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    Kinda Tropical

    4.0 (239 reviews)
    Open 11:00 am - 12:00 AM (Next day)

    Kinda Tropical Photos

    Business Info

    KINDA TROPICAL ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Hipster
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Outdoor seating

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    Recommended Reviews - Kinda Tropical

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    Anniversary party crawfish boil
    Caleb H.

    Cool neighborhood spot in a converted gas station. The food menu is small but interesting and the bar has a decent size selection. Big backyard with a stage as well. It's a good low key spot for lunches and events!

    Hillary R.

    We love the brunch menu here. Definitely get the yucca fries, eggs or sandwiches. The outdoor patio-

    Movetia S.

    Kinda Tropical has everything I love about East Austin. You can roll up on a bike, grab a spot outside,or settle into their large dining room that os giving gas station but now feels like a quirky little oasis. There is art everywhere, the music is always on point, and the whole place has that vintage, low-key charm that makes you want to take your time. The drinks lean into the name. If it's tropical, they probably serve it, from margaritas to piña coladas to tamarind, hibiscus, or mezcal creations. The food hits those same bright flavors. My go to items are the Cuban yucca fries and the dry rub blackened ranch wings. The yucca fries are crispy, well seasoned, and so addictive with that jalapeño avocado dip. The wings stay crunchy, the dry rub brings the flavor without the mess, and the lime ranch on the side ties it all together. Portions are generous, so you can share or take some home for later. Parking is a little tight since it still has convenience store bones, but once you're in, the vibe makes up for it. I'm a creature of habit, so I keep returning to my favorites, but the salads and bowls always look tempting. If you come when it is less busy (earlier in the day) you will get the best service. After the work day it becomes more of a bar and wait times for drinks, seats and food may be a bit longer. If you're into a spot that's kinda tropical, kinda vintage, and absolutely East Austin, this is your new spot.

    Michelada and frozen margarita
    Martha L.

    Greatest spot of them alll best place to chat all night w you're friends it's a local gem I've been going to Kinda for YEARRRRSSS I would rather gatekeep this spot

    Chilaquiles
    Katherine D.

    I stopped by for brunch on a Saturday afternoon because I was interested in a matcha pop-up happening on their back patio. I decided to order a chilaquiles while I was there at the recommendation of the cashier. The food was solid but didn't wow me. The chips were crispy and the egg was cooked perfectly. Maybe I would have liked it more if the sauce had some more spice or depth. The inside was decorated nicely, and there is plenty of seating inside and outside. I can see this place being a great option for catching up with a large group of friends.

    Back Patio.
    Julia C.

    Driving by, looks a bit divey. Stopped by on a Saturday afternoon. Had many pop up vintage booths out front! So fun! Inside, service was busy but friendly. Back patio was chill and perfect space to catch up with friends. Others ordered food, we tried the fries. Delicious!

    Wendi K.

    4.5 Stars Casual cafe with hearty, simple Latin American (ish) food and yummy looking tropical drinks. Yucca fries ($8) with aioli - BOMB. Get these. They are hot and crispy and amazing. Like a giant, heartier french fry. I had the KT bowl with chicken ($11) and it was also great - a mound of fluffy white rice, flavorful beans, and shredded chicken (I would try the mushroom option as the chicken is pretty dry). The portions for prices are on point. Order at the counter, take a number, and they bring the food out to you. The large outdoor patio has misters which is a dream on a hot day.

    a patio with tables and chairs
    Don L.

    Kinda Tropical is the laid-back Austin hangout I didn't know I needed. Stopped in on a warm evening and was immediately drawn to the vibe--chill patio, friendly staff, and a crowd that feels like locals mixed with folks in-the-know. I ordered the burger with pineapple and it did not disappoint. Juicy, flavorful, and the pineapple added the perfect hint of sweetness without being overpowering. Paired that with a draft Paper Plane--yep, they serve it on tap for just $7! It's well-balanced and definitely one of the better versions I've had. Also grabbed the chips and queso to share, and they nailed it. Creamy with a little kick, and the chips were fresh and crispy--not your average afterthought. Kinda Tropical delivers on food, drinks, and good energy. Whether you're posted up solo or coming with a group, it's an easy spot to settle into. I'll definitely be back.

    This guy needs to work on his customer service.
    Tamie F.

    My daughter love love loves this place! My first impression wasn't great because they were pretty rude about my water bottle. Apparently if you just enter out back, it's no big deal to have a water bottle, but if you come through the bar area they aren't very nice about it. However, my daughter loves the food she gets there. They also make her a non-alcoholic cocktail that she likes. But they are also very strict about the hours you can order wraps vs salads, which is weird. Their service needs work overall. However, they have a chill backyard that is great for dogs and socializing. There were a ton of people out there when we went but still seating to be found. Seems like a great place to meet large groups of friends. Just don't get easily offended when the staff isn't the nicest and you'll love this place!

