Five new bars open across Austin this spring, from the Driskill to North Burnet

February 24, 2026

Austin's bar scene grew this spring with five new spots opening in varied neighborhoods, offering everything from classic cocktails to agave-focused menus. Operators leaned into strong design cues and focused drink lists meant to match each room's personality.

The Victorian sits inside the Driskill Hotel and blends Old West saloon elements with an English pub feel. MML Hospitality outfitted the space with mahogany counters, deep leather seating, trunks and whimsical taxidermy, while a mezzanine with pool tables looks down on a brass-accented main floor. The cocktail program emphasizes traditional pours, with a Manhattan singled out as a fitting choice, and the venue promotes the mezzanine as a top vantage point for live music. Address: 604 Brazos St., thevictorianbar.com.

Boni's Bar Next Door occupies a restored 1934 bungalow in Bouldin Creek, launched by the team behind Lenoir. The interior uses family heirlooms and reclaimed materials, and a vintage piano gives the room a personal feel. The drinks list ranges from a classic gin and tonic to a sherry- and mezcal-based margarita, a Papa Doble, and a seasonal Carajillo; small plates like stewed pork meatballs and softshell crawfish chips pair well before dinner at Lenoir. Location: 1805 S. First St., @bonisbaratx.

La Mezca opened near the Mueller gazebo, tucked behind black curtains and designed as a candlelit mezcalería inspired by Mexico City nightlife. Palo santo scent fills the room, and a prominent Día de los Muertos altar anchors the space. The menu highlights small-batch agave and ritualized service, with cocktails such as La Frida, which balances coconut and lime with mole bitters; the spot also recommends its street tacos. Address: 1905 Aldrich St., Ste. 125, lamezcaatx.com.

Parley, from the founders of Bar Hacienda and Bar Fino, brings a neighborhood energy to East Cesar Chavez with steel-gray leather seating and red lighting. The bar leans on the Irish idea of good conversation and company, offering pool tables, televised sports, and snacks from the adjacent Oseyo. Creative cocktails include a savory Fish and Chips Martini featuring nori and olive oil, and the Golden Brown with milk whiskey and spent coffee; shareable plates like krab rangoons are encouraged. Location: 1628 E. Cesar Chavez St., parleyatx.com.

Foxtail on North Burnet provides a polished cocktail room with midcentury touches, smoked mirrors and velvet banquettes, accompanied by curated vinyl. Martinis are central to the menu, including liquid nitrogen-chilled pours and options such as the caffeinated Ristretto Martini and the whiskey-forward Kitsune. Guests are advised to arrive early to secure a cozy corner before the evening crowd. Address: 7001 Burnet Road, Ste. 1102, foxtailaustin.com.