Where tradition meets boot-stomping energy, The Broken Spoke is an unforgettable honky-tonk from the first step inside to the Texas Two-Step. The lively atmosphere, classic country, and welcoming crowd make it clear why it's beloved. A deep sense of history adds to its charm, making every visit part of a true Texas tradition. read more

The atmosphere is great and really the only reason for my one star review is the dance lessons. There's just no excuse for that amount of bullying and mean spiritedness. I get it, she uses toughness as a defense mechanism. That's pretty easy to see. I took both group classes and a private lesson with Terri at the Broken Spoke, and my experience was very mixed. In group classes, her style came across as blunt and a bit teasing, which I could brush off. But during a private lesson, that same approach became much more intense. For about an hour, the feedback was delivered through constant put-downs...being called things like "bitch" , the C word, made fun of my body, and other insults in what seemed like an aggressive, joking tone. Having that directed entirely at me made it feel uncomfortable and, honestly, not very fun. At the end of the lesson, she told me she was hard on me because she saw a lot of potential, which I can appreciate. It also made me feel like she may not have realized how her approach was coming across in the moment. I've since noticed the reviews here are pretty split, and that makes sense. Her teaching style is very old-school, almost drill-sergeant-like...definitely more "learn by doing" with tough love rather than gentle guidance. I can see how some people might thrive in that environment, but for me, it didn't work, especially in a one-on-one setting. Overall, I respect the history and character of the place, but I'd recommend going in with a clear expectation of the teaching style, or trying a group class first to see if it's a good fit for you. read more

Unfortunately, this place left a really bad impression due to how the situation was handled by staff. My friend was kicked out simply because she didn't realize there was a cover charge. Instead of calmly explaining it, the bartender immediately became rude, called her a "bold-faced fucking liar," and handled the situation in a very immature and unprofessional way. There was no attempt to de-escalate or communicate respectfully--just accusations and attitude. Mistakes happen, especially in loud, crowded bar environments. Being confused about a cover shouldn't result in being insulted by staff. Customer service goes a long way, and sadly it was completely lacking here. We won't be returning and wouldn't recommend this place if you expect basic respect from the people working there. I would leave a 0 star if i could. read more

The Broken Spoke is an Austin icon. It is nestled in between two giant condos on Lamar. The business held their ground and refused to sell out when all of Austin was being slowly replaced by condos and other modern buildings. It is "one of the last true Texas dancehalls". Parking is somewhat challenging but if you are able to locate a spot, it is worth the challenge. When you first walk in to the dining area, there is usually a band playing live music to enjoy. I had a chance to finally try their famous chicken fried steak. Although the price point has jumped it is still fairly reasonable in comparison to other options. The chicken fried steak is served with a baked potato and salad. When I ate in the restaurant they had suspended dining service which was a bit inconvenient. You can order at the bar and then they call your name to come pick up your order. The food was worth the extra effort. They have a variety of other food options on their menu. The staff was friendly. In the back of the building they have the dance hall that usually has a band playing live music as well. They offer dance lessons throughout the week and I hope to participate at some point. There is usually a cash only cover charge to get into the dance hall. I did get a chance to peak in to check it out. It is like going back in time in his honky tonk dance hall that always has entertainment to enjoy. I hope to come back for dance lessons soon. read more

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Well, we were in Austin for an event and had one free night. So we blocked it off to finally visit the famed Broken Spoke. We Ubered from 6th street at 6pm to find a hand written sign on the front door saying it is closed for a special event tonight. Maps and Yelp list it as open. Very disappointing and a waste of our time and money. read more

Rating: 3.5/5 (wish we could do 1/2 stars on here!) I've been wanting to come here for the longest time, and finally got that chance this past Friday. My dad and I arrived just around 7:30pm (around 7:40pm after finding parking in the nearby strip mall) when they recommend you to show up to get a spot in Terri's class. We got one of the tables by the railing & quickly ordered drinks (I later found out I ordered at the bar with Terri White herself!) The dance hall room gets more crowded as the night goes on, even after the class starts. I figure those folks aren't joining for the class but are there for the music that starts later & free rein dancing. I was shocked at how crowded the class was, and feel that they should cap the attendance so folks have room to move around & better express themselves. I didn't come with lofty expectations and I think that's the way to go. I'm familiar with Southern culture, having been in ATL for 6 years and visited Nashville before. I do agree that Terri's "comedy routine" for the first half of the class was too long, but I personally found it entertaining. It's not for everyone. She made fun of me for ordering a Dirty Shirley.... It sucks not having a dance partner, and the fact 99% of the men who show up come with their partners so as a single gal it's likely you'll end up with a fellow lady. Despite these comments, I still largely had a good time & would come back with friends or a future boyfriend. I learned a new way to do the Cotton-Eyed Joe, got teasingly smacked on the bum by Terri herself, and a selfie with the queen:) You can say what you want about the Broken Spoke, but it's still definitely an Austin institution that everyone should go to at least once. read more