    Tofu Wrap
    Emily W.

    Second time visiting during HH! Super good HH deals IMO and food is solid for what you pay for. Friendly service and lots of room between inside and outside dinning. Parking lot is on the smaller side and may have to find parking elsewhere. Will be back to try more HH specials!

    Burger
    Jonathan R.

    Food was excellent; came out fast. Prices are right. Service was very attentive and top-notch. They have matchbooks. Option for indoor or outdoor seating. Will come back.

    Amanda R.

    Yuca fries were super good! Probably the only reason I will go back, the rest of the food was just okay. However the ambiance was super fun and they have a nice backyard. Highly recommend it to go here for a drink.

    Indoor area
    Michael H.

    First time here and really like this space. Converted gas station. Lots of seating inside and tons outside in break. Great looking area. Smoking friendly outside. That said, I ordered the breakfast tacos and they were quite poor. Flour tortillas weren't warmed up or crisped and really need it. A little too thin and lacked flavor. Had bacon and egg and fake chorizo and egg. Nether filling was great, but not bad. Bacon one needed more filling. Rating this a 4 star because I really like the vibe of this place and my friends did was better. I'll come again. But... I won't get these tacos again.

    Sesame Salad, sriracha carrot hummus, curry

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    Page 1 of 6

    Kinda Tropical Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Kinda Tropical

    Is it kid friendly?

    Yes!

    Can they accommodate a gluten and dairy allergy?

    What are the restaurant's Covid protocols/guidelines?

    Hey Aida! Our guidelines are posted on our website under ‘menu’ but include: tables are set 10 feet apart with no more than 6 customers per table, using disposable plates/cups/utensils/napkins, no cash transactions, offering curbside takeout for… Read more

    Is this a good place to study and how is the parking in this area?

    This is not a good place to study. There is a single row of parking spots along the building walls.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Papercut is another one of those fabulous places close to my home (as in walkable) that I've been…read morewanting to get to and finally did with a group of friends made through Yelp. I felt the vibe instantly, like as soon as I put one foot in the door. Magical, sophisticated, worldly, wonderful and more were the feelings that spontaneously hit me. The dark and elegant decor, lighting, design, & layout made me feel as though I were in a high-end Tokyo cocktail lounge. The front room as I mentioned is an intimate bar and lounge area with artwork adorning the walls. It's a modern, minimalist, and sleek space. The artwork is ever-changing (every couple of months or so) and the cocktail menu changes right long with it. Note: artwork is available for purchase. What an absolutely glorious way of combining different mediums (liquid art vs physical art). The craft cocktails & mocktails are the epitome of works of art. I've had great cocktails and mocktails elsewhere but honestly I'd be hard pressed to find anything on this level. You're taken into an entirely different realm just watching the genius of mixologists. It's mesmerizing watching them hone their craft. In the back of the lounge is an enclave of eclectic art and other pieces that then leads you to Konbini, the sushi bar. It's an industrial, warehouse vibe with a long counter that screams hip, Tokyo inspired, late-night eatery. Service is impeccable and welcoming at this cosmopolitan venue. It's truly an amazing experience.

    Bear and Anthony at the bar were great. Bear informed me of the art and menu being cohesive and…read morethat they change ever so often. And that the menu is curated to tie with the art/artist so you never know what will be on the menu. A regular arrived to the bar and mentioned the edition of the menu. 005. So this is the fifth menu since opening? How fun! Tried the Key Lime drink which was too damn delicious. Tasted like a damn dessert and went down too easy. Only food I tried was the Tofu Chip which was delicious as well. Also got the Milky drink and it went down just as smoothly. All in all great place, just popped in for my second time in the past three days. The vibe was chill and laid back. Dim lighting and good music.

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    Whisler's - Left On Read - Delicious! (Tequila, Amaro, Bitters, Strawberry, Citrus, Spice, Egg White )

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    4.3(675 reviews)
    1.2 miEast Austin
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    These are moments I think why do I live in San Antonio ( and often work in Austin ) when I can just…read morelive here and enjoy great restaurants, bars and weird gothic haunts like this with weird dark goth decor, a scent of palo santo , superb music, a great crowd and amazing drinks! College me would have lived here !! Enjoyed a French 75, my husband enjoyed a smoked Old Fashioned and it was a great place to grab a drink prior to seeing Springsteen at the Moody seated amongst candles , a weird alter of sorts while enjoying some Stevie Wonder as is playing now though some weird NIN or Type O might have been more appropriate

