Sip, Savor, and Explore: Discover the Best Cocktails in Austin for a Memorable Night Out!

Discover the best cocktails in Austin, from classic margaritas to creative concoctions. Sip your way through the city's top bars and lounges.

Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant nightlife and thriving bar scene. From dive bars to rooftop lounges, there is no shortage of places to grab a drink in this bustling city. However, if you're looking for something a little more special than your average beer or glass of wine, look no further than Austin's best cocktail bars. These establishments offer expertly crafted drinks that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Here are some of the best cocktails in Austin:

First on our list is The Roosevelt Room, a swanky cocktail bar that offers a wide variety of drinks, from classic cocktails to modern creations. Their drink menu is constantly evolving, so there's always something new to try. If you're feeling daring, we recommend the Penicillin cocktail, made with blended Scotch, honey ginger syrup, fresh lemon juice, and a float of smoky Islay Scotch. It's the perfect combination of sweet and smoky.

Next up is Half Step, a cozy bar located in the heart of downtown Austin. Their drink menu is a mix of classic cocktails and unique creations, but what really sets them apart is their attention to detail. Every drink is expertly crafted with house-made syrups and freshly squeezed juices. If you're looking for something refreshing, try the Hibiscus Margarita, made with tequila, hibiscus syrup, lime, and orange bitters.

If you're a fan of rum, you won't want to miss The Golden Goose, a Caribbean-inspired bar that specializes in rum-based cocktails. Their drink menu features everything from classic daiquiris to more exotic creations, like the Jamaican Me Crazy, made with dark rum, coconut cream, pineapple, and lime. The atmosphere is laid-back and tropical, making it the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

For a more upscale experience, head to The Driskill Bar, located inside the historic Driskill Hotel. The bar itself is stunning, with ornate woodwork and plush leather seating. But what really makes this place special is their drink menu, which features classic cocktails with a modern twist. Our favorite is the Smoked Old Fashioned, made with bourbon, smoked simple syrup, and bitters. It's a true masterpiece.

If you're in the mood for something a little more unconventional, check out Garage, a bar that specializes in experimental cocktails. Their drink menu changes frequently, but you can always expect to find something unique and exciting. We recommend the Butterfly Effect, made with gin, butterfly pea flower tea, lemon, and agave. The color changes from blue to purple as you drink it, making for a truly mesmerizing experience.

For a taste of the tropics, head to Isla, a tiki bar that serves up some of the best rum-based cocktails in town. The atmosphere is fun and lively, with tropical decor and live music on the weekends. If you're feeling adventurous, try the Zombie, a potent concoction made with three different types of rum, lime, grapefruit, cinnamon, and absinthe.

If you're a fan of mezcal, you won't want to miss Las Perlas, a bar that specializes in tequila and mezcal-based cocktails. Their drink menu is extensive, featuring everything from classic margaritas to more complex creations. We recommend the Mezcal Mule, made with mezcal, ginger beer, lime, and agave.

For a taste of Italy, head to The Backspace, a cozy wine bar that also serves up some of the best cocktails in town. Their drink menu features classic Italian cocktails, like the Negroni and Aperol Spritz, as well as unique creations like the Basil Smash, made with gin, basil, lemon, and simple syrup. The atmosphere is intimate and romantic, making it the perfect spot for a date night.

If you're looking for a rooftop bar with stunning views, check out Azul, located on the top floor of the Westin Austin Downtown. Their drink menu is extensive, featuring everything from classic cocktails to unique creations. We recommend the Watermelon Margarita, made with tequila, watermelon juice, lime, and agave. The view alone is worth the trip.

Lastly, we have Small Victory, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar that specializes in classic cocktails. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with dim lighting and plush seating. Their drink menu is small but mighty, featuring expertly crafted drinks like the Sazerac and Old Fashioned. It's the perfect spot for a nightcap.

No matter what your taste buds are craving, Austin's best cocktail bars have something for everyone. So grab some friends, put on your best outfit, and get ready to indulge in some of the best drinks this city has to offer.

The Best Cocktails in Austin: A Guide to the City's Most Delicious Drinks

If you're looking for a good drink in Austin, you're in luck. The city is home to some of the best cocktail bars in the country, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a classic cocktail or something a little more adventurous, Austin has it all. In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the best cocktails in Austin and where to find them.

