When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Black Sheep Lodge
Why Black Sheep Lodge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Black Sheep Lodge, located in the heart of South Austin at 2108 S Lamar Blvd, is a locally owned and operated neighborhood bar and grill renowned for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional food and drink offerings. Celebrating over a decade in the community since its founding, it has become a popular meet-up spot for friends and locals alike. The venue offers a spacious beer garden and patio outfitted with multiple TVs, making it a preferred destination for watching sports in a comfortable, lively setting with picnic tables and climate control through ceiling fans and heat lamps. The culinary highlight is their signature Black Sheep Burger — featuring a grilled half-pound patty of ground Angus beef — acclaimed as one of the best burgers in South Austin. Beyond burgers, their menu includes flavorful wings and a variety of hearty bar foods. Complementing the food is an extensive beverage selection boasting 26 beers on tap and over 125 bottled beers, along with a full bar serving cocktails, frozen margaritas, wine, and creative drinks. The establishment also features daily drink specials ranging from discounted Texas pints and liquors to Mimosas and Sangrias on Sundays. Black Sheep Lodge’s friendly, casual vibe makes it an ideal place for groups seeking a relaxed social atmosphere coupled with great food and drink offerings in an accessible South Austin location.
Here's what people think of Black Sheep Lodge
As of recent, Black Sheep Lodge holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1931 reviews.
User reviews of Black Sheep Lodge reflect a generally positive perception, contributing to its solid 4.3-star rating from nearly two thousand reviews. Many customers praise the welcoming, neighborhood bar ambiance, emphasizing the spacious outdoor patio and the variety of TVs that make watching sports an enjoyable experience without crowding or bad views. The Black Sheep Burger consistently receives high marks for its quality and flavor, being described as a standout item that draws repeat visitors. Drink selections, including the extensive beer variety and well-executed cocktails like frozen margaritas, are frequently highlighted in positive feedback. Additionally, patrons appreciate the good value offered through daily specials that provide affordable options for drinks throughout the week. On the other hand, some negative feedback includes occasional observations about slower service during peak times and certain inconsistencies in food preparation or portion sizes. A handful of reviews suggest that while the patio is pleasant, it can become crowded on busy game days, which may affect seating availability and noise levels. However, these criticisms are less common compared to the overall favorable evaluations. In conclusion, the community sentiment portrays Black Sheep Lodge as a dependable and well-liked South Austin establishment that balances quality food, an extensive drink menu, and a lively, sociable environment conducive to meeting friends and enjoying casual gatherings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amber Garza
One of the Best Experiences in Town! Black Sheep Lodge never disappoints! From the laid-back, welcoming vibe to the solid food and drink options, this place is an absolute gem. But what truly made our night unforgettable was the incredible service from Samantha, our server. Samantha was everything you could hope for—attentive, friendly, and on top of everything the entire time. She gave great recommendations, made sure our drinks stayed full, and brought a warm, upbeat energy to the table. You could tell she genuinely cared about making our experience awesome, and it made all the difference. If you’re heading to Black Sheep Lodge, ask for Samantha—she’ll make sure your visit is top-notch. Can’t wait to come back!
Aaron Jones
Pretty disappointed. I stopped by this place just today and I while o sat at the bar, it took 10 minutes before I decided to walk over to the well area and order a drink. After I got my drink I sat at a bar again, but then when I decided I wanted to order food I had to to the well area again to order. Which is fine if it was busy, but it wasn’t. I then got my food, which was pretty solid. Props to the chef. I then went to the bathroom and when I came back about 5 minutes later, all my food and drinks, which was a full cup of water and half a beer and about half my tater tots left were all gone. So I kinda feel like I was stolen from? I’m only in town for a week from Seattle, so I’ll be taking my business elsewhere than this spot. Weird vibes too
Sammy Lou
Such a good Austin dive bar! I love the vibe, be warned all the servers are really bad and very salty and with the exception of Hunter who is incredible, and honestly cares about the service you get! if he is there make sure you’re in his section and you’ll have a great time and enjoy his hospitality! Super regular here fyi!
