Austin’s Best Happy Hours
Top Spots for Drinks and Deals
Exploring Austin's vibrant social scene means discovering some of the best happy hours the city has to offer. Whether you're new to town or a local looking for new spots, there's no shortage of excellent deals. Austin's best happy hours feature discounted drinks, delicious small bites, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
From trendy North Loop gastro-bars to the Cuban charm of Habana on South Congress, there's a happy hour for every palate. You can enjoy $9 cocktails, $3 off wine glasses, and $5 draft beers, or indulge in unique options like mango-infused habanatinis at marked-down prices. For those who love classic bar snacks, there's a plethora of options at reduced rates.
Moreover, spots like Il Brutto in East Austin provide unbeatable value with half-off cocktails, wine, and beer. Locations such as Guadalupe Street also offer a variety of discounted drinks and delectable snacks that are hard to resist. Happy hours in Austin not only provide great bargains but also an opportunity to explore the city's diverse culinary and beverage offerings.
Defining Austin's Happy Hour Scene
Austin's happy hour scene stands out for its variety and local flavor. Numerous bars and restaurants offer enticing discounts on drinks and food to draw in the after-work crowd.
Drinks are a central feature, with deals on cocktails, beers, and wines. Common offerings include $9 cocktails, $4 draft beers, and discounts on wine glasses and bottles.
Additionally, happy hour menus often include food specials such as $8 cheeseburgers, $5 fries, and shareable snacks. Local establishments also provide unique dining experiences with both indoor and outdoor options.
Popular happy hour spots have both locals and visitors flocking to taste seasonal drinks and regional dishes.
Below is a sample of typical happy hour deals in Austin:
Item Price Cocktails $8 - $9 Draft Beers $4 - $5 Wine Glass $3 off Wine Bottle 25-50% off Bar Snacks $2 off Cheeseburger $8 Fries $5
The timing for happy hours generally falls between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., with variations depending on the day of the week.
Local gastro bars and eateries make sure that the happy hour experience is an integral part of the city's vibrant social scene.
Top Picks for Austin Happy Hours
Austin is known for its vibrant happy hour scene with enticing deals on cocktails, beer, and wine. Here are some top recommendations tailored for cocktail enthusiasts, beer lovers, and wine aficionados.
Cocktail Connoisseur Choices
For those who appreciate expertly crafted cocktails, Austin offers several prime spots. Peche, located in the Warehouse District, is known for its artisan cocktails and $5 absinthe during happy hour. Il Brutto in East Austin offers half off all cocktails from 4-6 pm Tuesday to Friday, making it a favorite for anyone looking for a good espresso martini or specialty cocktail.
Wax Myrtle’s stands out with $8 margaritas and a variety of other discounted craft cocktails available from 3-6 pm Monday to Thursday. Clark's, another notable mention, provides martinis at 50% off paired with $5 oyster shooters from 3-5 pm Monday to Friday.
Beer Aficionado Favorites
Beer enthusiasts have plenty of happy hour options to enjoy in Austin. The North Loop gastrobar runs an extensive happy hour menu including $5 draft beers and dollar-off beer cans from 4-5:30 pm Monday to Thursday and 3-5:30 pm Friday to Saturday. Those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere will appreciate Foreign & Domestic’s half-off Austin beers.
Wax Myrtle’s also caters to beer lovers with half-off draft beers from 3-6 pm Monday to Thursday. Meanwhile, Il Brutto’s happy hour features half-off all beer, making it a top spot for domestic and craft beer fans alike.
Wine Lovers' Destinations
Wine aficionados can indulge in several excellent happy hour deals across Austin. The North Loop gastrobar offers $3 off wine glasses and 25% off wine bottles, providing a great selection of red, white, and rosé wines. Additionally, Foreign & Domestic offers half-off wine by the glass.
Clark's is ideal for those who enjoy pairing their wine with seafood, offering 50% off bottles on weekends. Il Brutto’s half-off wine deal from 4-6 pm Tuesday to Friday is perfect for savoring select wines in a cozy, intimate setting.
Wax Myrtle’s offers a delightful option with $5 bubbles during its happy hour, perfect for those who prefer a touch of sparkle in their wine.
Happy Hour Food Specials
Finding the best Happy Hour deals in Austin means not just enjoying discounted drinks but also indulging in some fantastic food specials. From delicious appetizers to hearty main dishes, there's something to satisfy everyone's cravings.
Appetizer Highlights
Many Austin bars and restaurants offer mouthwatering appetizers during Happy Hour. Oysters for just $1 each can be found at several spots, providing freshness and flavor. For those who love something a bit spicy, shishito peppers are a popular option, often available around $7.
Another favorite is queso, which pairs perfectly with a cold beer. Several locations also offer wings for $5 or less, available in various sauces from classic buffalo to honey BBQ. Edamame is typically offered at discounted rates too, appealing to those looking for a light yet savory snack.
Main Dish Deals
For heartier Happy Hour food deals, many establishments serve burger and pizza specials. Some places offer gourmet burgers for half-off, a steal given their usual price. Tacos, whether filled with fish, beef, or veggies, often come at a reduced price during these hours.
Pizza lovers aren't left out either, with many pizzerias offering slices at just a few dollars or whole pies at discounted rates. Seasonal variations like fried clam strips for $8 and snackys like smoked fish dips further diversify meal options, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to try.
Austin’s Thriving Neighborhoods
Austin is renowned for its vibrant neighborhoods, each offering unique happy hour experiences that reflect the city's diverse culinary and cultural landscape. Whether you're in South Congress, East Austin, Downtown, or North Austin, you’re sure to find a spot that satisfies your cravings.
South Congress Staples
South Congress (SoCo) is a popular destination with its eclectic mix of shops, bars, and restaurants. Hotel San José offers a serene courtyard setting perfect for enjoying discounted cocktails and wines during their happy hour. Perla's Seafood & Oyster Bar attracts seafood lovers with deals on fresh oysters and refreshing drinks. Don't miss Hopdoddy Burger Bar for its famous burgers paired with craft beers at unbeatable happy hour prices.
East Austin Eats
East Austin is known for its laid-back vibe and innovative culinary scene. Lazarus Brewing Co. features a diverse selection of craft beers with affordable pricing during happy hour. Takoba serves up delicious Mexican street food with great deals on margaritas and botanas. At Sour Duck Market, you can enjoy locally sourced American bites and craft cocktails in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Downtown Delights
Downtown Austin bustles with energy, offering a plethora of happy hour options. Geraldine's at Hotel Van Zandt impresses with panoramic views and creative cocktails. The Roosevelt Room on West 5th Street features an extensive craft cocktail menu, perfect for aficionados seeking discounted drinks. Péché, known for its absinthe cocktails, offers a charming European-style ambiance and enticing happy hour specials.
North Austin Nooks
North Austin boasts a range of hidden gems for happy hours. The Domain area, with venues like Sway Thai, provides delectable Thai dishes and refreshing cocktails. Vino Vino on Guadalupe Street offers an extensive selection of wines by the glass during happy hour. Flying Saucer Draught Emporium is perfect for beer aficionados, offering a vast array of draft beers at discounted prices.
By exploring these vibrant neighborhoods, you’ll discover an array of happy hour delights that showcase Austin’s unique character and culinary prowess.