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We came to the broken spoke for the two step lessons. Is the place a little older? Yes. A little run down, also yes. But was it a great time? Absolutely! The woman that did the lessons was lively and so much fun! Everyone was smiling and enjoying themselves. It got packed with people and had such a diverse group of people from small kids, teens and even the grandparents. It was sweet to see the local teens there doing something so fun and different. It was truly an experience. read more

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Ok, you *do* have to go to the Broken Spoke for the authenticity. It's a Historical Landmark for a reason, so you have to go. Make sure there's a solid band playing. (Dale Watson is Five out of Five Stars.) While the bar itself takes credit cards, the cover charge (for the band) was cash only. The music had a timelessness to it, it could've been any time from 1964 (when it opened) to the present. Willie Nelson started off here. We ain't fancy but we're damn sure country.' - Ginny Peacock, the daughter of the founder James White. Didn't try the food, and the Lone Star is cold. Tough to find a spot to sit, but be sure to stop-in regardless. read more

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It's an interesting place for sure. The dance lessons charge a $15 cash cover FYI. The French fries and fajitas are good. I heard the bathrooms are kind of wild aka they have shower curtains as doors. The bartenders are really snarky but not in a fun way, more like they hate you for being alive. read more

We were visiting from out of town and funny enough this place was recommended on chatgpt for things to do in Austin. We went on a Saturday night when they had a live band and it was the best time! The atmosphere, the vibe the people, the staff and service. Highly recommend! read more

Great country music. loved the vibes and the people, would definitely recommend the orange creamsicle shot.

Came for the dance lesson and live music. Lesson was fun - taught the Texas two step and cotton eye Joe. Live music was great with a lot of friendly dancers read more

This is the most iconic honky-tonk I've ever experienced. It's truly a time capsule back to 1964 when it was established. The construction has been left intact, which is what gives it its timeless, authentic charm. The best part is that you get to live in that moment with folks of all ages, including old-timers who have been dancing there since the beginning. Anyone is free to ask anyone to dance. I danced with ladies younger than me, to ladies older than me. Some, I asked to dance, and some asked me to dance. I prefer this kind of honky-tonk to the contemporary style, because the person you dance with doesn't become a stranger after the song finishes. You can chat with them off of the dance floor. Cover charge and drinks are reasonably priced. Next time, I'd like to come here for dinner before proceeding to the dancehall. The restaurant portion in the front appears to be the best way to take in that experience. A few people bring food back to the tables on the sides of the dance floor, but you're basically eating in the dark amidst a crowd that is mostly in dance mode. This place is a local, state, national, and international treasure. I hope it stays that way for all time, so that future generations can enjoy the same magic that has been here for over six decades so far. They don't make honky-tonks like this anymore. read more

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The service sucked. I wouldnt recommend this place to no one. theyre wanna be country. no southern hospitality at all. Ive been to hole in wall with places and they were 5 star experience, compared to this one. Dont waste your money here. i wouldnt even rate a single star here. read more

Broken Spoke - Music Venues Near Me - Austin, Texas

Honestly, not sure how the drinks are or how the food is, but this place is phenomenal. I brought a high school sports team here for line dancing lessons, and it was their highlight of the trip. Traci is AMAZINGLY hilarious and genuine and an excellent instructor. I love the decor and can only imagine how this place is full of good times and fun at night. read more

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Cool saloon with two stepping lessons! Came with friends having never experienced 2 stepping and the instructor was very descriptive and made sure everyone was comfortable and understood all the moves. Partners were there for those that came alone and it wasn't awkward at all. They also serve some food and of course drinks. The decor was very very Texas and the dance floor was large and there were tables in back to rest or drink and eat. Not a huge parking lot so may have to find street parking. read more

