The Ultimate Guide to Austin’s Best Cocktail Spots for a Perfect Date Night

Austin’s vibrant cocktail scene offers countless options for a perfect date night, whether you’re looking for a cozy, intimate setting or a lively, fun atmosphere. From hidden speakeasies to trendy rooftop bars, the city has something to suit every mood and style. Whether you’re in the mood for classic cocktails, innovative concoctions, or something a bit more adventurous, Austin’s bar scene is sure to impress. Here’s a roundup of some of the best places in Austin to grab a cocktail with your date, each offering its own unique ambiance and specialty drinks that are sure to make your night memorable.

1. The Roosevelt Room

• Why Go: This award-winning cocktail bar offers an extensive menu of classic and contemporary cocktails, perfect for impressing a date.
• Ambiance: Sleek and sophisticated, with dim lighting and plush seating.
• Specialty Drinks: Try their “Prohibition-Era” cocktails or ask the bartender for a recommendation based on your preferences.
• Website: The Roosevelt Room

2. Garage

• Why Go: Tucked away in a parking garage, this bar offers an intimate, hidden feel.
• Ambiance: Cozy and modern, with a minimalist design and a focus on high-quality cocktails.
• Specialty Drinks: The “Indian Paintbrush” and “Penicillin” are crowd favorites.
• Website: Garage

3. Small Victory

• Why Go: Known for its cozy, speakeasy vibe, it’s a great spot for a quiet, romantic evening.
• Ambiance: Intimate and low-key, with a focus on classic cocktails made with precision.
• Specialty Drinks: Their “Martini” and “Old Fashioned” are highly regarded.
• Website: Small Victory

4. Midnight Cowboy

• Why Go: This reservation-only speakeasy is perfect for a private, intimate date.
• Ambiance: Vintage, with private booths and dim lighting, offering a unique, secluded experience.
• Specialty Drinks: Try the “Waterloo Sunset” or “The Leatherneck.”
• Website: Midnight Cowboy

5. The Driskill Bar

• Why Go: Located in the historic Driskill Hotel, this bar exudes old-world charm.
• Ambiance: Classic and elegant, with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Specialty Drinks: Enjoy a “Batini” or a classic “Manhattan.”
• Website: The Driskill Bar

6. Whisler’s

• Why Go: A popular East Austin spot known for its craft cocktails and mezcal bar upstairs.
• Ambiance: Rustic and lively, with a laid-back vibe and outdoor seating.
• Specialty Drinks: The rotating seasonal cocktails are always a good choice, as is anything from the mezcal bar.
• Website: Whisler’s

7. Péché

• Why Go: Austin’s first absinthe bar, offering a unique experience for adventurous drinkers.
• Ambiance: Dark, sultry, and reminiscent of a 1920s Parisian bar.
• Specialty Drinks: Try their absinthe-based cocktails or the “Corpse Reviver #2.”
• Website: Péché

8. Lonesome Dove Western Bistro

• Why Go: Known for its Texas-inspired cocktails and romantic, Western-chic atmosphere.
• Ambiance: Cozy and intimate, with rustic decor and dim lighting.
• Specialty Drinks: The “Watermelon Margarita” and “Smoked Sage Margarita” are top picks.
• Website: Lonesome Dove Austin

9. The Tigress Pub

• Why Go: This North Loop gem is known for its inventive cocktails and intimate setting.
• Ambiance: Small and cozy, perfect for a low-key date night.
• Specialty Drinks: The rotating cocktail menu ensures there’s always something new to try.
• Website: The Tigress Pub

10. Deep Eddy Cabaret

• Why Go: A historic dive bar with a laid-back vibe, ideal for a casual date.
• Ambiance: Old-school and unpretentious, with a nostalgic charm.
• Specialty Drinks: Enjoy a cold beer or simple cocktails like a “Whiskey Sour.”
• Website: Deep Eddy Cabaret

11. Eberly

• Why Go: This sophisticated spot on South Lamar combines great cocktails with a beautiful setting.
• Ambiance: Elegant and spacious, with a stunning rooftop patio.
• Specialty Drinks: The “Lady Bird” and “Old Fashioned” are highly recommended.
• Website: Eberly

