Drinking cocktails at Here Nor There bar in Austin, Texas

Here Nor There Austin is a reservation-only speakeasy in Austin, Texas, known for its exclusive vibe, hidden entrance, and high-end cocktails priced between $30 and $50.

Located at 612 Brazos Street, this intimate bar accommodates just 55 guests and creates a luxurious yet cozy atmosphere with vintage-inspired decor and international design elements. Reservations are made through a dedicated app, which provides a secret entry code for access. The bar is famous for its theatrical touches, like a taxidermy bear greeting guests with champagne, and its globally influenced cocktail menu crafted by experienced mixologists. Open from 5 PM to 12 AM (Sunday-Wednesday) and until 1 AM (Thursday-Saturday), Here Nor There offers a curated experience for cocktail enthusiasts seeking an elevated night out in Austin.

Reservations and Entry Process

How to Book Your Visit

To book a reservation, download the dedicated mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. Once you've created a profile and submitted your reservation request, you'll receive a confirmation email containing a secret door code. The app lets you choose between booking as a house guest or a member, and the code grants you access to this hidden speakeasy.

Ninoska Hall from Beauty Essxape shared her experience, noting it took about a week to secure a confirmed booking when she made her reservation in 2024. If you're aiming for a weekend visit, planning ahead is a must.

The Entry Experience

Armed with your secret code, head to 612 Brazos Street. Walk north from the Driskill Hotel and look for the keypad gate on your left. Enter your code to unlock the gate, revealing a narrow alley that leads to the entrance where staff will greet you. From there, descend a stairwell adorned with an intricate black-and-white mural, guiding you to the lounge tucked below street level.

At the bottom of the stairs, you'll be welcomed by a life-size taxidermy bear holding a tray with either complimentary palate cleansers or a glass of sparkling wine. Lindsey Volz, recalling her work trip in October 2024, described being greeted with "a mini champagne and escorted to the bar" after completing the entry process.

This unique entry experience perfectly sets the mood for the cozy, vintage atmosphere waiting inside.

Hours and Capacity

Here Nor There operates from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM Sunday through Wednesday and extends hours until 1:00 AM on Thursday through Saturday. Reservations are offered in timed slots, which can be as short as two hours depending on your party size, so careful planning is crucial.

Interior Design and Atmosphere

Vintage Style and Intimate Setting

Step into Here Nor There, a dimly lit speakeasy that feels worlds apart from the usual Austin bar scene. Nestled below street level, it offers what its founders describe as a "private lamp-lit hideaway" and a "refuge wrapped in limestone somewhere underground". The ambiance is carefully curated to transport guests into a setting that feels both timeless and unique.

The design merges classic and modern influences, creating a look uncommon in Austin. Creative Director Jessica Thompson sums it up perfectly: "We want to show things that people aren't used to seeing in Austin". The result is a space that exudes the cosmopolitan charm of cities like New York, Los Angeles, or London.

One room features walls adorned with antique plates sourced from around the globe, while hand-blown glass light fixtures from the Czech Republic add an elegant glow from above. These international details reflect the diverse experiences of the founders and staff. As Director of Operations Nik Zoylinos puts it, "the international mindset is prevalent in everything the speakeasy stands for".

The bar’s layout is designed for intimacy, with seating for just 55 guests. Think plush sofas, a bar area, a semi-private room lit by candlelight and decorated with antique plates, and cozy booths near the entrance. The contrast between the softly lit seating areas and the glowing bar creates an inviting space where guests can escape from the outside world.

Visitors often rave about the atmosphere. Jordan B. shared,

"Inside, there were so many intimate areas to sip your cocktails in - small nooks/booths, table seating, bar area, etc. It was truly a great experience at Here Nor There!"

Another guest, Jalai G., noted,

"we were seated in a nook so although the place is small, we felt nicely to ourselves."

Every detail is intentional, from the branded ice cubes to the menus and coasters. Creative Director Jessica Thompson explains,

"Because we are creating an experience, we pay attention to every single visual element. This includes the design of the menu, the design of the coaster, and all of the art that is in the space."

Beyond its striking décor, Here Nor There also enforces thoughtful policies to enhance its intimate and distraction-free environment.

Bar Etiquette and Policies

To maintain its sophisticated atmosphere, Here Nor There limits photography, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience without outside distractions. This rule encourages visitors to focus on their company and the cocktails, adding to the bar’s private, exclusive feel.

With seating for just 55 people, the space ensures that conversations remain relaxed and personal. Whether guests choose the lively bar area or a secluded nook, the layout reinforces the sense of exclusivity and comfort that defines Here Nor There.

Cocktail Menu and Drinks

Featured Cocktails

The cocktail menu at Here Nor There is more than just a list of drinks - it's an exploration of flavors from around the world, brought to life through expert techniques and high-quality ingredients.

• "Tropic Thunder": A vibrant combination of tropical flavors with a sophisticated edge, evoking the warmth and allure of sunny destinations.

• "From Russia With Love": A harmonious blend of Eastern European spirits and modern mixology, offering a drink that's both classic and forward-thinking.

