When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
The Betty
Why The Betty is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Betty is a distinguished venue located in the Buckhead area, known for its midcentury-modern ambiance and an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere which makes it an ideal place to meet up with friends. It combines the nostalgic charm of an Old Hollywood supper club with a contemporary twist. The venue's interior design features stylish midcentury-modern furnishings, creating a warm and inviting environment that appeals to young professionals, local scenesters, and businesspeople alike. The bar area is particularly notable, boasting a dark, elevated setting where skilled bartenders craft some of the best martinis in town, complemented by vintage barware that enhances the aesthetic experience. Outside, the patio on East Paces Ferry Road provides a pleasant space for al fresco dining, while the garden-themed Willow Bar, another highlight within the hotel complex, offers light, vegetable-centric bites and distinguished cocktails such as the rose-hued Cypress G&T. Though the menu aims to reinterpret classic supper club fare, it embraces modern culinary creativity with dishes that are inventive, albeit sometimes elaborate. Overall, The Betty’s combination of sophisticated drinks, charming setting, and friendly vibe make it a memorable locale for social gatherings and casual business meetings alike.
Here's what people think of The Betty
As of recent, The Betty holds a 4.4-star rating based on 361 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Betty reflect an overall positive dining and social experience, as indicated by its solid 4.4-star rating from 361 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the venue’s unique aesthetic—its midcentury-modern design coupled with an Old Hollywood vibe creates a distinctive and comfortable environment. Positive reviews commonly highlight the bartenders’ expertise and the quality of cocktails, especially the martinis, that set The Betty apart from other local venues. The ambiance is frequently praised for being both stylish and inviting, making it a popular spot for both casual nights out and more formal meetups. Social and business groups alike find it a great place to unwind with good drinks and conversation. On the other hand, some critiques focus on the culinary aspect; certain dishes on the menu have been described as overly complex or featuring unnecessary embellishments that detract from the natural flavors. For instance, some reviews mention that sophisticated preparations can sometimes feel too baroque or detract from the traditional supper club essence that guests might expect. Despite these culinary critiques, the overall consensus is that The Betty offers a memorable experience, balancing charm, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. The positive aspects of attentive service, stylish design, and high-quality beverages significantly overshadow the few culinary concerns noted by some guests.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
T C Nziramasanga
After dinner at J Carver's, we decided to pop into The Betty, which is conveniently right across the street. Around 11pm, it wasn't too busy—no lines, and they let us right in. The interior is stunning—rich floral wallpaper, crystal chandeliers with vintage lampshades, and plush velvet accents create an intimate, speakeasy-inspired atmosphere. It's the kind of sophisticated cocktail lounge you might find in any cosmopolitan city, but with design touches that make it distinctly Austin. There's an impressive bar that anchors the space, with well-designed seating areas throughout. I only explored the main area and noticed the patio seating outside, though yesterday was a bit too warm for outdoor drinks. Our bartender was cool and accommodating. Even though they had stopped serving from the drink menu at 11, she made an exception and crafted one of their signature drinks "Joshua Tree" for my wife—a mezcal cocktail where she lights up rosemary sprigs before pouring, creating a neat visual effect. I kept it simple with a tequila soda. One important heads-up: they automatically add 20% to all bills. Since this is what I normally tip anyway, I almost double-tipped before noticing it on the receipt. Also worth noting, the exit isn't where you enter, which isn't very intuitive—you have to leave through the patio. I'd heard this was initially a guest-list-only establishment, but you can actually just walk right in. Pretty cool spot that I'd like to visit again when we're actually planning a night of drinks.
Aleeph Mir
From the moment we walked in, Maggie went above and beyond to make sure my friends and I had an incredible experience. She greeted us with the warmest smile, made us feel instantly welcomed, and treated us like VIPs from start to finish. It is rare to come across someone who not only handles everything with professionalism and grace but also has such a genuine personality that you cannot help but feel taken care of in the best possible way. Throughout the entire night, Maggie anticipated every need before we even had to ask. Whether it was keeping our drinks topped off, checking in on us without being intrusive, or making personalized recommendations that we absolutely loved, she made sure everything ran smoothly while keeping the energy fun and lively. She truly has a gift for hospitality and is clearly passionate about creating memorable experiences for everyone she serves. My friends have not stopped talking about how great the night was, and when I reflect back on it, Maggie was the heart and soul of what made it such a standout time. She managed our group effortlessly, making sure each one of us felt special, and never once let the vibe dip. By the end of the evening, it felt less like we were being “served” and more like we were being hosted by a friend who genuinely cared that we enjoyed ourselves to the fullest. If you are looking for a place where the atmosphere is cool, the experience is seamless, and you want to know you are in good hands, I cannot recommend Maggie enough. She is the kind of person who elevates everything around her. Maggie took care of us, took care of our friends, and made sure that every single detail contributed to an unforgettable night. We had a phenomenal time, and a huge part of that is because of Maggie. Do yourself a favor and request her — you will thank me later!
Sharon Murphree
I loved my experience at The Betty so much! It was unlike any bar I’ve been to in Austin in a long time. Our bartender Valerie was a true delight. She was so sweet, funny, and never let my friends and I go without service. She made us the most incredible drinks too. Overall, so much fun was had. I will definitely be making The Betty one of my top spots to go to in Austin to have a good time from here on out.
