Halcyon

One of my favorite coffee spots downtown! I always had great experiences here and today was even more spectacular - I made an error in my order and the staff was so kind to correct it for me even though it was completely my fault. Highly recommend this place and the Thai Tea is THE BEST 😋

Welcoming coffee spot and bar at a major downtown corner with several tables inside and out under a shade awning. They offer both alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks, many coffee options, and are in easy walking distance of downtown attractions. There is paid street parking available on nearby streets.

Stumbled into Sunday drag brunch with only 2 singles!!! What a bummer! We'll be back to make it rain. Great crowd, femcee and performers. Oh yeah drinks--good ones.

I usually have good experiences at Halcyon and it’s been one of my go-to spots to work or meet friends. However, today was really disappointing and honestly disheartening. I came in to get some work done, like I often do, and sat down first to settle in before ordering—something I’ve done many times without issue. Out of nowhere, a staff member (the same one mentioned in several other negative reviews, beard and trucker hat) started yelling at me from across the room behind the counter. At first, I didn’t even think he could be speaking to me, it was that loud and aggressive. He then walked up to me with a visible attitude and said, “When you’re ready, you order at the counter,” in a tone that made it feel like he was accusing me of loitering or planning not to order. After that, he continued to stand in one spot and stare me down from across the room, making me so uncomfortable that I decided to just leave. It’s unfortunate because I genuinely enjoy Halcyon and want to continue supporting it, but no one should be treated like that, especially at a place known for being laid back and welcoming at all. I felt the need to add my voice to the growing number of reviews about this particular employee, because this kind of behavior is not a good look for such a great local spot. Hope he realizes the more he treats people like this, the more negative reviews Halcyon will inevitably receive.

A great coffee establishment in downtown Austin. The coffees were good, plenty of seating and fantastic ambiance.

Halcyon is a true downtown Austin gem – a hipster coffee shop in the best sense of the word. The atmosphere here is exactly what you want from a vibrant, lively café: a perfect mix of laid-back energy and creative buzz. From the moment you step inside, it feels like a place you could easily spend hours in, whether you’re working, meeting friends, or simply soaking in the vibe. The coffee is well-prepared and flavorful. We enjoyed a flat white and a Cortado coffee, both made with care. Service is friendly without being overbearing, adding to the relaxed yet attentive mood of the place. There’s a large bar counter that doubles as an alcoholic bar – another great reason to linger into the afternoon or evening. One of the best aspects of Halcyon is the crowd. The people who come here – creatives, students, remote workers, locals – really shape the space and give it a lively, authentic character. Even if you’re just visiting Austin, spending some time at Halcyon makes you feel like you’re tapping into the heart of the city. Absolutely recommend stopping by for coffee, a drink, or just a taste of Austin’s real local vibe.

Best Matchatini on Earth!!! 🌍 Took a picture but the poor thing didn't have a chance it was so delicious 😋

Server was rude. Probably the same person mentioned in previous posts. Wears a hat, beard, hair in a bun. He just doesn’t acknowledge you, never says hello, always single word answers, blank stares, but sure loves talking with his buddies at the bar (probably regulars). I can get over that as it’s a decent place to post up for a bit and have lunch/coffee. I asked for a water, and the server provided one. All good up to this point with getting things quickly when asked. Then I get to near the end of drinking the water and it’s filled with filth, debris, and bugs! It is likely the ice machine not ever being cleaned or maintained. Disgusting and I’m worried about getting food poisoning. This is purely unacceptable and this place is a hazard to your health. Never coming back from that alone. Do better. Seriously so disgusting. I am strongly considering filing a complaint with the state health department.

Halcyon has lots to offer, they have a full bar, lots of coffee and teas, baked goods and more. There's covered seating outside, lots of seating inside from couches to tables. Our service was good. I had a turmeric ginger iced tea. It was served within minutes of ordering. They have martinis to choose from, I believe you may have to order a food item also in order to receive it on the weekend before 12pm although. Overall chill vibes, a nice place to stop for coffee or anything else you might be in the mood for.

Came here before a night out with the girls around 10pm to get some drinks. This place is very interesting at night because the decor looks like a coffee shop with the paintings and sofas but the atmosphere felt like a bar which I really enjoyed. The espresso martini was super delicious- but the matcha martini was super unique and the best drink I've ever had! It was pretty sweet and had a really great flavor, definitely recommend getting that one. We also ordered the blueberry hibiscus tea but I don't recommend it was pretty watered down. Overall a great experience, would definitely come back before a night out again!

