NYC Roots, Austin Soul: Cedar Tavern Reopens with a New Menu and Timeless Style
The elevated tavern fare nods to New York’s culinary tradition
Austin is full of choices—especially when it comes to bars—but discovering that one spot with the perfect mix of vibe, comfort and character is a rare find. Cedar Tavern delivers just that, offering a cozy yet energetic atmosphere that feels right for any occasion.
Historic bar adds to the beautifully-designed space
Once part of Eberly, the legendary Cedar Tavern now stands on its own two feet, debuting as a laid-back bar with NYC flair. At its heart is the South American mahogany bar, built in 1866 and featuring beautiful brass and stained Tiffany glass. High ceilings, tall windows and an adjoining glass study invite natural light and nature’s beauty into the space. Mid-century furniture and an oversized, communal lounge set with tables add to the ambiance. Once established in Greenwich Village more than 140 years ago, the bar been resurrected in our neck of the woods to provide a cozy spot to socialize on South Lamar Blvd.
An elevated menu for happy hour
Cedar Tavern now operates independently with its own identity and an elevated bar menu—think fish and chips, steak frites, and lobster rolls. What truly makes the bar stand out, though, is the happy hour offerings. Their daily happy hour features $7 martinis, $5 snacks, and a $10 burger, which is a bargain coming from the same kitchen as its sister restaurant.
The inviting atmosphere, along with a casual dining experience, offer a lovely place to lounge for a couple of hours — a great spot to transition from day to night — an ideal setting after-work relaxation.
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Space can be limited, so arriving earlier in the evening is recommended, as this is an entirely walk-in establishment. But in a city where so many restaurants are reservation-based, it’s refreshing to find a spot that doesn’t require an over-a-month-long wait. As for the happy hour, be sure to stop by anytime before 7 p.m.
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