The Modernist

The pictures on google maps were a bit misleading to me. It looked like a relatively upscale, organized cocktail bar. In reality - this was a chaotic pub-like spot with mediocre cocktails. People blocking the bar and pass through area. Music is loud, everyone yells. To order, you will have to fight for the attention of the bartenders. No menu - only standard cocktails. Very basic presentation. Price is too high for the product you receive. Good spot if you’re already drunk and on the tour with your friends.

This is now one of my favorite bars ever. It can be hard to find because from the outside it looks like a house! Once you're inside there is a bar with some seats but it's mostly couches and coffee tables, like a living room. I love their concept of having no menus and letting the bartenders know what type of drink you're looking for. My first drink I asked for something fruity and I got something mixed with sparkling wine. It was refreshing and light. My second drink I asked for something creamy. It was also very good! My last two drinks were my ultimate favorites. I asked for something that tasted like dessert and omg, whatever they made me was sooooooo good!! This is the coolest spot in San Antonio! This place deserves to be on Forbes' best bars in the world!

First time coming here and it was absolutely amazing. The ambiance is wonderful and the drinks were even better! Ruby was extremely knowledgeable and made some amazing cocktails for my wife and I. Would definitely come back!

The Modernist has become one of my favorite speakeasy/bars to frequent. The staff is amazing Bryan and Ashanti are always welcoming and make the best cocktails. The experience is always fun. I have yet to have the same cocktail and each drink is so delicious. It's a must do when friends are in town as well.

Wow. What can I say? This place is the best bar I’ve been to in San Antonio. The bartenders are able to take a snap shot of your mood and turn it into a drink, each and every time you order, various moods. River capped it off with pairing a smoked black walnut old fashioned with the cigar I was going to smoke. Again, wow. Just wow.

Great bar. They have you tell them a flavor or type of liquor and make you a personalized beverage. Has never disappointed. Always super fun, very intimate.

The Modernist is a hidden gem for cocktail lovers. The cozy, retro atmosphere makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a stylish mid-century lounge. What makes it special? There’s no menu—just tell the bartenders what you like, and they’ll craft something just for you. The drinks are always creative and perfectly balanced. It can get busy, so service might take a little longer, but it’s worth the wait. If you love a personalized cocktail experience, this spot is a must-visit!

This is in the top 5 of must-do experiences in San Antonio. The drinks they make you are amazing, using fresh ingredients and adjusting it to whatever flavor preference you can come up with. They are delicious and beautiful (and sometimes on fire). Excellent place to take anyone for an entertaining show and excellent atmosphere. It is as close to a west coast vibe this city can offer!

This place is the best bar in all of San Antonio. Please, understand that the people who commented a bad experience, simply don't understand the theme of this place, nor how the bartenders serve. It's a bespoke bar, so share with the bartender your liquor of choice followed by descriptive adjectives that show how you want your drink to taste. For example, if you say, "tequila, sweet, citrus, fresh," you'll get a better drink than, "tequila, sweet". I will say, if it's your first time here,understand that by going on a busy weekend night, other people who love this place will also be there. Understand the concept, and enjoy the experience. This isn't the place to get multiple drinks by the order... because the bartenders are crafting drinks for everyone else!! I can't help but laugh at everyone saying the male bartender is rude, because to me, he is hilarious and an extremely knowledgeable person!

This bar truly is unique! Don't be alarmed when it looks like you're walking into a small home, the indoor was kind of like a dive bar with a decent amount of seating. What makes this place cool is that there is no menu, you simply tell the bartenders what your preference is on spirits and flavor profiles. Each drink we had had a cute presentation. The prices did seem to vary, so I'm not sure how this is determined. The later in the night the busier it got, so patience is needed.

Love the atmosphere here! Tell the bartenders what you like and they never miss. They also started Sade nights 1 Thursday a month which makes for an excellent date night. It's a lovely, intimate setting with great drinks and great people. Overall would recommend

I used to go here often pre pandemic, and I was curious what it was like since it's under new ownership. The vibe is still what you would expect from other reviews--dark, cozy and intimate. The bartenders were approachable and friendly. I decided not to drink and I'm glad I did--I had an incredible mocktail that was similar to a Paloma. It blew me away. It was so fresh and had a hint of rhubarb that really took it to the next level. I will definitely be back for a date night with my hubby soon.

