Top 20 bars in Downtown Austin
Discover the vibrant nightlife in Downtown Austin with its unique and popular bars. From Upstairs at Caroline's lively rooftop bar to the prohibition-era speakeasy vibes of The Roosevelt Room, there's something for everyone. Also, don't miss out on Moonshine Grill's classic American fare, Zanzibar's cozy atmosphere, and Elephant Room's live jazz music. These five bars are a must-visit for any Austin nightlife itinerary.
- 1. Moonshine Grill
- 2. Zanzibar
- 3. Upstairs at Caroline
- 4. Edge Rooftop
- 5. Elephant Room
- 6. The Roosevelt Room
- 7. Cedar Door Patio Bar & Grill
- 8. Firehouse Lounge in Downtown Austin
- 9. Coyote Ugly Saloon
- 10. Blind Pig Pub
- 11. Friends Bar
- 12. San Jac Saloon in Downtown Austin
- 13. Half Step in Downtown Austin
- 14. Maggie Mae's
- 15. Midnight Cowboy
- 16. Azul Rooftop
- 17. Seven Grand
- 18. Here Nor There
- 19. The Tipsy Alchemist (Austin)
- 20. Higher Ground
1. Moonshine Grill
Spacious outdoor patio and extensive whiskey selection

The drinks at this establishment are expensive, but they are also strong and varied. The cocktails in particular contain a high amount of alcohol. Unfortunately, the service here is less than satisfactory. The waiters are often unattentive and there have been reports of staff issues.
This place offers a wide selection of drinks, but the cost is quite high. The cocktails are generously poured, with a strong alcohol content. However, the service is a major disappointment. The waitstaff can be inattentive, leading to a poor overall experience. Additionally, there have been issues with the staff that have negatively impacted customers' visits.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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2. Zanzibar
Authentic African cuisine, unique atmosphere, and exceptional cocktails

The service at this establishment is a mixed bag. Some guests have reported excellent service, with attentive and knowledgeable servers who contributed to an enjoyable dining experience. However, other guests have had a different experience, reporting slow service or having to flag down their server for assistance.
The drinks at this establishment are visually appealing and have a tropical vibe. They are reasonably priced and some guests have praised the quality of the drinks and the service of the bartender. Despite the issues with service, the drinks continue to be a highlight for many patrons.
TOPICS
- Rooftop
- High-End
- Celebrations
3. Upstairs at Caroline
Spacious rooftop bar with stunning views of downtown Austin

The recent addition of a new rooftop venue to downtown Austin is a wonderful development. I had the pleasure of attending its grand opening, which was a fantastic event. I'm excited to visit this new haven in the city on a future trip.
The rooftop venue offers refreshing and cool drinks, which were just right. Additionally, the tacos served were also excellent. This new spot is sure to be a hit for those looking for a great place to relax and enjoy some excellent food and drinks in downtown Austin.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
4. Edge Rooftop
Rooftop bar with stunning city views, creative cocktails

The Edge Bar, located on the 5th floor, offers stunning views of the city and river. Visitors to the bar often rave about the spectacular sights, making it a popular destination.
I really enjoyed my experience at the Edge Bar. The views were incredible, despite its location on the 5th floor. This hidden gem is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a great view of the city and river.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Rooftop
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
5. Elephant Room
Historic building location with unique character and charm

The underground location of this place added to its overall coolness, creating a unique and exciting atmosphere. The vibe was electric, filled with energy and enthusiasm. I was particularly impressed with the cocktails, which were some of the best I've had in Austin. This place quickly became one of my favorite spots in the city.
In addition to its great atmosphere and delicious drinks, this establishment is an amazing place to enjoy Jazz music. The music scene is very authentic, providing a genuine and captivating experience for Jazz lovers. With its good music, good vibe, and great cocktails, this place offers a well-rounded and enjoyable night out.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
6. The Roosevelt Room
Elegant decor, craft cocktails, and artisanal ice

The Roosevelt Room in Austin is highly regarded for its exceptional cocktails and inviting atmosphere. The bar is a popular destination for those seeking a memorable night out, offering a wide range of creative and expertly crafted drinks. The staff is highly knowledgeable and dedicated to providing excellent service, enhancing the overall bar experience.
The ambiance at The Roosevelt Room is top-notch, making it a great choice for a night out. The dim lighting, comfortable seating, and lively yet intimate atmosphere create the perfect setting for enjoying a drink with friends or colleagues. With its combination of fantastic cocktails, knowledgeable staff, and unbeatable ambiance, The Roosevelt Room stands out as one of the best bars in Austin.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
7. Cedar Door Patio Bar & Grill
Historic building, vibrant atmosphere, and downtown location