The Old-Fashioned at The Roosevelt Room

The Roosevelt Room is one of the most popular cocktail bars in Austin, and for good reason. They have an extensive menu of classic cocktails, as well as some more creative options. One of their best drinks is the Old-Fashioned. This classic cocktail is made with bourbon, sugar, bitters, and an orange twist. It's the perfect drink for anyone who loves a good whiskey cocktail.

The Margarita at La Condesa

No trip to Austin would be complete without trying a margarita. La Condesa is one of the best places to do just that. Their margaritas are made with fresh lime juice, agave nectar, and high-quality tequila. They also have a variety of margarita flavors to choose from, including hibiscus and tamarind.

The Moscow Mule at Whisler's

Whisler's is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Their Moscow Mule is one of the best in the city. Made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, it's a refreshing drink that's perfect for a hot day. They also have a variety of other cocktails to choose from, including some more unusual options like the Beetnik and the Golden Ticket.

The Aviation at The Tigress

The Tigress is a cozy cocktail bar that's perfect for a night out with friends. Their Aviation is one of the best cocktails on the menu. Made with gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette, it's a sweet and sour drink that's perfect for anyone who loves gin.

The Bloody Mary at Irene's

If you're looking for a good brunch spot in Austin, look no further than Irene's. Their Bloody Mary is one of the best in the city. Made with vodka, tomato juice, and a variety of spices and seasonings, it's the perfect way to start your day. They also have a variety of other brunch cocktails to choose from, including mimosas and bellinis.

The Paloma at Grizzelda's

Grizzelda's is a great spot if you're looking for a Mexican-inspired cocktail. Their Paloma is one of the best in the city. Made with tequila, grapefruit juice, and soda water, it's a refreshing drink that's perfect for a hot day. They also have a variety of other cocktails to choose from, including some more unique options like the Oaxaca Sour and the Cucumber Collins.

The Daiquiri at Half Step

Half Step is another popular cocktail bar in Austin. Their Daiquiri is one of the best on the menu. Made with rum, lime juice, and sugar, it's a sweet and sour drink that's perfect for anyone who loves rum cocktails. They also have a variety of other cocktails to choose from, including some more unusual options like the Garden Party and the Smoke Show.

The Sazerac at The Driskill Bar

The Driskill Bar is a historic hotel bar that's been serving drinks since 1886. Their Sazerac is one of the best in the city. Made with rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and absinthe, it's a strong and flavorful drink that's perfect for anyone who loves whiskey cocktails. They also have a variety of other classic cocktails to choose from, including the Manhattan and the Negroni.

The Mezcal Margarita at Grizzelda's

If you're looking for something a little different than a traditional margarita, try the Mezcal Margarita at Grizzelda's. Made with mezcal, lime juice, and agave nectar, it's a smoky and flavorful drink that's perfect for anyone who loves mezcal. They also have a variety of other mezcal cocktails to choose from, including the Mezcal Paloma and the Mezcal Old-Fashioned.

The Texas Tea at The Roosevelt Room

The Texas Tea at The Roosevelt Room is not for the faint of heart. Made with vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, and Coca-Cola, it's a strong and flavorful drink that's perfect for anyone who loves a good Long Island Iced Tea. It's also a great way to try a variety of different liquors all in one drink.

Conclusion

If you're looking for the best cocktails in Austin, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a classic cocktail or something a little more adventurous, you're sure to find something that you love. From the Old-Fashioned at The Roosevelt Room to the Mezcal Margarita at Grizzelda's, these ten cocktails are some of the best in the city. So next time you're in Austin, be sure to check out some of these amazing cocktail bars and try one of their delicious drinks.
Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant nightlife, live music, and delicious cuisine, but what about its cocktails? With an abundance of bars and restaurants serving up unique and creative drinks, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Luckily, we've compiled a list of the best cocktails in Austin, organized by theme, to help guide your drinking adventures.