• "Shake What Umami Gave Ye": A daring creation that introduces unexpected umami flavors to the cocktail scene, pushing the boundaries of conventional mixology.

Menu Structure and Pricing

The menu at Here Nor There is thoughtfully curated to highlight the bar's dedication to craftsmanship and global influences. Each drink is a carefully crafted experience, designed to tell a story through its flavors and presentation.

Cocktails are priced between $30 and $50, reflecting the use of top-tier ingredients and the artistry involved in their preparation. This pricing aligns with the bar’s goal of offering an exclusive and immersive experience, where every sip embodies creativity and attention to detail.

Alternative Beverage Options

For those seeking something beyond cocktails, Here Nor There offers a selection of premium wines and meticulously crafted non-alcoholic beverages. These alternatives are crafted with the same level of care and innovation as the cocktails, ensuring every guest enjoys a memorable drinking experience, regardless of their preference.

Service and Staff

The Mixologists

At Here Nor There, the mixologists, led by founders James Huertas and Terance Robson, bring a wealth of experience from some of the top bars across Ireland, London, and beyond. This global influence is unmistakable in every cocktail they craft, blending technique with creativity.

Managing Director Terance Robson shares the dedication that goes into their work:

"I focus on extensive pre-service preparation; drinks like The Milk and Honey require over 30 hours to perfect."

It’s not just about technical skill - these mixologists know the story behind every ingredient and cocktail, offering guests a guided experience through a menu that’s as intricate as it is exciting.

Service Style and Special Touches

The service team at Here Nor There takes the guest experience to the next level, blending expert hospitality with a touch of theater. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne or sparkling wine, setting the tone for an elegant evening.

Details matter here. Custom branded ice cubes, cocktails served with dramatic flair, and a menu designed with artistic precision all contribute to an immersive atmosphere. Even the small touches, like decorative coasters and curated art, reflect the thoughtfulness behind the experience.

Attentive table service rounds out the offering. Staff guide guests through the menu with care, providing detailed explanations and thoughtful recommendations. Extras like complimentary dessert drinks add a layer of warmth and hospitality that’s hard to forget. This commitment to excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed - Here Nor There boasts an impressive 4.7/5 rating on Google from 715 reviews.

Despite the upscale ambiance and the meticulous craftsmanship of the cocktails, the vibe remains approachable. Director of Operations Nik Zoylinos sums it up perfectly:

"We just want people to have a good time, love all of our drinks, and love what we do. It doesn't matter who you are, anyone can come down and have a high-end cocktail or a pint of Guinness."

Planning Your Visit

When it comes to planning your visit to Here Nor There, timing and budgeting are key. With its exclusive vibe and limited seating, a bit of preparation goes a long way.

Booking Challenges

Securing a reservation at Here Nor There is no small feat. The bar has just 55 seats, and its growing reputation means spots fill up quickly. Reservations are allocated in 2-hour time slots, tailored to the size of your party. To improve your chances, download the app and set up your profile well in advance. For those looking to skip the hassle, the invite-only membership program offers perks like priority booking access.

Understanding these hurdles helps you manage expectations around availability and cost.

Cost and Value

Here Nor There belongs to Austin's premium cocktail scene, and the prices reflect that exclusivity. Expect to pay $30 to $50 per cocktail, which aligns with the bar's dedication to artisanal drinks and high-quality ingredients. For those who plan to visit often, the $500 annual membership might be worth considering. Membership benefits include priority reservations, discounts on pop-up events, and access to rare spirits [1, 14].

Nik Zoylinos, the bar's Director of Operations, captures the essence of their approach:

"Bartending for us is about flavors; it's the same principal as with a chef. The taste should be simple for you, but it's not simple for us."

With rising liquor costs adding to the premium pricing, every detail - from drink preparation to ambiance - is carefully curated to deliver a unique experience.

Tips for Your Visit

• Download the app early. Setting up your profile ahead of time gives you an edge when reservations open.

• Be flexible with your schedule. Weeknight slots (Sunday through Wednesday) are typically easier to snag than weekends.

• Plan your budget. Expect to spend $30 to $50 per person for cocktails.

• Arrive on time. Bring your confirmation email and be punctual to avoid losing your spot. The alleyway entry adds a fun, speakeasy twist to the experience.

• Consider membership. Locals or frequent visitors might find the priority booking and other perks well worth the investment.

A little planning ensures you’ll enjoy everything this exclusive bar has to offer.

Final Thoughts on Here Nor There

Here Nor There stands out as one of Austin's most sought-after cocktail spots, and it’s easy to see why. The bar offers a carefully curated, immersive experience that goes beyond just drinks.

From stepping through the enigmatic alley gate to savoring your first sip of a perfectly crafted cocktail, every moment feels deliberately orchestrated. The attention to detail is evident in everything - from the dramatic entrance to the cozy, vintage-inspired setting that whisks you away to a different time.

Yes, the premium prices and the need to reserve through their app might take a bit of effort, but for cocktail lovers and those chasing a true speakeasy vibe, Here Nor There delivers an experience that’s hard to match in Austin.