When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Dainty Dillo
Why Dainty Dillo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dainty Dillo is a vibrant patio bar located in East Austin, Texas, known for its laid-back atmosphere and vintage aesthetic. Perched just above the Colorado River, this venue offers a spacious backyard that serves as a perfect meetup spot with friends. The outdoor space is beautifully designed with fire pits and an outdoor stage that hosts live music, creating an inviting ambiance that encourages socializing and relaxation. The upper patio is ideal for semi-private gatherings, accommodating 30 to 100 guests, while the entire venue can host up to 400 people, making it versatile for everything from casual meetups to larger celebrations. Dainty Dillo features a full bar serving a wide range of drinks, alongside delicious American comfort food provided by in-house catering from Biggie’s Yardhouse. In addition, the venue allows outside catering for bar buyouts, catering to diverse event needs. The presence of TVs showing popular sporting events and dog-friendly policies enhance the welcoming and inclusive vibe. Located on East Cesar Chavez Street, Dainty Dillo combines scenic river views, cozy amenities, and vibrant energy, making it a fantastic place to connect with friends or celebrate special occasions.
Here's what people think of Dainty Dillo
As of recent, Dainty Dillo holds a 4.2-star rating based on 124 reviews.
Customer reviews for Dainty Dillo reflect a generally positive experience, with the bar holding a 4.2-star rating across 124 reviews. Reviewers frequently praise the venue's inviting and unique vintage vibe, noting that the spacious outdoor areas with fire pits and live music make it an ideal spot for social gatherings and casual hangouts. Many highlight the quality of the food options, especially the comfort food from Biggie’s Yardhouse, and appreciate the variety at the full bar. The scenic riverside location and dog-friendly policy are often mentioned as positive attributes that add to the overall experience. Positive reviews often mention the friendly and attentive staff, good drink selection, and the flexibility of space for events both large and small. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as overcrowding during busy times, wait times for food or drinks, and some inconsistencies in service quality. A few customers expressed a desire for improved parking options and noted that the atmosphere might get noisy during larger events. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus suggests Dainty Dillo remains a popular and enjoyable venue in East Austin. In conclusion, the reviews indicate that Dainty Dillo is well-regarded as a fun, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing place to meet up with friends, with only minor drawbacks typically related to its popularity and event size.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jennie Johnson
Finally made it over to the east side to try the new Dillo den spot on a Sunday. The atmosphere was peaceful and had a nice view wasn't very busy at lunchtime. Parking can be a hassle they charge $9 for valet. They do enforce a no kids policy on the weekends, you will get turned away politely. This afterall is a bar not a family brunch spot. The service was okay bartenders seemed like they'd rather be somewhere else. The food options were good but not a big selection. The chicken sandwich was well worth the price. Drinks are close to downtown prices. It's a nice spot to hangout with friends if your in the neighborhood. Several TVs and mostly outdoor seating. Different vibe then the Dillo den overall but a nice addition to the east side. Dog friendly. They have some of the same signature frozen cocktails. Live band was setting up around 3.
Adah RB
I come here almost every week when the bachelor franchise is on, it's the best place in Austin to watch (I've tried out two other places before the Dillo). The food is tasty, the happy hour drinks are well priced, and the atmosphere is fantastic! The only complaint I have is that the last few weeks they no longer have quesadillas which is tragic
Linz W
Nice little spot especially if you want an outdoor patio for sports and a nice view of the Colorado river. The Moctails are delicious. The blueberry mash is my top pick and they have a yummy N/A ipa. Staff is friendly and the food is pretty delicious. Smashburgers (which I forgot to get a pic) were yummy. Candied bacon grilled cheese was pretty tasty, needed a little more sweetness. They did forget to add the bacon first time around, but the staff was super apologetic and fixed it. Which we did not expect them to apologize so much, mistakes happen. 😃 Will be back for more NA drinks
Hannah
Super cool outdoor space with plenty of fans, speakers, tvs, and quite a bit of seating. You order all of your food through an app as well as the drinks, although there is a bar you can order drinks at too. The app was pretty easy to use and I don’t necessarily mind having to use one so I don’t have wait for someone to come back to the table. We got the chips and queso and split the smash burger. The burger was pretty good but the chips tasted a little stale. All of the mixed drinks were pretty good too.
Matt Hess
Great vibe with good drinks perfect for happy hours and meeting up with friends. Plenty of space but tight on parking, so just like the south location plan on parking down the street. Solid bar snacks in house and draft cocktails make it a great spot for a quick meetup or all day hang. Keep it in your loop if you're in the area at lustre pearl, central machine works, etc.
How to reach Dainty Dillo
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Why Dainty Dillo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dainty Dillo with your friends? Dainty Dillo presents an irresistible combination of good food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering with friends or family. With a solid rating of 4.2 from 124 reviews, this East Austin gem offers the ideal setting to enjoy quality time outdoors alongside the scenic Colorado River. The spacious backyard features seven fire pits, a stage for live music, and plenty of seating, creating an engaging ambiance that encourages conversation and relaxation. Whether your group craves casual dining or a lively social experience, Dainty Dillo manages to strike a balance between comfort and entertainment. The presence of 13 televisions throughout the venue caters to sports fans, ensuring everyone finds their niche. This lively yet laid-back venue invites groups to unwind, enjoy excellent food and drinks, and soak up the views in a place that’s become a local favorite. All these elements make Dainty Dillo a magnetic spot to rally friends for memorable gatherings and celebrations.