12. Kitty Cohen’s

• Why Go: A fun, retro-inspired bar with a Palm Springs vibe, perfect for a playful date.
• Ambiance: Bright and breezy, with a large patio and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Specialty Drinks: Try the “Frozen Aperol Spritz” or “Frosé.”
• Website: Kitty Cohen’s

13. The Roosevelt Room

• Why Go: For a more upscale cocktail experience with an extensive menu and expert bartenders.
• Ambiance: Classy and intimate, with a focus on mixology and service.
• Specialty Drinks: Try a “Ramos Gin Fizz” or something from their seasonal menu.
• Website: The Roosevelt Room

• 14. Higher Ground

  • Why Go: This unique bar combines spiritual-themed decor with creative cocktails, making it a memorable spot for a date.
  • Ambiance: The interior is inspired by churches, with stained glass, candlelit tables, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
  • Specialty Drinks: Try the “Saint Rita,” a twist on the classic margarita, or the “Good Word,” a gin-based cocktail.
  • Website: Higher Ground

  15. Josephine House

  • Why Go: A charming, cottage-like restaurant with a cozy bar, perfect for a romantic, low-key evening.
  • Ambiance: Intimate and elegant, with a lovely patio for outdoor seating.
  • Specialty Drinks: The “Gimlet” and “Negroni” are standout choices, crafted with precision.
  • Website: Josephine House

  16. Donn’s Depot

  • Why Go: This Austin institution is a converted train depot and offers a lively, old-school vibe.
  • Ambiance: Quirky and fun, with live music, dim lighting, and a welcoming, casual atmosphere.
  • Specialty Drinks: The “Frozen Margarita” is a popular choice, or try a classic “Whiskey Sour.”
  • Website: Donn’s Depot

  17. Midnight in the Garden

  • Why Go: Tucked away behind Waller Creek Pub House, this hidden gem offers a secret garden feel.
  • Ambiance: Outdoors and intimate, with fairy lights and lush greenery creating a magical setting.
  • Specialty Drinks: The “Garden Mule” and “Cucumber Martini” are refreshing options.
  • Website: Midnight in the Garden

  18. The Tipsy Alchemist

  • Why Go: Known for its theatrical cocktails, this bar is ideal for a fun, interactive date.
  • Ambiance: Modern and vibrant, with an emphasis on innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere.
  • Specialty Drinks: The “Science of the Sour” and “The Edison” are visually stunning and delicious.
  • Website: The Tipsy Alchemist

  19. The Wayback Cafe & Cottages

  • Why Go: Located a bit outside of downtown, this quaint spot offers a peaceful, countryside vibe.
  • Ambiance: Rustic and charming, with a cozy patio and beautiful views, perfect for a relaxing date.
  • Specialty Drinks: Enjoy a “Texas Mule” or a glass of wine from their carefully curated list.
  • Website: The Wayback

  20. Ah Sing Den

  • Why Go: This East Austin bar combines an exotic, vintage vibe with craft cocktails.
  • Ambiance: Dark, moody, and atmospheric, with plush seating and an eclectic decor.
  • Specialty Drinks: The “Singapore Sling” and “Mai Tai” bring a touch of the tropics to Austin.
  • Website: Ah Sing Den

  21. Kitty Cohen’s

  • Why Go: For a laid-back, tropical-themed date, this bar offers a playful and fun environment.
  • Ambiance: Retro and bright, with a large outdoor patio and a poolside bar.
  • Specialty Drinks: The “Frozen Aperol Spritz” and “Frosé” are perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
  • Website: Kitty Cohen’s

  22. Native Hostel

  • Why Go: A trendy spot that blends a hostel, bar, and live music venue, making it a lively date location.
  • Ambiance: Hip and eclectic, with a mix of modern and vintage decor and an artsy vibe.
  • Specialty Drinks: The “Cucumber Cooler” and “Espresso Martini” are crowd-pleasers.
  • Website: Native Hostel