduced to this place, I have had to go at least once a week for my Fairview fix. Check it out. You won't be disappointed.

The fairview serves some high quality coffee (blue bonnet) in some inventive packages. The packages…read morebeing lattes and cold brews. Theor seasonal menu is amazing and i stuck to it both visits here. For example a miso infused latte foam? It worked. Boy did it work. The orange flavored cold foam drink came with orange zest on top for an added punch and aesthetic. The store is awesome too. Big and bright windows looking towards a foresty park and easy parking to boot. I spent some time speaking with the manager (maybe yhe owner) and they were really nice and definitely coffee people. I don't live around here but will make it a point to stop in every time i visit the area. Truly a spectacular little coffe house.

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Coffee / Latte was good. Lounge area was nice and comfortable but the music was way too loud…read more It was definitely difficult for the guy who took my order to hear me and for me to hear him. Maybe that's why they didn't get my order correct. Why is it that people who work at a location feel that all of us like listening to music that is too loud to have a conversation with someone else.

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Coolest coffee shop I've been to in a longggg time. Baristas were friendly and helpful/creative in…read morecoming up with drinks for my kids. The inside is cozy. A great place to come hang out, ready, or study. There is always a great outdoor area for you and your friends to relax. My order was "Cowboy like me". It's great. Not supper strong but strong enough. Light cream to soften it up a little bit definitely doesn't take away from the espresso. My wife ordered their drip coffee. We enjoy good, black coffee. If that's you, you'll enjoy as well. Definitely a place I would come back to again.

My girlfriend heard about this new coffee spot and wanted to give it a try. It is on a main road so…read moreparking is a little tricky, and after we parked we noticed the business had parking in the back.. Once we arrived inside we loved the homey vibe and the various seating throughout the small home. They also had games and various things for my 2 year old to keep himself occupied while waiting. They had various selections for coffee and various drink options as well. But we were there for the coffee since it was a little early. I ordered "Cowboy like Me" which was a Cold brew, double shot of espresso, oat milk, and simple syrup. I also ordered a cookie and croissant. The price was decent and the coffee was good. I am more excited to come back at a later time to try their drink options. But it was overall a decent experience.

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