When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse
Why Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse stands out as a vibrant and inviting place to meet up with friends and family in Austin. Known for its delicious pizzas, this spot offers a perfect mix of great food, a casual atmosphere, and enjoyable amenities. The restaurant features generous toppings and flavorful options like the classic Margherita and the unique "Fright Night" pizza, favored by families for their weekly gatherings. Along with stellar pizzas, their menu also includes fresh salads and sandwiches that are well-balanced in flavor, making it suitable for diverse tastes. Aviator offers both indoor and ample outdoor seating, including a playground area for kids, which makes it a family-friendly environment. Their wide selection of beers complements the pizzas perfectly and appeals to those looking to relax and socialize. The staff’s warm and accommodating service contributes to a welcoming experience. Whether you plan a casual lunch, a relaxed dinner, or a weekend hangout, Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse combines quality food with a friendly setting, enhancing every visit with good vibes and community spirit.
Here's what people think of Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse
As of recent, Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1191 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse for its delicious and well-crafted pizzas, fresh salads, and flavorful sandwiches. The service receives particular commendation, with guests highlighting the staff's kindness and willingness to go above and beyond, such as quickly remaking orders without charge when issues arise. Families appreciate the kid-friendly atmosphere with playground facilities and generous portions, contributing to memorable family outings. The restaurant's beer selection and the pleasant ambiance with both indoor and outdoor seating also stand out positively. Positive reviews emphasize the quality of the food and the accommodating nature of the team, making it a favorite pizza destination in Austin. On the other hand, some negative remarks mention occasional inconsistency, such as pizzas being low on sauce and seasoning, or missing specific toppings like green olives. Wait times have been described as acceptable but not exceptional. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus is highly favorable. In conclusion, Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse enjoys a solid 4.5-star rating from more than 1,190 reviews, reflecting mostly positive experiences and a growing reputation as a great place for both casual dining and family gatherings in Austin.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
YK Kim
We visited this place for both lunch and dinner and were pleasantly surprised. The pizza was quite tasty, and the variety of beer was impressive. There were outdoor tables and even a playground, so the place was filled with families with kids. Since we always travel and go out with our cat, we prefer restaurants with a park-like outdoor setting, and we didn’t know such a place was so close to home. Our cat really enjoyed walking around while we waited for our food. The staff was friendly, and the overall atmosphere was great. We were very satisfied and plan to visit regularly.
Rajesh Krishnan
We went on a Friday evening. We ordered a pizza, mozzarella sticks and beer. All were great. The crust on the Chicken Fajita pizza was very soft, the ingredients were fresh and great quality. We liked the ordering system using Toast and from the phone. They have a large selection of craft beers (50 choices) from local breweries. I'd love for them to add additional hefe, lager and amber choices to their selection. They have ample indoor and outdoor seating. They also have outdoor live music on some days (the Friday night we were there they didn't have live music). There is a play area for kids (in my opinion suitable for ages 3+ years).
SaL V
Excellent pizza!! First time we ordered the one with Garlic and if you are a Garlic lover this has plenty of it. So tasty!! Second time around one with artichoke along with a bbq chicken. So Good!!
Lawrence Bailey
Great place to get pizza and drinks with the family! Big play area for kids outside. Big selection of craft beers. Great soda selection. Had to go with the OG Pepperoni pizza since it was our first time here. The pizza did not disappoint! My wife enjoyed the South Austin style pizza. I’m looking forward to coming back to try other pizzas!🍕
Heather C.
We really enjoyed our pizza! The proteins were plentiful--ham, and pepperoni. The sauce was just right, and the crust had a great texture. The employee at the register was kind and patient with us as first-time visitors. The only negative is about the chairs. They definitely will prevent you from hogging a table all night! I really wonder whose idea it was to go with tall metal chairs.
How to reach Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse
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Why rally at Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse with your friends? When it comes to gathering a group for a memorable outing, Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse is an exceptional choice that offers much more than just great food. Located in vibrant Austin, TX, this locally owned spot combines the warmth of a neighborhood pizzeria with the lively atmosphere of a craft beer bar, creating the perfect backdrop for any social occasion. The welcoming and family-friendly environment invites groups to relax, enjoy delicious Texas-sourced ingredients, and bond over flavorful craft pizzas paired with an extensive selection of local brews. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from over 1,100 reviews, it’s clear that many guests find this venue ideal for both casual meetups and lively celebrations. Whether you’re dropping in for a slice during their popular lunch hours, unwinding during happy hour specials, or spending the evening sharing stories and laughs, the vibe here effortlessly accommodates groups large and small. The combination of outstanding food, diverse drink options, easy seating, and a welcoming ambiance makes Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse uniquely suited to bring friends and family together in Austin.
What activities can you enjoy at Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse that make it ideal for group meetups? Aviator is more than a pizza joint; it’s a buzzing social hub that caters to diverse tastes and occasions. One of the major draws is their impressive craft beer selection featuring Texas-brewed options — a perfect complement to their hand-crafted pizzas and sandwiches. Groups can embark on a casual tasting experience, sampling different brews while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere that encourages conversation. Their happy hour specials, available weekdays including extended Tuesday evening hours, offer $1 off all pints and wine by the glass, making it an affordable and festive option to unwind after work or weeklong events. Inside, the seating is designed to host groups comfortably, with spaces that encourage mingling without feeling cramped. From cozy booths to communal tables, the layout supports lively chats and memorable moments. Additionally, their pizza-by-the-slice service during daily lunchtime hours (11 AM - 1 PM) allows for quick, no-fuss bites, ideal for informal group catch-ups. These features come together to ensure that whether you’re out for a family dinner, a friends’ night, or a casual work gathering, Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse supports a relaxed, enjoyable group experience.