    I went to Whisler's and had one of the worst bar experiences I've ever had…read more I had one drink. I was completely sober for all intents and purposes. The bartender claimed I was drunk and cut me off anyway. I was at the bar talking to a girl while waiting to get a drink (the wait was long because the service is very slow, despite the bar not being very busy at all). She was clearly into me, and the bartender kept jumping in trying to talk to her too (instead of doing his job making drinks). He was doing all sorts of things to try and flirt with her and make her laugh: pulling out and showing her buckets of pre mixed cocktails, running and sliding under the bar, etc. She was engaging with both of us , and right in the middle of that, I get cut off out of nowhere. No explanation other than claiming I looked drunk, which I very clearly wasn't. It felt very clear what was going on--he wanted me out of the way. I left and asked the bouncer on my way out if I seemed drunk. This was literally two minutes later. He said no, not at all, and asked me why I would even ask that. I then told him exactly what happened and asked him to let the owner or whoever was in charge know about this extremely unprofessional conduct so they can discipline the bartender. His response was that the bartender has discretion to cut anyone off, and let me know the bartender is supposedly married so he couldn't have been flirting with any of the customers. Well, sounds like his logic is flawed--not only COULD he flirt with his customers, he WAS, and was therefore cheating. I hope his wife finds out. This is perfectly representative of Austin customer service lately and not normal in other places. I was in Tampa for an entire month earlier this year and this would've been unthinkable there. I'm not coming back.

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    Side bar

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    Nickel City - So magical!!

    Nickel City

    4.4(232 reviews)
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    Once the kitchen closed at the Rosewood Social Club, we went over to Nickel City for some food…read more Fortunately, most bars in Austin don't require a cover charge. My Yelp friend struck up an energetic conversation about Australia and New Zealand with two out of town guests. It turns out Nickel City is considered a must-do activity when visiting Austin, and I've even seen it listed as a tourist attraction. My friend's boyfriend and I talked about various Texas cities, the bar itself, and details about East Austin. The bartender was making faces at the fur baby, causing its ears to perk up...there seems to be a playful love-hate dynamic between them, especially since the bartender gave the pet some treats. Although the bar was busy, it wasn't too loud; it was easy to hear people talk without any trouble. I've now experienced Nickel City both during the day and at night.

    I have to say, I did not have insane expectations for this place, but i'd heard good things. And,…read morewell, it was better than expected. I had a solo evening while on vacation with family, as my parents had dinner with friends. I had just walked over from Cuantos Tacos (which, go there, delicious), and planned on being here for maybe two drinks. Welp, lets just say I ended up sitting at the bar drinking and taking in the environment for 3-4 hours. As you'll see in the photos, I got suckered into a frozen drink (whip-it-good) and the Miami Vice. I also had a beer and some whiskey (not photographed). I had a great time, some people ended up talking to me throughout the time sitting at the bar, bartenders were nice even as the shift changed (or one bartender went on break for a long time). Either way, when i'm back in Austin, this will be in my rotation. I can see this place becoming insanely hectic on a friday or saturday evening, but that wouldnt be my jam. On a weds at 6pm-10pm, it was great.

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    Nickel City - From left Nui nui new year and holiday on ice, loved both, but holiday on ice was my fav.

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    Marlow - Mocktail (Grow a Pear)

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    4.8(32 reviews)
    2.1 miDowntown

    I discovered Marlow through a Yelp Elite event and knew I had to come back. We stopped by on a…read moreSaturday night around 9:30/10pm and had a great time! Great house music from the DJ, friendly staff, and an easygoing atmosphere that's perfect for hanging out. I was having a sober night and tried a few drinks from their Dry January Specials menu. Wow, they did not disappoint. The Alrighty Aphrodite was delicious, and the So Fresh, So Clean was exactly that, super refreshing with a great pineapple flavor. My husband had the Dusty Trail (strong and perfect for bourbon lovers) and a Coquito that was creamy and smooth with a hint of cinnamon. Parking is limited, but we found street parking nearby. Overall, great drinks, great music, and a spot I'll definitely keep coming back to.

