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Hands down one of the most unique cocktail experiences in San Antonio. The Modernist doesn't do menus and that's exactly what makes it special. You tell them the spirit you're feeling and the vibe or flavors you're in the mood for, and they craft a cocktail from scratch just for you. Every drink feels intentional, balanced, and elevated. The bartenders actually listen, ask the right questions, and then deliver something that somehow hits perfectly every time. It's not just a cocktail, it's an experience. If you're tired of the same old menu drinks and want something creative, personalized, and next level, this is the spot. Can't recommend it enough.
Great bar with even better staff. They have inside and outside seating. Dogs are allowed. You can bring outside food in as well. The inside is small and cozy. A little bit dark, but you get adjusted. They do have a bar inside and outside. The bartender was able to make a drink for my friend that she actually liked. I can't tell you what it was, but it was good and it had gin. I got a an old-fashioned and it was great. Parking is street parking or there is a paid parking lot catty corner to it across the street.
My favorite bar we visited on our trip to San Antonio! Was brought here by our local friend. Such a cozy, cool vibe. Bartenders were sweet and friendly. Cocktails were impressively crafted. I had a seasonal salted caramel whiskey sour, the bf had a mezcal old fashioned, and my friend had a lychee martini. All were delicious and well balanced. This place felt alive even on a Monday night. They were also playing the jams so that's always a plus. Fun spot to hang out and we'll definitely be back the next time we're in town!
What started as a disappointing dinner turned around fast thanks to The Modernist on Grayson Street. This local gem completely saved our Sunday Funday. From the moment we walked in, it was a whole vibe: retro-loungy décor straight out of the '60s/'70s, with a killer soundtrack spinning alt-country, psychobilly, and groovy vintage tunes. It felt like stepping into a stylish time capsule with serious cocktail cred. NOTE: There's no drink menu here. This is a "tell us what you like, and let the magic happen" kind of place. The bartenders know their craft, and if you're even remotely into cocktails, this will blow your mind. I went for my personal favorite; a Black Manhattan made with Ranger Creek Single Malt 305 (bold, smooth, unforgettable) and also tried the Pickled Cucumber Jalapeño Martini refreshing with just the right heat and tang. Check out the pics you'll see why I'm still thinking about them, haha! Bonus points: the patio is chill and cigar-friendly, though not a cigar bar per se, so light up with courtesy. Whether you're a well-traveled cocktail nerd, a seasoned local, or just someone looking to seriously upgrade their night out, The Modernist delivers. Don't sleep on this one. Cheers!!
Walked in on a Sunday night and all seats at the bar were taken. I requested a vodka martini drink that was citrusy and not too sweet. Bartender said I could have a seat (couches were available) and she would bring me my drink. She made me a peach martini. It was tasty. Some people left after awhile and I moved to the bar. My second drink was a strawberry vodka drink with a splash of sparkling wine. It was alright. Drinks were good but for $14 each kinda outrageous. Also long wait to get drinks with only one bartender.
Not your typical bar! It's menu-less!! Explain what you like and the bartenders will get creative! Ambience is very cozy and comfortable. & drinks range from $12-15 dollars!
Love this unique cocktail bar. From the outside, it might not look like much, but the old phrase, "don't judge a book by its cover," definitely applies here. I love the menuless theme. The mixologists are great and can make anything you want. I'm a bourbon lover, so I opted for an old fashioned. Hands down, this was one of the best I've ever had. Woot!! I now follow them on IG. If I'm ever in this area, I'm stopping by here!
In a building that was once a boring single family home is now a sophisticated energized drinking establishment. Certainly different conceptually from anything around it. A place that encourages collaboration from patron and bartender. I had two variations of a whiskey sour. Both were proper. Afterwords I was made a bespoke beverage that I cannot remember its contents. A creative space that feels like a genuine party. A locals bar that's not dead on the inside. Get here early to nab a seat at the bar and enjoy something new and special maybe even enjoy 4 new special things. I'm drunk and this is on voice to text I hope it makes sense you
This bar truly is unique! Don't be alarmed when it looks like you're walking into a small home, the indoor was kind of like a dive bar with a decent amount of seating. What makes this place cool is that there is no menu, you simply tell the bartenders what your preference is on spirits and flavor profiles. Each drink we had had a cute presentation. The prices did seem to vary, so I'm not sure how this is determined. The later in the night the busier it got, so patience is needed.
