The Victorian
The Scoop:
Inside the historic Driskill Hotel, The Victorian blends Old West saloon spirit with classic English pub charm. MML Hospitality has layered the room with rich textures: mahogany bars, deep leather couches, hide-bound trunks, and whimsical taxidermy of foxes and birds. While the downstairs offers quiet intimacy, the upstairs, complete with pool tables, provides a theatrical vantage point over the brass-accented main floor.
What to Drink:
Embrace the classics: A perfectly executed Manhattan suits the surroundings best.
Pro Tip:
The mezzanine is the premier perch for live music nights; stake out a rail-side seat before the band starts.
Details:
604 Brazos St., thevictorianbar.com
Boni’s Bar Next Door
The Scoop:
The Lenoir team brings Old Austin back to Bouldin Creek with this restored 1934 bungalow opening in early March. Family heirlooms, reclaimed materials, and a vintage piano make the space intensely personal.
What to Drink:
The cocktail list includes a classic gin & tonic, a sherry- and mezcal-based margarita, a Papa Doble, and a seasonal Carajillo.
Pro Tip:
Stop by for apps before dinner next door at Lenoir. Pair your drinks with small plates like stewed pork meatballs or softshell crawfish chips.
Details:
1805 S. First St., @bonisbaratx
La Mezca
The Scoop:
Hidden behind black curtains across from the Mueller gazebo, this sultry bar is a sharp departure from the neighborhood’s family-friendly spots. Inspired by Mexico City nightlife, the candlelit mezcalería is thick with the scent of palo santo and centered around a vibrant Día de los Muertos altar.
What to Drink:
The menu spotlights small-batch agave, as libations lean into ceremony. Try La Frida, which balances coconut and lime with the earthiness of mole bitters.
Pro Tip:
Don’t skip the street tacos.
Details:
1905 Aldrich St., Ste. 125, lamezcaatx.com
Parley
The Scoop:
Co-founded by the duo behind Bar Hacienda and Bar Fino, this neighborhood joint trades typical dive-bar grime for chic steel-gray leather and a moody, red-lit bar. It’s inspired by the Irish concept of “craic”—good conversation and better company—which plays out over pool tables, televised sports, and rounds of snacks from the attached Oseyo.
What to Drink:
Cocktails at Parley are playful and inventive, from the Fish & Chips Martini, a savory gin-and-vodka blend with nori and olive oil, to the Golden Brown with milk whiskey and spent coffee.
Pro Tip:
Order rounds of shareables, including the addictive krab rangoons, and hang out for a game (or two).
Details:
1628 E. Cesar Chavez St., parleyatx.com
Foxtail
The Scoop:
Skip the trek downtown for this polished cocktail bar on North Burnet. Curated vinyl hums beneath the glow of smoked mirrors, as velvet banquettes and deep walnut tones anchor the midcentury living-room vibe. The bar is a sophisticated sanctuary for the North Austin set.
What to Drink:
Martinis lead the way at Foxtail, including liquid nitrogen–chilled pours. Try standouts like the caffeinated Ristretto Martini and the whiskey-forward Kitsune.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early to claim a velvet-lined corner before the after-dinner crowd.
Details:
7001 Burnet Road, Ste. 1102, foxtailaustin.com
Great Job Darcie Duttweiler & the Team @ Austin Monthly Magazine Source link for sharing this story.