When you are up for an adventure, The Modernist is the cocktail bar of choice. It's best to know what you like before stepping in-- flavor profiles, sweetness levels, types of liquor-- because these talented bartenders are going to handcraft something tailored just for you. It is a menu-less concept, so you'll probably never get the same thing twice here. Which means you must savor and relish every sip. It's quaint and cozy inside, and you never know what kind of music will be playing (whoever grabs the aux cord for the night) which is just as unpredictable and experimental as the drinks! It feels high brow but is in a super casual setting.

The Modernist is a hidden gem where creativity flows freely in every sip. Dave and Damaris, the dynamic duo behind the bar, are not just bartenders but artists crafting cocktails with flair and finesse. Their welcoming demeanor instantly makes you feel at home in this chic establishment. Each cocktail is a masterpiece of artistic alchemy, making every visit an unforgettable experience.

Not your typical bar! It's menu-less!! Explain what you like and the bartenders will get creative! Ambience is very cozy and comfortable. & drinks range from $12-15 dollars!

Love this unique cocktail bar. From the outside, it might not look like much, but the old phrase, "don't judge a book by its cover," definitely applies here. I love the menuless theme. The mixologists are great and can make anything you want. I'm a bourbon lover, so I opted for an old fashioned. Hands down, this was one of the best I've ever had. Woot!! I now follow them on IG. If I'm ever in this area, I'm stopping by here!

Great whiskey and liquor selection. Bartenders are friendly and are great mixologists. A little cramped with not a ton of seating inside but more outside that helps on nice days.

First time trying this cute, EXTREMELY cozy bar. Maaaaan it was so chill and the mixologist are absolutely amazing at their craft! They will help you find your taste and will try out flavors you mentioned. Music on point (im a musician myself) once i heard some Frank Ocean playing... was sold! Try it out yall, it's so chill, couches, comfy chairs and bar stools. I recommend! Amazing service too btw! I drank amazing cosmo with a twist!

We came in after a Fiesta event just recently to The Modernist since we were looking for a spot to relax and shake off the wet weather. I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was to park (right in front off street parking) and come right in. Do note that this spot is unmarked and unlabeled. You kind of have to know where you are going because this spot looks like someone's house (and might've been before!). There is a yellow mailbox in front and a neon sign in the window that you can see from the street - this is how you will know you arrived. Walking in it was pretty chill. A few areas to seat on a couch-setting and coffee table for your drinks on the right and plenty of bar seating at the bar on the left. There is a patio in the back, with a bar as well, so if it seems too crowded in front go visit the bar staff and bar past the restrooms and outside the patio to the right. This is a no-menu concept spot and bar so be ready to share with the bartender what flavor profiles you are in the mood for. The bartender came out from behind the bar and greeted us. We were impressed he did this and made the experience of coming here so much more personable and comfortable. It negates the feeling you just walked into someone else's party as you will see that many of the other drinkers here are in deep conversations, huddled and smiling together around candlelight, and the lighting really sets the chill mood. This evening we were in the mood for fruity vodka drinks and my BF was feeling like a tiki drink. We were all very happily watching our bartender custom make our drinks behind the bar using ALL fresh ingredients. It was so refreshing to watch a bartender take their time making our cocktails rather than banging it out and trying to move on to the next customer. I felt super happy about my tasty fresh raspberry vodka cocktail. Seating in the back patio was nice to be able to get out of a crowded inside area. There are many condos and new construction at the back of this bar so be aware that you might hear some construction noises in the day but at night it was chill. I liked the peanut-shaped swing/seat outdoors and the picnic tables around the corner to people watch off of E Grayson. We are excited to come back soon when we are back in town as this bar was just the bees knees. This is a great place to bring your friends to an elevated bar in the area that you will be happy you did because of the ambiance and chill vibes The Modernist is.