We came in after a Fiesta event just recently to The Modernist since we were looking for a spot to relax and shake off the wet weather. I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was to park (right in front off street parking) and come right in. Do note that this spot is unmarked and unlabeled. You kind of have to know where you are going because this spot looks like someone's house (and might've been before!). There is a yellow mailbox in front and a neon sign in the window that you can see from the street - this is how you will know you arrived. Walking in it was pretty chill. A few areas to seat on a couch-setting and coffee table for your drinks on the right and plenty of bar seating at the bar on the left. There is a patio in the back, with a bar as well, so if it seems too crowded in front go visit the bar staff and bar past the restrooms and outside the patio to the right. This is a no-menu concept spot and bar so be ready to share with the bartender what flavor profiles you are in the mood for. The bartender came out from behind the bar and greeted us. We were impressed he did this and made the experience of coming here so much more personable and comfortable. It negates the feeling you just walked into someone else's party as you will see that many of the other drinkers here are in deep conversations, huddled and smiling together around candlelight, and the lighting really sets the chill mood. This evening we were in the mood for fruity vodka drinks and my BF was feeling like a tiki drink. We were all very happily watching our bartender custom make our drinks behind the bar using ALL fresh ingredients. It was so refreshing to watch a bartender take their time making our cocktails rather than banging it out and trying to move on to the next customer. I felt super happy about my tasty fresh raspberry vodka cocktail. Seating in the back patio was nice to be able to get out of a crowded inside area. There are many condos and new construction at the back of this bar so be aware that you might hear some construction noises in the day but at night it was chill. I liked the peanut-shaped swing/seat outdoors and the picnic tables around the corner to people watch off of E Grayson. We are excited to come back soon when we are back in town as this bar was just the bees knees. This is a great place to bring your friends to an elevated bar in the area that you will be happy you did because of the ambiance and chill vibes The Modernist is.
When you are up for an adventure, The Modernist is the cocktail bar of choice. It's best to know what you like before stepping in-- flavor profiles, sweetness levels, types of liquor-- because these talented bartenders are going to handcraft something tailored just for you. It is a menu-less concept, so you'll probably never get the same thing twice here. Which means you must savor and relish every sip. It's quaint and cozy inside, and you never know what kind of music will be playing (whoever grabs the aux cord for the night) which is just as unpredictable and experimental as the drinks! It feels high brow but is in a super casual setting.
A great cocktail bar needs many things, but a good cocktail bar only needs a few things. The Modernist is a good cocktail bar. The first thing you'll notice about The Modernist is the lack of a menu. Unless you order a classic cocktail, each drink will be made to your taste which is a fun experience. However, having no menu puts massive pressure on mixologists to interpret ingredients well, and I don't believe bartenders here are quite there yet. I love classic cocktails and have ordered many at Modernist. More than once an ingredient in my drink was missed. To their credit, staff caught the errors and created replacements, but the uneasy impression remains. While every drink including the bartender's choices turned out fine, Modernist must aim higher because so much is great here besides the drinks. There's a cozy interior, a fun exterior, friendly staff, and an awesome location, but for some reason I don't see them aiming higher with their drink quality. There's so much potential here and it's just, well, a little disappointing. That said, do come and enjoy the venue. The drinks are a good compliment to a fun time you're sure to have here. It's just a little disappointing that the cocktails aren't the memorable feature that they could be.