Why is Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse perfect for hosting family-friendly gatherings or meetups with friends? This spot takes pride in being family-friendly and locally operated, blending the spirit of community with impressive culinary quality. For families, the menu includes a variety of pizzas and sandwiches that appeal to both kids and adults, making it easy to please everyone at the table. Parents can relax knowing the environment is welcoming and not overly loud or chaotic, with staff attentive to group needs. For friends, the drink specials paired with a diverse menu offer plenty of reasons to linger and make the evening last. The fact that they source their ingredients locally adds a sense of pride and authenticity, giving customers a taste of Austin’s culinary culture. Their multiple locations across the city enhance accessibility, allowing groups from different neighborhoods to find a convenient spot to meet. The clean, modern décor combined with friendly service fosters a relaxed, inviting atmosphere that encourages socializing in comfort and style.
What are the dining options and food specialties you can enjoy with a group at Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse? The core attraction of Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse lies in its expertly crafted pizzas, made with locally sourced, fresh ingredients that highlight Texas flavors and creativity in every bite. Whether your group prefers classic favorites like Margherita or adventurous combinations featuring spicy peppers and unique cheeses, the menu offers a wide range of options to cater to variable tastes. Beyond pizza, the selection includes hearty sandwiches that complement the casual dining experience, alongside appetizers perfect for sharing. Their kitchen hours accommodate both early diners and late meetups, open from 11 AM through evening (with later closing on weekends), which allows groups flexibility to plan their visits without rush. The availability of pizza by the slice during lunch hours is particularly convenient for gatherings that may be shorter or require quick service without sacrificing quality. The combination of varied menu options, accommodating hours, and consistent quality makes Aviator a go-to spot for group meals that satisfy everyone’s cravings.
How does Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse create a lively and welcoming atmosphere for meetups? One of the key reasons groups thrive here is the ambiance, which strikes a balance between energetic and comfortable. The drafthouse vibe is accentuated by a well-curated playlist, tasteful decor reflecting Austin’s vibrant culture, and ample natural light during the day. This creates an inviting space where conversations flow as freely as the craft beers. It’s a place where the noise level supports fun chatter without feeling overwhelming — ideal for catching up with old friends or celebrating a special occasion without the distractions of a loud bar scene. The staff contribute greatly to this atmosphere with their friendly, attentive service and enthusiasm for the local food and drink culture. For groups with varied preferences, the mix of communal seating and more private nooks offers flexibility, letting parties enjoy the balance of social interaction and intimacy as they prefer. This carefully crafted environment plays a huge role in why patrons rate the experience so highly and come back again and again.
What conveniences does Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse offer that make group meetups hassle-free? Planning a gathering can be stressful, but Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse eases that significantly through practical conveniences. They do not accept reservations or call-ahead seating, which encourages casual walk-ins that fit spontaneous meetups or planned groups alike without the red tape of formal booking. Their operational hours from late morning through late evening cover a broad spectrum of times to accommodate various schedules. The location on South Congress Avenue is accessible and well-known, reducing travel hassles for local and visiting groups. The establishment is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all guests. Additionally, takeout options and delivery services are available, so groups that prefer to enjoy the food elsewhere or continue their gathering at home have convenient alternatives. These thoughtful services demonstrate Aviator’s commitment to making a group meetup enjoyable and stress free from start to finish.
In what ways does Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse support local Austin culture and community during your group visit? Supporting local businesses has become an important factor when choosing a venue, and Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse is firmly rooted in Austin’s community ethos. By sourcing ingredients from local farms and featuring regional craft beers, the restaurant promotes sustainability and celebrates the area’s rich culinary heritage. This commitment not only ensures fresh, high-quality food but also strengthens the local economy, providing a meaningful connection for guests who want their gatherings to have positive impact. The bar’s lineup of Texas craft beers introduces groups to the diverse flavors and craftsmanship within the state’s brewing scene, creating a culturally rich experience that goes beyond a typical pizza night. Frequent community events and specials, including happy hour promotions and curated drink deals on certain evenings, foster a sense of neighborhood camaraderie that makes every visit feel like a local celebration. Gathering here means enjoying not only great food and drinks but also participating in the vibrant Austin lifestyle.
How can special occasions or celebrations be enhanced by choosing Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse? Whether it’s a birthday, reunion, or just a spontaneous get-together, Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse provides a setting that elevates any celebration. The ample space, including large tables and group-friendly seating, means your party can spread out comfortably, while the casual yet stylish decor adds to a festive mood without the formality of upscale venues. The variety in menu offerings means you can tailor the food to suit your guests’ preferences, and the impressive drink list keeps the toasts flowing easily. Their happy hour specials and specials on drinks make celebrations more budget-friendly, letting organizers plan fun experiences without worrying about overspending. The attentive staff are experienced in handling group needs, helping to coordinate any special requests that make your event smoother. All these qualities contribute to Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse being a top choice when you want a hassle-free, enjoyable place to host your next celebration with friends or family.