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    Cactus Cafe

    4.4 (57 reviews)
    ModerateBars, Music Venues
    Open 2:00 pm - 11:00 PM
    Updated 2 months ago

    Cactus Cafe Photos

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    Reviews With Photos

    Photos of some of the artists who've played at Cactus Café. Put these on a big screen, and you'll be able to see 'em better.
    Larry W.

    FOUR PICTURES? THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN: 50,000 Graduate & Undergrad students 25,000 Faculty & Staff AND Cactus Cafe is open to the General Public, in a city of approx population of 750,000 inside the City Limits, about 1.5 Million total in Travis County. And FOUR PICTURES of the Historical, Legendary, Irreplaceable Cactus Cafe; that's ALL? What's wrong with this picture? NO pictures, that's what! So I 'm gonna help out a little, but not nearly enough; I NEED HELP OVER HERE! When I first moved to Austin, many moons ago, one of the first places I got taken to was The Cactus Cafe. The drummer of the band I was playing with at the time was a Professor of Musicology at UT (though not much of a drummer, to be honest), and we went to see another (band) project he was involved in. I LOVED THE PLACE. I was young, had never been to a College music venue before, and I was impressed. I never attended UT, which is why I probably didn't go to Cactus as much as I would have, had I been a student. You students, you are very lucky to be in such close proximity to such a wonderful place. I know you frequent the place, probably "frequently". SO TAKE SOME PICTURES, PLEASE! Actually, the entire Student Union complex is remarkable, and the Cactus Cafe is the crowning jewel of the whole thing, if you ask me. OK, OK, nobody did, nobody ever does, but that's what I'd tell 'em if they ever asked. Tonight, I THOUGHT I was going to Cindy Cashdollar's CD release party; slightly mis-informed by a friend of mine, I was (channeling Yoda now, I am). But in essence I WAS attending a "Cindy release" party. Tonight, Cindy performed with an all-female Country / Folk act called THE CARPER FAMILY. Cindy co-produced this, their second full-length CD, "Old Fashioned Gal", and performs on it as well, along with some other very talented sidemen. This review is about Cactus, so I won't delve into how talented a group The Carper Family are, with their perfect instrumentation, and precise three-part harmonies filling up the entire Universe, it would seem. But they are a PRIME EXAMPLE of the caliber of talent you'll get EVERY TIME you attend a performance at The Cactus Cafe. My cheap, stupid camera won't take good low-light pictures at all, and they weren't allowing flash to be used. My cell phone camera's even worse, they ALL are. Wouldn't have mattered anyway; I was too far back for the flash to carry in the first place. So the pictures I took inside the venue were not fit to post; sorry. What I DID capture are several framed groups of POSTERS from past shows, which are only a teeny, tiny FRACTION of the legendary musical acts that have graced the stage of the Cactus over the years and years and YEARS. You may not be able to see all of them in great detail, as Yelp doesn't allow very high-resolution pics to be uploaded. But you get the idea. Anyway, THAT'S what I'm posting, and it's a DAMN SIGHT BETTER than the pictures of empty chairs that are there right now. "Is this picture HELPFUL?" No, it's a CHAIR! But my additional shots are just a start; we need LOTS MORE PICTURES. I haven't been to Cactus Cafe in a long time; I'm ashamed to say how long. But every time I go, it's always been a wonderful experience. Last time, it was a Django Reinhardt Festival, several years back. I don't know if they've held it again, but if they have, I wasn't aware of it; I would've gone. And to any "Jaywalkers" out there: NO, Django Reinhardt has NOTHING to do with the recent "Django" movie. In fact, although I like Tarantino's movies (this one included) I think he's a real PUTZ for naming the movie that, unless it maybe gets some younger, uneducated, uninitiated individuals to stumble upon Django Reinhardt's music. That would be a GOOD thing. So c'mon Students; I KNOW there are some Yelpers among your ranks. Please start fillin' up the Cactus Cafe photo page with LOTS & LOTS of HELPFUL stuff, such as the myriad of performers that are playing there all the time. Start promoting one of UT's most wonderful features. And no more "empty-table-and-chair" pic's, PLEASE? And a total of only 42 reviews (not including mine) is pretty lame too. Any JOURNALISM MAJORS reading? You budding journalists do read and write? Right? So WRITE. Right now. It's your God-given RIGHT. OK, I think we've worn THAT out... The Cactus Cafe is an awesome place, one of the best Live Music venues in all of Austin. And oh yeah, UT's curriculum's nice too. WOW, THAT WAS SHORT! Or at least, SHORTER. Maybe the "Bet-For" treatments ARE working after all... larrythediner .

    Sarah M.