1 month ago
2 months ago
I love this place. Getting drinks tailored to put tastes was an amazing experience. The bartenders were pretty cool. Thorough with their questions me and partner got nothing but amazing drinks. The atmosphere was like chilling at someone's house. We'lll definitely come back again. read more
10 months ago
Hands down one of the most unique cocktail experiences in San Antonio. The Modernist doesn't do menus and that's exactly what makes it special. You tell them the spirit you're feeling and the vibe or flavors you're in the mood for, and they craft a cocktail from scratch just for you. Every drink feels intentional, balanced, and elevated. The bartenders actually listen, ask the right questions, and then deliver something that somehow hits perfectly every time. It's not just a cocktail, it's an experience. If you're tired of the same old menu drinks and want something creative, personalized, and next level, this is the spot. Can't recommend it enough. read more
Great bar with even better staff. They have inside and outside seating. Dogs are allowed. You can bring outside food in as well. The inside is small and cozy. A little bit dark, but you get adjusted. They do have a bar inside and outside. The bartender was able to make a drink for my friend that she actually liked. I can't tell you what it was, but it was good and it had gin. I got a an old-fashioned and it was great. Parking is street parking or there is a paid parking lot catty corner to it across the street. read more
11 days ago
2 months ago
11 months ago
My favorite bar we visited on our trip to San Antonio! Was brought here by our local friend. Such a cozy, cool vibe. Bartenders were sweet and friendly. Cocktails were impressively crafted. I had a seasonal salted caramel whiskey sour, the bf had a mezcal old fashioned, and my friend had a lychee martini. All were delicious and well balanced. This place felt alive even on a Monday night. They were also playing the jams so that's always a plus. Fun spot to hang out and we'll definitely be back the next time we're in town! read more
What started as a disappointing dinner turned around fast thanks to The Modernist on Grayson Street. This local gem completely saved our Sunday Funday. From the moment we walked in, it was a whole vibe: retro-loungy décor straight out of the '60s/'70s, with a killer soundtrack spinning alt-country, psychobilly, and groovy vintage tunes. It felt like stepping into a stylish time capsule with serious cocktail cred. NOTE: There's no drink menu here. This is a "tell us what you like, and let the magic happen" kind of place. The bartenders know their craft, and if you're even remotely into cocktails, this will blow your mind. I went for my personal favorite; a Black Manhattan made with Ranger Creek Single Malt 305 (bold, smooth, unforgettable) and also tried the Pickled Cucumber Jalapeño Martini refreshing with just the right heat and tang. Check out the pics you'll see why I'm still thinking about them, haha! Bonus points: the patio is chill and cigar-friendly, though not a cigar bar per se, so light up with courtesy. Whether you're a well-traveled cocktail nerd, a seasoned local, or just someone looking to seriously upgrade their night out, The Modernist delivers. Don't sleep on this one. Cheers!! read more
1 year ago
Walked in on a Sunday night and all seats at the bar were taken. I requested a vodka martini drink that was citrusy and not too sweet. Bartender said I could have a seat (couches were available) and she would bring me my drink. She made me a peach martini. It was tasty. Some people left after awhile and I moved to the bar. My second drink was a strawberry vodka drink with a splash of sparkling wine. It was alright. Drinks were good but for $14 each kinda outrageous. Also long wait to get drinks with only one bartender. read more
4 months ago
Phenomenal service, ambiance and drinks. They curate a cocktail that is suitable and enjoyable for you. I ordered a southside and an espresso martini. Hands down the best espresso martini I've ever had. Highly recommend coming here! Staff is awesome too. read more
7 months ago
7 months ago
3 years ago
Love this unique cocktail bar. From the outside, it might not look like much, but the old phrase, "don't judge a book by its cover," definitely applies here. I love the menuless theme. The mixologists are great and can make anything you want. I'm a bourbon lover, so I opted for an old fashioned. Hands down, this was one of the best I've ever had. Woot!! I now follow them on IG. If I'm ever in this area, I'm stopping by here! read more
In a building that was once a boring single family home is now a sophisticated energized drinking establishment. Certainly different conceptually from anything around it. A place that encourages collaboration from patron and bartender. I had two variations of a whiskey sour. Both were proper. Afterwords I was made a bespoke beverage that I cannot remember its contents. A creative space that feels like a genuine party. A locals bar that's not dead on the inside. Get here early to nab a seat at the bar and enjoy something new and special maybe even enjoy 4 new special things. I'm drunk and this is on voice to text I hope it makes sense you read more
