5 Live Music Venues in Austin That Also Have Great Food
It’s no secret that when it comes to what we’re thankful for this Thanksgiving, it’s definitely Austin’s live music scene. What could possibly be better than seeing a show in the Live Music Capitol of the World? Well, perhaps seeing a show while eating delicious food could be better. Austin has seemingly limitless options of places to catch live music, but if music paired with great food is what you seek, see our choices below of places where you can catch great music and enjoy either a snack or a full meal. We all know food tastes better when you eat it while watching live music!
Stubb’s BBQ
This BBQ joint blew up in the 70s and was a major player in the live music scene of Austin, offering a stage to the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughn, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and many others. Musicians stopped by and “played for their supper,” oftentimes leaving with a plate of Christopher B. Stubblefield’s (a.k.a. Stubb’s) delicious barbecue in hand. Besides having a killer outdoor amphitheater, Stubb’s also has an intimate indoor stage where live music is featured nightly. Each Sunday Stubb’s hosts Gospel Brunch, a buffet with live gospel music, where you can indulge in grits, fried catfish and BBQ brisket.
Threadgill’s
Threadgills started out as a filling station and beer joint, showcasing hundreds of legendary Texas musicians over the years such as Janis Joplin, Willie Nelson and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Today, Threadgill’s is a one-stop shop for southern comfort food, great live music and a nostalgic atmosphere. Enjoy yourself something southern fried, chicken fried, or maybe just go straight for the delicious pie options. Whatever you choose, just remember that Threadgill’s has a Sunday Brunch weekly featuring different musicians each week.
Shady Grove
For some time now, local radio station 93.3 KGSR has teamed up with Shady Grove and their awesome, festive outdoor patio, to host Unplugged at The Grove. Running every Thursday night from April through September, Unplugged at The Grove features a packed bill of local artists. Grab a seat outside and look over the menu that is stuffed with regional delicacies such as tamale cakes, tortilla fried catfish and chili cheese fries! Mmm!
Guero’s Taco Bar
Guero’s Taco Bar boasts just about the best location in Austin: right smack-dab in the thick of bustling South Congress Avenue. With a front patio perfect for people watching, as well as two large dining rooms and the lively Oak Garden right next door, you can do a lot more than just eat tasty Tex-Mex here. Enjoy a heaping plate of enchiladas or tacos, and don’t forget to check out the salsa bar! When you’re ready for some live music, hop next door to the Oak Garden to see who is playing. Don’t worry, you can bring your drink with you! Look for live music at the Oak Garden during summer months and on weekends.
Lambert’s BBQ
Right downtown, you can easily walk to Lambert’s and wander into their upstairs bar, where musicians perform nightly. If you’re looking to dine in, stay downstairs and breathe in the essence of Lambert’s glorious slowed smoked BBQ. Serving up Texas faire alongside local beer, great cocktails and a swanky vibe, Lambert’s is your downtown stop for great BBQ and live music.
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Interested in Austin’s thriving live music scene? Join us for our Austin Live Music Crawl every Friday and Saturday. You’ll tour around the city, hitting up Austin’s classiest live music venues and seeing shows handpicked by our very own local musicians.
