Sign Bar opened this summer and when initial pictures confirmed that they had Maria on display, my mother and I went the day after opening. We literally could not wait to go see her and the other Austin treasures they’ve curated for this new bar. Owner Matt Luckie has been collecting signs for almost twenty years and all the folks of FBR Management know this industry extremely well. Sign Bar now stands proudly among some of their other loved establishments like Lavaca Street Bar, Star Bar, Dumont’s Down Low, Stagger Lee, and many more. This bar is incredibly special and is an experience well worth the trip. Austinites prepare yourselves to walk through a montage of memories. If new here, this is the perfect stop to learn about and celebrate our town’s legacies.

You’ll be warmly welcomed by Maria’s open arms, once lifting above Taco Xpress and now guiding you through the entrance to Sign Bar that reads “All Roads Lead Here…”. This outdoor space is like nothing and everything you’ve seen before, all at once. If you’ve spent any time in this city, it won’t take long scanning the collage of signs to start recognizing pieces of the past (and present!). Browse to find pictures and QR code maps placed throughout to learn details on the sign histories. When you’re done walking, there is a ton of seating scattered outside amongst the neon and numerous prime photo opportunities. Head to the Poodle Dog Lounge tribute to play some pool or wish your way through the Genie Car Wash maze. If you get hungry, there is a fantastic food truck right out front. You’ll need a drink in this Texas heat and fortunately the bar inside is stocked with refreshing cocktails, beer, and AC to boot.

Sign Bar is a feast for the eyes, so they keep the drink menu sweet and simple; they have a well stocked full bar with a strong lineup of draft beer and classic cocktail favorites. Cool down with the High Voltage, a delicious blue blast ideal for beating the heat. Try the Summer Spritzer, their twist on an Aperol Spritz using Deep Eddy Ruby Red vodka. If you go for weekend brunch, I recommend the peachy Eastside Bellini. My personal favorite was the satisfying Spicy Rita, the perfect balance of pineapple and spice to match this searing Texas summer. The bartenders here are charming and they work through the crowds with speed while still making you feel at home. This place has become the first local watering hole for many of the Austinites that live in the neighborhood nearby and they’ve already developed regulars. Give these folks a visit and join the reminiscent reunion.

There are some gems that stand out among the crowd of signs. Along with marvelous Maria, keep an eye out for Dart Bowl, I Luv Video, Spider House, The Frisco, and Threadgills (to name just a few favorites). Many of Austin’s lost loves left us heartbroken, but their memory lives on at this one-of-a-kind bar. Go spend some nostalgic time with the signs and you may very well meet someone who has a significant story to share. 

See y’all there.