The Grackle

Besides mine read all the other reviews : I've been here two times the first time I came to have a drink and the front door man was nice as I waited for my food across the street. Today I was parked in their parking lot before they opened and someone (lady red hair) came out telling was blocking their entrance for non existent moving trucks and told me the parking was for people coming into the bar only. The amazing part was they weren't even open so I couldn't have been a customer if I wanted to.

Whiskey, whiskey, and....... more whiskey. I love it. It's definitely the largest and finest selection around. And the selection really stacks up against others in major cities (yes even vs my hometown Lexington). Bit of a hole in the wall but who cares. If you love whiskey like me (especially bourbon) then you are required to come here. Do it!!

The bartender took advantage of me being regular there I guess.The bar had purchased new lounging sofas. I made myself comfortable (leg propped up on my knee, slight lean). She then comes up to me and tells me to “sit up and act right. Come on man, are you kidding me”. Mind it this is not an upscale cocktail establishment. Needless to say I have yet to go back and if she’s working I won’t refer anyone there or be last place to check out on eat side. Regular or not, she clearly forgot about her customer service self which I’m sure landed her the job years back when.

Awesome dive bar with a crazy good whiskey selection. The place itself is really cool and relaxed. The interior has got a few tables, darts, and a pool table. There's outdoor seating with fans and all, and there's even a food truck out front. The bar tenders are awesome and make a killer whiskey sour. They also have a short (about 8) but surprisingly good selection of beer on tap. There's a very small parking lot, so you'll likely have to park out on the street, but it's more than most bars on east 6th offer. Definitely worth coming for the whiskey alone, but it's a good spot for a late night hang.

Decent spot for drinks. Unfortunately I got my car towed WHILE I was inside drinking. They told me it was out of their control. While I was outside calling my wife. 2 tow trucks showed up towing 2 other cars. These guys are a joke. Should be illegal.

Cool, dive spot to get a good cocktail. If whiskey is your jam, then this is a good spot to check out. Mint Julep's, Manhattan's, and Old Fashioned's on tap. Great service, along with a fantastic selection of hard to find whiskey options. Various Weller options as well as Blanton's, to name a few.

This is the closest thing to Studio 54 in Austin. They don’t have Disaronno on the rocks yet but the bald bartender (Tad? Tip? Ted?) said they’d get it in soon. He’s literally the sweetest bartender in Austin.

When we first moved to Austin 10+ years ago this place was pretty cool for a dive bar, however, the last time we went the bar staff was super rude and unfriendly. We had a table inside and could see the bar. One of the female bartenders kept staring at me like she was trying to see through my soul which was very awkward and uncomfortable. It's as if she was trying to intimidate me or show me I'm not welcome. The bar back/busser guy was also rude and did not do well at bussing the tables leaving them full of glasses from the previous occupants. We will not return to this establishment and hope that people choose to go anywhere else. There are TONS of bars on East 6th and people don't deserve to be treated unkindly when they choose to spend their money in your establishment.

Fun bar. Great prices. Nice beer selection. Good service. Indoor and outdoor seating.

We came here during a day of bar hopping and checking out the area on Sixth Street. The bartender was far from friendly and welcoming, she was harsh and overbearing. The first thing she said was she needed everyone's IDs, which is fine because it's a bar. Four of us are well over 21, and she seemed annoyed with how long it was taking for everyone to get their IDs out. The second thing she said was that it's illegal to bring water into a bar. This was weird because we've never heard of this and had brought our clearly marked water bottle into many bars in Austin and all over the country in the last few weeks. She at least offered to dump the water into a cup, but then threw away the bottle without offering it back for us to put in the car. Another thing... they don't accept American Express cards, just Visa and Mastercard, so be prepared. The atmosphere was nice and it was welcoming inside, which is why this place is even worth one star. We all ordered beer and it was barely better than room temperature and far from cold. I think I know why the bar was empty... bartender who isn't friendly and the beer isn't cold.

Hitting another dive bar....and this one missed the mark for me. It felt devoid of personality. The bartender was very nice, and the beer was cold. They have a large outdoor patio area too. There are tables inside and couches to hang out on as well. The place felt like it lacked a theme, and the music was not noteworthy- I can't even remember what was playing. Sorry, Grackle. I'll try again, but my first impression was "just okay".