Lawrence Bailey
Second time here, my goodness the food is still amazing! It’s a dive bar with great food, great alcohol selections, great prices, TVs everywhere to watch sports, outdoor covered seating with TVs outside, pool tables, darts, and great service. Came here with my friends. You have to try the Nashville Dry Rub on your chicken. It has a nice kick, and the honey brings in a nice sweetness. Onion Rings are really crispy. The wings are crispy and perfectly sauced. Fries were great too! They loved it here as well. This is a MUST visit.
Mohsin Damanwala
I was recommended to try the chicken bacon sandwich, but I opted for a hot dog instead. It wasn’t amazing, but it wasn’t bad either. If you’re a hot dog fan, it’s worth a try if you’re in the area. However, I wouldn’t make a special trip just for the hot dogs, though other items on the menu might be more enticing. The atmosphere is lively and a bit loud, with a bustling vibe that feels more like nighttime even during the day. The restaurant offers a few games to play, which adds a fun element to the experience. There’s also plenty of seating, making it a great place to relax and enjoy either your afternoon or evening.
Amber Garza
One of the Best Experiences in Town! Black Sheep Lodge never disappoints! From the laid-back, welcoming vibe to the solid food and drink options, this place is an absolute gem. But what truly made our night unforgettable was the incredible service from Samantha, our server. Samantha was everything you could hope for—attentive, friendly, and on top of everything the entire time. She gave great recommendations, made sure our drinks stayed full, and brought a warm, upbeat energy to the table. You could tell she genuinely cared about making our experience awesome, and it made all the difference. If you’re heading to Black Sheep Lodge, ask for Samantha—she’ll make sure your visit is top-notch. Can’t wait to come back!
Aaron Jones
Pretty disappointed. I stopped by this place just today and I while o sat at the bar, it took 10 minutes before I decided to walk over to the well area and order a drink. After I got my drink I sat at a bar again, but then when I decided I wanted to order food I had to to the well area again to order. Which is fine if it was busy, but it wasn’t. I then got my food, which was pretty solid. Props to the chef. I then went to the bathroom and when I came back about 5 minutes later, all my food and drinks, which was a full cup of water and half a beer and about half my tater tots left were all gone. So I kinda feel like I was stolen from? I’m only in town for a week from Seattle, so I’ll be taking my business elsewhere than this spot. Weird vibes too
Sammy Lou
Such a good Austin dive bar! I love the vibe, be warned all the servers are really bad and very salty and with the exception of Hunter who is incredible, and honestly cares about the service you get! if he is there make sure you’re in his section and you’ll have a great time and enjoy his hospitality! Super regular here fyi!
Lawrence Bailey
Second time here, my goodness the food is still amazing! It’s a dive bar with great food, great alcohol selections, great prices, TVs everywhere to watch sports, outdoor covered seating with TVs outside, pool tables, darts, and great service. Came here with my friends. You have to try the Nashville Dry Rub on your chicken. It has a nice kick, and the honey brings in a nice sweetness. Onion Rings are really crispy. The wings are crispy and perfectly sauced. Fries were great too! They loved it here as well. This is a MUST visit.
Mohsin Damanwala
I was recommended to try the chicken bacon sandwich, but I opted for a hot dog instead. It wasn’t amazing, but it wasn’t bad either. If you’re a hot dog fan, it’s worth a try if you’re in the area. However, I wouldn’t make a special trip just for the hot dogs, though other items on the menu might be more enticing. The atmosphere is lively and a bit loud, with a bustling vibe that feels more like nighttime even during the day. The restaurant offers a few games to play, which adds a fun element to the experience. There’s also plenty of seating, making it a great place to relax and enjoy either your afternoon or evening.
How to reach Black Sheep Lodge
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Website: None
Why Black Sheep Lodge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Black Sheep Lodge with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Black Sheep Lodge in South Austin promises an unbeatable mix of relaxed atmosphere, excellent food, and engaging activities that create the perfect setting for memorable social moments. Rated 4.3 stars from nearly 2,000 reviews, this neighborhood bar and grill combines comfort and entertainment seamlessly, making it an ideal meetup spot. Whether you’re celebrating a casual weekend, catching a game, or just wanting a place where everyone feels welcome, Black Sheep Lodge caters to all with its spacious patio, multiple TVs, and friendly vibe. The full bar serves a wide selection, including 26 draft beers and over 125 bottled beers, alongside specialty cocktails and frozen margaritas that keep the party lively. Importantly, the venue fosters an inclusive environment where dogs are welcome in the beer garden, and smoking is permitted there too, enhancing the communal feel. Its location on South Lamar is convenient and surrounded by local flair, making it more than just a bar — it’s a hub for social connection. Friends can enjoy a lively night without sacrificing comfort, with controlled music volume allowing easy conversation. This combination makes Black Sheep Lodge a natural gathering spot for groups seeking both activity and relaxation.
