Speakeasies in Austin are hidden throughout the city, and these unique bars give patrons a taste of the Prohibition era when all the secrecy and special instructions to find a bar were necessary. Today, Austin is home to a variety of well-known and less-known speakeasies, and each of these speakeasies has a different theme and takes on the hidden bar trend.
In our article, we will give you an overview of some of the best choices for speakeasies in Austin. We give you details on how to enter these bars, any applicable dress codes, and whether or not you need to make a reservation before making your way out for a night on the town.
What Are the Different Types of Speakeasy Bars in Austin?
There are several different types of speakeasy bars in Austin, including hidden bars with a range of themes. Many speakeasies in Austin stay true to the Prohibition era by offering 1920s-themed cocktails and vintage décor, while others prefer to incorporate modern twists on the 1920s and provide more creative menus.
Many speakeasies in Austin have their own house rules, and you will need to make sure that you follow these rules. Some hidden bars ask patrons to refrain from cell phone usage, while others require a series of instructions to be followed to gather passwords that give you entry into the speakeasy.
Make sure that you pay close attention to any dress code requirements for speakeasies in Austin, as some bars require upscale dress while others are more casual and relaxed. You can use our guide and details on a speakeasy’s website to determine the dress code for your night out.
The Best Speakeasy in Austin: Our Top 7 Picks
The following speakeasy bars in Austin are our top picks for the best speakeasies around. We give you important details about these hidden bars so you know what to expect next time you go looking for them.
1. Midnight Cowboy
Image sourced from: https://midnightcowboymodeling.com/.
Located on Austin’s famous 6th street, Midnight Cowboy takes its name from the brothel that previously operated out of this location and disguised itself as a massage parlor - Midnight Cowboy Modeling Oriental Massage. This hidden bar is one of the oldest speakeasies in Austin, and the bar’s new owners embrace the history of the location rather than trying to hide it.
In true 1920s speakeasy fashion, you will need to locate this bar’s entrance by looking for an illuminated red light by the door. Ring the buzzer for entry, and step inside this vintage-decorated bar. Midnight Cowboy aims to stay true to the 1920s style, and the antique décor is completed by old-school cocktails.
If you are looking for something more modern, Midnight Cowboy also offers a selection of specialty cocktails that are the bar’s own creation and feature a variety of different spirits. Spirit-free mixed drinks are available for those who want to partake in the speakeasy vibes without the alcohol.
It’s important to note that Midnight Cowboy does have a dress code, and you are required to make a reservation. Seating is typically booth style, and the space is fairly small and intimate.
2. Firehouse Lounge
Image sourced from: https://www.firehousehostel.com/lounge.
- Hours: Mon – Wed: 5pm – 2am; Thurs – Sun: 12pm – 2am
- Website: https://www.firehousehostel.com/lounge
- Phone Number: (512) 201-2522
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Not Accepted
- Address: 605 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
- Open in Google Maps
Firehouse Lounge is found within the Firehouse Hostel, aptly named for the 1885 firehouse that the space inhabits. You can stay in the Firehouse Hostel, but if you are looking for the Firehouse Lounge, simply look for a hidden bookcase; the bookcase is the door that leads you into the speakeasy.
The Firehouse Lounge is hidden, true to the Prohibition-era style of speakeasies, but it is much more modern and energetic inside this space. This hidden bar plays host to a number of different music events and performers, and craft cocktails are joined by locally brewed beers at the bar.
You can grab a seat at the bar top or one of the tables, or you can stand and mingle with others visiting this intriguing bar.
You don’t need to reserve a spot at Firehouse Lounge. This space can be quite crowded on weekends, so make sure to show up early and grab a seat to enjoy this one-of-a-kind space.
3. Here Nor There
- Hours: Mon – Wed, Sun: 5pm – 12am; Thurs – Sat: 5pm – 1am
- Website: https://hntaustin.com/
- Phone Number: (512) 949-7995
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Required
- Address: 612 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
- Open in Google Maps
Previously a members-only bar, Here Nor There maintains a serious sense of privacy and allure. Reservations are required if you wish to visit this speakeasy, and you will need to download the bar’s app onto your phone to request a reservation.
If your reservation is approved, you will be given a door code that allows you to enter through a nondescript door at the bottom of a flight of stairs, granting you access to this bar.
Cocktails at this speakeasy are inventive and change regularly, with each menu showcasing a story’s worth of mixed drinks with expertly chosen ingredients and combinations. Food is not served at this speakeasy, and the overall atmosphere is very exclusive and secretive.
It’s a good idea to dress more upscale when visiting this bar, and take note that drink prices tend to be on the more expensive end. However, the cocktails here are quite unique, which makes the overall speakeasy experience a memorable one.
4. DuMont’s Down Low Bar
Image sourced from: https://dumontsaustin.com/.