We only popped in here for a moment, to have a quick shot to end our day. We had just left Lefty's Brick Bar and found a flea market thing as Zilker beer garden that drew us in. After that we headed here as it looked cool. It is a dive bar, just what it claims to be and is very laid back. There were some people playing pool and a few people at the bar. Dr. Who was on the television which was fun. In a weird twist the fellow people at the bar were talking about how they were going to Galifrey, the Doctor Who convention in Cali. They had just introduced their friend to NuWho and the Doctor altogether. It has some fun art, the bartender was patient and talked with everyone. Again the 3 starts is mostly due to the fact we really were in and out and didn't get a chance to really get into the place. Seems a cool place to hangout and have a few drinks.

Favorite bar to play some darts or pool in East Austin. Great selection of whiskeys too

Normally have a great time at this dive bar, unfortunately had a terrible time recently . A bartender or staff member actively picked a fight with a member of our party. This staff member was clearly NOT sober, swaying, taking to himself, slamming doors and pushing people around (the staff all claim he wasn't drunk but it was obvious to everyone something wasn't right), they picked a fight with our friend. Our friend had had 1 drink at this point and was totally polite to the other bartender when confronted about this disoriented staff member telling them our friend needs to leave . The whole situation was seriously unprofessional and they lost the business of our entire party for the evening. Some of us, forever?

Horribly rude and condescending staff for no reason. Only four people in the bar, yet I was treated like an uninvited guest. Bartender literally said (in a nasty tone) "oh look, I already have two one-star reviews for today." Is that a badge of honor? When locals who are born and raised in Austin aren't welcome, then who is?

Had a recent late-night stop at The Grackle, a divey bar located in the gentrifying portion of east Sixth Street. Named after one of the common varieties of blackbird this drinking establishment is a bit downcast although the saving grace is the outdoor seating. The cool neon sign out front may be the highlight here. Our bartender did keep the drinks flowing though so kudos to her. Overall, a good place for one drink before moving on to somewhere more interesting.

Cool place but kicked my friend out for accidentally hitting on the bartenders girlfriend

Perfect definition of a dive-bar with a hipster wooden interior. Upon walking in, you feel like you're in a basement of your friend who's dad/uncle stores their record collection, old furniture, and vintage memorabilia that reminds them of the good ol days. Only when you're in here, you just have the basement look with the smell of the things I mentioned in the previous sentence. While you have that, there are some cool collectibles within the scene including some vinyl records, an old cigarette vending machine, and the horseshoe shaped wooden bar area. There's plenty of spirits to choose from and beer. Not sure about cocktails but if they have the ingredients, they can make it for you. Just don't be one of those people expecting fancy martinis or mojito type stuff; mainly either beer pours or hard liquor + mixers. At least that's my impression. There's also only one bartender so patience will need to be practiced. There's a taco truck outside for eats. Tacos are expensive but tasty; the chicken and carnitas tacos are what they're known for so those are recommended. Not a bad place to start or finish your evening for night out in Austin.

Bouncer was extremely aggressive at the entrance of this bar. We were all somber and just wanted to come inside to play some darts before ending our night. We didn't know that we're not allowed to look at the food truck's menu with our bubble teas. This food truck is parked outside this bar. He basically called us ass****s and yelled at us to leave. Definitely don't recommend anyone coming here. Totally uncalled for. Tip to the owner of grackle: ask your rude bouncer to stand outside the gate in front of the food trucks if you guys want to enforce this rule.

Came in with some friends this Saturday and one of the bartenders was drunk (or on something) and decided to pick a fight with someone in our group. Bartender was needlessly aggressive, slurring his words, and confrontational, even when our friend offered to leave but just wanted to know why he was being kicked out. Staff was weirdly hostile even when our party just wanted to get an answer for what the bartender's perceived slight was. As someone who currently works in the service industry I was surprised by how rude and aggressive the staff was. I understand protecting your own but this bartender was under the influence and clearly looking for a fight. Too bad! Used to like this spot but seems like a bad place to enjoy your evening with friends

Was told to "get fucked" by the door guy with face tattoos. It was my first stop of the night, and I was on drink 0. He insisted I was drunk, then got extremely antagonistic with my whole party when I smiled at him for being so tense for no reason. I understand trying to protect your bar's reputation, but being a door man doesn't mean you need to be an asshole. Zero stars. Absolutely sad I can't review the *bar* because of one jerk having a bad day.

Not a big fan, but do appreciate that the dogs are allowed inside. The inside just feels run down and super depressing. Beer selection was limited, but seems like you come in for any cocktail/shot. Bartender was chill, but was actively drinking with someone. Had to leave after 1 drink, not my scene.

Very cool, relaxing place with friendly bartenders! Drinks are reasonably priced and the shot and a beer special is hard to resist. Whenever I visit Austin, this is my favorite place to drink!

