Pick from the Best Bars Austin Has to Offer
By: Tanuj | Reviewed by: Bars Queen Team
Updated: 16 Jan 2025
Here is the list of best bars in Austin in 2025.
Finding a great bar in Austin can be challenging with so many choices. You might end up with drinks that aren’t very good, a boring atmosphere, or just not know where to go. Austin, known as the live music capital of the world, deserves bars that highlight the city’s lively and unique spirit.
Our list of the best bars in Austin can help. We’ve found the top spots that offer creative cocktails, enjoyable atmospheres, and the true Austin vibe. Whether you live here and want to discover a new favorite place or you’re visiting and want to enjoy the nightlife, this guide will lead you to the bars that provide unforgettable experiences. Get ready to enjoy the best Austin has to offer!
Top Bars in Austin
Summary
1. The Roosevelt Room | 2. Equipment Room | 3. Whisler’s | 4. Small Victory | 5. Here Nor There | 6. Tiki Tatsu-Ya | 7. Watertrade | 8. High Noon | 9. La Holly | 10. Nickel City | 11. Half Step
The Roosevelt Room opened in 2015 and is a top place for quality cocktails in Austin. It has a wide range of historical cocktails from different eras, making it a favorite for cocktail lovers. The bar has a modern and sleek design, offering a cozy and upscale space for both small gatherings and larger events.
Some popular drinks include the Old Cuban, Amaretto Sour, and a changing selection of cocktails based on different eras. Each drink is carefully made by skilled mixologists. The Roosevelt Room provides a warm and elegant setting, perfect for enjoying great drinks with friends.
Location: 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Number: +15124944094
Reservation: Book Now
Average Price: $30–50 per person
The Equipment Room is a hidden bar inside The Roosevelt Room that opened in 2020. It quickly became popular for those looking for a unique experience. This small, speakeasy-style bar has a mysterious and cozy atmosphere, with an industrial design that feels exclusive. Guests can enjoy vintage-inspired cocktails and limited-edition drinks, all made with care. The Equipment Room is perfect for small groups who want a private and memorable night out. It’s an ideal spot for anyone who loves craft cocktails and is searching for a hidden gem with a unique vibe.
Location: 1101 Music Ln, Austin, TX 78704, United States
Number: +15125205890
Reservation: Book Now
Average Price: $30–50 per person
Whisler’s is a popular bar in East Austin that started in 2013. It features a mix of Texas and Mexican styles, making it a unique and welcoming place. The bar is known for its mezcal cocktails, with the upstairs mezcalería offering special drinks, including their famous mezcal margaritas. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a cozy, candlelit interior and a friendly outdoor patio. Whisler’s is the perfect spot for those who want quality cocktails in a fun and casual setting that embraces Austin’s creative spirit and love for mezcal.
Location: 1816 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702, United States
Number: +15124800781
Average Price: $20–30 per person
Small Victory is a cozy cocktail bar that opened in 2015. It is known for its expertly crafted drinks and intimate atmosphere. The bar is in an unassuming space and specializes in classic cocktails made with precision. Some of its signature drinks are the Daiquiri, Martini, and Manhattan, all prepared with high-quality ingredients. The low-key ambiance makes it a great place for quiet conversations and for cocktail lovers to enjoy a refined experience. Small Victory provides a relaxed and charming setting where the art of mixology is central, making it ideal for a sophisticated night out.
Location: 108 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Number: +15129039450
Reservation: Book Now
Average Price: $20–30 per person
Here Nor There is a members-only speakeasy that started in 2018. It provides a luxurious cocktail experience. The bar is known for its seasonal menu, which features unique drinks made from high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is mysterious and elegant, creating a cozy space for members to relax. The signature cocktails change regularly to match the seasons and spark curiosity. Here Nor There is a great choice for those looking for an exclusive experience with a touch of sophistication. It is an upscale hidden gem for Austin locals.
Location: 612 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Number: +15129497995
Reservation: Book Now
Average Price: $30–50 per person
Tiki Tatsu-Ya since 2021, bringing tropical fun to Austin’s nightlife. This tiki bar is inspired by island culture and features bamboo decor, playful accents, and colorful drinks. It is known for exotic cocktails, including the Painkiller, Mai Tai, and Flaming Scorpion Bowl, each full of tropical flavors. The lively atmosphere encourages guests to enjoy a mini island escape. This bar is great for groups and special occasions, making it a memorable spot to experience the tropics.
Location: 1300 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, United States
Number: +15127723700
Reservation: Book Now
Average Price: $30–50 per person
Watertrade opened in 2017 next to Otoko, a popular omakase restaurant. It offers a unique Japanese-inspired drinking experience. The bar features a great selection of rare sake and Japanese whiskies, making it a calm and elegant place to relax. Watertrade’s signature cocktails use sake and special Japanese flavors, giving guests a blend of culture and skill. With its simple decor and quiet atmosphere, Watertrade is a perfect escape from Austin’s busy nightlife. It’s ideal for small gatherings or a relaxed night out while enjoying high-quality drinks with an Asian touch.
Location: 1603 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, United States
Number: +15129940428
Reservation: Book Now
Average Price: $30–50 per person
High Noon opened in 2021 as a retro-inspired bar with a Southwestern theme. It has a relaxed atmosphere and bright neon lights, creating a casual vibe with Southwestern decor and unique drink options. Customers enjoy signature drinks like frozen margaritas and mezcal-based cocktails, which offer a fun twist on classic Texan flavors. The colorful setting and comfortable feel make High Noon a favorite spot for locals looking for an easygoing night out. Its mix of retro charm and modern elements makes it a great place to enjoy drinks on Austin’s East Side.
Location: 2000 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702, United States
Reservation: Book Now
Average Price: $10–20 per person
La Holly is a lively bar established in 2018. It features colorful Mexican-inspired decor and a fun atmosphere. The bar is famous for its mezcal cocktails and tequila selection, with popular drinks like mezcal margaritas, Palomas, and seasonal Latin-inspired cocktails. The bright and festive setting includes an outdoor patio, perfect for socializing. La Holly is a great place to enjoy creative cocktails in a warm and welcoming environment that celebrates Mexican culture and Austin’s nightlife.
Location: 2500 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702, United States
Average Price: $10–20 per person
Nickel City opened in 2017 and is one of Austin’s best neighborhood bars. It has a retro dive bar feel with a relaxed atmosphere. Nickel City offers classic cocktails, cold beers, and a nostalgic vibe. It is especially known for its Nickel City Old Fashioned and frozen cocktails. This bar is perfect for people who enjoy a simple and comfortable setting. With its lively and friendly atmosphere, Nickel City is popular with locals and visitors who want to enjoy a quality drink without any pretentiousness. It feels like a home away from home.
Location: 1133 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702, United States
Average Price: $10–20 per person
Half Step is a relaxed cocktail bar that opened in 2014 on Austin’s busy Rainey Street. It is known for using high-quality ingredients and has skilled bartenders. Half Step offers classic cocktails like the Julep and Whiskey Sour, made with care. The atmosphere is casual but also sophisticated, with a large outdoor patio and occasional live music. This bar is a great choice for anyone wanting to enjoy good drinks in a lively yet laid-back setting. It captures the friendly vibe that makes Rainey Street a popular spot for nightlife in Austin.
Location: 75 1/2 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Number: +15126728698
Reservation: Book Event
Average Price: $10–20 per person