Every single night of the week, bands, both touring and local, play gigs in a variety of venues. Food trucks and restaurants keep people fed while tried and true watering holes house lengthy hangouts. This is a part of town where real memories are made - usually of the sweaty, Rock 'n Roll variety.
615 Red River St.
On first glance, Swan Dive might seem more like Martha Stewart's kitchen rather than a dive bar. But hang out for any amount of time and you'll quickly see that just ain't the case. Swan Dive has a great local lineup every week and plenty of plush, cozy booths to hang out in.
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606 E 7th St.
One thing is for certain: Empire Control Room always brings the rage. A former auto shop now converted into a live music venue with three stages, you can catch some larger national touring acts here or hear a DJ inside on certain nights with awesome visuals. Empire has variety in spades.
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912 Red River St.
Simply put, The Mohawk is a Red River icon. With two stages, you can catch your favorite national touring act outside and then immediately head to the inside stage to see some of Austin’s finest local artists. Tons of acts, both big and small, have graced the Mohawk stage at some point. If you like live music, you like Mohawk.
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611 Red River St.
"Lose Yourself To Dance" should be the unofficial slogan for Barbarella. With several bars inside, a great light show, and even better tunes cranking out the speakers, this is your chance to bring out all of those Patrick Swayze dance moves you’ve been practicing since you were a kid.
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525 E. 6th St.
Located in the back of the famous Esther’s Follies on the intersection of Sixth and Red River, Las Chismosas offers traditional Mexican street food. The spot is perfect before a night out or even better when you've already had a few drinks. Because who doesn’t love a massive Al Pastor burrito paired with an Agua Fresca? Las Chismosas is sure to cure the hangover or kick off your night in Austin.
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photo via instagram
519 E 7th St
No night on Red River is complete without a DittyDog. Trust us and just get your choice of dog (beef, veggie, vegan, or bratwurst) fully loaded. You've probably had a few too many drinks anyways, so make things simple and order it the way it's intended to be enjoyed... drizzled with 8 different toppings. Cream cheese, honey mayo, crunchy mix, caramelized onions, asian ketchup, chipotle mustard, sriracha, and green sauce don't necessarily sound like they will all go well together, but once you take that first bite it all makes sense. Order some of their seasoned fries to go, order your Uber ride home, and you'll go to bed with a smile on your face.
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Photo Credit: Instagram user @vegetariangastronomy
621 E. 7th St.
If you’re trying to ditch the grease or want a healthier option, Koriente is the place for you. Offering Asian-Fusion dishes without the MSG or excess salt and sugar, Koriente makes it their mission to offer healthy and affordable dishes along with several different teas. From smoked salmon rolls to Obake bowls, grab a Cinnamon Iced Tea and check out the garden surrounding the beautiful building -- all planted by the owner's mother.
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801 Red River St.
Arguably Red River’s most famous establishment, Stubb’s offers a selection of quality craft meats paired with one of the best music venues in the city. Whether you’re visiting or a local, Stubb’s is a must for a night out. Where else can you enjoy fried green tomatoes, Post Oak smoked brisket, then walk around back to see your favorite band with 1500 other people? Austin is famous for its outstanding BBQ and Stubb’s does not disappoint.
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710 Red River St
Located upstairs at beloved watering hole Valhalla lies the recently-opened Marinara Miracles. This small shop is serving up affordable Italian food featuring handmade pastas. Stop in frequently as they have a different special every week and a different lasagna every week.
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Photo Credit: Instagram user @HobokenPieatx
718 Red River St.
A slice of Jersey right here in Texas, Hoboken Pie offers an array of toppings to choose from on their quality pizzas. Cranking out large pies or by the slice, they’re sure to get you your fix after a night out. Hoboken will even deliver to you if you’re in the area or too tipsy to make it down the street.
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802 Red River St.
It wouldn’t be Austin without Mexican food on every corner and in between. Pelon’s offers a great choice of traditional Tex-Mex offerings from fajitas to mouthwatering shrimp tacos. They also offer a delightful drink menu with several different margaritas and cocktails.
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508 E 8th St.
Right next door to Pelon’s Tex-Mex is one of the most vibrant buildings in the Cultural District. If you’re brave enough, the first thing you should do is try their Ghost Pepper-infused tequila. If you’re not into liquid hellfire as a drink, 508 has a massive selection of Agave based spirits and tequilas to choose from.
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710 Red River St.
In Norse mythology, Valhalla was a magnificent hall located in heavenly Asgard, ruled over by the bearded battle-god Odin. In the real world, Valhalla is a curiously understated dive bar on Red River, run by the not-quite-so-fearsome, but likewise bearded owner Seth Levy. As one might expect when comparing myth to reality, the shared namesake is where the similarities end. Where the Norse version was said to be populated by the countless souls of warriors slain in glorious combat, Red River's Valhalla is typically inhabited by people looking to grab a few beers before or after a concert at one of the street's many music venues.
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405 E 7th St.
If you’re looking for an intimate setting to grab a drink, Las Perlas is your spot. Mezcal rules the land here, giving you an authentic taste of Mexico where you can sample spirits from all over the country. Try the Poblano Escobar or a Mexican Mule, you can also choose from several other mezcals, tequilas, and cervezas from their huge selection. You’ll be planning a trip down south by the end of the night.
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Photo Credit: Cheer Up Charlies
900 Red River St.
The one thing you’ll always find at Cheer Ups is a great time. From themed dance nights to far-out live shows on their outside stage, Cheer up Charlies is a place for everyone. Their massive limestone wall creates a unique backdrop for performances and lighting. This is the perfect hangout whether you want to check out live music or just grab a drink.
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602 E 7th St.
You ain't a Red River rat until you've gasped at the astonishing liquor-to-soda ratio in one of Side Bar's mixed drinks. This place invented the term 'heavy pour.' No, really, the term "Side Bar Pour" is a thing. The scenery and patio make this a great hang out if you’re taking it easy or killing time before a show.