Broken Spoke - Music Venues Near Me - Austin, Texas

We contacted the owner ahead of time to let them know we would be coming in with a group of approximately 25-30 people following a wedding reception. When we arrived, we informed the waitress that the group would need separate checks. She immediately said that was not allowed. We then offered multiple reasonable alternatives to accommodate their policies: * Ordering food individually at the counter and paying separately, then sitting together * Sitting at separate tables and ordering and paying separately Every option was flatly refused. The waitress was rude, unhelpful, and completely unwilling to work toward any solution. At no point did she attempt to be accommodating or professional--she simply kept saying "no" regardless of the compromise offered. I cannot understand how a business, especially one that regularly hosts large crowds, would allow an employee to treat paying customers this way. We were polite, flexible, and trying to spend money there, yet were effectively turned away. Very disappointing experience read more

Just because something is historic doesn't mean you don't have to maintain it. I was seriously afraid a piece of the ceiling was going to fall into my flavorless beans while I was eating. I asked for no brisket when going through the BBQ line and got the dirtiest look and eye roll from the server. The commitment to two step is fun and makes for an entertaining night of dancing with good bands, but I won't go out of my way if I have to worry about the integrity of the building and rude servers. read more

I attended the two step dancing lesson and unfortunately I would not recommend. I have been to many lessons throughout Austin and I left this lesson feeling confused and offended. The instructor barely provided two stepping instruction, we weren't dancing till 35 min into the class. The instructor also made many rude and offensive comments throughout the class. I would not spend $10 on this. read more

An Austin Treasure! So much fun.. the food is okay good but the service makes up for it. IMO, dinning out is as much about the experience as the food. We had the best, kiss my grits kind of waitress! I wish I remembered her name. We stayed for the band.. they have the best people watching. I definitely want to go early enough for the dance lessons next time. read more

Broken Spoke is a classic Austin dance house with a heavy emphasis on classic. The inside is very historical and somehow shares the same feeling as a dive bar but not as divey. It definitely feels like there's a lot of culture and history once you step in there. Dancing lessons were $10 and worth it to learn Intro to Two Stepping. The instructor was funny and it was a great way to kick off the evening. Drinks were cheap and the lines move fast (tip: the bar has a front and sides where you can get a drink faster). Drinks were a bit strong but hey, it's Texas. The dancehall isn't too crowded and was very much enjoyable with everyone just being happy and dancing. The live music was phenomenal playing a mix of classic country and slow music tunes. The only downside of the evening was the very strange and uncomfortable bathrooms which do rob you a bit of privacy but that doesn't seem like something too concerning when you are where you are. At the end of the day, Broken Spoke is such a fantastic example of Old Austin's culture and is a great experience to partake in. We highly recommend it for anyone wanting to two and step and get a little wobbly while doing so. Please note that it's impossible to find parking in the lot, so expect to park somewhere else. read more

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DO NOT PAY $10 FOR DANCE LESSONS! There are no lessons. It's just weird jokes and walking side to side. Save your money and spend it on a drink instead. read more

We went on a Saturday night. The line to get in the dancehall in the back was long and slow. It was very crowded, but the live band was very good. There is quite a bit of seating. In the extended area, the ceiling is low, so I could have the guys couldn't stand fully upright. The bathroom is unique. The stalls in the ladies room have curtains instead of doors. It's a tight fit. read more

Wear your boots and jeans. The food is great as is the dancing. Go casual and do a little two steppin'!!

