The Butterfly Bar

Austin, United States

4.1

Closed now

20 reviews

Accepts Credit Cards

Contacts

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Telephone:
+1 512-478-5282
Website:
www.butterflybaraustin.com
Address:
2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX, 78722
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
0.3 miLafayette/Manor
0.3 miDean Keeton/Dancy
0.5 miComal/Manor
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Bussiness info

Accepts Credit Cards
Yes
Parking
Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible
Yes
Good for Groups
Yes
Ambience
Hipster
Noise Level
Average
Music
Live, Background
Good For Dancing
No
Alcohol
Full Bar
Happy Hour
Yes
Best Nights
Mon, Wed, Fri
Coat Check
No
Smoking
Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating
Yes
Has TV
No
Dogs Allowed
Yes

Today

Today 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Closed now
Local time (Austin) 01:41 Sunday, 1 June 2025

Business hours

Monday 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Tuesday 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Wednesday 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Thursday 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Friday 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Saturday 5:00 pm – 1:00 am
Sunday 5:00 pm – 12:00 am

Description

Specialties

The Butterfly Bar @ The VORTEX emerged from its cocoon on February 19, 2011. Since March 18, 2013, The Butterfly Bar has offered a full bar.

With its vintage appeal, soft lighting, warm interior, and spacious deck, you can enjoy an excellent selection of beer, wine, cocktails, appetizers, and desserts.

The expansive deck and yard include communal picnic tables as well as a more intimate setting in our rustic «pony shed». With live performance in our black box theatre most Thursday-​Sunday evenings, weeknights provide a wide variety of entertainment including Swing Bands, Movies under the Stars, Tuesday Trivia, Improv, and Drum Jams.

The VORTEX has also recently become home to Patrizi’s food truck, serving a menu inspired by 50 years of tradition and featuring homemade pasta with a variety of sauces; plus vegetarian and gluten free options.

History

Established in 2011.

The Butterfly Bar is an extension to the already existent VORTEX, established by Bonnie Cullum in 1990 on Manor Road. She saw an opportunity to extend what was just a snack bar and bring a new life and added amenity to the theater. (Though, you don’t have to attend the theater to enjoy the bar.) Sit back and relax in the expansive outdoor area. It’s outfitted with a fire pit encircled by comfy Adirondack chairs; a large wooden deck with communal picnic tables; and an old converted pony shed that provides an intimate and cozy seating area. Inside you’ll find a vintage bar taken from the historic Nimitz Hotel in Fredericksburg, which is now the Admiral Nimitz Museum. Petite and inviting café tables and chairs provide additional indoor seating. The space is dimly lit with soft lighting fixtures and glowing candles.

The Butterfly Bar also recommends

The Vortex

25

reviews

Performing Arts

,

Venues & Event Spaces

,

Music Venues

The Butterfly Bar says,

«The Butterfly Bar is a part of a larger non-​profit organization, The VORTEX. Your patronage helps pay for artists, design, and performance.»

Related places

You might also consider:
1
mi
Dozen Street
1808 E 12th St (East Austin)
1
mi
Club Fourty
1806 E 12th St (East Austin)
1
mi
The Red House Pizzeria
1917 Manor Rd
1.3
mi
Longbranch Inn
1133 E 11th St (East Austin)
1.4
mi
Babylon Hookah Lounge
2001 Guadalupe St (University of Texas, The Drag)
1.5
mi
Dive Bar and Lounge
1703 Guadalupe St (Downtown)

Nearby

Browse nearby places:
1
ft
Patrizi’s
2307 Manor Rd
50
ft
The Vortex
2307 Manor Rd
100
ft
Haymaker
2310 Manor Rd
120
ft
Gene Johnson Automotive Service
2300 Manor Rd
130
ft
Home Steam Laundry & Cleaners Inc
2301 Manor Rd
150
ft
The Clean Sweep Company
2309 Manor Rd