A great cocktail bar needs many things, but a good cocktail bar only needs a few things. The Modernist is a good cocktail bar. The first thing you'll notice about The Modernist is the lack of a menu. Unless you order a classic cocktail, each drink will be made to your taste which is a fun experience. However, having no menu puts massive pressure on mixologists to interpret ingredients well, and I don't believe bartenders here are quite there yet. I love classic cocktails and have ordered many at Modernist. More than once an ingredient in my drink was missed. To their credit, staff caught the errors and created replacements, but the uneasy impression remains. While every drink including the bartender's choices turned out fine, Modernist must aim higher because so much is great here besides the drinks. There's a cozy interior, a fun exterior, friendly staff, and an awesome location, but for some reason I don't see them aiming higher with their drink quality. There's so much potential here and it's just, well, a little disappointing. That said, do come and enjoy the venue. The drinks are a good compliment to a fun time you're sure to have here. It's just a little disappointing that the cocktails aren't the memorable feature that they could be.

Stopped by here for a drink. Very cute place. Chill environment. U can sit inside or outside and both have bartenders. Our bartender, Rob was very friendly and made me a made to order drink that I loved. I would definitely recommend stopping by and trying this place.

I love it here. Fun, unique drinks. If you're adventurous, let the bartender make you whatever they want! Everything was great!! Love the speakeasy vibe

This is the cutest retro/modern bar by far! From the street it doesn't look like it would be a bad but it was so cool! You enter through the orange front door & they have a cozy and intimate seating for groups as well as counter with bar stools. It was too busy for us to sit inside, so we ventured to the patio portion & it was just as great! Our bartender was so nice & made us a drink of his choice. Will absolutely be coming back.

I am so glad The Modernist survived the really hard years of the pandemic! The esposo and I visited The Modernist for the first time since 2020 and we had the best time. It was so nice to just be back in a bar and see them thriving and doing well. The indoor area was really full so we decided to check out their outdoor area. They've added a second bar outside which specializes in tequila and rum cocktails. We told the bartender what kind of drinks we like and he prepared a cocktail for us. I can't remember exactly what it was, but it was absolutely delicious! It was so good it made me realize why we used to go to bars in the first place. Can't wait to go back in the fall when is a little cooler outside, and grab another drink or two with friends.

If you love unique cocktails you must visit The Modernist. They don't have a drink menu and they will make a custom cocktail just for you. The mixologist will even remember the drinks they made for you if you become a regular. The Modernist has something very unique and I've only found it at The Modernist in Texas. The only other place that I know that has it is in Las Vegas. They have the Szechuan Button(I gave them a bunch of them recently). I gifted them to The Modernist because I love the place that much. It's my go to spot for great cocktails. The "Szechuan Button" goes by many names, including "buzz button," paracress, "toothache plant" and its botanical name, Acmella oleracea. When you chew it, the sensation is like having a sparkler in your mouth, but without the second degree burns. It numbs. It tingles. It's an explosion of sensation, and you haven't even gotten to the liquid part of the cocktail yet. The combination of the refreshing cocktail and the way the Szechuan Button makes your mouth feel is like nothing else. Just take a sip of the cocktail before eating the Szechuan Button. Then eat the Szechuan Button and move it around your mouth. Just give it about ten seconds and your mouth won't be the same for five to ten minutes. The next time you are near the Pearl stop by The Modernist for amazing cocktails. I always get great customer service and they always have a positive attitude. David,Austin and Daylin are some of the mixologists that work there. They will take good care of you. You can thank me later. Enjoy my friends!