When I was in search of a spot for a light evening snack, I decided to give The Grackle a try, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice. One of the first things that impressed me was the availability of parking--a definite plus. The setup involved a food truck for ordering delicious bites and a bar inside The Grackle for refreshing drinks. The space was quite spacious, allowing ample room for guests. Ordering was a breeze at the counter, adding to the convenience. For my snack, I opted for the veggie quesadilla and beans taco. Both dishes were served fresh and piping hot, and the flavors were absolutely delightful. Every bite was a burst of deliciousness. My companion and I thoroughly enjoyed our meal while engaging in pleasant conversation. One of the standout features of The Grackle was its calm ambiance. With a combination of indoor and outdoor seating options, it provided a spacious and comfortable environment to unwind and enjoy the evening. The service was fast and efficient, ensuring that we were promptly taken care of throughout our visit. Overall, my experience at The Grackle was amazing. From the delicious food to the relaxed atmosphere, it was a truly enjoyable outing. I highly recommend giving it a try when in search of a laid-back spot for snacks and drinks.

Drinks were good. Bartender was a dismissive dickhead that was unnecessarily rude to my fiance. Sexist?

Honestly, I came here for the decent pool table and darts. I can't believe this place still has business from the extremely rude workers. -bald bartender guy (haven't seen him in awhile) hope he's no longer there. extremely passive aggressive and gives off the "I hate it here" vibe -Door guy with face tattoos didn't let me in once because I skipped up to the bar, he said I was too drunk even though I've been 6 months sober.I guess being a happy person just doesn't fly here -girl bartender with the neck tattoo, super rude passive aggressive for no reason. There are two bartenders that are actually nice (girl with glasses and the other girl, she's mixed) I honestly hate writing bad review to call out people in specific but it's just my last straw with this place. I've vowed to never come back just because of the continuously rude, disrespectful, mistreatment of customers. I honestly take a longer trip to go to the Cavalier for the pool and darts just because i don't feel welcomed here.

Good bourbon, service is just ok, its a dive and the atmosphere leaves plenty to be desired but im a fan.

Drinks: 5/5 Grackle has killer cocktails at a reasonable price. Service: 5/5 While they don't have as many bartenders as other bars, the service here is stellar. Environment: 5/5 Dark and comfortable indoor seating. I could hang out here all day!

Stumbled in here one night with a friend visiting from out of town. He loves whiskey so this place was perfect for him. The bartender was extremely rude to me, though. I asked about a certain alcohol and he was extremely passive aggressive. Treating me like a tourist, which isn't ok either. I'm a native Austinite, I've probably been here longer than that jerk. But there's no need to treat anyone like that. I definitely won't be back and will never recommend this place to anyone.

Been wanting to stop by this bar for awhile. In the area on Monday the 14th and popped in for a drink. Sat at the bar. Wasn't that crowded just a few people. Sat and waited and waited .... Bartender did a shot with some friends then went to the back room. Ok? When she finally came back she said Hi.. Do u have any questions?? Then walked back into the back room.. Without waiting for me to answer.. huh? Questions about what? When she came back out I asked for a coors light and a water. She replied: no coors light, water is by the door, really rudely. Ok bad day? Needless to we got up and left. Great people skills . Maybe bartending is not her forte. You actually need a good personality to exceed in that position. No hate sign on the door but the bartender was hostile af. Went down to Via 313. Bartenders were great as were the drinks for the rest of the night. Ending note: I'm no gynecologist, but I know a c*nt when I see one. Don't waste your money here, there are better places with nicer bartenders.

The Grackle has been a central hang-out spot for me ever since it opened, maybe in 2015 (is that when they opened?!) when I was roaming the east side on my bicycle trying to find all the best diverse draft beers in the area. It didn't hurt that they had some pretty rad local beer + shot of whiskey specials, either. I love that there can be a DJ spinning actual vinyl records on a weekend evening with the TVs showing the latest sports thing that is hyped for the weekend. The outside patio and seating areas are large enough to come with a group of your best friends to share some tasty cold beers. Never a cover, but always a door guy or lady to ensure you are of age to come in. If you can find a spot at the bar, I recommend hanging there. It's a fun people-watcher spot and also gets you 1:1 time with the excellent bartenders here. Service is spot on, so make eye contact and be ready to give your order when you get the bartender's attention. Sometimes they can be packed, so move it or lose it. Parking is tricky around here as it is for EVERY bar or food truck up and down east 6th street. If you find a spot in the front, be sure to post up here, drink, and even eat from the food truck(s) they have parked in the lot here.