I saved my 2300th Yelp review for something special: Broken Spoke. Besides, 2300 is special in the country world. $2300 is the cost of the 4 bedroom Jolene Suite, a room at the Dolly House in Nashville, or the cost of a 20 x 24 signed limited edition print by Ed Caraeff of Dolly Parton taken during the cover session for her 1977 album 'Here You Come Again'. 2300 fans got to see Willie Nelson perform at Summerfest 2009, George Strait for San Antonio Convention Center, and June Carter at Asbury Park in 1987, plus Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Garth Brooks at the Ryman Ampitheater with a max capacity of 2300, also the max capacity of Orpheum Memphis, hosting Luke Combs. A reporter from This Week in Dallas Music History got 2300 words out a four-question interview from Dixie Chick Emily Robison (and one of the Qs was about her boobs). As for addresses, Station Casino's Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute is at 2300 Paseo Verde in Henderson, NV, the Elvis Presley Inn is at 2300 Elvis Presley Blvd in Memphis and the Burn'n Love Waikiki Elvis Show is at 2300 Kalakaua. Philly's 2300 Arena has hosted many artists, like Luke Combs. Kenny Rogers is a major investor in Lanai, population 2300. 2300 is the number of Johnny Cash's performance videos on his website and the number of Getty's images of Elvis. Folson Prison, home of the Johnny Cash Bike Trail, houses 2300 inmates. Willie Nelson smoked 2300 joints last summer. And it was 2300 hours when Morgan Wallen was arrested for disorderly conduct. Broken Spoke was my most anticipated site to see on my recent trip to Austin (if you don't count Buc-Ee's). My wife was a fan of this live music venue who was among the first to feature "the rebels" like Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson, and newcomers Dixie Chicks and George Strait. Austin-American Statesman describes its appeal best: "flanked by imposing new apartment structures, the 50-year-old honky tonk with the crushed-granite parking lot stands its ground, a final holdout from an Austin that is all but gone with the winds of generational change. Today, it stands out much like the Alamo, a comparison not lost on owner James White, 75, who has spent two-thirds of his life turning a traditional country dance hall into a treasure of Texas cultural history." (Peter Blackstock, Aug 30, 2018) Ok, so how was the experience. We intentionally went on Two-Step Tuesday for the dancing and to see Weldon Henson. Passing through a dark and traditional restaurant/bar, the venue is low-key af, with a basic dance hall and stage. Both sides are great for people watching, with two tiers each with 14-18 tables with picnic tablecloths and basic folding chairs. The bottom tier is closer to the action, the back tier aglow with the neon light of beer signs. The music volume was perfect. There were a few What?s or lean-ins, but I could conversation with my wife without screaming. Best of all, the regulars don't seem to mind their dance hall filled with tourists, and I felt welcome, trying my best to keep from slowing down the train of dancers with my awkward attempts at two-stepping. Despite being uncoordinated, I had fun. read more

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This is, of course, an Austin staple. So you just gotta go at some point. I had not been in at least 15 years until a nostalgic birthday party. On first glance, whereas it used to feel secluded, this is now in the middle of town basically, but once you walk through the weathered doors, you may as well be in someone's grandpa's 1950s boys club in their barn. If it's been a while, it is important to note it is no longer Smokey and no longer sticky! Plenty of dancing and great people watching- sparkly lame, dusty Stetsons, May-December romances, mama's gone wild, trained and self-taught footwork, and gregarious storytellers will delight! The doorman will take your cover charge with a wink and a grimace, and the barmaids skiing a mean drink. Grizzled southern hospitality at its finest. I did not eat, but I hear it will transport you to mamaw's chicken fried decadence. read more

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Extremely rude customer service from the ignorant young girl working the register. we came with a huge party celebrating a wedding and her professionalism was horrible. Refused to take orders because they weren't able to split checks up and some of our party wasn't staying just were trying to order food to go and she refused to take there order. Would not recommend going at all overpriced food and crappy service. read more

The ambiance and the band were great, but the dancing lesson was a joke. The teacher, Terri, is a nasty cunt who is straight-up mean and humiliates people trying to learn. We went there to have a good time, and she completely took the fun out of it by making snarky, offensive remarks in front of everyone and judging me for the rest of the night. She even started gossiping with her friend and pointing at me because of 'how bad I was.' It's not that serious... at first I tried to laugh it off, but it got to the point where I left the place crying. She's a bully, and I won't be coming back because of her. read more

This place was recommended off the top places to visit while in Austin. Definitely in its original decor, service was pretty good, the singer entertainer was good and very personable. The food was mediocre. Chicken fried steak for me wasn't bad, but it wasn't the best I've ever had. My baked potato was not hot, although it was cooked through so maybe a leftover? The hot poppers were delicious. My husband's barbecue was not good, especially the brisket, and he could barely eat the potato salad. Glad we visited for this tourist trap, but we won't be back. read more

Broken Spoke - Music Venues Near Me - Austin, Texas

So-- your website listed two different performers on Dec 22nd. We Uber and get dropped off. Then see the sign that you're closed tonight. We planned this for my friends birthday today. Very disappointed! Update your website in the future. read more

