On historical E. 6th Street, nestled amongst the bouncers bribing passersby with dollar shots is a hidden gem, dripping in Elvis memorabilia. I am talking, of course, about Beale Street Tavern. We held a happy hour for the
E-Learning Council in the upstairs area of the bar and it could not have gone better. The semi-private upstairs space was perfect for upwards of 25 people to comfortably mingle at the high top tables and lounge on the large leather banquettes. The Elvis décor is charming, and not at all overwhelming. We received impeccable service; the catering staff accommodated our every need and our servers were friendly and fast with a refill. While we did not have a chance to sample the Elvis-themed fare (fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, anyone?), the catering menu offers a delightful spread of bite-sized appetizers. I will happily admit to going back for seconds (ok, thirds) of the fried goat cheese fritter with raspberry chipotle sauce. As it was happy hour and the main bar downstairs was quiet, the level of the music and ambient noise was just right for our networking event. Overall, the experience was laidback and fun for our guests.
Then, a couple of weeks ago, after some Sunday morning shopping on Second Street went a little late, my husband and I found ourselves downtown with ten minutes until kickoff for the Texans’ game and nowhere to watch. I immediately thought of Beale Street Tavern, so we popped in to see if we could catch the game. Indeed, the Texans were on the TVs both up and downstairs, and it was blessedly quiet as opposed to the raucous Cowboys viewing party that was going on next door at Bikini’s. I was happy to belly up to the bar and settle in for the long haul.
Again I was impressed with the bartenders’ attitude and service, but this time I had the pleasure of sampling some of Beale Street’s cocktails. Those girls are mixing up some excellent, fresh margaritas and my husband was delighted with his carefully blended Old Fashioned. It was a delightful change of pace from the usual sports bars; with the old hardwood floors, stately bar, and huge, high ceilings I felt more like I was in a stately old bar in the French Quarter rather than on Sixth Street at a time most people reserve for more wholesome activities.
With some good cocktails in hand, it was easy to relax, chat with the staff and fellow football fans, and enjoy the game. Before we knew it, the referees were signaling the two minute warning in the fourth quarter and I hadn’t even thought to order the fried peanut butter and banana sandwich. We look forward to our next visit to Beale Street Tavern: I won’t let another chance to try The King’s favorite meal pass me by.
Beale Street Tavern,
214 East 6th Street Austin, TX 78701
(512) 494-6078