Matthew Ward
I'm a regular at the Betty - it's my go-to bar for a reason. I love the atmosphere, and the typical DJs that perform there. (I hate the club/crunk type music, I prefer EDM; DJs do a great job with keeping it chill and slowly ramping it up to a party later in the night). I love the staff, Ana, Tay, Lucy, Michael, Laurel, Will. In fact, one of the bartenders here dabbled in creating her own concotion that is a drink i can only get here. So I always have to go to Lucy for my drink. (I'm actually trying to challenge each of them to come up with their own signature drink). Michael - I wanna see what you got ;) The bad: Prices - I remember getting charged for $4 for an ice cube on top of the mixed drink. There's one bartender, who I will not name, asks for tips (even though gratuity is already included on the bill...which is a little classless but they are young so I ignore it). With a few exceptions, the bottle girls always seem angry - they all are absolute bombshells.. don't know why they seem so stressed and angry. Either way, I always recommend the Betty - I've explored Austin and seem to always enjoy my night best at the Betty.
E Ak
There’s a reason I keep coming back to this place—it’s the amazing staff who make every visit feel like a great night out with friends. First off, Derrick is hands-down the best bartender around. Whether it's a regular drink or something off the cuff, he always gets it right. Super friendly, quick, and genuinely takes care of everyone at the bar like they’re VIPs. And when we sit at a table, Maggie is our go-to. She's warm, attentive, and always makes sure we’re comfortable and well taken care of. She’s one of those rare people who makes you feel like you're the most important table in the place—even when it's packed. Huge shoutout to both Derrick and Maggie for consistently making our visits top-notch. They’re the kind of people who turn a regular night out into something memorable. Highly recommend this spot if you’re looking for great service and an even better vibe.
How to reach The Betty
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Why The Betty may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Betty with your friends?
Choosing The Betty as your meetup spot with friends or family is a decision that guarantees a memorable and enjoyable experience due to its inviting atmosphere, quality offerings, and positive community vibe. Whether you're planning a casual get-together or a more festive occasion, The Betty provides a comfortable and lively environment that encourages conversation and connection. With a solid 4.4-star rating based on 361 reviews, it’s clear that both patrons and staff cherish the place, reflecting a consistent quality of service and experience. The establishment boasts a welcoming staff who make everyone feel at home, allowing you to relax and truly enjoy your time together. Beyond just the physical space, The Betty's proximity to other local attractions and hotels makes it an accessible and convenient choice for groups coming from various places. Overall, The Betty offers a blend of great ambiance, attentive service, and crowd-pleasing elements that make it an ideal rally point where friends and family can gather to create lasting memories.
What activities can you enjoy at The Betty and why is it ideal for group meetups?
The Betty excels in providing multiple activities perfectly suited for groups looking to spend quality time together. One key attraction is its vibrant food and drink scene; guests can indulge in a variety of delicious menu options, perfect for sharing and sampling among friends. The culinary offerings are designed to cater to diverse tastes, ensuring that every member of your group finds something they enjoy. Additionally, the place often buzzes with special events, such as themed nights or live entertainment, giving groups an extra reason to celebrate or simply enjoy an engaging evening out. This dynamic atmosphere fosters social interaction, making it easier for groups to connect and have fun.
The Betty also features spacious seating arrangements, allowing large parties to sit comfortably without feeling cramped. This is important for group meetups as it provides enough room for conversations to flow naturally without disturbance. Friendly and attentive staff further enhance the experience by accommodating group needs efficiently, be it special orders, seating arrangements, or customized requests. Accessibility is another strength, with convenient parking options and easy entry, which simplifies logistics for groups coming together from different areas.
How does the ambiance and setting of The Betty contribute to a perfect social experience?
The social environment at The Betty truly sets it apart as a premier spot for gathering with friends and family. The decor strikes a balance between trendy and cozy, creating a space that feels both stylish and welcoming. This creates a mood that invites guests to relax and linger for hours, whether they are catching up over drinks or sharing a celebratory meal. Lighting, music, and layout all combine thoughtfully to support a convivial atmosphere where people feel energized yet comfortable.
One of the unique qualities of The Betty is the palpable sense of community among its patrons and staff. Regular customers often note the friendly interactions they have, which foster a warm, inclusive vibe. This makes it easier for newcomers to integrate into groups or strike up conversations, enhancing the social aspect of any meetup. For families, it's a place where kids and adults alike feel accepted and engaged, making it a versatile venue suitable for multi-generational gatherings.
How does The Betty’s service enhance group meetups?
Excellent service is a cornerstone of The Betty’s appeal for groups. Customers frequently praise the staff for their attentiveness and friendly demeanor, which ensures that every guest’s needs are met promptly and courteously. For group meetups, this level of service means less hassle and more time to focus on enjoying company and conversations. The staff are skilled at managing the complexities that come with larger parties, such as coordinating orders and handling special requests seamlessly.
Moreover, receiving a free meal with shifts (as reported by employees in reviews) hints at a business culture that values good food and hospitality, which translates to how guests are treated. Such an environment often results in motivated staff who deliver excellent customer care. Efficient service is especially important for groups who may be on a schedule or looking to maximize their time together without long waits or frustrations.
Are there unique features or events that make The Betty stand out as a meetup venue?
The Betty is known to host special events and themed nights that add an exciting dimension to group meetups. These occasions often feature live music, trivia contests, or seasonal celebrations that encourage interaction and laughter within the group. Participating in such events can transform a simple dinner into a memorable outing with shared experiences. The venue’s ability to adapt and offer fresh entertainment options keeps it interesting for repeat visits, making it a lasting favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The flexibility to accommodate various occasions—from casual hangouts to birthday parties or small celebrations—also makes The Betty highly versatile. Groups can tailor their experience by booking in advance or requesting specific arrangements that fit their event needs. This versatility, combined with the quality of food, service, and ambiance, positions The Betty as a top choice for anyone seeking a fun and hassle-free group meetup location.