Here Nor There

"Head down a gated alleyway near the Driskill Hotel in Downtown Austin to descend underground to Here Nor There. This speakeasy offers reservation requests through its own app. Request your day and time, and if approved, you’ll receive a code to enter. Pop by on a slower night, however, and you can often sneak in without a reservation. Once downstairs, guests are greeted by a giant taxidermy bear, a super dimly lit interior, and some of the city’s most delicious (albeit expensive) cocktails. Menus change regularly." - Darcie Duttweiler

"Though it seems exclusive, this hidden downtown bar is not difficult to get into — but you do have to make a reservation on the app.  Once in, you’ll find thoughtfully put-together cocktails like the Milk & Honey, a milk punch that’s made clear through the magic of bartending. The interior space is intimate and well-designed space with an exclusive feel — it’s definitely a place to get caviar and Champagne for a baller date. Sibling bar In Plain Sight on the ground level is also worth a visit for similar fun cocktails in a colorful space." - Erin Russell

"This reservation-only speakeasy makes for a baller first date or an intimate evening to rekindle a romance. After confirming the reservation, walk downstairs, past the entryway with a giant stuffed bear, to a dark lounge with exceptionally crafted cocktails. There are some snacks available, like a bar mix, a cheese board, and, of course, caviar." - Erin Russell

"Located in an alleyway, this underground spot is usually reservations-only, but on Sundays, bargoers might just get lucky. Ring the buzzer to try your luck, and enter to experience its ever-changing, highly creative cocktail menu, which always pertains to a specific theme, mood, era, or vibe. No matter which menu is currently showcased, you’re guaranteed to find something tasty to sip until Sunday at midnight." - Darcie Duttweiler

"If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a secret agent, head to Here Nor There. It’s located in a basement under an alleyway in downtown Austin, right next to The Driskill. Make reservations through a dedicated app, which will reveal a secret code before your scheduled time that will let you through the gate. It sounds like a lot of effort, but it’s worth it once you walk through the front door and are greeted by a life-sized stuffed bear holding a tray of champagne and old-school hip hop on the speakers. The cocktails are pricey, but with liquid nitrogen-cooled olives, clarified punches, and hand-stamped ice at play, it all feels like part of the show. " - nicolai mccrary, raphael brion