A Taste of Texas in a Glass: The Best Margaritas in Austin

When in Texas, it's almost mandatory to indulge in a margarita. But not all margaritas are created equal. Here are some of the best margaritas in Austin:1. La Condesa - This downtown hotspot offers a variety of margaritas, but the classic La Condesa Margarita is a standout. Made with El Jimador Blanco, Combier Liqueur d'Orange, and fresh lime juice, it's simple yet delicious.2. Matt's El Rancho - This iconic Tex-Mex restaurant has been serving up margaritas since 1952. Their signature drink, the Bob Armstrong Dip Margarita, is made with their famous queso dip and topped with a guacamole garnish.3. Grizzelda's - This chic Mexican restaurant in East Austin serves up some seriously tasty margaritas. Try the Mezcal Margarita, made with Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, Combier Liqueur d'Orange, and agave nectar.

Sip, Sip, Hooray: The Most Instagram-Worthy Cocktails in Town

For those who enjoy a good photo op with their drinks, these Instagram-worthy cocktails will do the trick:1. Garage - This funky bar located in a converted garage in South Austin serves up some seriously cool cocktails. The Get Along Gang is a colorful concoction made with gin, raspberry, St. Germain, and lemon.2. Kitty Cohen's - This retro-inspired bar in East Austin has a killer patio and equally impressive cocktails. The Disco Nap is a refreshing blend of vodka, Aperol, grapefruit, and lime.3. The Roosevelt Room - This upscale cocktail bar in downtown Austin offers a variety of classic and creative drinks. The Pink Lady is a pretty pink cocktail made with gin, applejack, lemon, and grenadine.

The Perfect Pairing: Cocktails and Texas BBQ

It's no secret that Texans love their BBQ, and these cocktails pair perfectly with smoky meats:1. Freedmen's - This BBQ joint in West Campus has a great whiskey selection and equally impressive cocktails. The Smoke and Spice is made with mezcal, Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur, lime, and agave.2. Lamberts - This downtown BBQ spot has a killer happy hour and equally impressive drinks. The Smoked Manhattan is a twist on the classic cocktail, made with smoked bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters.3. Stiles Switch BBQ - This North Austin BBQ joint has a surprisingly extensive cocktail menu. The Bourbon Blackberry Lemonade is a refreshing blend of bourbon, blackberry, and lemon.

A Twist on Tradition: Creative Variations of Classic Cocktails

Sometimes it's nice to switch things up and try a new take on an old favorite. Here are some creative variations of classic cocktails:1. The Townsend - This upscale cocktail bar in downtown Austin offers a variety of unique drinks. The Old Fashioned 2.0 is a modern twist on the classic cocktail, made with bourbon, black walnut bitters, and orange cream citrate.2. Weather Up - This cozy cocktail bar in East Austin has an impressive selection of drinks. The Bee Sting is a spicy take on the margarita, made with tequila, honey, lime, and jalapeño.3. Geraldine's - This trendy rooftop bar in downtown Austin has killer views and equally impressive cocktails. The Sage Advice is a refreshing blend of gin, sage, grapefruit, and lime.

Feeling Adventurous? Try These Unique and Unexpected Cocktails

For those who like to live on the edge and try something new, these unique and unexpected cocktails are sure to please:1. Half Step - This cozy cocktail bar in downtown Austin offers a variety of classic and creative drinks. The Blackberry Sage Smash is a fruity and herbaceous cocktail made with bourbon, blackberry, sage, and lemon.2. The Backspace - This intimate pizza joint in downtown Austin has a surprisingly impressive cocktail menu. The Tiki Time Bomb is a tropical and boozy drink made with rum, pineapple, orgeat, and lime.3. The Roosevelt Room - This upscale cocktail bar in downtown Austin offers a variety of unique drinks. The Cacao Old Fashioned is a chocolatey twist on the classic cocktail, made with cacao nib-infused bourbon, demerara sugar, and bitters.

Keep it Local: Austin-Inspired Craft Cocktails

For those who want to support local businesses and taste the flavors of Austin, these craft cocktails are a must-try:1. Whisler's - This funky bar in East Austin offers a variety of creative drinks. The East Side Swizzle is a refreshing blend of gin, grapefruit, and mint.2. Drink.Well - This neighborhood bar in North Austin has an impressive cocktail menu. The Texas Two-Step is made with Tito's Vodka, grapefruit, jalapeño, and lime.3. The Roosevelt Room - This upscale cocktail bar in downtown Austin offers a variety of Austin-inspired drinks. The Texas Tea is a boozy blend of vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, and Coke.