The service and coffee/tea is always great! Cannot say the same for the ambiance or food compared to the original San Antonio location I was a regular at. It's such a shame as I've returned several times, but I choose to get the coffee to go. I was turned away several times with my service animal and felt unwelcome.

Service was fast, and super friendly. The art work on the walls is awesome. Cute ambiance and nooks to sit comfortably and have an iced latte.

This was a place we had not tried, we had tickets to Whose Line is it Anyway? later that night at Paramount but were taking it easy and slow just enjoying the day. We choose this place as it has coffee and booze, as I have stated many times coffee shops are not in my comfort zone but as this place is also a bar I felt more at home then usual. Since it was the first time lets go over Pluses and Minuses. We took an Uber so didn't pay attention to parking. PLUSES: Pretty large area with different types of seating from tables and chairs to corner nooks and big comfy chairs like a seating room. You had options and lots of workspace with outlets. Super chill and relaxed atmosphere, you don't feel that rush or anxiety you get from some coffee shops when you order. This has a downside that I will get to in Minus. The drinks and coffee were very good. They had some unique drinks and we just chilled and enjoyed the relaxed mood. I don't remember if they had food but we didn't get anything. The staff was friendly and pretty fast, it wasn't busy at all, just a few people so not sure how it is if it gets busy. MINUS: This ties into the 2nd plus. The people ordering before us either knew the employee or were just friendly which is great and I am not knocking the laid back vibe but knowing there are people waiting when there wasn't before maybe move over, talk the employee more once we ordered. Just felt like we didn't matter. I didn't use the restroom but Shana did and she was very grossed out. Said it SUPER gross and the wooden planks felt spongy, she even felt they could give out and she would break through to whatever was below!! Still it was a chill place I wouldn't mind going back to and that is something for a mostly coffee shop.

Nice atmosphere and the service was fine but it would be nice to have regular white sugar for my coffee instead of just simple syrup. It made the coffee taste "oily". Also the ability to add my own cream would have been a +. Most important, my coffee was "warm" at best. It's a coffee house after all, take pride in your product!! Won't be back.

Always love me some Halcyon. A party vibe at this location. It's been there a long time so it holds a lot of memories for me & my friends. They have food, coffee AND alcohol, so win win...win. A little something for everyone! Staff have the bartender vibe. Meh.

Coffee and chorizo burrito were good! Service was nice and very chill place. Recommend if in the area. Cappuccino coffee with caramel.

Came in for the cabaret show on August 12th and it was the best time. The talent was incredible, the vibe of the audience was amazing too. Halcyon is a really cute place and the staff were very welcoming despite how busy it was. The cocktails were amazing and the food was really tasty. I would visit again to try the coffee and tea options.

It's like they completely gave up. The place is now in disrepair. It's dirty, walls are cracked and falling apart. The men's room is just blocked off indefinitely. Everyone uses the remaining two stall restroom and one of the stalls doesn't even have a lock.

Obviously my favorite spot in austin. Underrated gem with the best cocktails and staff downtown.

Like others, my friend and I were drawn to Halcyon for the s'mores. Other bars downtown offer them during the holiday season, but to my knowledge Halcyon is the only place that offers them year round. We found out the hard way that even on a warm night they are popular and may run out. Fortunately with some planning ahead our mission to try their s'mores was successful on a recent Saturday night around 8 pm. As a bar and coffee shop, you have to order from the cashier and have your drinks and order brought to you. There was ample seating when we ordered but the empty tables had not been cleaned. There was a nice table for two in the corner and we politely asked if someone could clean it off. The cashier had said she'd send someone over but when no one came, we politely asked the bartender toting a washcloth who did it but seemed annoyed about it. Unfortunately as soon as we sat down we found the table was remarkably wobbly and had to move. Service after that was reasonably good for a coffee shop. The drinks and s'mores were politely dropped off. When we chatted too long and the fire went out on our flame the person who replaced our flame for us was incredibly sweet and friendly, standing out from the rest of the staff we encountered on our visit. But about the s'mores. I'd actually just had s'mores at The Edge bar a few days prior and Halcyon's flame and presentation was better but I found it a little odd that the graham crackers and the chocolate came out wrapped. Beyond that, well they were s'mores, so all the warm gooey marshmellowishness and melty chocolate you'd expect. I do have to say that it would have been nice to see them take it up a notch and go for gourmet chocolate and graham crackers but I guess as a regular thing it works better for them to stick with the classic form. Along with our s'mores my friend and I each indulged in an expresso martini. The price was on par with other downtown bars and they didn't skimp on the alcohol. It was an enjoyable experience overall but better service and better upkeep on the tables would have improved our experience.

