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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown Austin

Bars for performing arts

You want a drink that fits the rhythm of the show without missing a beat of the performance.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Pete's Dueling Piano Bar image 1
Pete's Dueling Piano Bar image 2
Pete's Dueling Piano Bar image 3
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Piano bar with live dueling pianists creates a lively, engaging atmosphere where everyone sings and dances. Musicians are multi-talented and interactive, taking song requests and delivering legendary performances. Venue shows some wear but maintains a fun, energetic vibe throughout the night.

Two talented pianists compete with requests, creating a high energy and interactive atmosphere. Bartenders keep drinks flowing, making it a fun and unforgettable night out.

People are saying

"The live music and crowd sing-alongs make for a super fun night."

"The musicians at this bar are seriously talented and keep the energy high."

"The dueling piano players were so talented and took requests."

Good to know

1

There is a $15 cover charge per person.

2

Reservations are recommended for Saturday nights due to limited space.

3

Song requests cost between $1 to $100, played in order of the largest bill.

02
Elephant Room image 1
Live music bar

Small basement bar with stone walls and a cellar setting creates a classic, intimate vibe. Smooth, live jazz music fills the space with chill energy, attracting those who prefer sitting and enjoying quality performances. Unique house brine for dirty martinis stands out among the drink offerings.

A laid back bar with a basement setting offers live jazz music every night. Talented musicians create a memorable vibe in this underground jazz spot.

Musical talent stands out with nightly solid acts. The Big Brass Band performs every second Tuesday and delivers an amazing show.

People are saying

"The jazz musicianship here is amazing."

"I loved the live jazz music at this bar."

"The jazz music here is amazing and the talent is very good."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cover fee at Elephant Room.

2

A $7 cover charge applies after 8pm.

3

No food is served; drinks only, but you can bring food in.

03
Parker Jazz Club image 1

Intimate jazz club with cozy atmosphere and excellent acoustics designed for clear stage views and sound. Lighting highlights performances with perfect spotlighting and the venue features a 9-foot Steinway D piano. The space offers a relaxed vibe where music and ambiance blend seamlessly.

Gorgeous bar with real leather stools and an extensive drink list. The lounge offers an intimate jazz atmosphere paired with a great menu for drinks.

Live shows feature a performer with excellent rapport and outstanding musical skills on at least five brass instruments plus singing. The jazz musical productions create a great night out atmosphere.

People are saying

"The jazz musicians here are amazing, especially the house band."

"This jazz bar has talented musicians and great music."

"The jazz musical performances here are phenomenal and create an amazing night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the club's popularity.

2

Valet parking is available for $15.

3

Expect a two-drink minimum during shows.

04
Friends Bar image 1
Live music bar

Live music fills a spacious bar with a stage and a courtyard featuring picnic tables. The atmosphere stays friendly and positive, drawing a crowd that enjoys dancing and people watching. Cold beer and cocktails complement the blues club vibe and no cover charge policy.

Live music plays throughout the day with performances by artists like Casey Shaw and Brad Steiger. The bar offers a good drink selection, tasty food from a Mexican food truck, and a clean, lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the bands here."

"This bar has amazing live music every night."

"The live music here is awesome, with talented musicians playing rock and blues."

Good to know

1

Live music runs from 12 pm to 2 am every day.

2

Friends Bar is dog friendly inside.

3

Food is available from a food truck at the back of the bar.

05
Valhalla image 1

Metal-themed bar with live local bands and a lively rock vibe creates an energetic yet chill atmosphere. Small venue features arcade and pool games, fostering a social and welcoming environment. Decor reflects a strong personality, continuing a punk rock legacy.

Strong and cheap drinks fuel a lively metal-themed bar with an energetic atmosphere. Shows happen regularly, and a smoking area adds to the dive bar vibe.

Live music features prominently with multiple bands performing regularly. The venue includes paid games alongside the performances.

People are saying

"This bar has a great, lively vibe."

"The downstairs has a bar with live music and a great vibe."

"The Italian food's garlic toast was so good."

Good to know

1

Bring ear plugs for loud performances.

2

Valhalla has a restaurant upstairs for food orders.

3

There is plenty of seating available both upstairs and downstairs.

06
Antone's Nightclub image 1
Live music venue

Historic live music venue offers an intimate atmosphere with classic blues energy and well-balanced sound system. Crowds pack the space enthusiastically, creating a vibrant and warm environment. Decor includes art and vintage posters, enhancing the nostalgic vibe.

An intimate blues bar with a vibe that recalls old times. The bar staff are quick and friendly, and the bar is easily accessible with great service throughout.

Live music features prominently with bands and solo artists performing regularly. The venue hosts energetic shows that draw in crowds for memorable performances.

People are saying

"I found it to be a great place for live music."

"I found it to be a great little venue for live music."

"I saw amazing performers play here."

Good to know

1

There is a cover fee at the door for entry.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The bar automatically adds a 20% gratuity to all tabs.

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