    Cactus Cafe and Bar is a great music venue and watering hole based out of UT. Open since 1979, this acoustic music house brings in folks from all over the world, while still catering to local interests. Cactus is partially to thank for jump-starting many a music career. Lyle Lovett, Lucinda Williams, and Ani DiFranco are listed as performing here early on. Alison Krauss and the Dixie Chicks have also visited. The Cactus is located in the Texas Union on the UT campus (23rd or 24th and Guadalupe). Not the most ideal location, especially when students are in town (ha), but this space makes for a nice evening out if you're looking to avoid the nuisances of downtown. I've seen a couple of shows at this spot, and the Cactus provides an intimate experience with open table seating and a small stage. Not really room for dancing, but the mood isn't right for shaking your groove anyway. Really chill and enjoyable all-around. Buy tickets at the door 45 minutes before show time (unless otherwise noted). Good luck parking. Cactus Cafe is good-natured...not prickly.

    Shawn Mullins - 3/23/17

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    Live music at night! Seats about 60 people a perfectly intimate venue. More faculty in the audience than students, typically.

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    Oh how I wish every band/musician I loved would play at the Cactus Cafe. That would be a dream come true.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Cactus Cafe

    Review Highlights - Cactus Cafe

    . I never attended UT, which is why I probably didn't go to Cactus as much as I would have, had I been a student

    Mentioned in 12 reviews

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    Crown and Anchor Pub - Nachos.

    Crown and Anchor Pub

    (345 reviews)

    $$

    University of Texas

    First of all, I've been coming to this spot since the 80s (before it was the Crown!), but after…read moreleaving ATX in 2013, my trips to the Crown have been few and far between (last one was in 2018). I knew I wanted a burger from the Crown before I started the long drive from South Carolina. Despite a literal wrench in my tire, I managed to make it there on 2/28 by 1pm, where my travelling companion and I met up with an old friend of mine from college. There was a bike swap going on, which felt about right for ATX. We ordered a beer and a burger then settled in on the porch (the part I call the "inside/outside" because it has a roof). I'm not going to say the Crown has the best burgers in the world. I guess it depends on what you want in a burger. I will say that, for the price, the Crown has the best pub burger - a good basic burger. I got a jalapeno cheeseburger, but I can attest to the deliciousness of the veggie burger and the mushroom-swiss. Back in the early 90s we used to bring my daughter with us and she would play pinball with my friend, Dirk. The bartenders at the time included a couple of guys who used to work at Duddley's Draw in College Station, TX. In the early oughts, I would come in for lunch and try to decide if I wanted the chicken tacos or a burger. Later I came in with the guy I was dating for too long for beers and a burger. Times change, Austin grows (parts are completely unrecognizable and no longer have that "vibe" that seems uniquely Austin; however, the Crown is a jewel in the rough that continues to shine for those of us who can see it. I had an awkward piece of time on 3/4/26 so I stopped by for a NA Guinness before heading out to see my aunt in Lakeway. I had the pleasure of seeing Derwin! My trip wouldn't have been complete without saying "hi." It took a minute, but he did eventually remember me! Here's to hoping it doesn't take another 8 years; because, we only get older and my friends are starting to show their age! I hope the Crown continues to serve great burgers and cold beers. I'll be back next time I make the pilgrimage home!

    Cute little pub next to campus. It has a patio area so we swing by here while the weather was nice…read morein December. Fun Austin bar near UT. They only have beer but they have NA ones. If you're nearby, swing by for a beer! They also have sports on the TVs.

    Upstairs at Caroline - Upstairs at Caroline backyard

    Upstairs at Caroline

    (683 reviews)

    $$

    Downtown

    A total vibe! I loved this spot and the outdoor bar area. It's lit up by twinkle lights with plenty…read moreof TVs to watch the game. They had a frozen watermelon rose I tried which I really like, if you get an additional shooter to go with it, make sure you mix it in! They have a good amount of drinks to choose from, it's a great place to chill with friends and enjoy the weather. Lots of seating and picnic table style seating. I've been twice and would definitely go back!

    I recently visited Upstairs at Caroline for a Logitech SXSW installation event, and the experience…read morewas a great mix of creative energy and Austin atmosphere. The venue itself has a lively, open feel with an urban backyard vibe and plenty of space to move around, mingle, and actually take in the installation without feeling crowded. What stood out most was how well the space complemented the event. The layout made it easy to engage with the installation while still enjoying the social vibe. They had space for working virtually as well as displays to test some of the technology. There's a nice balance between indoor comfort and that signature rooftop-style setting, which gives it a relaxed but elevated feel. The staff was friendly and kept things running smoothly, and the overall setup felt thoughtfully organized. Whether you were there to focus on the installation or just take it in casually, the environment supported both. The line was somewhat long to get into the event as it was at capacity and could only allow more people as people were leaving the event. I was given a drink ticket and got to try the Patio Pounder with ilegal mezcal, primo aperitivo, tropical citrus, coconut, grapefruit soda. The bartender was efficient even though the lines were long. The cocktail was enjoyable with the balance of smoky and citrus flavors. They also had a variety of food bites available including chips and queso. creamy street corn, and sliders. The food was gone relatively quickly due to the crowds but it would be replenished periodically. Overall, Upstairs at Caroline proved to be a solid venue for a creative SXSW event versatile, welcoming, and very on-brand for Austin's arts and tech scene.