Great strong coffee for a great price! We stopped in here for a quick coffee while we were waiting to get picked up for a bar tour. It wasn't super busy in here so we were hoping our ordering process would be quick. It absolutely was! We ordered and got our coffee in probably 5 minutes or less, so that was really great. Coffee taste is very important to my wife and I, an Halcyon nails it with their coffee quality, especially at this location!

Always a good vibe. There must have been a holiday social there this time. A lot if people. DJ spun good music. Pumpkin spice latte decaf was delicious. Peachy keen cocktail was also delicious.

I always come here for the AMAZING matcha martini made by Collie. It's so good, I come just for that, and the other bartenders are always super nice!! Tre greets with a big smile and great energy. I always refer people here because of them and I'll keep coming back!

Not sure why halcyon gets mediocre reviews, the coffee was come of the best I have gotten in Austin and the atmosphere is super relaxing and allows for a productive work space. The staff wasn't the nicest when I asked questions about some of the coffee which is why I give it 4 stars but overall the americano with almond milk and chaga was delicious, well worth the 7$!

Stopped in a for a quick morning Latte- creamy milk over smooth coffee made to order while I waited in under 60 seconds. Cool atmosphere and very welcoming staff! Looking forward to many more visits! Prices very reasonable- Latte $4.50, Regular coffee $3

I have never been to a place with more rude employees than this one. I live nearby and wanted to like it. Just walked in there this morning and had the guy at the front just grumble at me "I'm busy. Not taking your order" without even looking up. This is the third time I've gotten some weird attitude after daring to step foot inside. Never again.

Kind of chaotic in here and the Thai iced coffee was just okay. Willing to chalk the mess up to pride weekend and try again later because I loved the welcoming vibe and decor and some of the food and cocktails on the menu looked promising.

I'm sure everyone knows their coffee, but this is a PSA reminder not to sleep on their booze! I hate dressing up for the bar. I occasionally prefer drinking and mingling with my group, and only my group. I'm into spots where they're not blaring loud music, and there's enough light for me to see the menu. Check. Check. Check. If you too are like me, then this is your spot! They offer a variety of seating options, and although seating is not plentiful, and full back seats are sparse, if you can find a seat, it's worth it! They make a remarkably smooth and flavorful chocolate espresso martini, and an even better not so thin mint cocktail. The staff was kind and casual. I'll certainly be back when I can't decide between coffee or a cocktail!

This place serves the best coffee craft cocktails! I can't wait to go back! Great atmosphere. Chic vibe.

Halcyon is such an underrated coffee shop. I always end up getting their iced vanilla latte. They make it just the way I like - super strong and super sweet. Parking is a bit of a hassle since the shop is located right on 2nd St, but the service is quick enough that you don't have to worry about paying for street parking. Recommend this location over the North Austin location though.

Cute coffee shop! Came here for a private event but it was a very nice venue to have the space if you wanted to do like a cute casual party or something. Coffee was nice. Their egg and bacon burrito wrap was good, I was not a huge fan of their waffles. Overall looks like a chill coffee shop/bar to come hang out at

I'd like to start a petition to have these bamboozlers remove Vietnamese Coffee from their menu or relabel this drink as something else. It's a disgusting watered down ice coffee that has no business calling itself Vietnamese Coffee.

First off with saying I have been countless times in the past. Those times just were in and out moments. Always thought good things of this space. Today is the main reason I had to write a review. My team and I ended up here since we needed to work dt today. We had started off at a different space but came here because the space was better. We needed better inside seating along with wifi (That Worked) and an option to plug in if needed. Boom Halcyon got us covered. The staff was amazing The food we had was stunning. (A few coffee drinks and a tea along with some sandwiches) The music. (Who's ever playlist that was today) Everything was perfect. We all said that we would for-sure be heading back here if we need to work from Dt again. Only reason not 5 stars was parking was tough. It's not on them but still. Would be cool if they had a partnership with a garage around the area. (Which they may have i didn't ask) Would highly highly recommend

Years later, it's still a 3-star -- and yet it has so much promise. The reason we know about its promise is because Halcyon used to nail it all -- physical space, service, crowd, menu, seating comfort, etc. One night last weekend we waited in a line to order a cocktail and then we waited 10+ minutes for our drink (let's face it, it was almost 15 mins) -- even though it very definitely was not crowded. (Now the one cashier takes all drink orders -- whereas previously all of the bartenders would take and make your order. So they now treat ordering a drink as if you're ordering a meal -- and your order takes as long to prepare as a meal even if it's merely a drink.) It could and should be a 5-star spot -- and the reason we're confident is saying that is because it used to be a 5-star. We won't give up on Halcyon, though!