2 years ago
This bar truly is unique! Don't be alarmed when it looks like you're walking into a small home, the indoor was kind of like a dive bar with a decent amount of seating. What makes this place cool is that there is no menu, you simply tell the bartenders what your preference is on spirits and flavor profiles. Each drink we had had a cute presentation. The prices did seem to vary, so I'm not sure how this is determined. The later in the night the busier it got, so patience is needed. read more
3 years ago
We came in after a Fiesta event just recently to The Modernist since we were looking for a spot to relax and shake off the wet weather. I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was to park (right in front off street parking) and come right in. Do note that this spot is unmarked and unlabeled. You kind of have to know where you are going because this spot looks like someone's house (and might've been before!). There is a yellow mailbox in front and a neon sign in the window that you can see from the street - this is how you will know you arrived. Walking in it was pretty chill. A few areas to seat on a couch-setting and coffee table for your drinks on the right and plenty of bar seating at the bar on the left. There is a patio in the back, with a bar as well, so if it seems too crowded in front go visit the bar staff and bar past the restrooms and outside the patio to the right. This is a no-menu concept spot and bar so be ready to share with the bartender what flavor profiles you are in the mood for. The bartender came out from behind the bar and greeted us. We were impressed he did this and made the experience of coming here so much more personable and comfortable. It negates the feeling you just walked into someone else's party as you will see that many of the other drinkers here are in deep conversations, huddled and smiling together around candlelight, and the lighting really sets the chill mood. This evening we were in the mood for fruity vodka drinks and my BF was feeling like a tiki drink. We were all very happily watching our bartender custom make our drinks behind the bar using ALL fresh ingredients. It was so refreshing to watch a bartender take their time making our cocktails rather than banging it out and trying to move on to the next customer. I felt super happy about my tasty fresh raspberry vodka cocktail. Seating in the back patio was nice to be able to get out of a crowded inside area. There are many condos and new construction at the back of this bar so be aware that you might hear some construction noises in the day but at night it was chill. I liked the peanut-shaped swing/seat outdoors and the picnic tables around the corner to people watch off of E Grayson. We are excited to come back soon when we are back in town as this bar was just the bees knees. This is a great place to bring your friends to an elevated bar in the area that you will be happy you did because of the ambiance and chill vibes The Modernist is. read more
6 months ago
When you are up for an adventure, The Modernist is the cocktail bar of choice. It's best to know what you like before stepping in-- flavor profiles, sweetness levels, types of liquor-- because these talented bartenders are going to handcraft something tailored just for you. It is a menu-less concept, so you'll probably never get the same thing twice here. Which means you must savor and relish every sip. It's quaint and cozy inside, and you never know what kind of music will be playing (whoever grabs the aux cord for the night) which is just as unpredictable and experimental as the drinks! It feels high brow but is in a super casual setting. read more
3 years ago
A great cocktail bar needs many things, but a good cocktail bar only needs a few things. The Modernist is a good cocktail bar. The first thing you'll notice about The Modernist is the lack of a menu. Unless you order a classic cocktail, each drink will be made to your taste which is a fun experience. However, having no menu puts massive pressure on mixologists to interpret ingredients well, and I don't believe bartenders here are quite there yet. I love classic cocktails and have ordered many at Modernist. More than once an ingredient in my drink was missed. To their credit, staff caught the errors and created replacements, but the uneasy impression remains. While every drink including the bartender's choices turned out fine, Modernist must aim higher because so much is great here besides the drinks. There's a cozy interior, a fun exterior, friendly staff, and an awesome location, but for some reason I don't see them aiming higher with their drink quality. There's so much potential here and it's just, well, a little disappointing. That said, do come and enjoy the venue. The drinks are a good compliment to a fun time you're sure to have here. It's just a little disappointing that the cocktails aren't the memorable feature that they could be. read more