This is still one of our favorite places and now I think it has a special place in our heart. (Yes sounds corny.) They have a great venue with extensive indoor and outdoor seating and darts and a pool table and their workers are very pleasant. And their drinks are ice cold and delicious.

The vibes are always right here , the bartenders are knowledgeable and always helpful!!! The service is quick and there's a food truck within the bar!! You'll always find friends here & you can play pool or darts !!!!

Stopped by The Grackle to try out Asador Tacos and see if they lived up to the hype... spoiler: they did!!! The tortillas are equal parts crisp and soft and the flavor of both tacos was absolutely amazing. As a vegetarian and taco connoisseur I give Asador my stamp of approval, super quick and nice service and a great outdoor seating area to enjoy tacos in the fresh air. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a quality taco or two!

The Grackle, a strange southwestern bird. This place is appropriately named. With an aesthetic that can only be described as "the basement of that one person you knew in high school (that really likes pop punk) who's dad has a lot of whiskey." This place has dart boards, a pool table, unfinished floors, and a famous poster of Paris Hilton in a car (for some reason?) They feature TONS of whiskey offerings to the point where it's almost debilitating. Some of their prices are well below the average while others are very inflated and almost insulting for a dive bar. Even the bartender started rattling off prices the second that I asked about things I didn't recognize (which says something as I'm an avid whiskey collector). It felt like this place is self aware enough to know that they're merging 2 different concepts into one and have been burned by angry guests before. I would say to check this one out, but to only stick to the value pricing unless you REALLY want to drop a few hundred dollars while sitting in uncomfortable booths with a mancave aesthetic.

My husband and I decided to visit this bar as we love a good dive. We decided to sit outside and listen to music in our headphones and reminisce about our years going out dancing pre-kiddos. The deck smelled of puke and dog shit, which didn't make for the best experience, but they have my favorite beer, so we parked in front of a fan which helped. My husband decided to leave a couple of times to get a break from the smell and use his vape as he walked up and down the block (he wanted to be mindful of other bar-goers that might prefer to not be around the vape). My husband tried to return after his second walk and was told that he was not allowed to enter the bar. The bouncer said that he'd been watching him walking around suspiciously, and that he has the right to deny service to anyone for any reason. The guy's a total asshole and in the process of his power trip, ruined our night out without our 9 and 2 year olds which we get maybe 2-3 times a year. Will not return as long as Jace is working there and strongly suggest you do the same.

Walked out of the brewery across the street and saw a sign that said "whiskey, whiskey, beer, whiskey" and I said shew buddy they could've just wrote my name out there would've saved money on the sign. Walk inside and see the whiskey/bourbon selection and I felt like when Indiana Jones found the arc. After I cleared my tears of happiness I met the bartender and he gave me the rundown and cool crowd. Great prices for what you get. Spicy fried chicken food truck across the street

Interesting that they have a huge sign outside that states "no hate." Yet we walked inside and were rudely told the establishment wasn't open. Someone was sitting at the bar, the gate was unlocked, and there were no posted hours. A simple/polite hello and we are closed would have been OK. The level of rudeness and extreme racist tone were completely unnecessary. Went across the street to Zilker Brewery/ Spicy Boys and what a difference. Good environment, good music and food.

Don't give this bar your money and women - beware. A group of my friends came here on Friday (12/8), including my partner who is a week into having a broken leg / cast / crutches. We purchased a single drink each and sat in a corner booth. Less than an hour into our visit (and still on first round) I helped my partner into the women's bathroom as she was feeling nauseous (re : this has been intermittently happening since her injury and quickly passes). While waiting at the sink for her, a male employee walked in unannounced (short, light hair, wire glasses, blue tshirt and shorts), asked if I had been in the stall with my 'friend' and said we were being removed immediately. I attempted to tell him that I had helped her in as she was on crutches to which he responded 'I don't care if she's on crutches, deaf, blind or dumb, you're getting the f*ck out of my bar' at which time he grabbed my arm. I made it clear to not touch me, and asked that he step outside so I could help my partner exit. Upon exit, the continued the same aggression, putting hands on both of us after repeatedly being told not to. Not a single employee did a thing, asked questions, or came to help. However, patrons of the bar did. I've been to the Grackel many times, and frequent the east side and will say with confidence - this is the only bar in Austin I will not return to. Train your staff. Teach them to hold their peers accountable. Get rid of the walking liability that is this bar back. Until then, I highly recommend everyone spend your money elsewhere.

