When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
the side bar
Why the side bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Side Bar offers a unique and intimate setting ideal for meeting up with friends, especially those who appreciate expertly crafted cocktails. Known for its small size that creates a cozy and atmospheric vibe, the bar encourages engaging conversations and relaxed socializing. Its skilled bartenders take pride in their craft, often crafting custom drinks tailored to guests’ tastes, making every visit feel personalized and special. The ambiance is vibrant yet unpretentious, with creative drink options and a friendly, attentive staff. Despite its size, The Side Bar manages to be a hidden gem that patrons return to for quality drinks, good company, and a memorable experience. It also features a comfortable sofa area perfect for groups to hang out and chat, and some locations offer a pleasant outdoor patio space that adds to its charm. These elements combine, making The Side Bar a great place to unwind with friends over delicious beverages in an inviting and lively atmosphere.
Here's what people think of the side bar
As of recent, the side bar holds a 4-star rating based on 406 reviews.
Reviews of The Side Bar reveal a generally positive reception with a 4.0 rating from over 400 reviewers. Customers frequently praise the skill and creativity of the bartenders, noting the custom cocktails and the passion for craft drinks as highlights. Many reviews mention the warm and inviting ambiance that makes the bar feel like a hidden gem, perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks or a casual night out. The cozy size of the space is often applauded because it creates an intimate and comfortable environment where guests can enjoy conversations without excessive crowds or noise. Positive reviews also highlight the friendly staff, the quality of drinks, and the unique atmosphere enhanced by features like open windows or patio seating, which make the bar feel connected to its surroundings. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out challenges related to the bar's small size, reporting that it can feel crowded or sometimes difficult to find due to its tucked-away location. A few comments from employee reviews note management and organizational issues behind the scenes, although these do not seem to significantly impact the customer experience. Overall, The Side Bar maintains a reputation as a classy, well-curated place with a loyal following that appreciates its specialty cocktails and intimate setting, making it a recommended spot for those seeking a sophisticated yet welcoming bar environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Deaniel Plumley
I love this place. There are great people that work here and the owners really care about their employees and their customers. The free pool is what's drew me here. This is a dive bar with a lot of heart. I have a nice smoking section in the back. The music is great also. So if you're ever in the Red River 7th Street area, come to the sidebar, you won't be disappointed.
Arthur Sparks
If you're in the Austin area looking for a bar to hangout at. I would highly advise AGAINST the side bar. Food is reasonable and the atmosphere is like any other spot in Austin. For the regular person this could be a good choice, but I fair warn against a specific bartender that was working this past Friday. My group and myself had to leave because we were asked to without much reasoning. All the other bartenders seemed quite cool and socialable, but this individual must have something against the world, due to the lack of service, no conversation and the outright dissspointment of being forced to look for another spot, only because this bartender may have been having a bad day. As i said, chill spot, good drinks and seating, but if you're looking for a warm welcome and good service, i highly recommend you choose another spot.
Carlos Rios
Tom was a badass bartender! Vibe was super chill. They really know how to pour a drink! Definitely hit this spot again, when in Austin
Devonta Herndon
Solid all around bar. Pool tables were free and the music selection was, interesting, but not in a bad way
Devin
Drinks were so good I washed up in the river afterwards. Love Side Bar, always a deathly good time and chill crowd. Great prices too. And always some nice folks in the bathroom. Cheers.
How to reach the side bar
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Website: None
Why the side bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Side Bar with your friends?
Gathering your friends at The Side Bar is an excellent choice when you want a place that combines a cozy atmosphere, quality drinks, and a memorable experience. One of the first things you’ll notice about The Side Bar is its intimate setting — it’s often described as small and almost tucked away, which gives it an exclusive, speakeasy vibe that’s perfect for close-knit gatherings. This kind of environment naturally fosters conversation and connection, making it easier to catch up with friends or family without the overwhelming noise and distractions you might find in larger venues. The bartenders at The Side Bar are known for their creativity, often crafting custom cocktails tailored to your taste preferences. This personalized service ensures that every visit feels unique and special. Beyond just drinks, the ambiance is warm and inviting, turning a simple night out into a special occasion. Whether you want to start your evening with some pre-dinner drinks or wind down after a long day, The Side Bar provides the perfect combination of atmosphere and quality service to make your meetup truly enjoyable.
