Mala Vida

I went to the Kapo concert. We waited almost four hours, but it wasn't the venue's fault. We still enjoyed it. We didn't eat, but we had some drinks, and the service was excellent.

Great place to go clubbing, but drinks are way overpriced. The bartenders are nice, but I can’t justify paying almost $40 for two little shots that aren’t premium liquor. It’s crowded and some areas reek of fluids. The overall vibe is pretty nice, they play a lot of Mexican music if you’re into that. Lots of security patrolling the area which I appreciate a lot. Overall, I would recommend pregaming.

I will never return to Mala Vida after what I witnessed here. The security staff is the main problem…they are essentially corrupt, on power trips, and do the exact opposite of keeping guests safe. I have personally seen them accept cash to let underage people into the club and 21+ sections. This is not only illegal but shameful to watch happen so openly. I understand wanting to have fun, but it’s very clear what is going on here, and it is absolutely not right + extremely unsafe. It makes this even more heartbreaking because I used to support this club wholeheartedly. I felt genuinely proud to support Gabriela, a Latina woman like me, building something special in Austin nightlife. Mala Vida was one of my favorite spots, and I was happy to see her succeed and grow her clubs. I don’t know if she is fully aware of what is happening inside this one, but the current situation is ridiculous, disheartening, and shameful. Who knows what else might be happening in her other clubs if this is allowed here? It’s impossible to believe management is unaware. With the wristband system, it’s obvious when people under 21 are in restricted sections, yet this continues. The problem is systemic, centered on the security staff, and it’s being allowed to happen. Additionally, the new security guards are aggressive and intimidating, particularly toward women. Instead of creating safety, they make guests feel uncomfortable and threatened. Mala Vida once had a reputation for being fun, welcoming, and worth coming back to. Now it has become unsafe, reckless, and shamefully run. Until serious changes are made, I would strongly warn anyone against going here.

PLEASE DO NOT GO HERE — Worst Bottle Service Experience in Austin We’ve been doing bottle service at clubs in Austin and Houston for over 8 years, and Mala Vida was by far the worst experience we’ve ever had. Our group of 14 flew in from out of state, as we do twice a year, and we had reserved two sections a week in advance. We were told buying two bottles would be enough to secure our sections, and we arrived early, before 11 PM, just like they asked. Then, about an hour into our night, management told us we had to either buy an additional upcharged bottle per section or give up one — something that was never mentioned at booking. They claimed another group was coming in to buy four bottles, but we watched that group show up and buy just one. It was obvious we were bumped so they could try to squeeze more money out of someone else. When we asked for a discount on a third bottle just to keep the experience going, they said no. From there, it only got worse. We were crammed into one section, and the service was terrible. Bottles took over 30 minutes, ice was never refilled even after multiple requests, and basic things like cups took forever. The manager was rude, dishonest, and clearly didn’t care how we were treated — no matter how much we spent or how far we traveled. This place is disorganized, greedy, and unsanitary. It’s all hype and zero hospitality. They completely ruined what should have been a great night. SAVE YOUR MONEY AND GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. We definitely will.

PLEASE DO NOT GO HERE: We’ve been doing bottle service at clubs in Austin and Houston for over 5 years, and Mala Vida was by far the worst experience. We had people fly in from out of state, reserved our table a week in advance, and arrived early, before 11 PM, just like we were told. We bought two bottles, which was confirmed as enough to hold the table. Then at midnight, the manager told us we had to buy more bottles or give up the table because another group was supposedly coming in to buy four bottles (which they never mentioned before-hand). We stepped aside, only to see that group show up and buy just one bottle. It was obvious the manager just wanted to bump us for more money — a total lack of integrity. On top of that, service was slow. Bottles took 30+ minutes, and ice was never refilled, even after asking multiple times. The manager was unhelpful and didn’t care about how we were treated, despite how much we spent or how early we showed up. SAVE YOUR MONEY AND GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. This place is disorganized, money-hungry, and doesn’t respect its customers.