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    Busy Signal - Stage

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    3.2(33 reviews)
    1.8 miEast Austin

    Y'all, I was so excited to go to the busy signal for the first time! Especially with the cool…read moreChristmas theme going on right now and DJ Hella Yella was there. But I should know not to get my hopes up... Storytime... We had a resy for 8 at 9:45 for a birthday, we arrived at 9:45 there was no clear spot to check in, we asked around and they pointed us to the water station by the entry. After finally being greeted, we were told our section wasn't ready, the other party hadn't left yet. The server / hostess seemed frazzled and kept running around trying to get us a section and talking to people about leaving. We stood there waiting for about 30 minutes. Then we were finally seated in a section barely big enough for 6, we were crammed in like sardines, sweatin. We asked the parties next to us if they could push over a bit so we all could fit, luckily they were friendly and accommodating. We were greeted not too long after being seated, Our order was taken by the first server, It took about 30 minutes for drinks and food to start to come out. The birthday girl ordered a hookah and it took an hour and a half for it to come out. Then we were not checked on for about an hour, We finally ordered more drinks and then we never received them, We asked three different servers and were told several times that they were taking care of it and it was never taken care of, We left at 1:15 without ever getting our additional orders. One of the servers told us that the bar was crazy busy and that they were probably making our drinks and people at the bar were just taking them. So chaotic. We were finally helped by Heaven and Summer at the end around 1:00 a.m. when we asked to pay for our tab. Of course the tab was all wrong because it had all of the drinks we ordered that we never received. Again, chaotic. I felt bad for the birthday girl because she was really excited about being there for the first time with all of us and the experience was subpar at best. I will say, the best part was the DJ, HellaYella. And the jerk lamb chops. Also, If and I mean if, We ever go back, We will not reserve a section like that and we will get our drinks at the front bar and sit out on the nice patio. We'll see.

    This review isn't about the food (which is always really good!) and more about the service &…read moresetting honest expectations about the overall experience. I went to Busy Signal for their UT/UGA game football watch party. If you don't like outdoor seating or standing, I wouldn't recommend going to a watch party unless you reserve an indoor table via Eventbrite. They also offered $1 wings & $5 drinks, which were delicious! However, the server told me they only offered this special for the 1st half of the game. After 30 minutes of waiting, my server told me that everyone & their momma ordered a bunch of stuff at the same time since the food/drink special was for a short period of time, which resulted in extremely long wait times for food. The Eventbrite page didn't mention that the special was only for the 1st half of the game, which led me to believe that management pulled this not-so-bright idea out of his anus at the last minute. I waited over an hour for my food & when it finally arrived, it was not the flavor I asked for. The servers are very kind & had a great attitude despite the chaos. The food at this place is always really good. But the overall experience and timely delivery of food during their football watch party left a lot to be desired. I'm going to give this place one more try because you can't beat $1 wings (that actually are very flavorful) & $5 drinks on GameDay. However, I wouldn't go on an empty stomach. I also hope they expand their special for the whole entire game like it was the last time I went for UT/Oklahoma. ***UPDATE*** I returned for UT/Texas A&M. I paid $60 to reserve a table indoors. The service was a lot better! I really enjoyed DJ Hella Yella playing music during commercials. The overall vibe was great this time around. My initial review gave this place 2 stars, but now I'm giving it 3 stars.

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    Here Nor There - The code has to be entered

    Here Nor There

    4.7(399 reviews)
    2.4 miDowntown
    $$$

    Here Nor There is one of the best speakeasies in Austin, hands down…read more The drinks are always incredible--thoughtfully crafted and consistently good. The ambiance is moody and intimate, with music that makes the whole experience feel elevated. Definitely a go-to for a great night.

    Last night we rounded out our evening with reservations at Here Nor There…read more If I told you the location of this speakeasy then...lol. It's been around since 2018 so most folks know where it is by now. Heads up, you no longer have to use their app to make a reservation. Simply do so through Open Table and that's when you'll get the entry code. So glad it's no longer a members-only spot as well. The basement location gives anything but a basement vibe. When you enter, you'll see the infamous black paint on white walls mural but then you're transformed into something more. An elegant and elevated high-end speakeasy that transports you to what life in speakeasy settings must have felt like in the days of olde. Who doesn't love being greeted by a tasteful, giant, fake bear with welcome cocktails? The low-lit space brings a feeling of warmth, secrecy, romance, and mystery. You absolutely get the feeling you're in a special and secret hideaway space. From the refined wallpaper to hand blown glass lighting fixtures to the lush and velvety sofa seating, you are truly immersed in the vibe. It brings a feeling of noir and romance with even sexier drinks. Being seated in one of the nooks is my favorite and just really adds to the overall experience. If you follow my reviews then you know I often refer to excellent cocktails as liquid works of art. And, in this case, it's like the most exclusive, high-end art gallery of liquid masterpieces. Cocktails with branded cubes, top tier alcohol and other ingredients from around the globe make for a worthy piece of drinkable art. It doesn't end with cocktails! The mocktails are equally as beautiful and delicious. I highly recommend the cocktails and mocktails. Service is exactly what you would expect and want it to be in this environment. Yes, the prices are a bit higher than average but you're paying for art, atmosphere, and experience that is beyond wonderful.

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    Milk and honey

    Kinda Tropical - breakfast_brunch - Updated May 2026

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