watertrade
Bar · South River City
1603 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Highlights
Intimate Japanese-inspired bar with Japanese whiskies, sake, cocktails
Intimate Japanese-inspired bar with Japanese whiskies, sake, cocktails
"The hidden South Congress Hotel bar is an intimate space with a Japanese bent, offering Japanese whiskies, sake, and cocktails. The space is designed with an aesthetic of clean lines and no frills. Drinking at Watertrade also gives you access to bites from sibling spot Otoko, the high-end sushi restaurant next door." - Erin Russell
"Accompanying the very tiny Japanese omakase restaurant Otoko within the South Congress Hotel in Travis Heights is this adjacent cocktail bar that’s just as intimate and expertly run. Japanese whisky and sake figure prominently, where the spirits are combined with seasonal ingredients to make balanced and engaging drinks that pair with the ever-changing bar bites menu created by the Otoko team." - Taylor Tobin
"Yes, another one of South Austin’s best cocktail bars is also in Travis Heights and also within a hotel. This time, it’s the hidden bar within the South Congress Hotel. The intimate space takes its cues from sibling restaurant Otoko, which means a Japanese aesthetic and a high-end cocktail menu along with whiskys and sakes. Bonus: there’s a special izakaya food menu available if you don’t want to book an omakase next door. Reservations can be made online; there is room for walk-ins; and there are indoor dine-in services." - Nadia Chaudhury
"Technically not a speakeasy, the South Congress Hotel bar is still definitely off the beaten path. Attached to omakase restaurant Otoko, which is tucked away in the courtyard of the compact Japanese cocktail bar is open to the public, as well as Otoko diners before their dinner. Make a reservation or take a chance at a walk-in opening. A limited izakaya-style menu featuring bar bites is also available. Reservations can be booked online. There are indoor dine-in areas." - Darcie Duttweiler
"And then Travis Heights hotel bar Watertrade within the South Congress Hotel was named as one of its best bars in the country at number 16 and had its own profile highlighting its Kanpachi Dirty cocktail." - Nadia Chaudhury
