When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Dovetail Pizza & Bar
Why Dovetail Pizza & Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dovetail Pizza & Bar in Austin, TX, offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends, family, or colleagues. The ambiance strikes a balance between cozy neighborhood charm and a modern open space, with ample seating indoors and a lovely patio area, making it an ideal setting for groups and even kids. The standout feature here is their brilliantly crafted pizza crust, a unique hybrid blending the best qualities of Neapolitan and New York styles—crispy yet pliant enough to support a generous topping load. Their menu features thoughtfully composed pies like the beloved pepperoni with premium spicy cup pepperoni, balanced cheese, and a flavorful sauce, as well as innovative options like the Bittersweet pie that challenges vegetable toppings creatively. Beyond pizza, Dovetail boasts a full bar with a solid cocktail menu, offering a relaxed yet upscale feel. Their focus on quality also extends to gluten-free options, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Friendly and hardworking staff contribute to a welcoming experience, striving to make every visit enjoyable despite occasional service hiccups. Whether you’re craving a high-quality, tasty pizza or a place to linger with expertly mixed drinks among friends, Dovetail Pizza & Bar is a compelling choice in Austin’s vibrant food scene.
Here's what people think of Dovetail Pizza & Bar
As of recent, Dovetail Pizza & Bar holds a 4.5-star rating based on 350 reviews.
Reviews for Dovetail Pizza & Bar consistently praise the exceptional quality of the pizza, highlighting the innovative hybrid crust that marries Neapolitan and New York styles, creating a crisp yet flexible foundation for top-tier ingredients. Customers often single out the pepperoni pie as a favorite, noting the excellent cheese, high-quality spicy pepperoni, and well-balanced sauce. The Bittersweet pie also receives positive remarks, especially for its flavorful approach to vegetable toppings, although some find certain elements like the eggplant a bit dry. Positive reviews also emphasize the cozy and inviting setting, great for groups and families, and commend the bar offerings and cocktail selection. Service gets mixed feedback; while some patrons note attentive bar staff and a friendly atmosphere, others mention inconsistency or gaps in table service. The overall sentiment reflects a strong appreciation for food quality and ambiance, with minor critiques centered on staff attentiveness and occasional environmental issues like HVAC malfunctions. In conclusion, customer opinions position Dovetail as a highly recommended local gem for pizza lovers who value excellent ingredients and a comfortable social environment, with service that generally supports the experience but leaves room for improvement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Katherine Melnyk
We ordered the Caesar Salad with Chicken, Fried Calamari, and the Prime Rib Pizza. Overall, it’s a solid restaurant. Nothing mind-blowing, but we had a good meal. The Caesar Salad was good—just the right amount of dressing and Parmesan, and I loved the mushrooms in it. The calamari was okay, but the fried lemon and onion that came with it were a bit odd for my taste. I did like the generous amount of arugula, though. The Prime Rib Pizza was delicious, but definitely not the typical one. If you like arugula, you’ll probably enjoy this one. The pizza had a little kick, and the meat in it was super tender.
Jobie Alcaraz
On our second visit to Dovetail Pizza, we knew exactly what we were coming back for—the Prime Rib Pizza. And once again, it did not disappoint! The crust was perfectly crisp, the prime rib was incredibly tender, and the flavors were just spot on. We also ordered the Wedge Salad, which was fresh and had the perfect balance of crisp lettuce and creamy dressing. The Corn Fried Calamari was a standout appetizer—light, crispy, with greens, making it a unique take on a classic dish. The Fried Shrimp Alfredo was rich and flavorful, with a perfectly creamy sauce that wasn’t too heavy. Dovetail Pizza continues to impress, and after this second visit, we’re sure it won’t be our last! ________ Dovetail Pizza impresses with its well-rounded menu, especially with the Wedge Salad, Pesto Chicken Macaroni, and Prime Rib Pizza. The Wedge Salad, with its crisp iceberg lettuce, smoky bacon, and tangy blue cheese dressing, offers a refreshing start to the meal. The Pesto Chicken Macaroni combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich, herbaceous pesto sauce and tender chicken, delivering both comfort and flavor. The Prime Rib Pizza is the star, featuring succulent slices of prime rib and perfectly baked crust. Each dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors, making Dovetail Pizza a must-visit for any food lover.
Byal Thomas
We stopped by Dovetail on a Saturday evening around 7pm and were pleasantly surprised to find seating without any hassle. The atmosphere was on point. The music matched the space, the energy was relaxed, and it felt like the kind of place where you can actually have a conversation without shouting. We ordered the pepperoni pizza and buffalo wings and both were incredible. But what really took the experience to the next level was the service. Our server DJ was easily one of the best parts of the night. She was attentive, warm, and genuinely made us feel welcome. Her recommendations were on point, she checked in at just the right times, and she introduced us to their lineup of house made sauces. DJ’s personality brings serious value to the place. Give her a raise. Seriously. The chimichurri and chili oil were both solid, but the ricotta ranch was the star. Creamy, tangy, and honestly addictive. If you're getting wings or pizza, that sauce is a must. No complaints at all. Great food, great energy, and standout service. We will definitely be back for the meat pizza next time. Sorry I did not get a good picture of the pizza, guess you will just have to see it for yourself.