Cool place, not really my scene, but it was a different experience! I would give it a chance!

Experience was very bad. We had a group of 14 people that travel to Austin twice a year from out of state. We reserved two sections to which we purchased a couple of bottles and arrived early like they told us to. Long story short, we were kicked out of one of the sections and crammed into the other since they wanted us to either buy an up charged bottle per section in order to keep the section which was never disclosed to us, or leave so they can sell the section to someone else. This was an hour into our time there. We asked for a discount for a third bottle in exchange for the inconvenience of the move to which they said no to. Management lied to us saying they had another group who was purchasing four bottles, which they didn’t. So they will rather have unsatisfied customers in order to make an extra buck since they sold the other group an up charged bottle. Service was horrible, asked for cups and it took over 30min to get them. Needless to say they ruined the rest of the night for us. This place is overhyped and very unsanitary. We will take our future business elsewhere.

The bottle service was so bad. They’ll give you ice once right before they bring the bottle out, then it’ll be another 30 minutes before you get the actual bottle, so by that point the ice has already mostly melted & you’ll be drinking hot tequila the rest of the night. And if you run out of chasers, you’ll be taking shots because nobody refills the carafes of juices. On top of this they will tell you there’s no minimum on the amount of bottles you buy and essentially force you to either buy another an hour into being there, or they threaten to kick you out. Which was so weird and left a bad taste in our mouth. Wont be returning to this club, Austin has way better, nicer clubs than this.

I'm Asian but I absolutely love this place! The ambiance is very nice. They have like four different rooms/bar areas with different Spanish music so you'll definitely enjoy at least one of the spots! The drinks are good and decently priced. I would recommend coming here with a big group of people to enjoy. I always hit this place before 10:30 pm to get a free wrist band! There is a cover here after that, that varies from $10-20.

My experience at Club Mala Vida was just OK. The drinks were very overpriced--three drinks cost around $60 with tax, and the tip was already included on the receipt, which I didn't appreciate since the service didn't warrant it. The drinks themselves were underwhelming, with very little alcohol. As for the vibe, it wasn't quite what I was expecting. The music was decent, but the overall atmosphere didn't match my preferences. Probably not a place I'd return to.

Not actually "the bad bunny" bar, just a bar with tons of latino inspired phrases, culture, and more in neon lights. Mala Vida is a HUGE venue. My first time was during the 'Sorry Papi' tour and I absolutely loved it! At Mala, the drinks are really tasty, think alcoholic watermelon refrescos with Tajín &/or Chamoy on the rim. Reggaeton predominately sets the stage here, but you'll also get a bit of salsa, cumbia, and bachata every now and then to switch things up. Ladies, be cautious when coming to Mala as it's located on dirty 6th (at the end), and definitely has shady characters in the area. I would advise ubering, as parking is hard to find and sketchy. NOTE: They charge a cover fee of $10.00 on some nights, which is just to get pass the doors. Women, they check bags thoroughly and men, they pat you down for weapons. Definitely appreciate the safety, but only makes me feel unsafe at the same time.

God dragged here after a concert and ugh... Ordered a vodka pineapple and all you could taste was the pineapple juice, it also came in a plastic cup, for $15 you would at least expect glass or something, but I guess they're too cheap for that. Bartender was quick since there was barely anyone there. Overall the vibes in there are super creepy, a lot of older men kind of lurking around to see what they find and a lot of young people just drunk/drugged. Very vulgar place, they have penis shots and their female staff are barely wearing any clothes. Overall, a very sad "representation" of the latinx community.

I don't go out too often, but I gotta say, this club was fantastic, my husband and I had soo much fun, good music, and there are like four different areas where they play different music, super cool.

Had fun going to Mala vida Sunday night. They had free tacos and free hot Cheetos. The bar had very cool neon sign murals. Great spot to take pictures, pretty ibstagranable. Good deal on beers, a bucket of 5 for $19, Tip included. ULovei was djing that night, good Latin music all night. Enjoyed this spot for Sunday funday in Austin, TX.

