When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Red Star Social

Why Red Star Social is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Red Star Social is a standout social poker club located in the heart of Central Austin, offering an upscale yet inviting setting perfect for meeting up with friends and enjoying quality leisure time. Operating daily from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m., this private members-only club features eight well-maintained poker tables, sweepstakes machines, and large HDTV screens broadcasting popular sports, creating an engaging atmosphere. The club emphasizes a relaxed but sophisticated environment, combining the excitement of poker with comfortable social interaction. Guests benefit from professional dealers known for their experience and friendliness, while complimentary bottled water, coffee, and tea enhance the hospitality. Additionally, Red Star Social’s convenient location in a shopping center with ample free parking and professional on-site security makes it easily accessible and safe. Nearby, a variety of excellent dining options such as The Bon Aire, Tokyo Sushi & Ramen, Kung Fu Tea, Plucker’s Wing Bar, and Hook & Reel add to the overall convenience and appeal for groups seeking a complete night out. The club’s blend of a classy, clean atmosphere with a home game vibe creates a welcoming environment for both regulars and newcomers, making it an ideal spot for friends to gather and enjoy quality social entertainment centered around poker.
Here's what people think of Red Star Social
As of recent, Red Star Social holds a 4.2-star rating based on 55 reviews.
Customers generally regard Red Star Social highly, as reflected in its solid 4.2-star rating from 55 reviews, indicating a strong positive reception alongside some areas for improvement. Positive reviews frequently highlight the club’s clean and stylish atmosphere, often noting its resemblance to a Las Vegas poker room. Many appreciate the professionally trained dealers who contribute to a smooth gaming experience and the friendly, welcoming staff who maintain a comfortable social environment. Patrons enjoy the diverse poker games offered, including popular formats like Double Board Omaha and $1/$2 No-Limit Hold’em, and the club’s good mix of regular players and newcomers adds dynamic energy without losing the intimate “home game” feel. The central location and easy parking also are often praised for convenience. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional issues such as limited space during peak times and higher stakes that might not suit all players’ preferences. A few reviews mention that the members-only, private club status can create an exclusive feel that may be intimidating to first-timers. Nonetheless, the majority of critiques are mild and balanced by the club’s attentive management and overall strong service quality. In summary, the review consensus suggests that Red Star Social excels as a premier poker and social venue in Austin, with its upscale ambiance, dedicated staff, and central location drawing positive attention despite minor concerns.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mr. Smith
I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Red Star Social, and I must take a moment to highlight the exceptional service provided by Laura. From the moment I walked in, her warm and welcoming demeanor made me feel right at home. It’s clear that Laura has a genuine passion for her job, as she is always attentive to every guest’s needs, ensuring that everyone feels valued and cared for. Her ability to anticipate requests before they are even made is truly remarkable. Whether it’s bringing a refreshing drink or offering a friendly chat, Laura goes above and beyond to create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s not just her attentiveness; it’s the way she makes everyone feel like a VIP that sets her apart. Moreover, Laura’s impeccable sense of style adds an extra touch of elegance to the experience. Every day, she arrives dressed to impress, showcasing a blend of professionalism and flair that brightens the environment. It’s inspiring to see someone who takes such pride in their appearance and work. The games are also great with fun and enjoyable regulars which also make this place far better than your average poker spot. Just try this place out. Overall, Laura is a true asset to the Red Star, and her contributions elevate the entire experience. I highly recommend visiting and experiencing her outstanding service firsthand—you won’t be disappointed!
Ryan Hobert
Red Star Poker is hands down one of the best poker rooms in Austin. The atmosphere is super friendly — the staff makes you feel like a regular from day one, and the players range from chill recreational types to sharp, competitive grinders, which keeps the action interesting and the skill curve real. Games run smoothly, dealers are sharp, and management keeps things professional and fair. Honestly, it’s funny seeing the occasional review accusing the place of cheating or collusion — usually from someone who ran bad and decided to blame the house instead of variance. Poker isn’t always kind, but Red Star is always consistent. If you’re looking for a legit room with a good mix of competition, camaraderie, and some classic table banter, Red Star delivers. Just don’t tilt and blame the cards.