Cedar Door is known for its variety of delicious drinks, including martinis, draft beer, margaritas, coffee, lemonade, and ice tea. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible by any mode of transportation. The staff at Cedar Door are highly professional and provide enjoyable service, contributing to the overall positive experience of the spot.
The main bar at Cedar Door features an antique Irish bar as its centerpiece, creating a cozy atmosphere. The bar staff are known for being some of the friendliest in town, making guests feel welcome.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
8. Firehouse Lounge in Downtown Austin
Hidden speakeasy entrance, Unique decor, Quality cocktails

Firehouse Lounge is a must-visit bar in Austin known for its unique atmosphere. The lounge offers live music and friendly bartenders that make the experience memorable. The interior of the bar is both cozy and sleek, exuding old-world charm. Leather booths are available for customers to relax in, making it an ideal spot for both groups and solo travelers.
Firehouse Lounge's inviting atmosphere is perfect for all. The bar's cozy and sleek interior, combined with its old-world charm, creates a unique ambiance. Live music and friendly bartenders add to the experience, making it a must-visit spot in Austin. Whether you're traveling alone or with a group, you're sure to enjoy the inviting atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind lounge.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
9. Coyote Ugly Saloon
Famous for its wild atmosphere, dance lessons, and bar top dancing

Austin, Texas is a city known for its vibrant live music scene. The sound of smoky, sultry notes from hidden dive bar corners and the electrifying beats from rooftop terraces create the city's soulful rhythm. Among the many dive bars on 6th Street, The Jackalope stands out as a quintessential spot. Its signature drinks and tasty food, along with a giant jackalope statue, make it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
The Jackalope's unique atmosphere is just one part of its appeal. Their signature drinks are well-crafted and popular among patrons. In addition to their drink offerings, the food served at The Jackalope is surprisingly good. Combined with the inviting ambiance, these qualities have helped The Jackalope establish a strong reputation within Austin's thriving nightlife scene. The bar, with its distinctive atmosphere and offerings, reflects the energy and character of the city itself.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
10. Blind Pig Pub
Historic dive bar, famous for its relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere, cash only

Live music is a major draw at this establishment, with guests consistently praising the atmosphere and quality of the bands. A diverse crowd is frequently drawn to the upbeat and enjoyable ambiance created by the live performances.
In addition to the entertainment, the drink prices are reported to be reasonable and the staff is highly regarded for their attentive and friendly service. Notably, High Noons are on the menu, which is a popular choice among some guests and adds to the establishment's appeal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
11. Friends Bar
Offers trivia nights, karaoke, and live music on weekends

If you're looking for a great spot on 6th Street in Austin for live music, Friends Bar is an excellent choice. During our six-night stay, we spent five nights there, thanks to the fantastic blues bands playing regularly. Despite the many bars on the block, Friends Bar stood out for its consistent good music. It wasn't particularly crowded when we visited and had an older clientele.
The main draw of Friends Bar is its impressive lineup of blues bands. With numerous bars in the area, the consistent quality of music here is worth noting. While not overly crowded, it offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to some of the other venues on 6th Street. If you're looking to enjoy great music in the company of a slightly older crowd, Friends Bar is the place to be.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
12. San Jac Saloon in Downtown Austin
Historic building, lively atmosphere, and excellent food and drinks

Dirty Sixth, a popular street in downtown Austin, is home to a reputable country bar known as The Dirty Sixth. This establishment is a must-visit spot any day of the week, known for its live music, affordable prices, and welcoming atmosphere for country music lovers. Whether you're a local or a tourist, The Dirty Sixth is the perfect place to spend an evening.
Upon entering The Dirty Sixth, one can't help but notice the low-key ambiance and rustic decor. The bar, located on 6th street, is the perfect spot to relax with a cold beer and friendly bartenders. During a chilly weeknight, the bar was quiet, but the addition of live music from a man with a guitar at the San Jac added to the cozy atmosphere. The bar features rough wood and a free popcorn station with chipotle seasoning, highly recommended by the knowledgeable bartenders.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
13. Half Step in Downtown Austin
Hidden speakeasy-style entrance, craft cocktails, extensive liquor selection