A Nightcap to Remember: Dessert Cocktails Worth Saving Room For

For those who like to end their night with something sweet, these dessert cocktails are a must-try:1. Justine's Brasserie - This French-inspired restaurant in East Austin has an impressive cocktail menu. The Chocolate Martini is a decadent blend of vodka, creme de cacao, and chocolate bitters.2. Emmer & Rye - This trendy restaurant in Rainey Street serves up delicious small plates and equally impressive drinks. The Bourbon Banana Split is a boozy twist on the classic dessert, made with bourbon, banana liqueur, chocolate bitters, and vanilla ice cream.3. Odd Duck - This farm-to-table restaurant in South Austin has a great cocktail menu to match its delicious food. The Creme Brulee is a creamy and indulgent drink made with cognac, vanilla, and cream.

Happy Hour Hopping: The Best Deals on Cocktails in Austin

For those who love a good happy hour deal, these bars and restaurants have you covered:1. Licha's Cantina - This Mexican restaurant in East Austin has a great happy hour, with $5 margaritas and $3 beers.2. The Townsend - This upscale cocktail bar in downtown Austin has a killer happy hour, with half-priced cocktails and snacks from 5-7pm.3. Easy Tiger - This bakery and beer garden in downtown Austin has a great happy hour, with half-priced draft beers and $5 cocktails from 4-6pm.

Wine Not? The Best Wine Cocktails to Satisfy Your Cravings

For those who prefer wine over spirits, these wine cocktails will hit the spot:1. Red Ash - This upscale Italian restaurant in downtown Austin has an impressive wine list and equally impressive cocktails. The Sangria di Vino Rosso is a fruity and refreshing blend of red wine, orange liqueur, and fruit.2. Winebelly - This cozy wine bar in South Austin offers a variety of wine cocktails. The Negroni Sbagliato is a bubbly twist on the classic cocktail, made with sparkling wine, Campari, and sweet vermouth.3. Cafe No Se - This trendy cafe in South Austin serves up delicious coffee and equally impressive drinks. The Wine Spritzer is a light and refreshing blend of white wine, soda water, and fruit.

Heat Things Up: Spicy Cocktails for Those Who Like it Hot

For those who enjoy a little heat in their drinks, these spicy cocktails will do the trick:1. Wu Chow - This upscale Chinese restaurant in downtown Austin has a great cocktail menu. The Sichuan Margarita is a spicy take on the classic drink, made with tequila, Sichuan peppercorn, and lime.2. Whisler's - This funky bar in East Austin offers a variety of creative drinks. The Hellfire is a fiery blend of tequila, lime, and habanero.3. Juliet Italian Kitchen - This Italian restaurant in Barton Springs has a great happy hour, with $5 cocktails and snacks. The Spicy Paloma is a refreshing and spicy blend of tequila, grapefruit, and jalapeño.In conclusion, Austin has no shortage of delicious and creative cocktails to try. Whether you're in the mood for a classic margarita or something unique and unexpected, these bars and restaurants have you covered. So grab some friends and start exploring the best cocktails in Austin!

The Best Cocktails in Austin

Point of View

As an Austin resident, I have had the opportunity to explore the city's cocktail scene extensively. From classic cocktails to innovative concoctions, Austin has a lot to offer for cocktail lovers. In my opinion, the best cocktails in Austin are a perfect blend of creativity, taste, and presentation.

Pros of Best Cocktails in Austin

Austin's cocktail bars offer a wide range of drinks, from classic to experimental.
The city has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with many bars and restaurants serving excellent cocktails.
Many Austin cocktail bars source their ingredients locally, which makes for fresh and unique flavors.
The bartenders in Austin are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, making for an enjoyable and educational experience.
Austin is a city that embraces creativity and innovation, which is reflected in the city's cocktail culture.

