Here are some of our favorite Austin bars with supremely creative cocktails. Happy drinking!
Ruby Redbird Popsicle Shandy at Hotel San Jose
Enter through a secret garden-like door to find yourself in the cozy San Jose courtyard and perfect place to retreat. Toss a few pops back by the pool and experience spa-like service at this South Congress staple. And while the lodging lounge is most often recognized for the Shandy, the Froze deserves to share some of the spotlight.
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Adult Milkshakes at Péché
End your night at Péché, and choose from a list of three spiked shakes for a drink that satisfies all of your needs. Consider these treats the ultimate parting gift to your evening.
Neon Jungle at Backbeat
Cleverly named craft cocktails and banging soundtracks fill this new SoLa standalone drink spot. The short cocktail list packs a powerful punch and is separated by upbeat, refreshing concoctions and downbeat, comforting nightcaps. Light your way up to the roof deck with a Neon Jungle, Backbeat’s illuminating beverage.
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Margaritas at Shady Grove
Live music and margaritas? Shady Grove is one of those authentic Austin bars that has it all. Party and people-watch under Shady Grove’s shady trees and embrace the real-deal vibe many Austin bars simply don’t get.
Classic Cocktails at Firehouse Lounge
Hidden behind a hostel lobby bookcase lies Firehouse, Austin’s unsuspecting speakeasy. Meet people from all over the world. Swap stories over cocktails and charcuterie. Located just off sixth street, this is one of the more subdued Austin bars, and a breath of fresh air in the West Downtown scene.
Porrón Pours at Barlata
When it comes to Austin bars, Barlata has the whole authentic thing down. The atmosphere is light and bright and is great for groups or for a table for two. Kick your night into high gear with a pour from a Porrón or pitcher of house sangria. This is a happy hour hidden gem, and a true taste of Barcelona.
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Pisco Sours at Isla
Isla serves up island style drinks and provisions in fun tiki cups and goblets. Rum and tequila run the menu here, and is accompanied by traditional Peruvian fare. Never too packed, never too empty, Isla is the ideal island getaway.
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Long Island Iced Coffee at Halcyon
Coffee meets dessert meets drinks at only the best Austin bars, and Halcyon is definitely among them. This coffee shop is the perfect pit-stop, even for booze. On any given night you can listen to live music, smoke hookah and cigars, or roast marshmallows to make s’mores. A party night pick-me-up conveniently located in Austin’s Warehouse District.
Mezcal at Mezcalería Tobalá
This dimly lit spot tucked in the upstairs room over Whisler’s serves nothing but shots of mezcal and holds 10-15 patrons tops. It’s weathered. It’s dark. It’s intimate. It’s inviting. Most importantly, it’s staffed with mezcal experts ready to offer their recommendations. (We’d try to Gem + Bolt, personally.) A unique treat among Austin bars. Bottoms up!
Craft Beers at Easy Tiger
Do you prefer your Austin bars to feature pretzels, ping pong, and pilsners by the creek? I do! Easy Tiger is in the category of crowd-pleasing Austin bars. Their beer list is constantly changing and is consistently solid. Their whiskey selection is just as impressive. Easy Tiger is just really, really cool.