Great coffee and atmosphere. This was a nice place to enjoy coffee during our Austin trip.

Cool spot! We've been twice and enjoyed it both times. We were able to try some seasonal cocktails this time around! Service was great as well! I'd recommend stopping in if you get the chance!

Nice atmosphere and genuine people here. Great Coffé cocktails! Art is here!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love the chill queer vibe here. Right across the street from some gay bars, so has a nice spillover affect. Good coffee and café food menu, but apparently they also have alcohol! S'mores: This totally brought out the little kid in me. Nothing bougie or artisanal. Just Honey Maid graham crackers and Hershey chocolate, but still wrapped up in original packaging, alongside marshmallows. The ratio is 6 marshmallows in the 2 person order and 12 marshmallows in the 4 person order. Unless you're looking for just a taste, I'd actually recommend the 4 person for 2 people, so you can really indulge. A nice strong flame in the center so you can practice your marshmallow roasting. Açaí Bowl: Perhaps a tad healthier than s'mores. A huge portion of cold thick açaí at the bottom. Some fresh huge blueberries alongside banana slices. With a little granola for crunch. Perfect for breakfast or even a dessert-like meal anytime.

Halcyon Coffee is a great spot for coffee and drinks in Austin! The cafe has a very casual vibe, and it's exemplified in the folks that are drawn to it. I recently spent a few hours at Halcyon in an afternoon with some friends, and we had a great experience of being able to relax, chat, have a few drinks and catch up. Their coffees are fantastic, and the alcoholic beverages are solid as well - I had a Mocha Latte that hit the spot perfectly (good taste and excellent temperature, what more can you ask for?). I will say the Iced Chai that I had was a smidge on the sweet side, had too much cinnamon, and was lighter than I'd expect, so maybe just skip that one. The S'mores snack was fantastic and just a cute/ unique experience for a coffee shop/ lounge - I can't say I've ever seen something like that where you get a little campfire brought to your table and get to roast marshmallows indoors! Overall I'd definitely recommend Halcyon - great drinks, great service, and a solid experience!

I really love their cold brew coffee! I typically get my cold brew with vanilla, hazelnut and oat milk. Service is typically efficient friendly. Whats's really intriguing is the interior design, a lot of Austin art, with modern furniture that is great for relaxing. I don't necessarily Cindy this a busy coffee shop, so if you want to to have a study/work space, it can definitely be a good go to spot. Also, they serve other beverages besides coffee if you're not a caffeine head like I am. Enjoy your coffee inside, or take a walk at the park right across the street!

Rude and the coffee was nasty. I asked for a drop of vanilla and it was full of it. I left it outside on the ledge. It was a small and was 7! Come on! Nasty and the dude was rude as hell. I miss Austin.

My boyfriend found this place while we were walking around downtown Austin looking for coffee. This place is amazing!! Prices are on point. Coffee is fantastic. Service is great! Staff is helpful. Everyone was socially distanced and wearing masks unless eating or drinking. The smores set up is awesome! We loved making our own s'mores indoors! Hershey's chocolate of course lol. Definitely Recommend! The lattes with almond milk are excellent. I also love the chaggaccino! Happy they have milk alternatives and mushroom coffee!! Awesome!! Great little spot. They have outdoor seating as well as indoor. We came here a few times while in Austin. Definitely recommend!! The coffee is fantastic!!

I met up with a friend here for coffee and ordered Chai. I truly understand that most places buy a pre-mixed box that they add milk to so I can't sincerely fault them if it's not great but I don't think it should be terrible either - which was my experience with their chai. While I don't want to blame a coffee house for having bad chai, I hold them responsible for intentionally serving something subpar because they could choose to not serve it if they don't have access to a decent quality one. Staff were also not quite polite and our barista took his sweet, sweet time making our drinks. Anyway, the only reason I'm giving it 3 stars is that my friend loved his coffee and we got to watch a surprise, free drag show! Any place of business that supports our queens have my love and support so I added one star for it. I might go back for a drag show but will certainly never get chai here again nor do I recommend it.

I've been to both locations multiple times and the staff has always been friendly and kind. The drinks are great, and it's a cool pregame spot if you're planning to go out clubbing on 4th street. It's a tad bit pricey, but not in comparison to every other bar/ coffee shop around here. Overall I would recommend if you'd like somewhere chill to grab a drink and have a conversation with a date or some friends.

