Where is the Best Chill Scene in Austin, Texas?
When I first moved into 78704 2 1/2 yrs ago, I would drive by TH Horseshoe Lounge and think who would want to go there. Everything I had heard about the bar was that it was a rough place full of biker gangs and geriatrics. This could only be further from the truth. The horseshoe is a friendly laidback environment with an assortment of people from their twenties to their eighties. One can play pool or my favorite shuffle board and get some free tips from the famous Happy Jack, a regular there for the past thirty years and one of the nicest guys Ive ever met. If youre not up to gaming just pull up a stool and have a cold one while listening to Willie on the jukebox. The Shoe is by far the best bar in Austin, TX.Pros + Long Happy hour, Affordable drinks, Not incredibly loudCons – None
There is no longer a membership fee for this classic Texas dive bar! Sitting just feet from the city limits, Sam’s is a smoking venue with a greasy spoon kitchen to boot. Cold Pabst for $1.50 and the nicest laidback staff around. They have a full range of beers, but I think it’s Bring Your Own Liquor, so call ahead if you are a whisky fan. Good music from Ramsay Midwood on Wednesdays and pool tables in the back to keep ya busy.I rate it a 10 because it is a no fuss, real deal bar without the meatmarket, hipster scene. Just my style! Most people I know that make it out are in awe of its simplicity and each seem to convert to Sam’s Fans upon entering. Come on out!Pros + off the radarCons – i usually go on a school night (ouch)
If you’re looking for a great relaxing place any day of the week, check out Lavaca Street Bar. Newly updated game tourney nights are suffleboard on Tuesdays at 7pm, and pool on Wednesdays at 7pm. Tuesdays are still $1 Tecate nights, which brings out a great and diverse crowd. Lone Star and Miller High Life bottles are $2 every day, all day, and they have various liquor specials during the week as well. Especially during the Fall there is a mix of people from different schools, which makes fun conversation about sports, and everyone remains friendly. I’ll see y’all down there Tuesdays for the shuffleboard tourney!Pros + great bar games and tourney nights, good drink specials during the weekCons – if you’re looking for a crazy, roudy bar, go to 6th.
I was introduced to Cork and Co by a friend. The setup is fantastic; its a mature, quiet wine bar. Because of their designation, they can sell wine retail, so their prices are much less than other downtown spots. Buy a bottle, it’s very worth it. The atmosphere is fantastic and the music is ambient and unobtrusive. Staff is knowledgeable and friendly. My only complaint is that it was very crowded on a Thursday when I visited but apparently they are expanding which I imagine will solve that.Pros + Location, Price, AmbianceCons – Can get very busy
