Awesome in Austin

Now that I’ve had a few days to digest (literally) my trip to Austin, I have to admit, it was pretty awesome and not at all what I expected.
Came to town for a work conference and so glad that I managed to squeeze in a bit of fun in this surprisingly hip and happening city.
After enjoying a traditional Texas BBQ complete with ribs, chicken, open bar and s’mores over an open fire, a group of us hailed an Uber downtown. 

First stop, Midnight Cowboy -once East Sixth Street’s worst kept secret turned serious drinking spot except this time around, no longer a seedy operation.  Midnight Cowboy Oriental Massage was originally a massage parlor with mattresses in place of massage tables.  After a tip off to the FBI, it was busted for prostitution and the rest as they say is craft cocktail history.

The sexy speakeasy suggests a Victorian-era brothel, with antique mirrors, plush leather booths, and lush wallpapers.
A sultry vibe lingers in the private rooms in the back…a must stop next time I pay a visit sans work peeps 😉

The initial menu featured only original concoctions, but they’ve since expanded beyond prohibition style cocktails to include what they’re calling “true classics.”  Our party of 5 ordered the Scorpion Bowl to share…

and I just had to try the Smoke and Mirrors, delicious!

Sorry for the grainy shots that I managed to take before being kindly asked to turn off the flash. I’m guessing that the only part of the brothel that remains are the house rules…

Intrigued?
Want access to this modern-day speakeasy?
Reservations can be made on their website or OpenTable where I scored ours.  The entrance is discreet and easy to miss but if you see the vacancy sign lit outside, that’s a sign that walk-ins are welcomed.  Be forewarned that that’s pretty rare but once you arrive, buzz “Harry Craddock” and a hostess will escort you into the space.
We left the Midnight Cowboy 2 hrs after midnight and headed to Firehouse, a hostel that plays double duty as a live music venue and yes, another speakeasy.  We were on a mission!

TO BE CONTINUED

Alya