When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Bar Toti
Why Bar Toti is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bar Toti offers a distinctive and inviting atmosphere that makes it an exceptional place for meeting up with friends in Austin. Nestled next to the acclaimed Mexican seafood restaurant Este, Bar Toti elevates the idea of a casual bar through its blend of French and Spanish pub culture influences. The space was originally designed as an intimate event venue, but has since become a cherished neighborhood bistro that focuses on fostering connection among guests. Instead of conventional bar seating, patrons gather around a large communal table or cozy side tables, encouraging engaging face-to-face conversations. The open kitchen serves as the heart of the venue, where guests can watch the culinary team prepare a diverse menu crafted by Chef Fermin Nunez, known for his work with Suerte and Este. Menu highlights include dishes such as baba ganoush, ratatouille, and the Spanish-style tortilla de patata, reflecting an ambitious yet restrained approach to bistro-style cooking that adapts to seasonal produce. Bar Toti also features custom design elements like a teak exterior and mosaic tiled floor, augmenting its warm and intimate vibe. Its thoughtful approach to food, drink, and atmosphere makes it perfect for relaxed social gatherings or celebratory events.
Here's what people think of Bar Toti
As of recent, Bar Toti holds a 4.7-star rating based on 103 reviews.
With an impressive rating of 4.7 across more than 100 reviews, patrons consistently praise Bar Toti for its sophisticated yet approachable culinary offerings and welcoming environment. Positive reviews frequently highlight the quality and creativity of the food, noting that the diverse menu satisfies a range of palates while maintaining a refined touch. Many guests appreciate the open kitchen concept and the communal seating that encourages friendly interaction and a unique dining experience. The ambiance, influenced by European bar culture, is often described as cozy and conducive to conversation, setting it apart from more conventional bars or restaurants. On the other hand, some critiques mention the absence of traditional bar seating, which might not appeal to those expecting a standard bar layout. A few reviewers also note that the intimate size of the venue can make it feel busy or crowded during peak times. Despite these minor drawbacks, overall feedback underscores Bar Toti’s success in delivering a memorable and sophisticated social setting. The positive reviews strongly outnumber the negative, affirming Bar Toti’s reputation as a must-visit bistro for both casual nights out and private events.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Clara Gabriel
Stopped in for happy hour on a Sunday. The food was delicious, drinks fantastic, and service was fabulous. The mushroom dish was very good. The garlic fries were incredible and stayed crispy for ages. The smash burger was also great. The drinks are well made and taste fantastic. It was easy enough to pop in with two people but might recommend a reservation for other nights or larger groups. Definitely a great night out!
Evelyn Constant
We went to Bar Toti to try their all night happy hour on a Monday and it made for a lovely night! It is a small space, very intimate and cute. We sat outside at first before moving inside because of weather and both areas had a lovely ambiance. About the food - I’ll go into detail about each dish we got and why I gave it 3 stars. The hongos a la plancha comes highly recommended from both reviews and staff, however I wished I had gotten something else after trying it. The mushrooms that we were served were not the meaty, scored ones shown in other photos, ours looked and tasted overcooked and were swimming in oil. I don’t think this dish fit my personal tastes as it was mostly just very oily and rich, so if you also dislike those flavors, I don’t recommend it. Also, the burger didn’t live up to the hype for me, as I had heard it was one of the best smash burgers in town and it unfortunately was not a standout to me. I appreciate its uniqueness and the happy hour deal, but it was not exactly well executed - the bun took up most of my bites, it had an overpowering mustard flavor, and I could barely taste the ham. I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt because many other reviews rave about these dishes, so they could’ve just had an off night! We ordered the fries and the focaccia as well, both were good and the focaccia was beautiful but over-salted. The overall flavors of the menu are along the lines of these dishes, quite salty & oily with not much freshness or bright flavors. I’m hoping I’m the exception, but the food wasn’t amazing to me. The service was wonderful, all the staff are very accommodating and friendly! Special thank you to Steven, he was a great server.
Amir Shevat
We enjoyed the time here. The burger was the highlight of the show, together with the mushroom dish. The Mahamara was not traditional and has Mexican flavors. The plan was fantastic and the chips were great as well.
Diana Xiao
The food here is wonderful, and I highly recommend the mushrooms. They’re perfectly crispy like chips but with that umami mushroom flavor and spot-on seasoning. I could eat them forever. The squash risotto was also cooked beautifully, with the squash itself seasoned just right and a slight char that made it even better. The staff here are so nice and helpful, recommending things with so much enthusiasm that you can’t help but feel happy to be there too. At night, the outdoor area feels like a little garden with pretty lights and a cozy vibe. Just don’t make the same mistake I did and wander into the building on the right as that’s a completely different restaurant. Toti is just very small and easy to miss.
Ellissa George
Such a lovely little spot! The exterior and interior have amazing ambiance and it’s evident that a lot of care was taken with the design of the space. Our server, Jake, was a wonderful and warm presence as was all the staff we interacted with. We got the focaccia with whipped butter and fig leaf flan along with a couple of cocktails and everything was amazing. I’m definitely coming back as soon as possible.