Ok, so I've been wanting to come here for awhile. We had dinner across the street at Restaurant Claudine and decided to kill two birds with one stone, especially since The Modernist was directly across the street. I had totally forgotten that the concept is that there is no menu and the bartender will create a unique drink for you based on picking your spirit or some ingredients. The inside (although very small) was already full even though it was before 9pm on a Saturday. The crowd was an interesting mix, younger bar hoppers only drinking beer and hipsters to stylish empty nesters and Harley Davidson fans. I'm glad I didn't get as far as asking for a menu while waiting at the bar. The bartender walked up to us from around the bar and asked if we wanted espresso martinis. I love espresso martinis but I was a bit taken aback, like do I give off espresso martini vibes and what does that even say about my appearance? Are espresso martinis the new apple martinis?? Anyway, I had already spotted a case of Dr Pepper on the bar and asked if he could make me a cocktail with it. Considering that I had forgotten this was a custom cocktail bar, I'm sure this question was insulting to his skills. He said yes and what did I want with it? Well, I'm not the bartender and asked what he suggested. He said banana and blackberry. I agreed, i love those fruits! He asked what spirit. I probably would've said vodka but that seemed kinda boring so I told him to choose. I spotted some empty seats so I saved those while my husband waited at the bar for our drinks. He said everyone was paying attention when my drink was being made. I'm not sure what spirit was used after all but it may have been vodka or something slightly bitter. It was topped with whip cream and garnished with small yellow fruit, kumquats maybe. I saw someone stop my husband as he was walking towards me asking about the drink. Anyhoo, It tasted like a fruity but slightly bitter Dr Pepper. Interesting, not sure I'd crave it but now I'd definitely interested in having more custom drinks. I did end up ordering an espresso martini, it wasn't garnished with three beans as I like and I saw where someone posted a photo of theirs served with a cup of coffee beans so I guess it just depends on who makes your drink. It was fine, I've had better, but this is probably a boring drink for them to make here. I can understand that the bartenders probably get frustrated with those that don't know the concept but now that I know what it is, I would go back with all sort of ideas in mind. Nice mix of music, 70s classic rock to modern day indie.

What was supposed to be a good evening was a complete miss by the drunkerd bartender. Our evening at Modern was significantly diminished by an experience that left us questioning the establishment's professionalism. Our bartender, who had seemed friendly, concluded our visit on a sour note. As two couples, it was evident that we were together, yet when the time came to settle our bill, our request was met with an odd question about our group's size and subsequently a split check for four individuals, disregarding the natural couple's arrangement. To add to our discontent, we noticed our bartender indulging in a shot herself just before closing our tab. This unprofessional behavior was already enough to raise concerns, but the situation was exacerbated when we found our bill was not itemized, which obscured any attempt to understand or verify the charges. When we questioned this, the atmosphere turned uncomfortably tense, as if we were at fault for their oversight. Regrettably, I am compelled to share this review to reflect the subpar service we received at modern. It's unfortunate when the actions of the staff detract from what could have been an enjoyable night out.

Our experience at the Modernist trumps any other bar experience I've ever had. I love the menu-less concept which gives you the chance to say what you want and have the bartender run with it. Our bartender Ashanti was AMAZING at taking in our taste profiles and making magic. We sat at the bar so we saw the bartenders work through making drinks, tasting as they went. All ingredients used are homemade and fresh. Drinks are unique to you. The bar is small and can feel a bit crowded at times but we had a fantastic time. The bartenders are very attentive and friendly. I will most CERTAINLY be returning.

This is of my favorite spots in San Antonio! The drinks are always amazing and the service is awesome. My friends and I like to come here at the end of the week to catch up and the atmosphere is always perfect. Even on a busy day like Friday, they always have adequate seating for my group and I. On top of the great drinks, service, and ambiance, their drinks are relatively inexpensive. The entire place was very clean, both inside and outside. They had someone continuously looking around for empty glasses and tidying up, which I can always appreciate. Something I very much enjoy is their outdoor bar. Not only can you chill outside but you can order drinks there as well. Parking has always been pretty easy for my friends and I but as usual when drinking, I recommend getting dropped off or finding a dd to come along. If parking, there are several side streets with ample space if you don't mind the short walk. In conclusion, I would highly recommend this spot.

This is a really cool place and I would recommend going! You tell the amazing bartenders what you kind of things you like and they will create a unique cocktail for you. I told them I wanted a dessert drink and that I love chocolate. I was made the most delicious chocolate covered strawberry cocktail!

I enjoyed this place thoroughly. It was a bar with a little kind of a speakeasy feel to it. They didn't have a menu but you described what you would drink and then they will make you a special drink. I thought it was great! The bartenders were fun and engaging and they really made you feel like they cared! They were very humorous and I had a good time and I would definitely come back the next time I'm in the area. This type of spot really feels I can gives you some part of the creative control with your drink. Some places have menus to where they have 10 different drinks and you have to stay with the knees for your time there. The fact that the bartenders listen to you and the name made it based off what you said versus what they presented to you on a piece of paper, was an amazing thing! I wish they had more of these type of low-key bars where I live. It was a really weird environment because I feel like you were going into somebody's house, which you basically were lol. They had indoor and outdoor seating. In the main area, it was a couch, not seating like a normal bar but a couch like you're in a living room. I thought this was a great idea to have a bar set up like a actual house. I loved it!