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I was a bit wary of this place based on the reviews, but I actually loved it way more than I expected. What a nice, weird, find in the middle of a condo area. Its historic so its run down look is even funnier with the rest of South Austin changing. My friend and I went there for the dance class. We showed up right at 7:15 and was allowed in the dance hall. The price of the class is $10 plus cover for the band (so $20 last night). Paying was easy enough, but the class started a bit on the late side. As for the class, it started out a bit slow, but paid off at the end where we were given some real good tips and learned two different kinds of dances. The instructor is the daughter of the original owner. She is a bit sassy, but kept it pretty tame IMO. She tends to be a bit harder on the ladies. Maybe it was just last night, but there were quite a few that weren't really paying attention and some just decided to sit halfway through the class. Why sign up if you're not going to at least try it out! Was the class worth the money? More or less, but I could see people thinking its overpriced. I think $10 is worth the risk. I have wasted $10 on worse things! Afterwards, there was a pretty decent band where the dancing continued. My friend and I were actually asked by ladies to dance which was kind of nice! The place is a little run down and their beer selection, while bigger than you'd think, could have been a little more. The bathroom was disgusting, but hey, thats part of the charm! They also sorta take credit cards/sorta don't so I would come with some cash. I know others have complained about the service, but I thought everybody working there was nice! In closing, if you are looking to do something different and don't mind looking a little silly for an hour, I highly recommend this place! Its weird, its run down, its the Texas experience! read more

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This place was very unhygienic and decrepit. The ceilings were practically caving in and it was filthy (particularly the bathrooms which had an overwhelming stench of urine). While I understand this may be an Austin staple, I found it offensive that they charged a $15/person cover to get into the dancing area given the condition of the facilities. As an adult, it is also unfavorable that those under 21 can frequent this establishment. We ended up leaving after 30 minutes. Would not recommend. read more

Came here to two step. Wow what a country little place. Very crowded and noisy. Lots of hustle and bustle. It was a $15 cash cover to dance, which seemed pretty steep to me. The dance floor was not big enough and there definitely was not enough side seating. The whole time dancing was just avoiding people rather than really having fun. Great live music though. read more

Broken Spoke - dance floor - Music Venues Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Old Austin staple, bring the tourists out if they want to feel a bit more country. Ambience is nice and people say allot of celebrities tend to stop by. Not sure if that's true or not. No paparazzi showed up to take my photos :( read more

Some of the employees are very rude. One guy was very rude both nights we visited He could tell people no line dancing without being extremely rude and demeaning He could also tell people to form two lines at the bar without being rude and a smart ass. Some of the bar tenders are nice and accommodating, while others were rude and pissy. read more

Do NOT go on dance lesson night. You pay $15 cover and then $10 for the dance lessons which is some old chick (and I'm older than she is) trying to teach her own step dance, that your traditional Texas 2-step is BS, and you will look stupid if you dance this way. We got 30 min into the the lesson and never heard a chord of music. Save yourself all of the misery. read more

This place brings you back in time to dance halls and country music. If you watched the first episode of season 6 of Queer Eye, then you will love this place. Terry White, the owner was featured on that episode and she shared her struggles of raising her strong-willed first born. That episode also talked about her own self-growth and self-acceptance. So needless to say, I was already a fan before I stepped in. Cover charge is $15 per person and dance lesson is an additional $10 per person. We went on a Saturday night and dance lesson is from 8pm to 9pm. You learn the 2-steps here. There is a live band and food and drinks are served. Note: This place only accepts CASH. There is an ATM machine outside. We didn't make it for the dance lesson as we missed it by 5 minutes but we're allowed to stay and watch and dance after the lesson was over. The place was lit and had an amazing atmosphere! I felt like I was in a movie and brought back in time. I went there mainly for the music and dancing so I didn't try any of the food. I was so happy to meet Terry White myself. I highly recommend it for a fun night out with a group of girls or your significant other. It's the quintessential Texas experience! read more

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The food was not good and the attitude of the owner is awful. Food was cold and no flavor. When brought to the owner attention she blamed us for coming to early because her cook did not have enough time to warm it up in the microwave. I wanted to come for a long time because of the history but was very disappointed: read more

I really want to love this place but I can't get over how disgusting the bathrooms are. It's not even the fabric shower curtain "door" resting on my knees but it's the stench of urine that almost made me sick to my stomach. I won't be back unless a band I love is playing there. Put a little money into the restrooms and the other minor issues can be overlooked. read more

Fun place to learn to dance, food is okay, and fair prices. It's nice to have live music and support a local owned business