So trendy and lots of fun, music is amazing, lots of space to dance, drink are reasonable, parking sucks but get there early and you'll enjoy the night.

First time at Mala Vida , For starters we were a big group and there were 18+ age ppl with us , so a mix between 21+ and 18+ , We were charged 25$ each person which we didn't mind even tho it was little too much , We were dancing having fun Literally 10 minutes later a security comes checking our wristsband and he tells the people who were 18+ to go to the front , Then he proceeds to kick them out! They were not drinking or had any drinks in their hands , We had literally just arrived!!!!!! We ended up leaving but be warned I feel like they try to scam people, If it wasn't 18+ then why even let them in to begin with? Doesn't make any sense, They literally just want your money! I suggest going to Cielo! It's 10$ a person and cheap strong drinks! and also 18+ if you have ppl under drinking age in yalls group!

The place be getting too crowded.. It's honestly soo bad, specially now during summer. It be smelling like wet dog and ceviche.. The security's rude as hell.. They tried kicking out my bestie bc they thought she was underage drinking.. He was soo ready to fight and defensive till she showed her bracelet.. soo rude on my girl and for no reason.

If I could give zero I would sadly. Really wanted to like this place. The sad truth is that drinks are over priced and not good/strong and the gratuity is included on every drink. & the beer is hot!!! How do you fuck up beer, that's usually the safest option. Service is mediocre. They promote saying free tacos but it usually on the days it's dead. The truth is that this is one of the few places in Austin that plays good/popular Hispanic/Latino music so most Hispanics/Latinos have to resort to establishments like this one. Buuuut we made the best of it bc my group of friends (10 people) all paid $20 to get in. /: Don't waist your money here!!!

I NEVER write reviews, but this place needs to do better! On 10/07/2023 me and a group of friends came to Mala Vida to finish off the night. We had a great time until the last hour. A couple of regulars started arguing with us, and I guess to show off the guy said "I'm going to get y'all thrown out" he then proceeded to do a "come here" signal, and before you know it there were 4-5 security guards around us. Instead of deescalating the situation, they stood and watched as we continued to go back and forth with these 2 people. They only intervened AFTER the girl threw a WHOLE CUP OF LIQUOR at me and friends. Obviously we tried to defend ourselves, but 2 security guards grabbed me and friend and literally MANHANDLED us! They put my friend (female) in a CHOKEHOLD and me (also female) in this TIGHT BEAR HUG. They were so rough that we are covered from head to toe in bruises! We are STILL IN PAIN, and this HAPPENED 2-3 NIGHTS AGO! WE HAVE NEVER BEEN THROWN OUT OF A BAR/CLUB LET ALONE TOUCHED AND THROWN AROUND LIKE THAT BY MEN! WE ARE PURSUING LEGAL ACTION AND HAVE ALREADY FILED A REPORT WITH APD! The security & staff are so RUDE and only protect & defend regulars and their friends!! WE DO NOT RECOMMEND GOING HERE!! Below are pictures of the bruises that were left on my body

We were having such a great time at our second time here for the night until my cousin had to use the restroom. He accidentally walked towards the women's restroom and instead of the security redirecting him, he told him "you're too drunk" and said "you can use the restroom but then you have to get out". We understood the direction until the security went into the restroom and all of a sudden said "the Line is too long you have to get out". My cousin was the second man in line. We tried to understand why he was asking us this but it was obvious when he failed to give us a real reason. There are better bars in the area. Don't go for this homophonic small ass venue.

zero stars. no ac and super hot and humid. drinks are way too overpriced and i waited nearly 15 min just to get one drink. security is AWFUL. i reported a man that was inappropriate with me. The security at the door was entirely disrespectful and beyond ignorant. There was a girl crying outside the building because of something security said. The group in front of me got in without even being checked. when it came to me i was not only patted down but also search. i have been here a couple times but this was the last straw for me.

