Bowl Season
Best Austin bars to watch the Longhorns in Monday's Texas Bowl
The Texas Longhorns and the Arkansas Razorbacks are facing off in the Texas Bowl on Monday night. The two teams are meeting for the first time in six years — both with a 6-6 record. Hardcore Longhorn fans will recall the "Game of the Century," the 1969 showdown between the Longhorns and the Razorbacks (spoiler alert: Texas won); in fact, UT has claimed most of the victories during this longstanding rivalry.
The highly anticipated game kicks off at NRG Stadium in Houston at 8 pm Monday. If you're not heading to Houston for the sold-out game, you can still kick back and watch the game in Austin. Here are our picks for the top bars around town to catch the game and root for your favorite team ... as long as your favorite team is Texas.
Posse East
This bar is one of the best places to catch a college ball game. Period. Located just north of the UT campus, Posse East has been a mecca for football fans for almost 45 years. Monday drink specials include $3 Texas craft beer pints.
Scholz Garten
If you think Posse has history, check out Scholz Garten. This is a great pick for the downtown area and for any hungry sports fans. Scholz has a delicious food menu (including German fare), an expansive brew selection and specials on 20 oz. beer flights.
Little Woodrow's
Little Woodrow's has locations up north and down south, but we suggest the West Sixth Street spot because if the Longhorns win, you're already downtown to celebrate. If they lose? Go downtown and drink away your sorrows. Dress warm, though, because most of the seating is on the patio.
Black Sheep Lodge
At the intersection of Oltorf Street and South Lamar Boulevard sits Black Sheep Lodge, a great pub with good food, good people and a homey feel. Get there early, though, because seats tend to go fast on game days. On Mondays, you'll find $3 specials for Texas brews and liquors.
Midway Field House
Looking to stay east of I-35? Catch the game (as well as free pool and Sailor Jerry specials) at Midway Field House. This East Riverside establishment offers plenty of space and decent parking options.
Red's Porch
Red's Porch offers a great view of the city and — with tons of television screens — the game. Enjoy happy hour until 7 pm (if you plan on getting there early), plus specials on Treaty Oak Starlite Vodka and Z Pepe Palomas all night.
Cover 3
Jazz up your Monday night football with a visit to Cover 3 on Anderson Lane. This upscale sports bar prides itself on all-access sports networks, a choice liquor selection, and good eats.
Bar 96
If you're craving a cocktail while you watch the game, Bar 96 on Rainey Street is a great place for sports and artisan mixed drinks. Plus, the Bomb Tacos food trailer is nearby for all your taco needs.
Pluckers Wing Bar
Two words: chicken wings. That, and Pluckers has locations all across town.