Good vibe, quiet calm atmosphere, fire pit seating, in and outdoor bar...it was a relaxing after dinner night cap! No menus. The bar tender will ask what's your go to spirt and creative an innovative spirited drink from there. We loved the easy parking, quaint home backyard type feel.

This place is great, live hanging in the patio with Rob he makes the best drinks, and so pretty.

This is a small bar - but the inside was nice and the vibe was relaxing - there is an outdoor area as well. The drinks are amazing ! I ordered a cucumber martini and it was the best I have ever had -

Such a cute cocktail bar. Service was great and the drinks were even better. The inside of the bar was full so we sat outside. There were enough heaters to keep us warm and a separate bar outside as well. Vieux Carré and Whiskey Sour were amazing!

Perfection! No drink menu, use your imagination. Bartenders are very creative. You won't be disappointed.

I currently live in LA and did not expect to find this gem when I visited my hometown. Outstanding drinks, real mixologists and excellent ambience. Thanks again!

Ashanti!! He is a great mixologist. More then a bartender. It's fun and unique. The vibes are just amazing and I would recommend to people who don't mind paying more for the quality.

Cool little hole in the wall bar, like everyone mentioned they don't have a menu and will make you a drink depending on your pallet. These bartenders are so talented!

I am blown away with how well these bartenders can make drinks for my pallet. My only gripe is sometimes they can't replicate the drinks they customize for you. But yea

I've been here several times, and this is by far my favorite speakeasy! I came in with my spouse and a friend, and we had such a great time. Every time i come here I always try something different which makes every experience very interesting. You basically just tell the bartender what you feel like drinking as far as flavors (sweet, fruity, botanical, warm, spicy, etc..) and they make a special drink just for you. It seems like they also have signature drinks that they make, Which I have to try soon. Austin was our bartender and he took very great care of us. Every drink he made was perfection. The prices are very fair, they make all their cocktails with high grade ingredients and still charge a pretty average price. I love this place and would recommend everyone to come.

This is the speakeasy to go to in San Antonio. You can trust the bartender on their recommendations. They do a great job and provide excellent service. If you enjoy speakeasies, come check this spot out. David, the bartender will take care of you.

It is a small house inside, but still comfortable and inviting. The bartenders were kind and took great care of us. We let them get creative with our drinks, and they were patient with explaining ingredients. They had things we had never heard of before, so it was definitely an experience. This is a cute little speakeasy with down to earth people.

Small house with no windows makes for a very odd experience when drinking. No menu or listed pricing is an easier way to overcharge for drinks. The whole thing feels a little cutesy, but the concept has been done and overdone by better bars in bigger cities. It feels as if San Antonio is always a few years behind in concepts and the local popularity of this bar proves that. Dirty bathrooms. Uncomfortable furniture. This isn't the kind of place you'd want to spend an evening in.

So yes, I did walk past this place three to four times before calling my friend that night. The outside was completely unexpected just as the inside and interior of the place was. I enjoyed the ambiance and the romantic setting. The Old Fashions here are made to perfection - I loved watching the process. The bartender was very diligent in his work and also quiet which was a first for me. I may visit again to get the full experience of their worthy cocktails.

No menu, no prices, just your imagination and knowledge of what you want to drink. Under new management but still the same results

Absolutely loved this place. You will completely miss it from the outside without looking at the address. Very cozy, mood lighting, and intimate. It'd be great for a date night. There is no menu. The manager David was the bartender and made some awesome concoctions. Will definitely be going again.

Recently visited this place on a cold night. They provided little blankets for us when we sat outside. Also had a few fire pits that's we could gather around to stay warm. Craft cocktails were very good. They can make everything you can think of. Smooth jazzy music was playing throughout the night. Cool vibes.