20 reviews of The Butterfly Bar

No registration required
Place rating: 2
Austin, TX
Went here last night with the main squeeze. The atmosphere is very cute and charming; it felt like an oasis in the middle of the city. We came to try the pasta food truck outside, and while we were waiting for our food decided to grab a couple of cocktails. The bartenders were super friendly and welcoming.
But, unfortunately the drinks were pretty awful. Like outwardly bad, to the point that I thought I needed to write a Unilocal review, which never happens. Maybe it was a bad night, maybe the bartenders were in the weeds, but the drinks tasted like dirty water with a hint of fruit. These drinks would have been bad for $ 5, but at $ 11 it’s pretty inexcusable.
I think we’ll come back in the spring when it’s a tad warmer and give it another shot. I really want to like this place because the atmosphere is truly lovely.
Place rating: 5
Kansas City, MO
Always come in. They have friendly staff, and solid group of regulara, and good conversation with random austinites. Owners seem to have smart tastes and support a whole bunch of interesting art coming thru town. A great establishment for the community for years to come. ASK RICHI FOR A FERNET ON ICE
Place rating: 4
Austin, TX
This was a really nice place to hang out! I loved the old movie playing on the wall, and the cozy atmosphere inside. When I showed up, the very nice bartender went over the things she had that weren’t on the menu (warm drinks!!!) and I was thrilled to get a yummy hot toddy. I also enjoyed a whiskey and Maine Root ginger beer. I could actually see myself hanging out there alone and reading or working on a writing project without a computer. Super cozy, relaxed atmosphere, and good drinks. Also there is a bar cat who could not care less. What more can you ask for?
Only one thing threw me off. It wasn’t a huge bother, but there was a show happening last night, and they were corralling the audience into the Vortex theater by jangling a bell a bunch of times. It’s kitschy and cute, but it threw me off.
Place rating: 4
Austin, TX
Patio lounging! plenty of areas to hang, plenty of dogs and also one thing I wanna point out– the bathroom stalls dont have doors, they have curtains. Cant knock on curtains. other than that great low key place.
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
I heard so much about this place, as it’s right by my house, and gets great reviews. The photos here on Unilocal made me avoid it for almost a year now. I don’t know why, but they definitely didn’t do it justice.
We came on a Friday evening around 8 or 9 after hitting up some other Manor spots for drinks. The patio was crowded and had a great vibe. We waiting for only a minute to order our drinks and the bartender (glasses, long blonde hair) was so sweet and friendly. Very helpful in helping us select our drinks too.
I foresee this becoming my new «go-​to» around Manor, especially after I try Patrizis.
Place rating: 4
Austin, TX
I’ve been here a few times already and I really enjoy this place. I honestly forget about it since I live so far north. But when I do remember this place I am in a happy place. My most recent visit I was finally able to bring hubby with me. This is our kind of place. Totally chill and lots of outdoor seating.
I sometimes feel like this place is a like a secret hide away. The parking is really weird to get to in the gravel lot and the entrance is so inconspicuous. Once you walk up and through the fence entrance you enter this haven of just totally chill-​ville. When you walk into Butterfly Bar it’s simple and straight forward. Staff has always been nice and helpful at the bar. Lots of beers in bottle or cans, a simple collections of wines and lots of craft cocktails to choose from. There’s always a movie playing on the wall which is some kind of cult movie following or iconic 80s or 90s classic. There’s some seating inside but there’s tons of seating outside. Another super plus is that Patrizi’s Italian food truck is outside and they have the BEST pasta! Something else that always stands out is that they always have a bowl of candy in the women’s restroom. One time it was Dum Dums yesterday it was Jolly Ranchers. The restroom reminds me of being in a thrift shop. If a restroom has a vibe that’s what Butterfly Bar’s restroom would be.
This is place is a very different place, kind of weird and kitschy but it goes in line with that «Keep Austin Weird» I recently realized that I’m so close to this place from work. This would be a great stop after work to enjoy some fresh air, refreshing beverages and delicious food.
Place rating: 5
Arlington, VA
The bar is small, fast, friendly, inexpensive and on Friday night had love music. The primary seating area is outdoors with lots of seating and some
fans to keep the air flowing. Pleasant laid back décor and the food truck, Patrizi’s is exceptional! Come early because parking fills up quickly. There are also side streets to park on but you will likely have to search for parking. The lines can get long for the food truck and bar so if you go with a friend, one person stand in the food truck line and the other at the bar and bring your friend a drink while you wait. Casual environment. Great to kick back after a long day and just chill…
