Are you looking for a swanky oasis above the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin? Stephen F’s Bar is a great spot to sip a cocktail, glass of wine or local beer while gazing down on Congress from their expansive balcony. I’ve often found myself there during SXSW to escape the hectic street goings on and I almost always spend my Christmas Eve there with my husband and good friends after we dine.
The hotel itself is historic, having opened in 1924 as the tallest building in downtown Austin at ten stories high. It has long been a favorite of politicians given the location just down the street from and with a great view of the Capitol building. The historic Paramount Theater is right next door and pre-dates the Stephen F by nine years. For decades, theater goers have been able to enjoy a drink before or after a show at the storied venue.
During Prohibition, the bar was a secret drinking spot for politicos and Austinites in desperate need of a drink. I always feel like a much more important and beautiful person when I waltz into the marble-clad lobby and walk up the grand staircase to the lounge tucked into the corner of the second floor. It’s rich red walls and leather furniture lend an air of old money elegance.
Stephen F’s Bar is soon to undergo a transformation of the bar and dining area and the cocktail menu. A “Whisper Room” is to be added harkening back to the Prohibition roots and the cocktails will also reflect Prohibition favorites. I was able to meet their food and beverage manager, Vinny D’Agostino, who walked me through the menu and its soon to come changes. Stephen F’s current cocktail list includes many classics with a local twist including the colorful “Eberly” made with organic cucumber vodka, prickly pear syrup and lime. Though not quite as brilliant in color, I loved the Ladybird made with Grey Goose La Poire, St. Germain, and Lemon. It was refreshing and well balanced with plenty of acid and just a touch of sweetness that shined through. Both of these cocktails will remain on the menu after the revamp. Five Texas draft beers are on tap and several Texas Bourbons and Whiskeys provide local flair to the extensive list of Scotch, small batch Bourbons and Whiskeys, Cognacs and Armangnacs.
Of course, I explored the wine list with two favorites being the Unparalleded Rosé and the Lucien Albrecht Cremant d’Alsace Brut. The Unparalleled is a classic Provencal Rosé with a light salmon color and an old world nose of wet wool and a touch of citrus. The palate is bright and summery with tart grapefruit, blood orange and lemon with generous acidity and a lovely, long finish. Lucien Albrecht has long been a favorite producer of mine and I often find myself with a bottle of his Brut Rosé. The Brut is just as pleasing, especially at its price point. We discovered that the truffled popcorn on the Stephen F’s Bar menu pairs perfectly with the rich, citrusy and slightly yeasty character of the sparkling wine.
The Stephen F Austin Hotel is now owned and operated by Intercontinental Hotels and Resorts, a group who knows how to create a luxury experience. Our stay at the Intercontinental Bora Bora was one of the most magical weeks of my life, not only because it was my honeymoon, but also owing to the stunning surroundings and the impeccable service. You can expect the same level of service and luxury right here at home in Austin.
We are excited to experience the coming changes to Stephen F’s Bar and Terrace. Vinny (an Italian brother from another mother) even makes his own limoncello, and I am told that may make an appearance on the new menu in one of their cocktails. Cheers! Come meet us for a drink high above Congress Avenue.