If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you’ve probably seen a post or two about Austin’s pop-up restaurant scene. Like food trailers, pop-up restaurants have become a popular way for chefs and aspiring restauranteurs to test the waters and showcase their talents, for community groups to fundraise, and for foodies to sample the latest and greatest foods on the Austin culinary scene. They often occur in unexpected places and for a limited time, offering a prix fixe or limited menu.
Now you can enjoy not one, but two holiday-themed pop-up bars in Austin! The first, happening at The Eleanor (307 W. 5th St. Ste. A), is open daily from 4pm – 2am now through December 30. There, you can sip on a holiday-themed cocktail in one of three spaces that have been transformed for the occasion: the classic family living room on Christmas, the ski lodge, or the mountain summit. Guests are encouraged to wear their ugliest Christmas sweaters, pajamas, Santa hats and other holiday dazzle.
In the true spirit of giving, there are donation boxes near the entrance for the Austin Children’s Shelter and Caritas of Austin. In addition, all of the drinks are served in custom mugs, coupes and highballs. A limited amount of the themed glassware will be available for purchase, with 10 percent of sales benefitting nonprofit Action Against Hunger. Admission will be on a first-come-first-served basis, or you can skip the line by purchasing a “Dasher Pass.”
The second pop-up, called Sippin’ Santa, takes place at Nickel City (1133 E. 11th St.) now through December 31. The east side bar has been transformed into a tiki bar that puts a unique spin on holiday cheer (think grass skirts, coconuts, and Santa hats). In addition to serving up tiki drinks such as Kris Kringle Colada, Hawaiian Milk Punch and Grinch Grog, Nickel City will also be hosting a luau every Saturday in December. Tickets include two Sippin’ Santa drinks, a pupu platter, and photos with Santa.
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