How to reach Bar Toti
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Why Bar Toti may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bar Toti with your friends?
Bar Toti presents itself as an exceptional destination to gather with friends or family, blending the warmth of a neighborhood bistro with the vibrant spirit of bar cultures from Spain, France, and Mexico. With a strong rating of 4.7 across more than 100 reviews, it is clear that this lively East Austin spot consistently delivers a memorable experience. The moment you step inside, the atmosphere feels intimate and inviting—like being welcomed into a friend’s home for dinner. The interior is thoughtfully designed with colorful handcrafted furnishings, mosaic tiled floors, and fringe pendant lamps that cast a warm glow. Seating options include a long communal table perfect for groups alongside smaller, more intimate tables, supporting both boisterous gatherings and quieter conversations. What truly sets Bar Toti apart is its connection to food culture and community: many ingredients for its exceptional plant-forward menu come directly from the on-site half-acre Este Garden. This unique element makes every bite feel fresh and locally rooted. Whether you arrive for an evening of craft cocktails, carefully curated wine, or indulgent small plates, Bar Toti offers an ideal balance of casual sophistication and lively energy that invites your group to relax, linger, and create lasting memories together.
What activities can you do at Bar Toti that make it ideal for group meetups?
Bar Toti offers a versatile canvas for group meetups because it combines several engaging activities in a compact but thoughtfully designed space. At its core, Bar Toti is the perfect place to enjoy conversation over unique snacks and drinks, which creates a natural social atmosphere. Their menu features an array of delicious dishes that cater to diverse palates, including standout plant-based options that impress even dedicated meat-eaters. Guests can sample smoky muhammara dips made from peppers and pecans, rich hongos a la placha with mushrooms, aged manchego, and egg yolk, or vibrant smashburgers and steak frites for more substantial bites. Sharing plates encourage a communal dining experience where friends can taste and debate favorites together, fostering fun interaction.
Drinks at Bar Toti are designed to heighten social moments. The beverage menu includes a curated wine list and a wide variety of cocktails, from classics to innovative creations. Guests can enjoy carajillos—a coffee-based drink with liquor popular in some cultures—or explore refreshing cocktails that stimulate both conversation and palate. The bar culture vibe encourages trying new flavors and enjoying leisurely rounds with friends. Additionally, the small outdoor patio shaded by trees lets groups soak in Austin’s ambiance while watching connections unfold between Bar Toti and its sister restaurant, Este. The location’s evening rhythm is lively but comfortable, making it an inviting backdrop for everything from casual drinks before dinner to longer, relaxed meetups. Whether your group prefers intimate chat or lively exchange, Bar Toti offers a dynamic environment tailored to varying social moods.
Why is the setting of Bar Toti perfect for a group meetup?
Bar Toti's setting feels like a well-kept secret turned vibrant community hub, making it perfect for hosting meetups of all sorts. The space itself, although modest in square footage, feels expansive due to design choices such as a long communal table flanked by smaller intimate ones and large glass windows welcoming natural light. This setting strikes a balance between togetherness and personal space—a crucial element for groups who want to stay connected yet comfortable. The artistic detail of its colorful handmade furnishings and the mosaic floor creates a cozy atmosphere suffused with charm and personality, which invites guests to slow down and enjoy their company.
Adding to the ambiance, the backyard Este Garden, from which Bar Toti sources many ingredients, creates a story of sustainability and local connection that groups often appreciate sharing. The garden can become a point of engagement or conversation, especially for those interested in food origins or gardening. Outside, the patio is generously shaded by trees, providing a peaceful environment with the pleasant backdrop of nearby Este’s kitchen aromas, adding layers of sensory delight to your meetup experience. Additionally, Bar Toti’s commitment to inclusivity and hospitality shines through the attentive staff, who act as perfect hosts to accommodate group needs, recommend dishes, or even step in as tie-breakers when choices are tough. This thoughtful, welcoming environment fosters a sense of belonging, encouraging groups to linger long into the night.
How does the menu at Bar Toti support a shared dining experience?
The menu at Bar Toti is skillfully crafted to encourage sharing and conversation, a key component of successful group dining. In the tradition of tapas and small plates, it offers an eclectic mix of snacks and full meals enriched by locally sourced and garden-grown produce, bringing freshness and creativity to every dish. Items such as the smoky muhammara dip with grilled bread provide flavorful starters that everyone can sample, sparking taste exploration and discussion. The hongos a la placha, a savory mushroom medley crowned with aged manchego cheese and egg yolk, offers richness and indulgence that can be savored bit by bit. For those in the mood for heartier offerings, options like the smashburger and steak frites deliver satisfying, universally loved choices. This variety ensures that groups with different dietary preferences or appetites all find something to enjoy.
Eating from a shared menu at Bar Toti transforms a meal into an interactive experience, where diners pass plates, swap bites, and debate their favorites. Such interaction fosters a spirit of camaraderie and makes each meetup feel less formal and more like a communal gathering. The kitchen’s emphasis on plant-forward dishes demonstrates a progressive culinary vision, one that invites even meat-eaters to try unexpected flavors and appreciate the creativity behind each plate. By combining high-quality ingredients with inventive preparations, Bar Toti’s menu supports both conversation and connection at the table, enhancing the overall social experience.
