Best Bars in Austin
Rooftop lounges, dive bars, and a Johnny Cash-themed patio — ten real bars ranked by Google rating, not a downtown-only list.
"Best bar" means something different depending on what you're after — a rooftop with a view, a dive with a jukebox, or a proper cocktail list. This list spans all three, ranked by Google rating with a real review-count floor so nothing here is a lucky handful of 5-star ratings.
1. Otopia Rooftop Lounge
Otopia Rooftop Lounge is a nightlife spot.
4.9 stars, 1,099 reviews.
2. The Lost Well
Rock-&-roll bar offering draft beer & a lineup of local bands & musicians in an upbeat setting.
4.8 stars, 533 reviews.
3. Azul Rooftop
Open-air lounge on the roof of the Westin hotel featuring a swimming pool, fire pits & a full bar.
4.7 stars, 1,272 reviews. On the roof of the Westin hotel downtown, with a swimming pool and fire pits — the most amenity-heavy option on this list.
4. Donn's Depot
Piano bar with live music, 2 dance floors & a diverse crowd, set in old rail cars & a former depot.
4.7 stars, 827 reviews.
5. Seven Grand
Masculine watering hole with hunting lodge vibes, crafted cocktails & a massive whiskey selection.
4.7 stars, 720 reviews.
6. Sam's Town Point
Popular, unpretentious tavern featuring regular live music from local bands, a dance floor & patio.
4.7 stars, 602 reviews.
7. Small Victory
Bar offering classic cocktails & an innovative ice program, plus wine, beer & small plates.
4.7 stars, 496 reviews.
8. Lala's Little Nugget
Strip-mall tavern with year-round holiday decor, an old-school jukebox, drinks & games.
4.6 stars, 1,478 reviews. Strip-mall dive with year-round holiday decor and an old-school jukebox — exactly as odd as it sounds, in a good way.
9. Mean Eyed Cat
A down-home Johnny Cash-themed destination featuring a full bar & a welcoming patio.
4.6 stars, 1,000 reviews.
10. Workhorse Bar
Rustic-chic local bar with tree-stump chairs, varied burger options & craft beer on draft.
4.6 stars, 949 reviews.
Featured venues
The Lost Well
Rock-&-roll bar offering draft beer & a lineup of local bands & musicians in an upbeat setting.
Azul Rooftop
Open-air lounge on the roof of the Westin hotel featuring a swimming pool, fire pits & a full bar.
Donn's Depot
Piano bar with live music, 2 dance floors & a diverse crowd, set in old rail cars & a former depot.
Seven Grand
Masculine watering hole with hunting lodge vibes, crafted cocktails & a massive whiskey selection.
Sam's Town Point
Popular, unpretentious tavern featuring regular live music from local bands, a dance floor & patio.
Small Victory
Bar offering classic cocktails & an innovative ice program, plus wine, beer & small plates.
Lala's Little Nugget
Strip-mall tavern with year-round holiday decor, an old-school jukebox, drinks & games.