A Local's Guide to Austin's Red River District
Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant music and bar scene, and the Red River District is at the heart of it all. Nestled between downtown and the University of Texas campus, this neighborhood boasts some of the city's best live music venues, craft beer bars, and food trucks. As a local, I've spent countless nights exploring this area and have come up with a guide for anyone looking to experience the best of what the Red River District has to offer.
Dining in Austin's Red River District
Austin is known for its great food scene, and the Red River District is no exception. This trendy area is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, each offering their own unique culinary experience. From the Asian-fusion cuisine of Koriente to the vegan burgers of Arlo's, there's something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood.
Koriente
Koriente is definitely a local favorite in the Red River District. This Korean-influenced eatery is known for its healthy and flavorful dishes. Some of the most popular items on the menu include the bibimbap, which is a rice bowl topped with veggies, protein, and a fried egg, and the spicy pork bulgogi, which is thinly sliced pork in a savory sauce. Koriente also offers many vegan and gluten-free options. If you're looking for a healthy and satisfying meal in a relaxed atmosphere, Koriente is the place to go.
Koriente
621 E 7th St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-275-0852
Arlo's
If you're a vegan, you don't have to miss out on all the delicious food the Red River District has to offer. Arlo's is a food truck that specializes in vegan burgers, tacos, and fries. The burgers are made with a soy protein patty, but you couldn't even tell it's not beef. The chipotle mayo and avocado add a creamy texture to the burger, while the pickled onions give it a tangy kick. If you're not in the mood for a burger, try the jackfruit tacos. They're marinated in a spicy sauce that makes them taste just like carnitas.
Arlo's
900 Red River St
Austin, TX 78702
United States
Phone: +1 512-840-1600
Hoboken Pie
If you're a pizza lover, you won't be disappointed if you visit Hoboken Pie. The New York-style pizza is famous for its giant slices and crispy crust. There's no shortage of toppings, but the classic margherita is a must-try. It's made with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil. If you're feeling adventurous, try the Smokey Blue. This pizza is topped with bacon, blue cheese, and smoked tomatoes. Hoboken Pie also offers vegan and gluten-free options.
Hoboken Pie
718 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-477-4256
Pelons Tex-Mex Restaurant
You can't come to Austin without trying some Tex-Mex, and Pelons is a great place to start. The upscale interior design and the spacious patio make it perfect for a night out with friends. The menu isn't your typical Tex-Mex fare, though. Pelons puts a modern twist on traditional dishes, such as the shrimp and bacon fajitas or the fried avocado tacos. The ceviche is also a must-try, as it's made with fresh and tangy ingredients. Whether you're a Tex-Mex enthusiast or a first-timer, Pelons is the perfect place to indulge in this iconic cuisine.
Pelons Tex-Mex Restaurant
802 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-243-7874
The Red River District is a food lover's paradise. From international cuisine to vegan options, there's something for everyone in this neighborhood. Koriente, Arlo's, Hoboken Pie, and Pelons Tex-Mex are just a few of the must-try restaurants in the area. Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor, take some time to explore the culinary scene in the Red River District. Your taste buds won't regret it.
Live Music
Austin, Texas is known for its thriving music scene, and no place is that more evident than the Red River District. Situated in the heart of downtown Austin, this area is packed with some of the best live music venues in the city. Whether you're a music lover visiting Austin for the first time or a longtime local, there's always something new and exciting happening in the Red River District.
Free Week
If you're looking to experience the best live music Austin has to offer, you absolutely have to check out Free Week. Every January, local venues across the city host free shows featuring some of the best up-and-coming bands in the area. In the Red River District, Mohawk and Stubb's Bar-B-Q are two of the best venues to catch Free Week shows. Be prepared for crowds, as this event is extremely popular among locals and visitors alike.
Stubb's Bar-B-Q
This legendary barbecue restaurant and music venue has been a staple in Austin for nearly 40 years. In addition to serving up some of the best brisket in the city, Stubb's is also home to some incredible live music. From national acts to local favorites, Stubb's has something for everyone. Be sure to check out their outdoor amphitheater, which has played host to some of the biggest names in music.
Stubb's Bar-B-Q
801 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 737-465-1218
Mohawk
With indoor and outdoor stages, Mohawk is one of the most versatile music venues in the Red River District. The venue has a reputation for hosting some of the best indie and alternative bands in the city, and the booking team here always seems to have a knack for finding the best up-and-coming artists. The outdoor stage is particularly great in the warmer months, as the spacious patio area provides plenty of room for dancing and hanging out with friends.
Mohawk
912 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-666-0877
Swan Dive
While Swan Dive may be one of the smaller venues in the Red River District, it's no less important in Austin's music scene. This intimate, divey spot is perfect for catching local bands and up-and-comers before they hit it big. The cozy atmosphere and friendly bartenders make Swan Dive feel like your own personal secret club.
Swan Dive
615 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-614-4235.
Barbarella
If you're in the mood for a night of dancing and live music, Barbarella is the place to be. This eclectic dance hall is one of the most unique venues in the Red River District, with a different theme night happening almost every night of the week. From '80s dance parties to Sunday afternoon karaoke, Barbarella is always a good time. They also often host live music acts ranging from indie rock to hip-hop.
Barbarella
611 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-476-7766
From legends like Stubb's Bar-B-Q to hidden gems like Swan Dive, the Red River District is home to some of the best live music venues in Austin. Whether you're looking to catch an up-and-coming band or dance the night away, this vibrant area has it all.
Nightlife
Located in the heart of downtown Austin, this district is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the local music scene, dive into some delicious dive bars, or dance the night away at some of the city's most popular music venues.
Empire Control Room & Garage
Located at 606 E 7th St, Empire Control Room & Garage promises a unique experience for any night owl in Austin. This venue offers multiple spaces including the garage, the control room, and the Control Room Patio, making it one of the largest music venues in the city. With a long list of diverse acts ranging from live music performances to DJ sets, Empire Control Room & Garage is a great option for any night out. Whether you're looking to dance, have a drink, or meet locals, you're sure to have a great time here. If you're visiting Austin, check out their calendar of events to see who's performing during your stay.
Empire Control Room & Garage
606 E 7th St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Cheer Up Charlies
Cheer Up Charlies, located at 900 Red River St, is a local favorite and an amazing spot in the Red River District. This brightly colored dive bar and music venue offers live music performances, a spacious outdoor area, and an extensive menu of vegan food options. If you're looking for more chill vibes, this is the place for you. Cheer Up Charlies has garnered a reputation for being LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming spaces for all. With a frequently updated calendar of events, it's worth keeping an eye on this spot for your next night out.
Cheer Up Charlies
900 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-431-2133
Austin's Red River District is home to some of the best nightlife scenes in the city. Whether you're looking for a chill spot to enjoy some live music while sipping on a drink or want to dance the night away to some of your favorite bands, this district has something for everyone.
Art and Culture
While the Red River District is primarily known for its music and nightlife scene, it's also a hub for art and culture. The Contemporary Austin-Jones Center features rotating exhibits of contemporary art from around the world. The Hope Outdoor Gallery is another unique destination, as it's a graffiti park where artists can showcase their work.
Shopping
Finally, the Red River District is home to an array of local shops and boutiques. If you're looking for unique clothing, jewelry, or home goods, you're sure to find something that catches your eye. Some of my favorites include Service Menswear, which specializes in high-end menswear, and Blue Elephant, which sells vintage clothing and quirky gifts.
Conclusion
The Red River District is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Austin's music, bar, and food scene. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local, there's always something new to discover in this vibrant neighborhood. Follow this guide and you'll be sure to have an unforgettable night out on the town.
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