Cons of Best Cocktails in Austin

The cost of cocktails in Austin can be relatively high, especially at trendy bars and restaurants.
Some cocktail bars can be crowded and noisy, which may not be ideal for those looking for a more intimate experience.
Not all bars in Austin serve cocktails, so visitors may need to do some research to find the best options.

Table Comparison of Top Cocktail Bars in Austin

Cocktail Bar	Location	Specialty Drink	Price Range
The Roosevelt Room	Downtown	The Perfect Lady	$$-$$$
Midnight Cowboy	Downtown	The Milk Punch	$$$
The Tigress Pub	North Loop	The White Lady	$$
The Roosevelt Room	Downtown	The Perfect Lady	$$-$$$
Whisler's	East Austin	The Oaxacan Old Fashioned	$$-$$$

Overall, Austin's cocktail scene is diverse and exciting, offering something for every taste and budget. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just looking to try something new, there are plenty of options to explore in Austin's vibrant nightlife scene.

The Best Cocktails in Austin: A Comprehensive Guide

Thank you for taking the time to read our guide to the best cocktails in Austin. We hope that you found it informative and helpful in your search for the perfect drink. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Austin has a lot to offer when it comes to craft cocktails. From classic favorites to innovative new creations, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

If you're looking for a classic cocktail, we recommend trying a Negroni at The Roosevelt Room. This iconic drink is made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari and is a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. The Roosevelt Room also offers a wide selection of other classic cocktails, as well as their own unique creations.

For something a little more modern, we suggest heading to Whisler's. This bar is known for its creative cocktails and innovative combinations. One of our favorites is the Honeysuckle Rose, made with gin, lemon, honey, and rose water. It's a refreshing and unique drink that's perfect for sipping on a warm Austin evening.

If you're in the mood for something sweet and fruity, we recommend trying the Watermelon Margarita at The Hightower. This delicious cocktail is made with fresh watermelon juice, tequila, lime, and triple sec. It's the perfect drink for a hot Texas day and is sure to satisfy your craving for something sweet.

For those who prefer a more savory cocktail, we suggest checking out drink.well. This bar specializes in garden-to-glass cocktails, which means they use fresh herbs and vegetables in their drinks. One of their standout cocktails is the Beet Down, made with beet juice, gin, lemon, and ginger. It's a unique and flavorful drink that's sure to impress.

If you're a fan of whiskey, we recommend visiting Midnight Cowboy. This speakeasy-style bar has an extensive whiskey selection and offers a variety of whiskey-based cocktails. One of their most popular drinks is the Midnight Cowboy, made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It's a classic cocktail that's sure to please any whiskey lover.

For those who prefer rum, we suggest heading to Péché. This French-inspired bar offers a variety of rum-based cocktails, including the Ti' Punch, made with aged rum, lime, and cane syrup. It's a simple but delicious drink that's perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon.

If you're looking for a unique experience, we recommend visiting Garage Cocktail Bar. This bar is located in a converted parking garage and offers a variety of creative cocktails. One of their standout drinks is the Smoked Paloma, made with tequila, grapefruit, lime, and smoked salt. It's a smoky and refreshing drink that's sure to impress.

For those who enjoy a bit of history with their cocktails, we suggest checking out The Driskill Bar. This historic bar has been serving drinks since 1886 and offers a variety of classic cocktails, as well as their own unique creations. One of their most popular drinks is the Batini, made with Tito's vodka, blue cheese-stuffed olives, and a splash of olive juice. It's a classic cocktail with a Texas twist.

For a rooftop experience, we recommend visiting The Upside at East Austin Hotel. This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city and a variety of delicious cocktails. One of their standout drinks is the Pineapple Express, made with pineapple-infused vodka, lemon, and honey. It's a fruity and refreshing drink that's perfect for sipping while taking in the view.

Finally, if you're looking for a dive bar with great cocktails, we suggest heading to The Side Bar. This unassuming bar offers a variety of creative cocktails, including the popular Sidecar, made with cognac, triple sec, and lemon. It's a classic drink with a modern twist.

We hope that our guide to the best cocktails in Austin has helped you discover some new favorites. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a fun night out, Austin has a lot to offer when it comes to craft cocktails. So grab some friends and head out to explore the city's vibrant cocktail scene!