What activities can groups enjoy at Dainty Dillo? The range of activities at Dainty Dillo centers around socializing in a vibrant yet cozy environment. Guests can enjoy live music sessions on the outdoor stage, which regularly hosts local bands and artists, turning any meetup into a lively event filled with rhythm and energy. The expansive patio with fire pits is perfect for informal chats late into the evening, providing warmth and ambiance that encourage groups to linger and connect. With 13 strategically placed televisions both inside and out, sports enthusiasts can keep up with multiple games, making it a great venue for watching big matches or tournaments with friends. Beyond entertainment, Dainty Dillo’s riverfront location allows guests to appreciate the refreshing natural scenery, enhancing the communal vibe. Moreover, the venue hosts special events like crawfish boils and bouquet-making classes, adding unique experiences for groups looking for something beyond a typical bar or restaurant meetup.
Why is Dainty Dillo perfect for a group meetup? The layout and offerings at Dainty Dillo are tailored to accommodate groups of various sizes comfortably. For smaller groups, the wide-open backyard and scattered seating provide plenty of options to find a cozy corner or claim a fireside spot around the fire pits. Large groups are equally well-supported as Dainty Dillo offers semi-private upper patio bookings that can host up to 100 guests, and full restaurant buyouts for parties up to 250, making it ideal for birthdays, business events, or weddings. This flexibility ensures your group can have privacy and feel exclusive when needed. The onsite kitchen, known as Woodneck Kitchen, delivers delicious sandwiches, smash burgers, and fried chicken sandwiches, satisfying diverse tastes with casual, high-quality fare. The full bar offers cocktails, martinis, non-alcoholic beverages, and a variety of drinks to keep everyone refreshed. Their accommodating approach to groups and the casual, friendly atmosphere means organizing a meetup here is both easy and enjoyable.
What food and drink options make Dainty Dillo stand out? Dainty Dillo’s food offerings emphasize comfort and quality, with Biggie’s Yardbird kitchen specializing in melt-in-your-mouth smashburgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and other crowd-pleasing bar food. The Cuban sandwich is a local favorite, noted for its flavorful authenticity and consistently excellent taste. Beyond burgers and sandwiches, side dishes like fried pickled okra bites add a unique twist to the menu, serving as perfect snacks to share. The full bar features a robust menu including cocktails, martinis, and a variety of refreshing non-alcoholic options, catering to all guests. This diversity allows groups to customize their dining and drinking experience, whether you're after a laid-back lunch or a spirited evening with signature drinks. The combination of hearty food offerings alongside creative beverages ensures no one leaves hungry or thirsty, enhancing the overall social experience.
How does Dainty Dillo cater to convenience and accessibility for groups? Gathering a group often means logistical considerations, and Dainty Dillo offers practical solutions to make meetups hassle-free. The venue maintains a small parking lot and provides a $9 valet service, easing access for those driving in. Additionally, safe street parking and a nearby garage are accessible via crosswalks, ensuring guests can find spots without stress. The venue operates mostly as a walk-in spot, which lends spontaneity and ease for casual meetups; however, it also embraces reservations for larger groups over 30, accommodating semi-private or private bookings. Kids are welcome until 6 pm on weekdays, making it a family-friendly option during those hours, while well-behaved dogs on leashes are warmly accepted any time, adding to the inclusive and welcoming environment. This thoughtful attention to logistics helps streamline group planning and encourages repeat visits.
What special events and experiences enrich Dainty Dillo's appeal? Beyond its everyday charm, Dainty Dillo offers a dynamic calendar of events that transforms the venue into a hub of community and cultural engagement. Live music performances energize the space regularly, drawing people who appreciate local talent and vibrant atmospheres. Seasonal or themed events, including crawfish boils and bouquet-making classes, provide unique opportunities for groups to participate in activities that strengthen bonds and create memorable shared experiences. These happenings turn a simple meet-up into a richer occasion filled with fun and creativity. Event hosting services also make Dainty Dillo an attractive choice for private celebrations like birthdays, weddings, and corporate gatherings by providing tailored arrangements and dedicated spaces. This versatility, combined with its warm social environment, ensures that each visit feels distinctive and special.
Why do locals and visitors recommend Dainty Dillo? Dainty Dillo has earned a loyal following, reflected in its robust number of positive reviews praising its food, atmosphere, and location. Locals appreciate its proximity, with many visiting regularly for lunch or evening hangouts, highlighting the dependable quality of the menu and the attentive, friendly service. Visitors often comment on the relaxed vibe, spectacular river views, and the appeal of a multi-faceted entertainment venue that fits a range of tastes. The combination of outdoor freshness, fire pits, live music, and sports viewing options delights diverse groups, making it a must-visit destination in East Austin. Its reputation as a place where everyone can find something to enjoy has cemented its status as a community favorite and a top choice for social gatherings.
How can you maximize your group’s experience at Dainty Dillo? To make the most of a meetup at Dainty Dillo, consider arriving early to secure your preferred seating, especially for groups. Booking the semi-private upper patio in advance for larger parties ensures a comfortable and exclusive space to gather. Exploring the menu with your group by sharing plates like fried pickled okra alongside the well-reviewed smashburgers and Cuban sandwiches encourages a communal dining experience. Scheduling your visit to coincide with live music or special events adds an extra layer of enjoyment and entertainment. Bringing well-behaved dogs and planning for family-friendly afternoons can further personalize the outing. By thoughtfully engaging with Dainty Dillo’s offerings, groups can create a memorable and seamless gathering with friends or family.
In summary, Dainty Dillo stands out as an exceptional venue for group meetups due to its inviting outdoor space, diverse food and drink menu, entertainment options, and accommodating event hosting capabilities. Whether looking for a casual lunch spot or a lively venue for celebrations, it provides everything needed to rally and reconnect with friends in a relaxed Texas setting.