Place rating: 4
Austin, TX
Definitely a cool spot! I found my self ordering drinks here when we came to seek our Patrizi’s food truck. I was actually surprised at the selection of drinks they had. I immediately fell in love with the cocktail menu. The bartender working that night was great. My first cocktail was a surprise from my husband, the butterfly nectar. It was simply divine! I loved the addition of the flower in it too! Next I ordered the Blossom cocktail and it was just as beautiful and tasty as the first! They also have a nice selection of beer and wine too.
The inside bar has a vintage vibe going on. It was comfortable. I loved the openness of the outside patio area. There were several nook and crannies to set up shop outside with your friends.
I am absolutely a fan of butterfly bar and would love to come back here. I need to continue my exploration of the cocktail menu as it is lengthy!
Place rating: 4
Austin, TX
Great atmosphere, great drinks, great food truck outside. The only complaint I have (and it’s a significant one) is their super-​friendly service really doesn’t know how to deal with larger crowds. Actually, moderate-​sized crowds even provide problems. They just need to have a section at the bar for beer and wine orders and another for cocktails. I waited almost ten minutes for a lone star while at the physical bar. If they can fix that, it’s a perfect spot.
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
This is one of my favorite places in Austin. I love the interior décor and the outdoor atmosphere is hard to beat. The staff are always so warm and kind. If you want a place to unwind and feel right at home, this is the spot. Also– the patio lights, hula hoops, and candy in the lady’s room always make me smile!
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
Popular.
Crowded.
Worth it.
Great variety of drinks.
Hand crafted.
Very respectably priced.
A long, long list of summer time type cocktails. We tried 3 and they were all great.
Outside seating, too.
Place rating: 4
Austin, TX
I don’t really come to the Eastside too much (lol) but I like trying something new. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen fellow Unilocal Elite/​former co-​worker/​friend Kelsey E. and she was down for Butterfly Bar.
I like the spacious outdoor patio and vintage look. There is plenty of space and you can bring your dog, too. The food truck outside was Patrizi’s, didn’t try it but Kelsey E. said they have a good veg dish ;)
She had white wine and I had red sangria (a generous size) and it was just good to chill out…
This is a cool spot!
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
Loved this place. We only stopped in for a few drinks on a Monday night but staff was really friendly and drinks were good (and cheap!) We will definitely be back again soon– the food truck outside was the best meal we had in Austin without a doubt.
Place rating: 1
Raleigh, NC
Seems like a great place but I had an unfortunate experience with customer service. When we arrived, I ordered an $ 11 specialty cocktail that I really enjoyed. We decided to order another round, but my second drink didn’t taste right. It was like something had been left out. We were seated outside waiting for dinner so I didn’t say anything about it at first. Finally one of my friends noticed I wasn’t enjoying my drink, so she convinced me to go back to the bar and request a new one. It was still 2⁄3 full but the bartender said if I wasn’t happy with it I should have brought it back sooner. Really? Our group spent over $ 200 on drinks and food (and tipped well) and they wouldn’t replace (or even taste test) a sub par cocktail? Really left a bad impression on me and everyone in our group. We won’t be going back anytime soon…
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
For those businesses that like to ride the «We’re so Austin, we were Austin before Austin was Austin» train, they should be asking The Butterfly Bar what that really means. The Butterfly Bar IS the best representation of Austin authentic IMO.
First, check your attitude at the door because if you are an attituded jackass you will stand out like a total douche. This alone takes my review from 4 to 5 stars.
Second, say hi to Radius the bar cat who roams from table to table and is not afraid to jump up next to you for affection, or kick your ass if you pet his belly.
Third, order food from Patrizi’s found in a trailer right outside (and they deliver to you). I do believe this might be the best Italian food I’ve had in Austin.
Fourth, stock up on cocktails. They are creative and semi-​hand-​crafted. The bartenders are super nice, quick, accommodating and detail oriented. You do have to fetch your drinks yourself, but the quaintness found within makes it painless.