What kinds of drinks can you expect at Bar Toti that enhance group gatherings?
Bar Toti’s beverage offerings are carefully curated to complement its food and atmosphere, enhancing the overall group experience. The cocktail list ranges from inventive seasonally inspired creations to well-executed classics, offering variety for different tastes and preferences. Guests can opt for a lively, complex carajillo—a coffee-based cocktail that energizes late-night conversations—or select a glass of wine from the small but thoughtfully chosen list, designed to pair well with the menu’s vibrant and rich flavors. The drinks are crafted with care, emphasizing quality ingredients and balanced profiles that elevate the shared dining environment.
Bars that focus on culture, like Bar Toti’s inspirations from Spanish, French, and Mexican traditions, often become a social nexus because they invite sampling and sharing. Groups benefit from this as drinks can act as conversation starters or themes for rounds in an informal, festive setting. The cocktail program’s versatility makes it possible for groups to enjoy a relaxed evening trying new drinks or sticking to favorites, all while enjoying the lively buzz generated by good company. The bar’s openness to walk-ins every night further encourages spontaneous meetups, while reservations accommodate pre-planned gatherings, giving flexibility that suits groups of all sizes and spontaneity levels.
Can you host private events or larger gatherings at Bar Toti?
Yes, Bar Toti is well suited for private events and larger group gatherings, offering customizable options that perfectly suit celebrations, reunions, or business meetups. They accept reservations up to two weeks in advance through Open Table, ensuring that groups can secure their preferred spot, whether at the communal table or in more intimate seating areas. For parties wanting exclusivity, Bar Toti offers private rental of its space, allowing guests to tailor the environment to their event’s specific needs. This makes it ideal for occasions ranging from casual friend meetups to formal celebrations, providing the warmth and character of Bar Toti with privacy and flexibility.
The venue’s design, with a blend of communal and private seating plus a spacious shaded patio, supports a wide variety of gathering types. Whether guests want lively group conversations, structured meals, or casual mingling, the space adapts to create a welcoming environment. The staff’s attentive yet unobtrusive service complements the setting by ensuring smooth coordination and helping groups focus on their celebrations or connections. Hosting an event at Bar Toti also allows guests to share in the culinary delights sourced from the Este Garden, adding a unique, locally rooted touch to any gathering. This combination of ambiance, cuisine, and flexibility makes Bar Toti a compelling choice for anyone looking to host a memorable group event in East Austin.
What makes Bar Toti’s location in East Austin an advantage for visitors and groups?
Bar Toti’s location in East Austin situates it within a vibrant, eclectic neighborhood known for its artistic spirit, dynamic food scene, and welcoming community atmosphere. Being adjacent to its sister restaurant Este, a well-regarded coastal Mexican seafood eatery, enhances the experience by providing complementary dining and drinking options. Patrons of either restaurant often cross paths or enjoy the ambiance of both spaces, making Bar Toti an excellent starting point or final stop on a night out with friends. The neighborhood's lively energy, combined with Bar Toti’s cozy yet stylish setting, offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Austin’s contemporary dining culture.
Accessibility is another advantage; 2113 Manor Road is relatively easy to reach and offers a neighborhood feel away from the more congested downtown areas. The practicality of walk-in seating every night, along with the possibility to reserve in advance, ensures flexibility for all kinds of group plans. The outdoor patio overlooking the Este Garden adds natural beauty and a sense of space often missing in urban settings, making it feel like a hidden oasis. Visitors appreciate how Bar Toti blends comfort, style, and locality, making it not just a bar or restaurant but a cultural experience that reflects the best of East Austin, perfect for groups seeking a memorable and unique venue.
Why does Bar Toti’s atmosphere contribute to great meetups?
The atmosphere at Bar Toti is a combination of thoughtful design, authentic cultural influences, and a relaxed but vibrant energy that naturally fosters connection and enjoyment among guests. The handcrafted interiors, with their mosaic tiled floors and colorful furnishings, evoke a sense of warmth and personality rarely found in typical restaurants or bars. Lighting plays a crucial role, and the fringe pendant lamps create an ambiance that feels both intimate and playful—perfect for long conversations with friends or lively group gatherings.
The communal table is a centerpiece that encourages social interaction, bringing people together without forcing closeness on those who prefer smaller tables. This layout reflects European and Mexican bar culture where sharing space and food is part of the social fabric. Also, the staff’s welcoming attitude and readiness to help with dish choices or drink pairings subtly enhance the experience, reducing any stress from ordering and allowing groups to relax completely. The background sounds of soft chatter, clinking glasses, and the faint aromas from the garden kitchen next door combine to create a multisensory environment where people feel comfortable and engaged. Overall, Bar Toti's atmosphere aligns perfectly with the goal of rallying with friends—to connect over delicious food and drink in a setting that feels authentically inviting and energetic.