This is the cutest retro/modern bar by far! From the street it doesn't look like it would be a bad but it was so cool! You enter through the orange front door & they have a cozy and intimate seating for groups as well as counter with bar stools. It was too busy for us to sit inside, so we ventured to the patio portion & it was just as great! Our bartender was so nice & made us a drink of his choice. Will absolutely be coming back. read more
4 years ago
I am so glad The Modernist survived the really hard years of the pandemic! The esposo and I visited The Modernist for the first time since 2020 and we had the best time. It was so nice to just be back in a bar and see them thriving and doing well. The indoor area was really full so we decided to check out their outdoor area. They've added a second bar outside which specializes in tequila and rum cocktails. We told the bartender what kind of drinks we like and he prepared a cocktail for us. I can't remember exactly what it was, but it was absolutely delicious! It was so good it made me realize why we used to go to bars in the first place. Can't wait to go back in the fall when is a little cooler outside, and grab another drink or two with friends. read more
I used to go here often pre pandemic, and I was curious what it was like since it's under new ownership. The vibe is still what you would expect from other reviews--dark, cozy and intimate. The bartenders were approachable and friendly. I decided not to drink and I'm glad I did--I had an incredible mocktail that was similar to a Paloma. It blew me away. It was so fresh and had a hint of rhubarb that really took it to the next level. I will definitely be back for a date night with my hubby soon. read more
First time trying this cute, EXTREMELY cozy bar. Maaaaan it was so chill and the mixologist are absolutely amazing at their craft! They will help you find your taste and will try out flavors you mentioned. Music on point (im a musician myself) once i heard some Frank Ocean playing... was sold! Try it out yall, it's so chill, couches, comfy chairs and bar stools. I recommend! Amazing service too btw! I drank amazing cosmo with a twist! read more
If you love unique cocktails you must visit The Modernist. They don't have a drink menu and they will make a custom cocktail just for you. The mixologist will even remember the drinks they made for you if you become a regular. The Modernist has something very unique and I've only found it at The Modernist in Texas. The only other place that I know that has it is in Las Vegas. They have the Szechuan Button(I gave them a bunch of them recently). I gifted them to The Modernist because I love the place that much. It's my go to spot for great cocktails. The "Szechuan Button" goes by many names, including "buzz button," paracress, "toothache plant" and its botanical name, Acmella oleracea. When you chew it, the sensation is like having a sparkler in your mouth, but without the second degree burns. It numbs. It tingles. It's an explosion of sensation, and you haven't even gotten to the liquid part of the cocktail yet. The combination of the refreshing cocktail and the way the Szechuan Button makes your mouth feel is like nothing else. Just take a sip of the cocktail before eating the Szechuan Button. Then eat the Szechuan Button and move it around your mouth. Just give it about ten seconds and your mouth won't be the same for five to ten minutes. The next time you are near the Pearl stop by The Modernist for amazing cocktails. I always get great customer service and they always have a positive attitude. David,Austin and Daylin are some of the mixologists that work there. They will take good care of you. You can thank me later. Enjoy my friends! read more
9 months ago
1 year ago
1 year ago
Ok, so I've been wanting to come here for awhile. We had dinner across the street at Restaurant Claudine and decided to kill two birds with one stone, especially since The Modernist was directly across the street. I had totally forgotten that the concept is that there is no menu and the bartender will create a unique drink for you based on picking your spirit or some ingredients. The inside (although very small) was already full even though it was before 9pm on a Saturday. The crowd was an interesting mix, younger bar hoppers only drinking beer and hipsters to stylish empty nesters and Harley Davidson fans. I'm glad I didn't get as far as asking for a menu while waiting at the bar. The bartender walked up to us from around the bar and asked if we wanted espresso martinis. I love espresso martinis but I was a bit taken aback, like do I give off espresso martini vibes and what does that even say about my appearance? Are espresso martinis the new apple martinis?? Anyway, I had already spotted a case of Dr Pepper on the bar and asked if he could make me a cocktail with it. Considering that I had forgotten this was a custom cocktail bar, I'm sure this question was insulting to his skills. He said yes and what did I want with it? Well, I'm not the bartender and asked what he suggested. He said banana and blackberry. I agreed, i love those fruits! He asked what spirit. I probably would've said vodka but that seemed kinda boring so I told him to choose. I spotted