Fifth, don’t miss an opportunity to go potty here. Seriously — the bathrooms are some of the most unique I have seen in Austin … pretty rad actually.
And lastly, the ambiance cannot be beat: casual but elegant, comfortable but not tacky, romantic but not exclusively so, and artsy funky without being pretentious.
P. S. They have a large outdoor deck and yard-​type set-​up — don’t be surprised if you find yourself wishing upon a star that The Butterfly Bar never ever closes.
Place rating: 3
Austin, TX
The Butterfly Bar fits in the grungy category, with its beaten down tables, sticky interior, and dark ambiance, but for some reason, I like it. Though my normal jam is maybe a wine bar not tucked away or a brewery with some funky vibe.
Well, BB is neither. It is a no-​frills bar with a pretty stripped down décor. But, the alcohol pricing goes along with what you are getting: affordability. Also, the food truck right outside (look it up yourself) is pretty killer. Getting your $ 12 bottle of wine from here will keep your dinner at the cost of a pasta dish elsewhere.
Cleanliness could be addressed, however. It doesn’t quite feel entirely sanitary, which is why I stuck to their wooden benches closer to the food truck…
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
I came here last night for the first time on a friend’s recommendation. We were looking for a place to surprise our friend on her birthday that was quaint without being closed off, had a charming ambiance and the best combination of food and drink. I think we found it. The drink menu was well rounded and provided us with choices you wouldn’t find in just any bar scene. The atmosphere was everything you see in these other reviews. The three venues together allows you to explore whatever your appetite craves at the time while never having to travel farther than your feet can take you. What really sold me was the kindness of the bar staff. We are a young crowd and we know how that must look to the tired and worn out Monday staff but they greeted us with smiles and helped us along. They allowed us to eat our food that we ordered from patrizis inside the bar and consume our own birthday desserts. They chatted us up and made us feel welcome. Everyone who came was delighted and we all agreed we will be returning!
Place rating: 4
Denver, CO
I love hidden gems! This place is definitely ticket away. Tonight (Monday) we were in the back bar area where a live jazz band played. I love the atmosphere and the love music gave it a speakeasy feel. There’s nothing like a grand piano. I ordered a glass of whiskey neat. Service from the bar staff was great. Although we didn’t sit outside, I like that there is an outdoor fire pit. There is an amazing Italian food truck out back called Patrizis. Get the Carbonara Alexandra. You will thank me later.
Place rating: 4
Austin, TX
This review was written by someone who does NOT frequent bars all that often, so take it with a big pinch of salt.
I come for the food truck that is conveniently located right outside. The Butterfly Bar is just one part of a compound that includes the Vortex Theatre and Patrizi’s. You are beginning to see these symbiotic relationships more and more, with food trucks hooking up to bars. One supplies the drinks, and one supplies the food. It works out perfectly. I have heard a lot of people say that the food is expensive — and it is, yeah, a little. But that’s because of the quality. If you want cheap food then go to McDonald’s.
People also say to bring bug spray — yeah, that’s because it is OUTSIDE. That’s like writing a terrible review of 35 because there’s TRAFFIC. The outdoor (see, outdoor) seating is eclectic, much like Spiderhouse. And sprawling too. What I truly like about it though is that there are enough nooks and crannies to accommodate your loud drunken group or smaller areas for more intimate dates.
The bar itself is wooden and impressive. The selections can be a little intimidating, but once you know what you are looking for, you’re fine. I love the old films that play against the wall. The bar (and the entire compound) have a certain charm, though it is difficult to put your finger on what exactly it is. Maybe it is just an embodiment (much like Spiderhouse) of Austin, a mismatch of different lights, shapes, and sounds that make up one truly unique experience.
But Butterfly Bar, or whomever owns the complex, please listen to me: Please fix that pothole of doom right as you drive in. That thing is like a small swimming pool. Anyone who has hit it once will never, EVER forget it.
Place rating: 4
Austin, TX
So I’m at a bar that is playing Office Space while a band is playing covers of the Doors. I’m also pretty sure I just crashed someone’s backyard, but no, I’m at the Butterfly Bar.
This hidden spot was a fun find while I was killing time in the neighborhood. It’s a tad bit hard to figure out how the place works, so lemme tell ya.
Enter from what I’ll call the back yard. Go on the porch and go inside to buy drinks. Better yet, CHEAP DRINKS. Seriously, two beers were $ 6. Buy food at the food trailer in the backyard. See? Simple enough.