What activities can you enjoy at Black Sheep Lodge?
Black Sheep Lodge offers a rich variety of activities that appeal to diverse interests, all tailored to maximize group fun and interaction. Visitors can engage in classic bar games like pool, shuffleboard, air hockey, and darts, amenities that encourage friendly competition among friends and offer a way to break the ice. The multiple large-screen TVs scattered throughout the lodge, including in the spacious outdoor patio, make it a sports lover’s dream — you can easily watch your favorite games like the World Cup or major league events without missing a moment. The patio seating with ceiling fans and heat lamps extends the gathering space, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather and providing an enjoyable outdoor ambiance. Additionally, the bar often features unique drink promotions such as booze popsicles and sno-cones, adding a playful twist to your night out. The atmosphere is relaxed and community-oriented, with local artwork and vintage-style décor enhancing its welcoming spirit. The combination of physical games, a vibrant yet conversational atmosphere, and extensive audiovisual entertainment means every group member can find their preferred way to unwind and engage.
Why is Black Sheep Lodge ideal for group meetups?
Groups looking for a place to congregate find Black Sheep Lodge perfectly suited to their needs due to its thoughtful layout, extensive amenities, and lively but comfortable atmosphere. The lodge features numerous picnic tables on its expansive patio, accommodating everything from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations without feeling cramped. The venue’s operational hours are generous, staying open until midnight on weekdays and until 1 AM on Saturdays, allowing ample time for socializing and relaxation. The menu, known for its high-quality offerings such as the renowned Black Buffalo Burger and highly praised wings, serves food that complements the drinking menu and satisfies different palates. Moreover, the well-trained and helpful staff provide attentive service that enhances the overall experience without compromising the laid-back feel. Black Sheep Lodge’s mix of adult-friendly entertainment, inclusive space for pets, and a variety of drinking and dining options make it a versatile choice for families, groups of friends, or coworkers looking for a local spot that feels both lively and welcoming. The venue’s affordable pricing on drinks and food specials throughout the week ensures groups can enjoy themselves without worrying excessively about cost.
What kind of food and drinks does Black Sheep Lodge offer?
At Black Sheep Lodge, the food and drink menus are designed to appeal broadly while maintaining a focus on quality and variety, essential for groups with varied tastes. The lodge is famous for the Black Buffalo Burger, a half-pound Angus patty burger that stands out for its flavor and consistency, often rated among the best burgers in Austin. Additionally, their wings receive frequent praise for being delicious and well-prepared, complemented by other great bar snacks such as fried pickles and sweet potato fries. The full bar boasts an impressive selection, including 26 beers on tap and more than 125 bottled beers, catering to craft beer aficionados and casual drinkers alike. Daily drink specials enhance the value, featuring offerings like $2 off Texas pints and liquors on Mondays, $4 frozen margaritas on Thursdays, and $5 mimosas and sangrias on Sundays. Their specialty cocktails and unique frozen treats such as booze popsicles provide fun options beyond the standard bar fare. The drink prices are competitive, making the lodge an affordable venue for groups seeking quality without premium pricing. Altogether, these culinary and beverage choices offer variety and flavor that elevate any social gathering.
How does the atmosphere at Black Sheep Lodge enhance group experiences?
The atmosphere at Black Sheep Lodge is crafted to strike a perfect balance between excitement and comfort, critical for group gatherings that often seek both lively social energy and the ability to converse easily. The interior is modern yet cozy, decorated with Rocky Mountain-themed artwork and vintage posters that add character without overwhelming the space. Air conditioning works effectively inside, ensuring comfort during hotter months, while the outdoor beer garden and patio provide a more casual, fresh-air environment. The volumes of music and TV are managed thoughtfully to support both a fun vibe and easy conversations, which many bars fail to accomplish simultaneously. Moreover, Black Sheep Lodge encourages pet-friendly visits by allowing dogs in the outdoor spaces, which adds to the communal and relaxed feel, especially for groups that value inclusiveness. The friendly staff complement the environment by being welcoming and accommodating without being intrusive. This inviting setup makes every guest feel like a regular, encouraging repeat visits and long, enjoyable stays with friends and family.