    The Roosevelt Room

    The Roosevelt Room

    (917 reviews)

    $$$

    Warehouse District, Downtown

    "No I've never been to Austin, but I kinda like the music...all the people say it's crazy but I…read moreknow they don't abuse it..." (RIP Chuck Negron) This was my "Must go to" spot on the first day we were here...and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! I made a reservation per recommendation on their website and I am glad I did. As the evening went on it got very busy. The foyer where you check in reminded me of the lobby of a small theatre. There were 2 velveteen curtains separating it from the restaurant. When the curtains parted a huge room with high industrial ceilings and architecture was revealed. WOW!!!! The hostess led us upstairs to the smaller loft bar and told us to sit where ever we wanted...So, we sat with a review to the entire place! We ordered food and drinks from their huge cocktail menu. We watched the bartender make both drinks with fascination. *BTW The bartenders here need to know how to make every cocktail by heart and there are over 50 specialty cocktails! Rosie and I went with: Vodkadora - Wódka Vodka, raspberry syrup, ginger syrup, lime, soda water Cigar Box - Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, smoked black tea syrup, RR lavender bitters, tobacco essence, served on an ashtray with a flamed cinnamon stick Food: CLASSIC REUBEN w/chips - 5/5 sooo good (Rye bread with Rosemary-Garlic Butter, Corned Beef, Swiss Cheese, housemade Sauerkraut & Russian Dressing) SALADE VERTE 5/5 - light and fresh Loved the industrial space and decor. Great for large groups - don't really recommend for children ~ and that's all I have to say about that...

    I went to Roosevelt one afternoon with my friends. We didn't…read morehave reservations but the staff accommodated us at the bar. It had the ambience and gravity of a serious establishment with well knowledgeable staffs, clean decoration with depth. We loved the ambiance and cool interior away from Texas heat. The food and drinks were crafted with meaning, focus and quality ingredients that really justified the price they had set. We ordered their garlic hummus, seasoned nuts and whole bunch of appetizers I don't recall all, but everything stood out. Talking about cocktails- The bartened was extraordinary. We had French 75, Cosmopolitan, Old fashioned, Espresso Martini, El Presidente. In a group of 5 people, we definitely ordered multiple rounds of each. I tried their signature drink called Painkiller (about $20) and also another with blended 12 yr old blended scotch . Left sufficiently satisfied and I will visit this place again in Austin for drinks and some bar bites.

    Back Lot

    Back Lot

    (39 reviews)

    $

    University of Texas

    The best dang dive bar there ever was. Drinks are cheap and service is great. Food truck with HUGE…read morenachos / tacos is open most nights after 7PM, always a go to before ending the night. There is something special about backlot! (It may be the workhorse marg but who's to say...)

    Decades ago, I used to live in this neighborhood, but this bar was not here at the time. This is…read morewhat can be considered a local neighborhood dive bar. After reading through all the reviews, I noticed there were hardly any photos so I added 10. Parking can be an issue and you need to be careful because you could get towed or booted in this neck of the woods. They do have about a dozen or so spots behind the bar. The interior reminds me of a burned out home with a dirty concrete floor below and scorched, black exposed rafters above. Plenty of old car license plates on the wall and a jukebox off to the side. Bring a picture of your dog, because they have a large corkboard for customers and their pooches. They have plenty of good craft beers on tap and a decent full bar. This is a great place to bring your own darts or pool cue and since there are two dartboards and a pool table here. There's plenty of four top tables, seating at the bar or five booths to sit at. There's also an outdoor seating area that allows smoking. If you are hungry, they do have a food truck out back that serves up tacos, ramen, nachos, etc. On our visit, the truck was not open after 4:30pm. As a result, we just had one beer and left. It's your overall decent local neighborhood dive that has its regulars, but not worth driving across town for.

    Parlor Bar - One sitting area by the bar

    Parlor Bar

    (3 reviews)

    West Campus, University of Texas

    Very cool spot and beautiful house! Max the bartender was the best and made it a very fun time.read more

    I came to parlor bar for happy hour after work on a Thursday because I was interested in trying a…read morecouple cocktails on their menu. It seems like it might be a relatively new place cause I wasn't able to find reviews online for it, but the descriptions on the menu sounded pretty good! First of all, the bar itself is quaint but there are lots of little coffee tables with chairs, and a couple larger sized tables (like to seat 4 people), as well as a couple individual chairs with spaces good for working or just sitting and reading etc. The hotel that it is inside of is very cute as well, and has an old Austin feel to it. Something that I wasn't aware before I came was the happy hour menu is actually shorter and the regular menu. There are only three cocktails listed on the happy hour menu actually, at a lovely price of seven dollars each from 3-6pm. The regular menu does have other drinks as well. The drink I tried was the gimlet on the happy hr menu which was very strong, and refreshing with a lot of lime taste to it. There is a complimentary valet for up to two hours if you're coming to the bar, in fact you aren't allowed to self park (it's valet only). The staff at the bar, valet, and at the front when I came in were all very welcoming. :) All this said, I only took off a star since i think the happy hour menu is a bit limited. Otherwise the staff, vibes inside, and the drink I had were all lovely as was the hotel itself!

    Cactus Cafe - bars - Updated May 2026

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