Logan Turner
Came here to play some cards. The 2 employees bought into the game, one being the owner. The first employee immediately calls a 105$ all in with 3, 6 offsuit to river the 6 and win. New dealer came in and the owner or partial owner directly to right of the dealer won the next 7 hands in a row. Kings, Queens , straight, three-of-a-kind, two pair, queens again, then jacks. The owner quickly went from 150$ stack to over 1300$. Almost certain that there is cheating going on. My buddy has gone here 9 times and lost all 9 times. The owner and as well as other house players pretend to be a normal players and then proceed to call everyone down no matter the bet size and somehow win. The employees are in on this for sure.
Stephen Kammer
After going here multiple times, I'm thoroughly convinced that there are multiple house players, and that they cheat. This time, someone stratled on the button, raised preflop big w 7 8 offsuit and rivered a gut shot on my top pair. It's poker, it happens, but not every time. Every time I come here it's the same thing. At their old game, when it was a fair game with no cheating, I used to win all the time. I've been here several times now and have lost in strange ways every time. The time before, I had a flush draw and open ended on the turn, we went all in on the turn and the guy that won, celebrated far before the river even peeled off showing me that he somehow knew he was going to win. Most good reviews are from employees or house players more than likely. Stay away from this cheating establishment.
Rath Yin
Red Star has the best 1/2 holdem action in Austin. The games are fun, lively, and oversized pots are the norm. The personable dealers maintain the action and the hostess is gifted at making everyone feel right at home while maintaining order.
How to reach Red Star Social
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Website: None

Why Red Star Social may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Red Star Social with your friends?
When searching for an ideal venue to gather with friends or family, Red Star Social stands out as a top choice. It offers a uniquely welcoming atmosphere combined with a vibrant, social experience perfectly suited for groups. Whether you want to engage in competitive fun or simply enjoy relaxing conversation, this place provides a comfortable environment where everyone can feel at ease. Its excellent reputation, reflected in a solid 4.2-star rating from over 55 reviews, speaks to the quality of hospitality and service that visitors consistently praise. The staff is known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, adding a personal touch that enhances every visit. Moreover, Red Star Social’s focus on providing value makes it an appealing option for groups looking to enjoy a night out without overspending. With its blend of excitement, comfort, and community spirit, Red Star Social is a perfect rallying point for memorable, engaging group meetups.
What activities can you enjoy at Red Star Social?
Red Star Social is best known for its excellent poker room, which attracts players at various skill levels. The venue features popular games such as No-Limit Hold’em with stakes like 1-2 and 1-3, offering plenty of action and value for both casual players and serious competitors. The room is managed professionally, with a strong focus on the player experience, including timely deals on seating to keep the game flowing smoothly. This makes it an appealing place to bring your friends for a friendly poker night or to test your skills against a welcoming community of players. Beyond poker, Red Star Social’s atmosphere fosters social interaction, with plenty of seating areas designed for conversation and relaxation. The space is conducive for groups to share laughs, strategize, and enjoy each other’s company. This balance of gaming and social space creates a dynamic environment that’s more than just a typical bar or club.
Why is Red Star Social perfect for group meetups?
The design and vibe at Red Star Social make it especially well-suited for group gatherings. The layout supports interaction, with communal seating and spaces that encourage mingling. The venue prides itself on its friendly and inclusive environment, which helps groups of all sizes feel comfortable from the moment they arrive. Friendly staff members go beyond basic service by ensuring that guests have everything they need to enjoy their visit, from game assistance to dining recommendations. Speaking of dining, Red Star Social offers numerous nearby options, making it easy to combine food with entertainment in one outing. This mix of good value, hospitality, and multiple activity options allows groups to tailor their experience, whether they want to focus on poker or simply enjoy quality time together in an upbeat atmosphere. It’s an ideal setting where memories are made through both competition and camaraderie.