Food & Drink • Holiday • Things to Do • Drinks

Make Your Spirits Bright

Downtown’s shaking up some festive cocktails this holiday season

The holiday season is in full swing! Downtown’s trees now sparkle with bright, colorful lights, sunny floral bouquets have been swapped out with poinsettias and your favorite bartenders are putting a festive spin on classic cocktails. With the weather outside [occasionally] frightful, there’s snow place like the warmth of a bar or restaurant with a creative concoction in hand! Whether you’re looking to embrace the Christmas cheer during your next holiday happy hour or just trading your margarita for something a little more merry, we’ve rounded up a few fun options available around Downtown.

Jingled-Up | 📍 711 Main
From shots to shareables, this holiday-themed pop-up has no shortage of cheerful cocktails ready for consumption. We recommend kicking off your stop with one of "Santa Baby’s” shots, then ending with the Entangled shareable [cocoa Fireball, Baileys, hot chocolate, marshmallows, whipped cream, green + red sprinkles and red edible glitter].
 

Potente | 📍 1515 Texas
Come for the incredible pasta, stay for the Melograno Mule! Pop over to this Ballpark District eatery for a tasty cocktail that’s sure to bring you tidings of joy. Made with Simple Vodka, this mule helps support the spirit brand’s mission to give back to hunger relief programs in the U.S.
 

The Grove | 📍 1611 Lamar
Treat yourself to a holly jolly hot chocolate at this treehouse-style restaurant. The Grove is making spirits bright for those who venture to this Avenida District spot with not one, but three variations of their classic hot chocolate. With Basil Hayden Bourbon, Frangelico and Kahlua, these seasonal sips will warm you right up!

MKT Bar | 📍 1001 Austin
One of Downtown’s fave local hangouts is bringing a little winter wonder to your life through their menu. Head over for a light bite and a glass of Holiday Sangria, or end your evening with Mom’s Winter Nightcap, a warm boozy tea latte.
 

Hou-Ville | 📍 520 Texas
In addition to daily hot chocolate and coffee bars, this Whoville inspired experience offers a bar Friday through Sunday. When you’re done sleighin’ with Santa, grab a drink and cheers with the Grinch!
 

Marriott Marquis | 📍 1777 Walker
Chill by the poolside fireside with a drink that’ll put you in a magical mood. The Marquis’ inaugural Texas Winter Lights — a light-filled holiday experience taking over the iconic pool deck — invites you to lounge under the stars with an iced nog or hot spiced wine in hand. 
 

Secret Garden Bar | 📍 409 Travis
Known for their Insta-worthy backdrop and drinks, this tucked away hotspot will have you thinking you stumbled into Santa’s backyard bar. From the fresh floral decor to the cocktails that are just as beautiful as they are delicious, this place oozes with Christmas spirit!
 

Happy Holidays!

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