My absolute favorite place. Best drinks. Best bartenders, best atmosphere. I love that it is small and the bartenders have the most outgoing personalities. Love how every drink is made with absolute freshest ingredients.

Rude service, disorganized and bartenders are more concerned with drinking on the job and hooking up their friends vs providing service to paying customers, will not be back. Initially when we walked in, the bartender told us in a really rude manner, we're at capacity you have to go to the bar outside! Okay no worries, we go outside and ask the bar tender if they have a menu (we haven't been in quite awhile) he has a huge attitude and says no, is it your first time here? We said no. He then says well then you should know this. Whoa. Okay haha. So we go back inside and notice a huge group leaving so we stay inside. We wait our turn patiently at the bar and I attempt to sit on an empty bar stool when the bar tender tells me that seat is reserved and she then ignores us and helps the group BEHIND US, who's clearly her friends. We just left at that point. Not sure what the issue was or what we did to deserve that treatment but we will not be back. If you don't enjoy working with patrons then perhaps the servers should seek alternative employment...

A totally unique, amazing experience in San Antonio. Speakeasy vibe in what looks like a converted house on Grayson street- you'll know you're at the right place based off the mailbox. Walk into a dimly lit, intimate vibe. Feeling adventurous? Tell them your spirit of choice, and they'll ask you some follow up questions to make you a unique cocktail. Seriously such a fun experience. Want to stick to your favorite, tried and the cocktail? They'll make that for you too! Not drinking alcohol but don't want to miss out on the fun? They'll make non alcoholic drinks also. Really an amazing vibe and experience.

Very interesting cocktail bar in an up and coming area east of downtown. I used yelp's directions to find it. At night, look for the lights in the backyard, and leading to the backyard. You can enter the front door, but many enter through the back door. This is the type of place for cocktail drinkers. Yes, they have a couple beers on tap, but if you're ordering a cocktail, you should know what you like. No menu, just expert mixologists that will make you exactly what you ask for. If you don't like it, no matter how long it takes, they'll make it right or make something different for you. That's automatic 5 star service right there. Although they have a spanning selection of hard liquors, liqueurs, garnishes, etc... I asked the bartender for two boozy tiki drinks, which took ages to make, but tasted so great, so fresh...and just a different refreshing take than I've ever tasted before. Kudos to the mixologist that night, I didn't get his name, but he wore glasses and was on point with everything. A must stop in SA if you like cocktails or dimly lit places.

This is, low-key, one of the best bars in San Antonio. Located in an unassuming, unlabeled home, you'll be greeted with dim lighting and a relaxed ambiance when you walk in. This place makes for a great date night spot to enjoy unique cocktails and cozy up on one of the couches in the space. There's also an outdoor lounge if hanging out outside surrounded by twinkling lights is more up your alley. :) What I really love about this place are the bartenders. You won't find a drink menu at The Modernist. The bartenders are prepped and ready to make any drink or cocktail you could probably request, but what makes this place truly unique is if you tell the bartender what type of liquor or flavors you like in your drink they'll whip up a concoction on the spot for you. I've gone both routes and have never been disappointed. Check them out during your next night out. You won't be disappointed.

Really cool spot with great drinks, I don't drink so I love that they make mocktails.

I thought I'd visit this just to see if anyone else had the same experience I had. lol sure enough they did. I highly wouldn't recommend this place, the male bartender was pretty rude and insulting, so much so I had to give myself time to think if we knew each other previously. Turns out he's like this to everyone. This was my first and definitely last time coming here.

Such a vibe. No pretense. Just relax. Custom drinks. Attentive bar staff. Love the quiet mood. Great music lightly dusted the air. This is not a happy hour, shots shots place. Great drinks. Adult conversations.

Hidden Gem. I very much enjoy this little spot. The Bartenders are artist! Their is inside and outside seating. Inside and outside bar. Inside is very intimate and dim lighting. Always a hit, never a miss. Highly recommend this Spot!

A gem in San Antonio nearly the Pearl area. It was worth the wait to enter a warm and perfectly lit room to have a drink made to your tastes and with care. The noise level is just right and allows you to actually hear the person or people you're there with. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. I wish I lived in the city as I'd be a regular here!