South Austin, a special area of town where local history and modern life have fused a bit differently. Here, the bars are a little bit more country and a little bit more rock ‘n roll. We are looking towards WAY South Austin, on the far side of Ben White Boulevard and beyond. This area has transformed a lot in the last few decades and that growth has brought us some unique watering holes. Here are some places to visit and experience the best of Austin’s famous weird personality, warm weather, and wonderful music.
Far Out Lounge & Stage 8504 S Congress Ave
Blood Orange Sour, Owner Pedro & Production Manager Sarah
Far Out Lounge is the latest in a long lineage of venues that have lived in this old limestone bar. Far Out is an Austin music hub, hosting tons of concerts, regular events, festivals, and more! One of the best spots in town to hear local jam bands and funky ensembles. They're the kind of folks that make you want to support their work and artistry. When asked about the intentions for Far Out, owner Pedro Carvalho says that they “didn’t try to reinvent the wheel”. They are keeping the soul of this area alive as the funky founding fathers and mothers have for generations before. They’ve captured a high quality, quirky and quintessential slice of South Austin life. Don’t miss out on the excellent food trucks and massive backyard. Grab your friends and go get your groove on at the Far Out Lounge.
The Little Darlin’ 6507 Circle S Rd
Good times and even better food to be had at The Little Darlin'!
The Little Darlin’ bar and restaurant is a local denim clad diamond. A meeting place for families, metal heads, and friends of all kinds. Here you will find interesting liquor infusions and an incredible bar menu. With great drinks and a kitchen open until 1am, this is a superior late night spot. They’ve got pool tables, darts, putt putt, and a huge patio. Swing in the sun on warm summer days or huddle by the fires on cold evenings. Kick back, relax, and catch some awesome free performances from local bands on the outdoor stage.
Sagebrush 5500 S Congress Ave
Cowboy hats & boots encouraged!
Sagebrush comes to us from the folks up at White Horse on East 6th. They opened another authentic venue and dance hall, now with a huge backyard. This place keeps Austin’s honky-tonk heritage alive. They have multiple stages where they host incredible country music hoedowns. You can also play pool, party outside, or grab a bite of BBQ at the food trucks. Don’t miss out on a bona fide Texas barn dance; put on those cowboy boots and swing on down to Sagebrush.
Little Woodrow’s Southpark Meadows 9500 S I-35 Frontage Rd L100
Don't miss the turtle races every Thursday!
This is a Texas sports fan favorite; they have multiple locations around town and the rest of the state. We love the South Park Meadows location for their big outdoor space, weekly activities, and neighborly atmosphere. This is a great spot to grab a beer and watch your favorite games and fights. Catch wacky and fun events here each week like the famous Turtle Racing! Leave the kids at home, this place is 21+. Bring your own food, get a slice at the pizza joint next door or try the backyard food truck. If you love beer, join the Big 50 Club wall by trying all fifty brews on the punch card.
Manchaca Springs Saloon 737 Farm to Market 1626, Manchaca, TX
Never a dull scene at this treasure trove of a roadhouse bar!
This eclectic country bar is a must see. You can’t get more Austin than a biker bar filled with bicycles. In fact, the entire bar is scattered with bikes, chandeliers, vintage signs, neons, old trinkets and eccentric oddities. This place is like walking through the pages of a classic I Spy picture book. I spy a parrot, two wooden ponies, four guitars, and ten ducks… I also spy food trucks, a charming outdoor stage, cool events, and an overall incredible place to escape.
Sam’s Town Point 2115 Allred Dr
Learn how to Two Step with the pros at Sam's Town Point
This hidden gem has been serving the people of South Austin since the early 80’s. Tucked away amongst the trees and houses of an old neighborhood, this bar is a cherished relic of early Austin, still embracing humble roots. You’ll be greeted with big smiles and even bigger hats in true Texas fashion. With musicians and bands or two-step dance lessons every night of the week, you can always turn to Sam’s for lively leisure. Wander your way to Sam’s Town Point and fill up your dance card.
Moontower Saloon 10212 Menchaca Rd
Moontower is the mother of Menchaca's backyard bars!
Moontower Saloon holds a special place in many hearts. Built around a nearly 75 year old house, now expanding out to a huge covered patio and yard. They have a stage for music, food trucks, games, and three professional grade sand volleyball courts for tournaments and leagues. They host an assortment of events including the locally loved Hippie Church. This is one of the first bars of its kind to open in the area inspiring many others to follow suit.
Lustre Pearl South 10400 Menchaca Rd
There is always something to do at Lustre Pearl!
The illustrious Rainey St. favorite gave us a beautiful and bright southside location! You’ll find the same relaxed and fun atmosphere here with café lounge furniture, bar games, food trucks, and tons of space to kick back. Check out here why we love Lustre Pearl and head down there for some karaoke and two-steppin'!
Armadillo Den 10106 Menchaca Rd
Bring your date and your dog out to Armadillo Den!
This is another recent addition to the South Menchaca Rd area, nearby Moontower and Lustre Pearl. This spot quickly became popular offering good drinks and quick bar service with a laid back environment . They have a huge property with a two story event space, a big outdoor stage with an even bigger flatscreen TV. Relax, eat from the food trucks, or try your arm at Celtic Axe Throwing!
South Austin Beer Garden 10700 Menchaca Rd
Come for the tap wall and stay for the great service!
SABG is a homey and rustic bar built around an iconic old blue South Menchaca house. The folks that run this place have decades of service industry experience and pride themselves on their tip top hospitality. They have a huge tap wall with over 60 draft options. Grab a cold one and relax on the covered and enclosed porch, snack on a bite from the food trucks, and challenge your buddies to a round of arcade games.
What other bars do YOU think should be on this list?
Last updated on Aug 01, 2023 by Loretta Adams