- Hours: Mon – Sun: 5pm – 2am
- Website: https://dumontsaustin.com/
- Phone Number: (512) 291-3231
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Accepted
- Address: 214 W 4th St Suite B, Austin, TX 78701
- Open in Google Maps
Found within the basement of now-closed Irish bar Fado’s, DuMont’s Down Low Bar specializes in whiskey drinks. The décor of this bar features whiskey barrels, a century-old exposed brick wall, and plenty of comfortable seating. The bar gives patrons over 70 different whiskey choices, though you can choose from other spirits if you are not the biggest fan of whiskey.
DuMont’s Down Low Bar also offers a menu of specialty and seasonal cocktails in addition to a limited menu of beer. Lovers of mixed drinks will enjoy the unique and vibrant cocktails at this bar that feature a range of spirits and flavors.
Reservations are accepted but not required, and this speakeasy tends to be a bustling hot spot for both Austin tourists and locals alike.
5. Red Headed Stepchild
Image sourced from: https://do512.com.
- Hours: Mon – Sun: 4pm – 2am
- Website: https://www.floppydiskrepairco.com/
- Phone Number: None Available
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Not Accepted
- Address: 119 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701
- Open in Google Maps
This hidden bar isn’t for everyone, as the raunchy interior and creepy-cool décor can put some people off.
Red Headed Stepchild is located behind a door sealed with a code within a business called Floppy Disk Repair Co. The theme of the bar is vaguely horror and quite adult, with references to serial killers and popular horror tropes completing the menu and decorations inside this bar.
Red Headed Stepchild offers a menu of specialty cocktails and a dimly lit interior with plenty of red lighting.
It can be difficult to obtain the code for the door, and the bar typically does not like patrons telling the door code to others, preferring to have every guest figure out the door code for themselves. The best thing to do is to head to https://www.floppydiskrepairco.com/ and search the website for secrets.
Eventually, you will find a form to input your name and phone number, and the month’s current door code will be texted to you.
6. Garage
- Hours: Mon – Sun: 5pm – 2am
- Website: https://garagetx.com/
- Phone Number: (512) 369-3490
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Highly Encouraged
- Address: 503 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701
- Open in Google Maps
Unassuming and intimate, this speakeasy is literally located in a parking garage. The atmosphere is somewhat dark and moody, and the décor is more modern and industrial. This vibe is only enhanced by the concrete walls and the hidden bar’s location. Reservations are highly encouraged for this small space, though walk-ins are accepted when space is available.
To locate this speakeasy, look for the sign that says ‘cocktails’ near the address and among the parked cars. Walk back until you locate the speakeasy; there are no passwords or other special instructions to follow if you want to gain access to this space.
Garage offers an interesting menu of specialty cocktail creations, many featuring car-themed names. A limited selection of classic cocktails is also available, as are choices for beer, wine, and other spirits. You can also select from a small menu of food to accompany your drinks in this intriguing, intimate space.
7. Trona
Image sourced from: https://www.tronaeast.com/.
- Hours: Mon – Wed: 5pm – 12am; Thurs – Sat: 5pm – 2am
- Website: https://www.tronaeast.com/
- Phone Number: (512) 999-7961
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Encouraged
- Address: 1812 East 12th Street, Austin, Texas 78702
- Open in Google Maps
A notable blend of Oaxacan and Japanese design, Trona embraces these two cultures and effortlessly combines them in both cocktail and décor form. The interior of this bar boasts warm colors and inventive style, and it is both cozy and dimly lit, as a speakeasy should be. Finding Trona is not too difficult, as this bar does offer instructions on how to locate the speakeasy online.
To access Trona, you will need to find the on Salina Street near the bar’s listed location and walk down it until you see the Trona sign; a lightning bolt symbol will be found on the speakeasy’s door. Ring the doorbell next to the door and wait for a staff member to welcome you inside this speakeasy.
Cocktails are Trona area crafted with seasonal ingredients, and the menu does change every so often. Both new takes with Oaxacan and Japanese twists are listed on the menu, as are more classic and traditional cocktails. Wine, sake, beer, and spirits are also available if you aren’t the biggest fan of mixed drinks.
How to Find a New Speakeasy in Austin?
Finding a new speakeasy in Austin doesn’t need to be a challenge, though it can require some dedicated time and concentration to find these intriguing hidden bars.
We recommend keeping an eye out when enjoying your time in Austin. There may be a new door around your favorite restaurant or an interesting set of stairs at the back of your current go-to bar, indicating a speakeasy has been formed.
Of course, you can also follow our speakeasy guides on Speakeasy Co. We are always making sure that we keep you up to date with the newest and most unique speakeasy experiences in the area.
Find the Best Austin Speakeasy
As you start to think about the best Austin speakeasy for you, it’s important to keep in mind your personal preferences in regard to the speakeasy’s theme, dress code, and entrance instructions. Some people may want a more straightforward speakeasy, while others love the secrecy and privacy of finding a password and a carefully hidden door.
Make sure to review our list above for tips on the most popular speakeasies so you can decide which of these hidden bars is the best option for your next night out around Austin.
