Famed blues venue returns downtown after two years

The new year began with one of Austin’s most iconic music venues reopening for business.

Antone’s Nightclub returned from a two-year hiatus under new ownership at a new location. After a brief stint in East Austin, the popular blues bar opened Dec. 31 at 305 E. Fifth St.

C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band headlined the opening event, helping bridge the historical gap to 1975 when C.J. Chenier’s father, Clifton Chenier, performed during the first show hosted by Antone’s.

“We are so thrilled to bring Antone’s back to the heart of downtown Austin where it all started and it’s so special to have C.J. reopen the club,” partner Susan Antone said in a statement. Her father, Clifford Antone, opened the venue.

Gary Clark Jr., an Austin native and Grammy award-winning musician, co-owns the new space along with Will Bridges, who is also behind Deep Eddy Cabaret and Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue. Susan Antone, Alex Shoghi and Spencer Wells round out the ownership team.