Hello December! Is there anything better than sitting in a cozy spot with your favorite people and sipping something fabulous?
I’d say that scenario is pretty hard to top, EXCEPT during the holiday season!
Everything is better with a little tinsel, red velvet and metallic glitter!
Once December rolls around, I’m ready to be MERRY all month long! It’s such a joyous time to see friends and family, eat yummy food and sip on specialty cocktails.
Years ago my husband and I created a Christmas Tree Cocktail Crawl in Austin.
The mission:: visit festive, cozy Austin lounges with a holiday vibe! {Christmas Tree Required}. It was so fun, and an annual event in our social calendar before kids. Now we do an abbreviated version, or a family friendly outing, but we still make sure to enjoy Holiday Cocktails!
In case you are wondering where to go, for the BEST Holiday Cocktails, keep reading. I’m sharing my favorite spots in Austin for Holiday Cocktails!
Let’s Get Merry Y’all!
- Mattie’s Austin
Head upstairs with your sweetie and hang in the lounge. The masculine energy has a sexy vibe, perfect for date night and the vibe is even better in December! Order a 1965 Milk Punch, the famous drink Mattie’s is known for and has been dazzling diners with for decades. If Milk Punch isn’t your thing? Get the Kir Royale Highball! It’s my favorite, and so Festive & Fancy for the Holiday Season!
Photo by Nick Simonite - Josephine House
The cozy vibe is the perfect environment for a double date. I love getting into deep conversations while gazing at the adorable Christmas tree near the front porch. Head there for happy hour before your dinner reservation, or on a crisp, sunny morning for a mimosa filled brunch! - Eberly
It’s always fun to go to Eberly, but the restaurant is even more gorgeous in December!! The impressive tree illuminates the entire dining area and really creates a great ambiance! If your hubs is an Old Fashion drinker, you can lure him with the Newton Old Fashion. The caramelized fig and infused rosemary is so festive! - Afternoon Tea & Hotel Ella
Need a break from all the alcohol, but still want to get in the holiday spirit. Make a reservation for afternoon tea at Hotel Ella. The service and experience is out of this world. I love how tea time really forces you to slow down and savor your afternoon. {The English were on to something!}.
Do yourself a favor, and schedule a day date! It’s the perfect remedy during a hectically scheduled holiday season. If you find you do need a cocktail, the Parlor Bar couldn’t be more unique! You will fall in love with the historic setting.
5. Ah Sing Den
For a truly unique holiday dining experience head to Ah Sing Den! The food is out of this world delicious and the cozy seating arrangements are ideal for a holiday gathering with friends! To really get in the spirit, stop at The Driskill Hotel for a selfie in front of the stately Christmas tree on your way!
This spot is family friendly y’all! With the kids in tow, there is really no better place in my opinion! The outdoor seating area is weather controlled and heated!!! and allows the kids to happily run around and play yard games while you and your friends can happily share a celebratory holiday cocktail! The Domain is always having fun festive events during the holiday season, so tack this on to the Christmas Tree lighting, or one of the holiday musical performances.
Home is Where The Heart Is!
Sometimes there is no place better than Home! How can any location compete with snuggling your kiddos and enjoying hot chocolate and a game of Go Fish by the fire!
I plan to make time for both the glitz and the chill this holiday season!! Have a wonderful season!!!
Where are your favorite spots to spread Holiday Cheer!?