Cool atmosphere, but the DJ's are creepy. One of the DJ's kept hitting on me and my friend. He's not attractive at all, but he acts like he's Harry Styles or something. We go to clubs to dance and meet guys our age, not be hit on by chubby 40 year old dj's. The drinks are over priced and the place was crowded. It's obvious that they want to be Instagram worthy because there is bad spray-paint art everywhere with sayings like "don't do Cocaine." I'm not really sure the vibe they are going for, but it's not classy at all. Plus a $20.00 door fee is too much to pay for single women. The bar was too crowded. If something were to happen you wouldn't be able to escape. There was a shooting behind the back fence when we were leaving, so it feels dangerous there. My friend and I won't go back. Feels much safer on Rainey Street.

Extremely rude staff and security guard. I had a wristband prior to the event which they claim gets you in entrance to the venue afterward ls but in reality it doesn't and they still make you a pay cover. However, I already had a paid a presale ticket before hand just in case and the staff assumed: "this is the last time he comes in", & "he won't be allowed in again" without even asking if I had paid for a ticket and I had showed her the barcode and there was no apology from staff. Later on, they kicked me out for no reason for making a comment about their staff and how they treated their customers who had PAID to be there. I'd be happy to talk to anyone about the situation because it was totally uncalled for.

What a Hidden Gem, if you can call it that. 3rd time we have been and the DJ's keep you dancing and moving all night. The bulk of the club is all outdoors so it can get pretty warm especially in the Austin Summer Nights. Not really an AC but if you're from Latina America this isn't a problem. The bottles brews where all mostly warm but whom cares when having a great time. If you like salsa, merengue, bachata, crumbia and all other musical genres this spot is a can not miss

I was here for the bachelor\bachelorette party. It was pretty lit on Friday night. Great music. All raggaeton music if you do like it. The drinks were decent but honestly I couldn't tell for sure cause I was pretty drunk. Service was good and the bartenders were. I'd recommend it.

I haven't been out in so long. I went here last weekend with some family and it was lit! I loved the go go dancers and the fresh air on the top floor. My only complaint would be the restroom. There are only two toilets and one was clogged :( can you have one of those senoras that cleans the restroom lol

Traumatic experience from Saturday night (10/07/2023). My friends and I were having fun, next thing you know an altercation breaks out where this female throws a drink in OUR faces. The security's response was to grab us like we were inhumane and squeezed hard as they could. We were fighting for our lifes because these men were BIG and Muscular. I weigh 125 lbs, there was no need for that kind of force. Next thing I know this big ass security guard has me in a chokehold where I'm not able to breath and my body is dangling from him. When we got to the entrance they threw/ shoved us to the ground like we were dogs. They let the female who threw the drink stay inside the Club because they were regulars. What kind of behavior is this??? This is the definition of manhandling and we WILL be going through with further legal actions. I hope these men get what they deserve because we 100% didn't deserve what happened to us.

Honestly they're lucky they are getting one star. The bouncer was absolutely disgusting. Asking my friend if her lips were real and making sexual comments towards us. The cover fee was also 20 dollars.. we opted to go literally anywhere else.

The music was amazing. Had us dancing all night!! The drinks were decent, and the bartender lady was super nice, she messed up my drink but noticed immediately and remade my drink and gave me a shot for free. Thanks boo. Good tips for her!!! The crowd was lit and I can't wait to go back.

Very fun night club in downtown ATX. A beer bottle was thrown and landed on my toes, yes it hurt. But this guy here took care of me, he went out of his way to get me a bandage and clean off the blood. Recommend to all Latinos!

Great music selection and club is always full. Cumbias, reggeaton, salsa. Best latin club in Austin.

Music was really good. Honestly that's the reason we went in and stayed as long as we did. Drinks were REALLY overpriced. Place was REALLY packed too but all the fans helped so the heat and the sweating. The front didn't have much to offer besides standing or dancing. I didn't go to the back because there was a band with a cover but it looked good back there.