Hmmm.. okay here is my truth. I came here with my husband and another Yelper. We were told the place shuts down at 10 pm so we had a few hours that we can stay here. I guess the 'Rona comes out at 10:01? We found a table and ordered a counter near the front. When our drinks were brought out, we were instructed to take them off the tray ourselves. There was a slight confusion over two drinks (which one was which) and I watched the server shuffle both drinks around. Even though we were supposed to be the ones touching them? Got it. I did like the large selection of drinks and there was a food truck on the property. I didn't try anything so can't comment on the food. Overall, I would come back maybe when the 'Rona is done. Some of the staff on site were not the friendliest. Also, be careful if you have to use the restroom, only 1 person is allowed in at a time. I was glad I didn't have an IBS flare up while there because that could have equaled a danger zone.

Definitely a dive bar, but it was cool. Bartenders seemed like it was a tragedy to answer a couple of questions. I realize we're tourist and they probably deal with it a lot, but I mean, you're in the people business and this is coming from former 10+ year bartenders. They did have the best bourbon selection and drinks were good.

Great whiskey and whiskey cocktail list! It's has a really chill atmosphere for those on East 6th, not usually full of part people.

Chill dive bar with great music, friendly staff, and lots of fun during a power outage.

All the 3-star, 2-star and 1-star reviews made me want to go there! Even more. I mean, I've been before, but like go tonight! Again! Forever! To Each His Own. Some of us like to sit at a bar, NOT make small talk with the owner, get served up professionally and just chill. The outdoor patio is great for my smoking friends and it's covered against rain and the hot ass Texas sun. Pool is cool, bathrooms are decent. What else do you want? Also, I heard they have a rotation of pretty sick DJs that come through. I plan on going this week!

Not happy to be in service industry No coke No Roy Rogers Handlebar stache Hot inside Lots of foam

Place is amazing, love the people here. So chill, great drinks and bartenders are sick.

Im going to keep this short and sweet, because I see many others feel the same and have already noted these issues. My husband and I walked into this "bar" and stood in there for a good 4 minutes. There were maybe 8 customers in there. Only 4 sitting at the bar. Not once did the bartender lady acknowledge us. We simply wanted to order a drink. Super awkward and uncomfortable. I don't think we've ever left a bar so hastily. Do not recommend lol.

Great bar! I was visiting from California for a bachelor party. An Austin friend highly recommended we check out The Grackle. We did and had a fun time. Darts, friendly staff and patrons, & a wonderful outdoor space. AND I accidentally left my wallet at the bar and the staff reached out to me via Facebook and mailed it back to me! Amazing! Will definitely come back to The Grackle on my next trip. Cheers!

Nothing particularly wrong with The Grackle, it's just not my kind of bar. Good food truck out front and a decent selection of whiskeys along with a pool table or two. But it was empty when we went in, and I think we were there on a weekend. It just seemed a tad on the depressing side. I'm sure I'll end up back here sooner or later and can give them a second chance to see if I can change my tune.

Don't skip the reviews on this one. Not going to beat a dead horse.Other yelpers have said it best. The one and only positive is they had an umbrella to keep us out of the rain. And if you are hunting for a dark depressing indoor hole to slit your wrists at while listening to your least favorite emo playlist...you've found your gem. Best of luck during the pandemic.

Great whiskey selection. Cheap drinks. Free darts. Three cork dartboards. Three cork dartboards. Three cork dartboards. Cricket boards and chalk. This establishment in Austin, Texas has cork dartboards and provides steel-tipped darts for you to throw at the dartboards.

Absolutely rude bouncer, told our group that was going to enter the building to move our vehicle and leave the premises for no reason.

First off the owner was super rude the second I walked in. He had zero knowledge of the menu and ended up suggesting a drink that was awful. When I asked for a different drink and said I would pay the difference he yelled at me and called me petty. I have never been so offended by someone's attitude in my life. There are PLENTY of way better bars surrounding this one.

So fun, and great bartenders large outdoor space with seating and access to cornhole!

Poor service, poor experience. Trying to support small businesses during this time but stay away from this place at all costs.

Love the darts and vibe here, i will be a regular now that i moved in the area. the music is PERFECT for the atmosphere. i can legit play darts here all day and never get sick of this place. i tip my hat off to you grackle!!

Grackle, it declares dive-bar from the start. Single bar, single pool table and only a few seats. The bar is stocked and fully. But guess what? The house bourbon is Buffalo Trace. Seriously it's on the rail at the rail price. Drink up! I like the place and really enjoyed my visit but I had to leave to visit all of their neighbors.