My Favorite Happy Hour Spots in Austin, Texas
Austin is well known for its abundant food scene. We are fortunate to have many restaurants to choose from any night of the week. I have rounded up my favorite happy hour spots that I tend to go back to repeatedly over the 16 years I have lived here. Nothing is better than escaping a busy day and going to a restaurant you love!
In this post, I am rounding up some of my favorite happy hour restaurants and bars in Austin so you can enjoy a ½ priced drink or two and maybe even a full plate of food for a bargain.
Austin Happy Hour Spots
Clark’s Oyster Bar – Maybe my favorite spot in Austin. I routinely make reservations on Friday afternoons here well in advance. My regular order would be oysters (some of the best in town) with a mound of rosemary-infused string fries and an ice-cold wedge salad topped with crab. I love the open kitchen & marble-topped bar. Clark’s is upscale indoor & outdoor dining at its best.
Happy Hour (Mon-Fri from 3-5p. Half-off Burgers & Martinis. 50¢ off Oysters $5 Oyster Shooters).
Howard’s – Howards is right across the street from Clark’s and a perfect spot to continue the night after Clark’s. Highly recommend the ice-cold martinis and classic cocktails. There is a bit of a fun night scene here, although I tend to like it earlier in the day when it’s not so crowded.
Happy Hour (Mon-Fri from 3-5p. Half-off Drafts & Dogs).
Nido – This restaurant is a new kid on the block. The view of the Austin skyline is breathtaking! Nido is at The Loren Hotel and is a true rooftop oasis. That said, if you visit during the summer heat, you will want to sit inside the ac. If the weather is mild, make a reservation well ahead for an outdoor table with a view.
Taco Flats – If my husband and I want no-fuss delicious food with margaritas that are so good, we head to Taco Casual sports bar with a neighborhood vibe. My favorite would be the fish tostadas and ceviche!
Happy Hour, Monday – Friday, 2 pm-6 pm, for some great deals like $1 off tacos, $1 off beers, $2 off wine on tap, and $2 off signature cocktails, or indulge in the $5 queso and guacamole.
Hank’s – Hank’s has a very Instagramable vibe. The large outdoor patio dining is beautiful and dog friendly. Ready for larger parties or easy to cozy up to the bar. Elevated casual dining.
EVERYDAY HAPPY HOUR · 3–6:30 pm · $1 Off Beer · $7 Frozen Cocktails & Tap Cocktails · $7 Tap Wine · $3 Off Appetizers.
The Wayback Cafe – The Wayback Cafe is about 15-20 minutes from downtown Austin. This boutique hotel also has the cutest little restaurant and bar area on the grounds. They serve classic farm-to-table meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s quiet on the grounds with beautiful surroundings and yummy food and cocktails.
Suerte – Suerte is new to my list. I was so impressed with the cocktails and food that I could not wait to return. On the east side, they are an award-winning modern Mexican restaurant you won’t be disappointed with.
// // Food and drink specials: $7 Bites, $8 Cocktails, $3 Pint, 25% off Bottles of Wine
Perla’s Oyster Bar – A oldie but goodie located right on Congress Ave, this is both a must-go for tourists and locals. I love spending time under the striped umbrellas on the patio with the shade of the massive oak tree keeping the hot sun out. Pearla’s has an elevated laid-back vibe with an open kitchen.
La Piscina – Located on the 5th floor of the Austin Proper Hotel, La Piscina is a poolside restaurant and bar serving Texas-inspired Mexican cuisine. The view from the pool bar outside is beautiful!
Happy Hour specials include $2 off all alcoholic drinks and 25% off specific menu items (varies daily). When: Monday–Friday // Time: 4–6 pm.
North Italian Grill – Visit North Italia in downtown Austin or at the Domain for handmade Italian cuisine. I love the multiple-ingredient fresh salads and cocktails. We cannot visit here without having the meatballs!
Mon-Thur 3 pm-6 pm. Half-off bottles of wine (excludes reserve wine) in the bar. Full Happy Hour Food Menu.