What makes the location of Black Sheep Lodge convenient for visitors?
Black Sheep Lodge is conveniently located at 2108 South Lamar Boulevard in Austin’s vibrant 78704 area, a neighborhood well known for its eclectic shops, eateries, and nightlife, making it an easy-to-reach destination for locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to major roads allows straightforward access for groups traveling from various parts of the city, whether by car, rideshare, or public transport. Being in South Austin also places it near other entertainment venues, enabling groups to combine outings or continue the night without hassle. For locals, it serves as a neighborhood hangout that is comfortable and familiar, yet fresh and exciting enough to feel like a night out. The surrounding area adds to the experience with additional dining or coffee options within walking distance, such as Opa Coffee and Wine Bar, perfect for post-meal relaxation after an evening at the lodge. This ease of access and the vibrant neighborhood context increase its appeal as a meetup spot, requiring little logistical planning while maximizing entertainment potential.
How does Black Sheep Lodge accommodate different group sizes?
Black Sheep Lodge is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of group sizes, from couples and small friend circles to larger parties looking for a lively atmosphere. The ample number of picnic tables on the patio and spacious indoor seating ensure that even sizeable groups can find seating together without feeling scattered or rushed. The ambiance remains comfortable no matter the crowd size, helped by the venue’s layout that allows for multiple activity zones—game tables, bar seating, and relaxed lounge areas—giving guests the freedom to move and socialize at their own pace. The staff are experienced in hosting groups and can assist with seating arrangements and special requests, such as reserving tables for celebrations or coordinating food and drink orders efficiently. Additionally, the presence of dog-friendly outdoor areas appeals especially to groups who wish to bring pets, making it a more inclusive experience. Altogether, these features create a flexible environment that adapts well to different group dynamics, enhancing the social experience for everyone involved.
What kind of special events and promotions does Black Sheep Lodge offer?
Black Sheep Lodge keeps the energy up by regularly featuring special events and promotions that attract groups looking for a bit more than just food and drinks. Their calendar highlights daily drink specials, such as discounted Texas pints and liquors on Mondays, Mexican canned beers and tequila specials on Tuesdays, and $4 frozen margaritas on Thursdays. Weekends are particularly lively with $2 off pitchers and buckets of beer on Fridays and a special $4 featured beer and $4 well drinks on Saturdays. Sundays offer a brunch-like vibe with $5 mimosa, sangria, and $4 bloody Mary specials, perfect for lazy afternoon meetups. These promotions encourage groups to visit often and try a variety of offerings without straining their budget. The venue also has hosted watch parties for popular sporting events, such as the World Cup, leveraging their multiple TVs and lively atmosphere to bring people together. Such events reinforce Black Sheep Lodge’s status as a community-centered place where people gather not just to eat and drink, but to celebrate good times together.
Why do customers consistently rate Black Sheep Lodge highly?
Customers consistently praise Black Sheep Lodge for successfully blending great food, excellent drink options, a welcoming atmosphere, and entertaining activities—ingredients that make any group outing a win. The highly rated Black Buffalo Burger and wings frequently receive accolades for their quality and flavor, distinguishing the lodge in Austin’s competitive food scene. The beer selection and well-priced drinks appeal to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers, while the thoughtful mix of games and TV options ensures guests are continuously entertained. Reviewers highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff who provide attentive service without rushing guests, enhancing the overall experience. Furthermore, the pet-friendly policy, comfortable indoor/outdoor seating, and community vibe all contribute to the lodge’s appeal as a reliable, fun place to meet. The 4.3-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviews reflects a strong consensus among customers that Black Sheep Lodge delivers a well-rounded experience that keeps groups coming back.
In summary, Black Sheep Lodge’s combination of delicious food, wide-ranging drink selections, diverse recreational activities, friendly service, and a lively yet laid-back atmosphere makes it an exceptional venue for groups of friends and family to meet, enjoy, and create lasting memories.