Favorite Cocktail Bars in Austin

WEARING: Eliza J Velvet Top (Similar Style) & Plaid Sequin Skirt 

Happy Friday everyone!

I hope all of you have had a great and product week. My week has been busy busy, but also so much fun! With holiday parties in full-swing, my brother’s birthday, my birthday (on the 17th!), friend get-togethers, and so many exciting holiday events… December is already off to a crazy and fun start!

Let’s face it, the holidays can be pretty wild, and wedding planning has also been a little CRAZY! For times that I want to destress, I head straight for a glass of wine and a long relaxing bubble bath. AND… other times when I’m feeling fancy, I suggest to Nathan that we should hit up one of our favorite spots in the city for happy hour or a great cocktail.(Because you know your girl needs one from time to time.) 

Below, I’m sharing some of our favorite spots around Austin to grab a great cocktail! From intimate speakeasy’s to chic and trendy locations that’ll leave you wanting everything on the drink menu: I’ve got you covered! – Keep reading to check out some favorites. 

LAST STRAW: This Austin hang is a 2018 Eater Awards Winner and just snagged the title of BAR OF THE YEAR. I think that says it all, friends.

BETTER HALF: If you’re on the hunt for great drinks AND great food, this spot should definitely be on your list. You can’t go wrong with their Guadalupe Peak.

DEAN’S ONE TRICK PONY: This new space is a perfect Friday night hangout if you’re in the mood for bar snacks, Aperol pink lemonade cocktails, and a little shuffleboard. 

SMALL VICTORY: For all of my speakeasy lovers, this one is for you! Small Victory has been a favorite of Nathan’s and mine since we moved here, and a great spot to take friends that are experiencing the city for the first time. 

NICKEL CITY: This bar loves dressing up, from Halloween and Christmas to everything in between! It’s currently a Sippin’ Santa for the holiday season.

GARAGE: This hip, mid-century inspired spot is tucked away inside an actual parking garage! (Hence the name Garage.) Make sure you add it to your list. 

MIDNIGHT COWBOY: Nathan and I went here for the first time a few months ago, and LOVED it! I hope you’re able to find it.

THE ROOSEVELT ROOM: The RR showcases an extensive cocktail menu with drinks by the era. From classic cocktails that date back to pre-1880 to turn of the century concoctions, and prohibition style daiquiris… you’re sure to find the perfect drink to wet your whistle here. 

WATERTRADE: If you’re a fan of an old fashioned then you’ll love the Goma Fashioned at Watertrade. (It has toasted sesame and vanilla.) 

WHISLER’S: A must-stop spot if you’re over on the East side! Did I mention they have an upstairs mezcal bar too? #sogood

AH SING DEN: Ambience is everything in this gorgeous space. Cozy up with your boo here on a Saturday night and let the good times roll.

WEATHER UP: You might be familiar with this NYC bar, and this is it’s only sister spot in Austin. Head here if you want a little taste of the Big Apple. 

THE TIGRESS: My cousin Andrew and his wife introduced us to this pub, and I’m so glad that they did. Anywhere that serves a cocktail called Two White Dresses is a yes in my book.

THE DRISKILL BAR: Named one of the 10 Best Hotel Bars in America, the Driskill is the perfect spot to enjoy some of Austin’s history. Don’t forget to order the Batini!

ELLA PARLOR BAR: Last, but not least – the cozy, intimate bar at Hotel Ella. (Pictured throughout this post.) They offer up a great selection of handcrafted cocktails as well as yummy bites. Happy Hour happens Monday – Friday from 4pm – 7pm and you won’t want to miss their half-off cocktails, beers, & wine.

photography by Madeline Harper. 

I hope you enjoyed today’s list on some of our favorite cocktail spots in the city. I could honestly go on and on with great drink locations, but these are sure to satisfy even the most advanced cocktail connoisseurs!

Have a great weekend!! xo