Mezcal and More

Moody mezcalería on Austin hotel rooftop starts pouring weekly tastings

Tambien is now open at Arriba Abajo. Image courtesy of Tambien

There are plenty of places to drink mezcal in Austin, but perhaps none quite as stylish as the newly opened six-seat mezcalería at Arriba Abajo Rooftop Cantina. Called Tambien, the sleek new space is now open and offering a guided experience every Thursday.

At Tambien, the bar takes up nearly the whole room, shrouded in dark colors. Interior windows create a gentle barrier between the main dining room and the mezcal room, so it feels cozy without feeling too separate from the rest of the trendy space, which replaced Wax Myrtle's at the Thompson Hotel a year ago.

Sip & Savor: Mezcal Edition shows off an "omakase-style tasting menu," and it's as fancy as it sounds. More than 30 mezcal expressions are the stars of the $125 show, served neat as well as transformed in various cocktails, all paired with rotating dishes: an appetizer, multiple entrées, a palate cleanser, and dessert.

The culinary portion is conceived by executive chef Marc Marrone, chef de cuisine Daniels de Propio, and senior sous chef Charlie Wilson. They were inspired by the tastes of Oaxaca, but like many Austin restaurants in recent years, have cast a very Japanese light on the creations.

Prime examples as shared in the release are the seared Hokkaido scallops with black garlic parsnip purée, chintextle smoked tomatoes, and a wakame (seaweed) nopal salad; or the Red Field Ranch Iberico Secreto with mole almendrado, charred brassicas (cabbage), and a honey yuzu butter.

Guests will have to book a spot at Tambien to get in, whether its for Thursday tastings at 7:30 pm or other private tastings.

“We’re thrilled to introduce this curated experience at Arriba Abajo, designed for guests and Austinites to enjoy an intimate setting while exploring the history and aging process of such a unique spirit,” said Chef Marrone in the release. “Guided by passionate experts, the menu offers something for everyone — from seasoned aficionados to curious newcomers — providing a chance to savor the rich, smoky flavors, vibrant aromas, and diverse profiles of artisanal mezcals that celebrate Mexico and its deep traditions.”

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Popular downtown Austin bar returning to Rainey Street after 3 years

Bungalow is making its return almost exactly three years after its closure on March 27, 2022. Bungalow/Facebook

It was a solemn day when Rainey Street favorite bar Bungalow shuttered in 2022 to make way for a 606-foot-tall high-rise tower, dealing a dramatic blow to the area's nightlife scene. That only continued when neighboring bar Icenhauer's also closed in 2024.

But not all ends are permanent, especially when it involves an Austin nightlife staple: Bungalow will make its grand return to Rainey in the former Icenhauer's space starting Sunday, March 23.

The rumors that the bar was being revived were confirmed on Bungalow's Instagram page.

"After a few year's of silence, we're rising from the ashes — an Austin rebirth, if you will," the post says. "The beloved drinking spot that once captured the heart of the city is back, but this time, across the street. Get ready Austin. We're back for round two."

Bungalow, which originally opened in 2012 as a converted historic residential home, is known for its Sunday Funday events, reverse brunch, and a dog-friendly back patio with yard games.

Icenhauer's also confirmed Bungalow's return with its own Instagram post.

"[I]t was important to me to find a tenant that had history and knowledge of the street. we hope you support them as they bring rainey back," the post says.

Icenhauer's closed its doors in November 2024 after being in business for 14 years, citing ongoing sales losses due to construction in the area. At the time, owner Michael Icenhauer said he had been losing money since April 2023.

Bungalow will be located at 83 Rainey St. Updated operating hours have not been officially revealed yet, but the bar's Facebook page lists 4 pm to 2 am Wednesdays through Fridays, and noon to 2 am Saturdays and Sundays.

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