Photo by Joe Lanane

Photo by Joe Lanane

East Austin craft cocktail bar builds on early success

After years of work at Uchi and various Rainey Street bars, Scranton Twohey is no stranger to the Austin nightlife scene.

Twohey utilized his past experiences when opening Whisler's, a bar on East Sixth Street in the former Rabbit's Lounge building, which has stood since 1917. Whisler's, he said, has gained a reputation for its quality craft cocktails since opening in May.

"I've never necessarily been in the craft cocktail business before, so the feedback has been so unexpected," Twohey said. "It just feels good to have an idea and see that idea come together."

The transition has been made easier, he said, because of his bartenders, whose creativity is often showcased on the Whisler's drink menu.

"I don't feel like I am the only one creating on this journey," Twohey said. "This is a family affair."

As Whisler's nears its first birthday, Twohey said he aims to have the bar break from the traditional mold seen at other craft cocktail bars.

"We want to walk a fine line of serving quality craft cocktails and volume," he said.

Whisler's craft cocktail drinkers benefit from what Twohey calls a more intimate setting inside, while an outdoor area and bar provides a more laid-back party scene, he said.

"That way you get to experience both vibes," Twohey said.

Whisler's, 1816 E. Sixth St., 512-480-0781, Twitter: @WhislersATX