What activities does The Side Bar offer for groups?
The primary attraction at The Side Bar is its impressive lineup of cocktails. The bartenders are passionate professionals who take pride in their craft, so you and your friends can enjoy expertly made drinks that are often custom-created based on your group’s preferences. This focus on mixology makes the venue a haven for cocktail lovers looking to explore new flavors and combinations. Aside from beverages, The Side Bar has a cozy indoor setup that includes sofa-style seating where groups can lounge comfortably while engaging in lively conversation. For those who enjoy a bit of fresh air, there’s also a small outdoor patio area that allows guests to step outside between drinks, which is especially pleasant in good weather. A notable feature for food lovers is the proximity of a specialty deli next door, where guests can purchase cheese and meat plates to bring into the bar, making it easy to pair delicious charcuterie with your cocktails. The combination of fine drinks, relaxing seating, outdoor space, and options for light snacks makes The Side Bar ideal for a well-rounded social experience with your crew.
Why is The Side Bar perfect for a group meetup?
When it comes to hosting a meetup with friends or family, The Side Bar ticks many important boxes. Its intimate size helps create an exclusive and cozy environment, which is ideal for smaller groups looking for quality time without interruptions or overcrowding. This setting encourages deeper conversations and stronger connections. The staff’s attentive and skilled bartenders elevate the experience by offering personalized drink selections that cater to each guest’s preferences, ensuring that everyone in the group feels catered to. The inviting ambiance is enhanced by comfortable seating areas, encouraging guests to linger and relax instead of rushing through the visit. Additionally, the presence of an adjacent deli to bring in food provides a convenient way to enjoy snacks without needing to relocate or interrupt the flow of the gathering. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating options also allows groups to adjust their setting based on mood or weather, making The Side Bar a versatile and thoughtful choice for any group wanting to rally in style.
How do the drinks and the bar’s vibe contribute to a memorable meetup?
The drink selection at The Side Bar is a standout feature that significantly contributes to its appeal for group meetups. Bartenders here aren’t just mixing standard cocktails; they take time to craft inventive and personalized drinks that elevate the experience beyond your typical night out. This dedication to cocktail artistry makes each visit unique and gives groups something special to talk about and enjoy together. The bar’s cozy, almost hidden location adds to the overall vibe — it feels like a well-kept secret made just for locals and friends in the know. This exclusivity adds an element of excitement and discovery to your gathering. The intimate size and warm lighting create a relaxing atmosphere where friends can feel at home, free to laugh, share stories, and make memories. Together, these elements create an experience that’s not just about drinks but about the ambiance and connection, making meetups feel meaningful and enjoyable.
What should groups know about the size and atmosphere of The Side Bar?
Groups should know that The Side Bar is a relatively small venue, seating around 16 people comfortably inside. While this compact space enhances its charm and intimacy, it does mean that large groups may find it a bit crowded. The small size is actually what makes The Side Bar so distinctive — it’s less of a sprawling bar and more of a cozy hideaway that invites close conversation and a relaxed pace. The intimate atmosphere means it’s especially perfect for groups who want to connect without competing with loud music or large crowds. For groups planning to visit, this means choosing an optimal time to avoid peak hours can make the evening even more enjoyable. The Side Bar’s ambiance is classy yet unpretentious, with an aesthetic that mixes modern cocktail culture with a speakeasy feel. This makes it an inviting spot whether you’re after a casual drink or a special celebration. The small space and refined vibe create a friendly yet sophisticated environment tailored for quality social interactions.
How does food complement the experience at The Side Bar?
Although The Side Bar is primarily known for its drinks, food complements the experience thanks to its partnership with the specialty deli located next door. Guests can order cheese and meat plates from this deli and bring them into the bar to enjoy alongside their cocktails. This flexibility allows groups to craft their own perfect pairing without the bar needing to offer a full menu, which maintains its focus on beverages while still catering to the appetite of its patrons. Sharing charcuterie and small bites while savoring craft cocktails adds a sophisticated touch to any meetup. It also encourages a more leisurely pace, where guests can nibble and chat comfortably instead of rushing through the visit. This combination of high-quality drinks with curated food options nearby makes The Side Bar an excellent choice for groups who appreciate gourmet pairings that enhance their social time.