some empty seats so I saved those while my husband waited at the bar for our drinks. He said everyone was paying attention when my drink was being made. I'm not sure what spirit was used after all but it may have been vodka or something slightly bitter. It was topped with whip cream and garnished with small yellow fruit, kumquats maybe. I saw someone stop my husband as he was walking towards me asking about the drink. Anyhoo, It tasted like a fruity but slightly bitter Dr Pepper. Interesting, not sure I'd crave it but now I'd definitely interested in having more custom drinks. I did end up ordering an espresso martini, it wasn't garnished with three beans as I like and I saw where someone posted a photo of theirs served with a cup of coffee beans so I guess it just depends on who makes your drink. It was fine, I've had better, but this is probably a boring drink for them to make here. I can understand that the bartenders probably get frustrated with those that don't know the concept but now that I know what it is, I would go back with all sort of ideas in mind. Nice mix of music, 70s classic rock to modern day indie. read more
This is of my favorite spots in San Antonio! The drinks are always amazing and the service is awesome. My friends and I like to come here at the end of the week to catch up and the atmosphere is always perfect. Even on a busy day like Friday, they always have adequate seating for my group and I. On top of the great drinks, service, and ambiance, their drinks are relatively inexpensive. The entire place was very clean, both inside and outside. They had someone continuously looking around for empty glasses and tidying up, which I can always appreciate. Something I very much enjoy is their outdoor bar. Not only can you chill outside but you can order drinks there as well. Parking has always been pretty easy for my friends and I but as usual when drinking, I recommend getting dropped off or finding a dd to come along. If parking, there are several side streets with ample space if you don't mind the short walk. In conclusion, I would highly recommend this spot. read more
Our experience at the Modernist trumps any other bar experience I've ever had. I love the menu-less concept which gives you the chance to say what you want and have the bartender run with it. Our bartender Ashanti was AMAZING at taking in our taste profiles and making magic. We sat at the bar so we saw the bartenders work through making drinks, tasting as they went. All ingredients used are homemade and fresh. Drinks are unique to you. The bar is small and can feel a bit crowded at times but we had a fantastic time. The bartenders are very attentive and friendly. I will most CERTAINLY be returning. read more
2 years ago
I love it here. Fun, unique drinks. If you're adventurous, let the bartender make you whatever they want! Everything was great!! Love the speakeasy vibe read more
1 year ago
Very interesting cocktail bar in an up and coming area east of downtown. I used yelp's directions to find it. At night, look for the lights in the backyard, and leading to the backyard. You can enter the front door, but many enter through the back door. This is the type of place for cocktail drinkers. Yes, they have a couple beers on tap, but if you're ordering a cocktail, you should know what you like. No menu, just expert mixologists that will make you exactly what you ask for. If you don't like it, no matter how long it takes, they'll make it right or make something different for you. That's automatic 5 star service right there. Although they have a spanning selection of hard liquors, liqueurs, garnishes, etc... I asked the bartender for two boozy tiki drinks, which took ages to make, but tasted so great, so fresh...and just a different refreshing take than I've ever tasted before. Kudos to the mixologist that night, I didn't get his name, but he wore glasses and was on point with everything. A must stop in SA if you like cocktails or dimly lit places. read more
This is, low-key, one of the best bars in San Antonio. Located in an unassuming, unlabeled home, you'll be greeted with dim lighting and a relaxed ambiance when you walk in. This place makes for a great date night spot to enjoy unique cocktails and cozy up on one of the couches in the space. There's also an outdoor lounge if hanging out outside surrounded by twinkling lights is more up your alley. :) What I really love about this place are the bartenders. You won't find a drink menu at The Modernist. The bartenders are prepped and ready to make any drink or cocktail you could probably request, but what makes this place truly unique is if you tell the bartender what type of liquor or flavors you like in your drink they'll whip up a concoction on the spot for you. I've gone both routes and have never been disappointed. Check them out during your next night out. You won't be disappointed. read more
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More info about The Modernist
516 E Grayson St
San Antonio, TX 78215
Government Hill
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(210) 901-8646
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