The bar, Half Step, located near Rainey Street in Austin, is a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers. It stands out for its impressive and authentic craft cocktails, created by knowledgeable bartenders and enjoyed to the beat of great music. On a recent visit to Austin, my husband and I, frequenters of the area, found ourselves particularly drawn to Half Step, making it our go-to spot for drinks.
With so many options for drinking in the vicinity of Rainey Street, Half Step proved to be our favorite. The bar's extensive menu of craft cocktails, combined with the expertise of its bartenders and the lively atmosphere, make it an exceptional spot. My husband and I, having explored other establishments, returned to Half Step twice during our visit, a testament to its allure and our high regard for the experience it offers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
14. Maggie Mae's
Historic venue with a laid-back, unpretentious vibe
The staff at Maggie Mae's bar are well-known for their friendliness and exceptional cocktail-making skills. The ambiance of the bar is ideal for a night out, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Maggie Mae's boasts an impressive bar scene, with a wide variety of drinks available to suit all tastes. The lively atmosphere makes it a popular destination for those looking for a great night out.
TOPICS
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
15. Midnight Cowboy
Unique speakeasy experience, craft cocktails, quality ingredients

The ambiance of the bar is dimly lit, featuring vintage floral wallpaper, comfortable leather booths, a wooden bar, and even a bar cart for table-side drinks. The overall atmosphere is warm and inviting, creating a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
The cocktails are presented wonderfully, with knowledgeable bartenders who add to the experience. Their expertise in mixology is evident in the creativity and balance of flavors in each drink. The staff's passion for their craft enhances the enjoyment of the bar's atmosphere and offerings.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
- Vegetarian Options
16. Azul Rooftop
Stunning views, creative cocktails, lush decor, and cozy fire pits

Our first stop in Austin was at a popular spot, known for its stunning views and delicious drinks. Located on a rooftop, this venue offers a unique perspective of the city, making it a must-visit location for anyone looking to take in the sights and sounds of Austin.
If you're looking to enjoy a drink while taking in the beauty of Austin, this rooftop bar is the perfect spot. With a wide selection of drinks and an unbeatable view, it's no wonder that this location is often considered one of the best places to have drinks and enjoy the city's skyline. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day or celebrate a special occasion, this rooftop bar is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.
TOPICS
- Rooftop
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
17. Seven Grand
Extensive whiskey selection, unique decor, and prohibition-era theme

The tacos at this establishment are highly acclaimed for their unique flavor and style. They are praised as genius and delicious, providing a satisfying meal for customers. In addition to the tacos, there is a range of diverse bars to choose from, such as a Mezcal bar and a Rum bar. These bars offer a variety of beverages, including fine bourbon, scotch, and whiskey sour.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
18. Here Nor There
Historic venue, iconic Austin location

Here Nor There (HNT) in Austin is known for its innovative and carefully curated cocktails. Each drink is a unique combination of flavors and techniques, with a personal touch from the skilled bartenders. The bar is overseen by the friendly bartender Joseph, who ensures that every drink served is fantastic. Both innovative creations and classic recipes are available on the menu.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
19. The Tipsy Alchemist (Austin)
Known for their innovative and experimental cocktails

Tipsy Alchemist is a cocktail bar located on Rainey Street known for its unique and entertaining atmosphere. The bar features flashy elements such as smoke and liquid nitrogen, and the drinks are served in unusual vessels, including lightbulbs and disco balls. While the prices are slightly higher than the average cocktail bar on Rainey Street, the quality of the drinks and the overall experience make it worth the extra cost.
During a recent visit, we discovered Tipsy Alchemist and were immediately drawn in by its captivating ambiance. The bar has a tiki-inspired vibe, and the cocktails are visually impressive. I ordered the Loca Loma, while my friend tried the espresso-based 'Not Your Mama's Spresso.' The presentation of our cocktails was exceptional, adding to the overall enjoyment of our drinks.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
20. Higher Ground
Spacious rooftop bar with stunning city views, and cozy indoor lounge area

The bar serves delicious and robust drinks that are sure to satisfy. The bartenders are skilled professionals who can create custom drinks tailored to your preferences. They are friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent customer service.
It is recommended to make a reservation in advance to ensure a spot at the bar, as it can get crowded. The bar is reliable and worth visiting, with its adequate space and quality drinks. The overall experience is positive, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a well-made drink.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife