When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails

Why Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails stands out as an exceptional venue in Austin, Texas, perfect for gathering with friends and family. This establishment combines American cuisine with a stylish wine bar and a welcoming dining bar environment. Located at 13205 Burnet Rd, it features a well-designed, modern interior that offers both comfort and aesthetic appeal. A key highlight is its versatile meeting spaces that provide privacy and accommodate larger groups, making it ideal for socializing or special occasions. The lounge boasts an inviting atmosphere with ample seating options, including cozy indoor areas and refreshing outdoor seating. Its reputation is bolstered by its craft cocktails, which are thoughtfully prepared, presenting guests with a curated and enjoyable drinking experience. Furthermore, being a veteran-owned business adds a layer of community pride and distinctive character. Overall, the venue's combination of great food, creative drinks, spacious and elegant meeting areas, and a relaxing ambiance makes Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails a favored locale to meet, mingle, and enjoy memorable meals with friends in Austin.
Here's what people think of Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails
As of recent, Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails holds a 4.8-star rating based on 25 reviews.
User reviews across platforms consistently praise Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails for its exceptional ambiance, quality food, and standout craft cocktails. Many reviewers highlight the modern and appealing design of the lounge, emphasizing its suitability for groups thanks to private meeting spaces that enhance the social experience. Positive feedback often focuses on the attentive service, diverse drink menu, and flavorful American dishes, all contributing to an enjoyable, upscale casual dining experience. Customers also appreciate the outdoor seating options and the relaxed yet stylish atmosphere which fosters great conversations and gatherings. On the other hand, some less enthusiastic reviews, though rare, mention occasional wait times and the desire for a broader food menu. A few patrons note that parking might sometimes be challenging due to popularity. However, these negative remarks are minor compared to the overwhelmingly positive consensus. In conclusion, the reviews reflect Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails as a highly rated destination, recognized for quality, design, and a hospitable environment that attracts repeat visitors and groups looking for both culinary delight and social comfort.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chris Schafer
Great food and great service. The cocktails were fantastic and the bar tender was awesome! The burger and the old fashioned were top notch! I will be back.
Agnes Sullivan
Here’s a review you could use: We had a wonderful dinner at Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen and Cocktails tonight! We started with the feta dip served with sourdough bread—creamy and full of flavor, a perfect start to the meal. For our main courses, I enjoyed the creamy linguini with shrimp, which was deliciously rich and perfectly cooked, while my husband had the patty melt, which he loved. The bar menu was impressive, offering a great variety of options. Our servers, Tori and Ashley, were friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. The ambiance was quiet and dimly lit, ideal for a relaxed evening. We’ll definitely be back!
Stephanie Cheung
Explanation re the stars. 5: What I would expect at a Michelin star restaurant 4: Really good. Above average. Exceeds expectations. 3: Average. What I would expect This is my long awaited neighborhood bar. I hesitated trying this space as it is situated in a hotel. The food and beverages served at most hotel restaurants generally fall in the mediocre category. Okay in product, generally not worth the price. I am delighted that I can walk here from my home in about 15 minutes. Staff: Tory is a love. She makes a great cocktail. She knows how to read a room. She knows when people want to engage in conversation and when not to. Cali is super knowledgeable. Know's her palate. Understands flavors. She's the one you go to if you want to try something new and want a friend to introduce you to it. Drinks: Mexican Martini: One of the better ones in this city. Balanced flavors. Very easy to consume. Brown butter Old Fashioned: the fattiness of the brown butter tempers the harshness of the Still. Again, flavors are incredibly well balance. I will say that both beverages were a skosh sweet for me, personally. For baseline reference, I prefer my coffee black and whisky and bourbon on the rocks if not neat. Italian Job: Hello friend. **Caveat: True to having excellent mixologists; at this point, they have engaged with me to know I prefer my beverages on the less sweet side.** I had an amazing cocktail that featured the bourbon while playing with flavors. The herbaceousness of rosemary complemented the lemon bitters and the combination of those two allowed the sweetness of the bourbon to shine. Food: Dynamite Spring: Perfectly fried. Crispy. Flavorful. A lovely warmth. For some people, this might read a little spicy. Recommend. Cheese flatbread; added onions, red peppers, basil: This is completely accurate. Please do not get this and get mad that it doesn't have enough "red sauce" as this is NOT pizza. This is a wonderful flatbread. Queso: Quietly elegant. Flavorful. This is not overfussy. The poblano flavor actually come through. Ambiance: Sunday afternoon. Cool. Calm Chill. The perfect place to get work done and have great food and yummy bev.
Art Irwin
Loved our first lunch at Uptown! The menu is nicely varied with good options for those looking for a light lunch as well as those wanting a delectable full meal. Will definitely be back! Share the mini tuna tacos with a couple friends or have them with a salad for a light lunch. Don’t pass up the lamb meatballs! The sauce is so good you’ll dip the toasted bread in it after the meatballs have been devoured. I also greatly enjoyed the turkey club sandwich and fries, taking half home for dinner. Pro tip: After 4 mins in the air fryer, the sandwich was every bit as good as it was earlier at the restaurant.
Krystal Elliott
Uptown is a really nice vibe! The food is always amazing, breakfast and lunch! The drinks were amazing, I had the honor of having Ashley she is wonderful and her customer service is exceptional!
How to reach Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails
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Why Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails with your friends? Because it offers a perfect blend of atmosphere, culinary excellence, and drink craftsmanship that makes social gatherings truly memorable. With an outstanding 4.8-star rating from 25 reviews, this North Austin hotspot stands out as a go-to destination for groups looking to enjoy quality time together. The venue is located conveniently at the ground level of the Cambria Hotel Austin Uptown near The Domain, combining accessibility with a stylish setting. Whether you’re catching up over a crafted cocktail or indulging in Executive Chef Zachary J. Rios' American Haute cuisine, this lounge creates an inviting environment that encourages lively conversations and shared experiences. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Uptown Lounge accommodates all times of day — perfect for morning meetups, leisurely afternoons, or vibrant evenings. Their hand-picked local draughts, specialty cocktails, and an impressive wine selection of over 68 bottles from around the world ensure everyone’s palate is satisfied. This combination of excellent food, drinks, ambiance, and welcoming service makes Uptown Lounge a prime spot to rally with friends or family and create lasting memories.
What activities are available at Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails? This venue offers much more than just dining; it’s a lively social hub suited for various group activities. For food lovers, the diverse menu spans breakfast through dinner, featuring fresh, local ingredients artfully prepared in dishes ranging from pastas and flatbreads to tender meat entrees and creative “between the buns” sandwiches. Groups can enjoy sharing plates, allowing everyone a taste of multiple specialties. The full bar elevates the experience with carefully crafted cocktails, local beer on tap, and an extensive wine list curated to complement the menu. Uptown Lounge also provides a relaxed indoor environment perfect for conversational gatherings, casual celebrations, or even informal meetings. Free Wi-Fi and spacious seating arrangements make it easy to keep everyone connected and comfortable. Additionally, the establishment welcomes walk-ins and reservations, accommodating spontaneous plans or well-organized outings alike. Friendly staff and attentive service enhance the experience by ensuring that group needs are met promptly and efficiently.
Why is Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails the perfect venue for group meetups? One of the key factors is its layout and atmosphere designed to suit groups of all sizes. The space strikes a balance between casual comfort and refined style, allowing friends or family to feel at home yet enjoy a polished setting. Whether you’re planning a brunch get-together or a sunset dinner, the flexible hours from early morning until late evening provide ample opportunities to gather when it’s most convenient. The restaurant's location within the Cambria Hotel also offers easy parking and accessibility, making arrival and departure hassle-free for everyone. The menu’s inclusivity, including vegan options and a variety of dietary choices, ensures no one feels left out. Plus, their well-curated cocktail and wine selections cater to diverse tastes, elevating any celebrations or casual catch-ups. The positive reviews highlight exceptional food quality and attentive service, essential for group satisfaction. Overall, Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails combines convenience, quality, and ambiance, making it a standout host for any social gathering.
What makes the food and drink selection at Uptown Lounge remarkable for groups? The culinary reputation of this lounge rests on fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted by Executive Chef Zachary J. Rios, whose focus on American Haute cuisine transforms familiar dishes into elevated experiences. The menu includes hearty pastas, vibrant flatbreads, and delectable sandwiches, all prepared with finesse and suitable for sharing. This communal style of eating encourages interaction and variety during meals, perfectly fitting group dynamics. Drinks are equally impressive with a full bar offering master crafted cocktails prepared with expert care, local hand-picked draught beers, and an expansive wine list boasting more than 68 bottles from international regions. This breadth of choice invites groups to explore and savor different flavor profiles together. Such culinary excellence paired with thoughtfully selected beverages ensures each gathering is a culinary adventure. In addition, the lounge provides a happy hour menu and specialty cocktails which add even more appeal and value to group meetups.
How does the environment at Uptown Lounge enhance social experiences? The lounge is designed with a casual yet tailored ambiance that is both welcoming and stylish. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a well-organized floor plan foster an intimate but lively atmosphere where conversation flows freely. The balance between contemporary design and relaxed comfort means large groups can enjoy private moments without losing the buzz of friendliness around them. This environment suits a variety of occasions—from weekend brunches and casual lunches to after-work drinks and dinner celebrations. Wireless internet access and accommodating staff help keep the experience smooth and connected for groups who may want to share moments on social media or coordinate plans easily. The lounge’s location within a hotel adds to a feeling of exclusivity and reliability, assuring guests of quality service and facilities. Overall, the ambiance supports relaxed engagement, creating an ideal backdrop where friends and family can connect meaningfully.
What practical amenities and services support hosting a group at Uptown Lounge? Uptown Lounge understands the needs of gatherings and provides services that make organizing a meetup straightforward. Reservations are accepted, offering peace of mind for groups who want to ensure seating without wait times. The option for walk-ins remains for those spontaneous meetups or when plans change unexpectedly. Parking availability simplifies access, a valuable perk in busy North Austin area. The venue’s operating hours are generous, open every day from early morning until 9 PM, giving groups freedom to schedule meetups for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even late-afternoon cocktails. Staff are praised for being attentive and knowledgeable, catering to special requests and helping groups navigate the menu or drink pairings. Free Wi-Fi enhances convenience, especially for casual business meetings or simply to stay connected. Collectively, these amenities ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and hassle-free social experience for guests.
Why are the reviews important and what do they say about Uptown Lounge? With a strong rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 25 reviews, Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails has earned consistent praise from its clientele. Reviews highlight the quality of both the food and drinks, often noting the culinary creativity of the chef and the craftsmanship of the cocktails. Guests appreciate the friendly and attentive service, which contributes significantly to the overall experience. Many reviewers describe the atmosphere as comfortable and inviting, ideal for catching up or celebrating special occasions. The diversity of menu options—including vegan dishes and an extensive wine list—frequently receives commendation, indicating that the lounge is thoughtful about meeting varied tastes and dietary needs. Such positive reviews build confidence among prospective visitors, reinforcing that Uptown Lounge is a dependable choice for group dining and socializing in Austin.
In sum, Uptown Lounge Craft Kitchen & Cocktails stands out as a prime venue for anyone looking to host a meetup with friends or family. Its combination of delicious, fresh cuisine, masterfully crafted drinks, inviting atmosphere, and accommodating service make it uniquely suited for memorable social occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual brunch, an evening dinner, or a celebratory cocktail hour, this lounge offers an experience that resonates well beyond the meal, turning a simple meetup into a cherished event. With welcoming hours, excellent location, and strong customer feedback, Uptown Lounge provides everything needed to rally your group in style, comfort, and great taste.