What is the overall community and staff culture at The Side Bar?
The community and staff culture at The Side Bar is another key reason it’s a great meetup spot. Reports and reviews highlight that the bartenders are not only skilled but also friendly and attentive, bringing a personal touch to each interaction. They engage with guests to create custom drinks tailored to individual tastes, adding a level of service that makes patrons feel valued and welcomed. The staff’s pride in their craft and passion for creating enjoyable experiences helps foster a positive and inviting atmosphere. While some outside reports mention challenges in management at other Sidebar locations, the specific Side Bar with this reputation is praised for its creativity and quality service. This welcoming and professional staff environment promotes a community feel where guests, especially regulars, feel at home. Such a culture makes group meetups warmer and more enjoyable because everyone feels taken care of and comfortable.
Why choose The Side Bar over larger bars or clubs?
Choosing The Side Bar over larger establishments is a decision rooted in quality, intimacy, and personalized service. Unlike noisy, crowded clubs or sprawling bars where it’s difficult to hear each other or get specialized attention, The Side Bar provides a setting that’s conducive to relaxed conversation and connection. Its smaller size means fewer distractions and more space to engage meaningfully with your group. The expertly crafted cocktails here surpass standard drink menus found in many large venues, offering a more elevated drinking experience. Groups looking for a place to really connect, enjoy unique drinks, and lounge in comfort without battling crowds or loud music will find that The Side Bar fits that niche perfectly. Its blend of exclusivity, craft cocktail artistry, and cozy atmosphere makes it a refined alternative that transforms a simple meetup into a memorable evening.
What are some tips for planning your meetup at The Side Bar?
When planning a meetup at The Side Bar, keep its smaller size and exclusive feel in mind. Since seating is limited, especially at the bar which accommodates about 16 people, it’s a good idea to call ahead or arrive early to secure space for your group. Planning for a smaller group — around 6 to 10 people — may be most comfortable for the space. If your group is larger, consider splitting into smaller waves or reserving spots in advance if possible. Take advantage of the adjacent specialty deli by either pre-ordering food or suggesting your guests bring in snacks to complement the drinks. Also, try visiting on weekdays or off-peak hours to avoid crowds and ensure a more relaxed vibe. Finally, be open to exploring the bartenders’ cocktail suggestions; their creativity is part of the fun and will enhance your group’s experience. With these tips, your gathering at The Side Bar will flow smoothly and be all the more enjoyable.
How does the outdoor space add to the meetup experience?
The Side Bar’s outdoor patio space provides a refreshing alternative to the indoor seating, especially during pleasant weather. This small outdoor area allows groups to step outside for a breath of fresh air, take in the surroundings, and enjoy an al fresco feel without leaving the bar’s cozy environment. It adds versatility for meetups because guests can easily alternate between indoor comfort and outdoor openness, depending on mood or temperature. This outdoor option also helps the space feel less confined, particularly important given the bar’s overall intimate size. Whether you want to linger outside between drinks or just stretch your legs, the patio contributes positively to the overall social atmosphere. Its presence supports a balanced and dynamic meetup where guests can customize their experience from relaxed indoor lounging to refreshing outdoor moments.
What makes The Side Bar a hidden gem worth discovering?
The Side Bar is often described as a hidden gem due to its unassuming entrance and small, almost secretive setting. This discreet nature means it’s not a place you stumble upon by accident — it requires a bit of intention to find, which adds a layer of allure and excitement. For locals and visitors alike, discovering The Side Bar feels like uncovering a special secret, something only the in-crowd knows about. This exclusivity is complemented by the high quality of drinks and attentive service, which are not always expected in such a tucked-away venue. The mix of craft cocktail excellence, cozy ambiance, and friendly bartenders gives The Side Bar a reputation as a must-visit for those who appreciate a refined yet relaxed drinking experience. Its status as a hidden gem makes meetups here feel more exclusive and memorable, perfect for impressing friends with your insider knowledge.