This place is amazing, from the area it is located in to the energy of the business. The inside is very homey and a great place to read & get things done. Or come and have some drinks with friends! Very kind and fun staff. The bartender Isaiah is amazing and makes the best espresso martini. That was the best espresso martini I have ever had. This is my new favorite spot so I now I have to implement discipline or I will be spending my $ here everyday tehe. Fuck it, I'm on my way there right now.

Great everything. Excellent work/study spot. My only gripe is parking is impossible. I have been twice and got lucky. The other three times I went back I couldn't find a single walkable parking location.

Food wasn't bad, but it took 30 mins on a Sunday when there weren't many people. Also the "chips" were clearly breakfast potatoes. Spicy chicken sandwich was pretty good but overall it wasn't what I was expecting. If we come back I will just grab a muffin or pastry.

I came here on Friday and had to come back Saturday because Charlie made me the best matcha green tea latte! It literally was a pick me up for my soul. I returned on Saturday and was bummed not to see Charlie but I did get a pretty good green tea matcha from one of the guys. I like this place and Charlie. I'll be back when I'm in town from Houston!

What a fun place to come to in winter! I ordered a very nice latte (see picture below) and an adorable mini s'mores kit for me and my friends to enjoy while sheltering from the Austin cold! It was such a fun and cozy activity to do with friends in the winter. Highly recommend!

Terrible service. Person working the counter was very rude and disrespectful to our party. The drinks and food took far too long to prep and was cold by the time we received our meal.

I wish I could give more stars, but as others have mentioned, the bathroom and overall upkeep of Halcyon dragged the rating down for me. I've always had a pleasant experience with the staff and I enjoy their coffee. Also, sharing the s'mores with friends is a great way to wrap up the night. I used to visit Halcyon years ago while going to UT and my recent visits shocked me. The paint and furniture could use a refresh and the bathroom is really bad. It really makes me question their cleanliness policies and it does not give me confidence that they take pride in their business. Halcyon has been a favorite in Austin so I hope they can make some changes.

Wanna have coffee in a really cool Austin spot? No??? Well you're in luck! They have alcohol! This is a great hangout. I can't guarantee you won't run into a douche. But most of the crowd are still as cool as back in the day when this was just a super cool coffee shop with a humidor! I miss the the humidor... But I'm always treated with great people. And the placement is great at night. Who doesn't need a coffee in the midst of club hopping! It's become a saving grace for me. Great atmosphere. Great people. And great way to sober up to rally!!!!

Halcyon is an awesome all day and late night spot in the warehouse district. It's in the very small gay district in Austin and is a safe space. It's also right next door to Cedar Street, so the perfect spot to pre-game or end a night of live music and dancing. It has a super chill vibe, and everyone will feel comfortable here. It's on our must hit spot list when near downtown. The exposed brick walls on one side are a reminder of the history these buildings hold. Halcyon has been serving yummy coffee, cocktails, and dessert for over 15 years. That's impressive longevity for this area of downtown. The coffee is way above average. The dark chocolate espresso martini is one of the best espresso martinis I have found, and I do my research. They have an extensive cocktail menu, and if the rest are as good as my martini, then you should try more than one! One really cool thing they do is so it yourself s'mores. You roast the marshmallows over a sterno campfire and build your own messy dessert. It's a little dangerous after a night of drinking, but fun any other time!

We stopped in on a Saturday for a light bite and drinks and was met by a roaring drag party at 4:00 in the afternoon. It looked like they were having a good time, but we did not participate. The shop had a light stench to it from too many spilled drinks and the restrooms were extremely dirty which is the main reason I am giving this place 3 stars. We ordered the grilled cheese and a peach alcoholic drink and both were very tasty.

Horrible service ! Go here if u wanna be ignored by staff while they have conversations about they're personal life with they're friends outside of work while giving you nasty looks while you've been waiting in line behind the person they've been talking too for 15 mins

Not sure who is doing the hiring but, everyone working today is a pretentious ass! Ordered lunch and was made to feel like I was bothering them... sry I'm not more flamboyant... you guys need to get off your high horse- you work at a coffee shop. Austin is a place where everyone is excepted!

On dec 30 2023 I was sitting on the balcony of Halycon 4th and Lavaca and a tall employee with a dangling earring shoved a slim black male that seemed homeless against the rails and he fell. prior to this incident the black male was panhandling the customers that was sitting on the balcony and the conversation between the tall guy(assumed an employee and the other employee that was cleaning the table of the patrons that left was "he has not been here in awhile. This was a favorite establishment of mine until this incident., I was in total shock. I have attempted too contact Halycon afterwards and no one is answering the phone at this establishment...