Cyrus Buhariwalla
I appreciate places having gluten free options, but there’s much better gluten free pizza out there. It was a $17 cheese pizza normally and then added $5 to make it gf. The crust was basically a cracker, if you like really thin crust this could be for you.
Erin A
They had me at fried olives and they did not disappoint! The shrimp Alfredo was yummy and had a good amount of sauce. The prime rib pizza was really good. Their homemade sesame chili oil was addictive. Great cocktail options too!
How to reach Dovetail Pizza & Bar
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Website: None
Why rally at Dovetail Pizza & Bar with your friends? When it comes to meeting up with friends or family, a place that combines a lively atmosphere, outstanding food, and welcoming vibes is essential, and Dovetail Pizza & Bar in Austin hits every note perfectly. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from 350 reviews, it’s clear that both locals and visitors consider it a top choice for group gatherings. The heart of the experience here lies in their phenomenal pizzas, which blend the best traits of Neapolitan and New York styles with a thin, crispy crust that is both pliable and flavorful—ideal for sharing and savoring together. Beyond the food, the venue's modern and open design lends itself to socializing comfortably, whether inside or in their inviting outdoor area. Friendly bartenders and a full bar round out the experience, providing excellent drinks that complement the food and foster a festive mood. The combination of great service, delicious food, and an atmosphere designed for connection ensures that gathering here is not just a meal but a memorable occasion full of laughter and warmth.
What activities can you enjoy at Dovetail Pizza & Bar that make it perfect for group meetups? First and foremost, the highlight is the food. Dovetail offers a diverse and creative pizza menu, featuring pies like their renowned pepperoni slice topped with spicy cup pepperoni and ample cheese, or their unique Bittersweet pie, which displays inventive veggie toppings like eggplant. Every pizza is crafted to please—crispy yet chewy crust, well-balanced sauce, and premium ingredients provide flavors that excite everyone at the table. Sharing pizzas is encouraged, fostering a communal dining experience that works perfectly for groups. Beyond food, the bar features a wide variety of cocktails, beers, and wines, making it easy for groups with diverse tastes to find their perfect drink. The bartenders are attentive and often interact with guests, creating a friendly and lively environment—an excellent backdrop for socializing. Additionally, the ambiance includes music that energizes the space without overwhelming conversation, making it comfortable to catch up with friends or celebrate special moments.
What makes Dovetail Pizza & Bar’s space ideal for hosting larger gatherings? The layout and vibe of Dovetail are designed to accommodate groups without feeling cramped or rushed. The venue combines a modern aesthetic with warmth through open seating arrangements that encourage conversation and connection. Whether you prefer to sit indoors or enjoy Austin’s pleasant weather at their outdoor dining area, you’ll find ample space for your group. On weekends and evenings, the energy rises with upbeat music and a buzz that brings people together, but the staff ensures that service remains attentive. Group seating is flexible, allowing different group sizes to find comfort and ensure privacy if desired while still being part of a vibrant atmosphere. The casual yet refined environment makes it suitable for everything from birthday celebrations and casual meetups to pre-event gatherings and casual business meetups, striking a balance that invites everyone to relax and enjoy themselves.
How does Dovetail Pizza & Bar cater to various tastes and preferences in a group? A standout feature of Dovetail’s menu is its variety and quality, which satisfy meat lovers, vegetarians, and those who appreciate creative culinary twists alike. From their signature pepperoni to the thoughtfully made vegetable pies and specialty sauces, the menu demonstrates a commitment to innovation and balance. For example, their chimichurri and chili sauces stand out as flavorful complements to the pizzas or appetizers, adding depth to the shared dining experience. The full bar also offers everything from craft cocktails to local beers and fine wines, ensuring that everyone in your party has something they can enjoy. This diversity makes planning a group visit straightforward and pressure-free because there's something to delight every palate. Moreover, the kitchen’s dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients means guests appreciate not just the taste but the care and attention behind each dish.
What kind of service experience should groups expect at Dovetail Pizza & Bar? While some reviews have noted occasional service hiccups, overall the staff is described as friendly and hardworking, especially the bartenders who often step in to maintain a smooth experience even when busy. The front-of-house team strives to keep the environment welcoming and attentive, ensuring that drink orders and food arrive promptly. Given the popularity of the spot, the staff’s ability to manage groups and individual guests alike contributes significantly to the relaxed yet lively ambience. Larger parties benefit from staff accustomed to accommodating group needs while remaining flexible for last-minute requests or adjustments. This balance helps make gatherings feel effortless and enjoyable, allowing guests to focus on each other and the good times.
Why should Dovetail Pizza & Bar be your next destination for a social outing in Austin? With its exceptional 4.5-star rating based on a large volume of enthusiastic reviews, Dovetail Pizza & Bar firmly positions itself as a destination worth returning to. The combination of quality food, a dynamic but comfortable atmosphere, and an inviting bar experience creates the perfect setting for meaningful meetups. Whether your group prefers to indulge in standout pizzas, sip expertly mixed drinks, or simply enjoy Austin’s vibrant social scene in a friendly environment, Dovetail delivers on all fronts. The venue’s commitment to quality and community connects guests through shared experiences, making it much more than just a place to eat—it's a gathering spot for friendship and celebration. For groups looking to rally in a spot that feels like a home away from home with an impressive culinary offering, Dovetail Pizza & Bar is a compelling and reliable choice.