For Ben Pezzi, owner of South Austin’s Rusty Cannon Pub, creating a friendly neighborhood environment for locals to enjoy is the key to his success.

“The biggest thing that we are really trying to grow is for the neighborhood to feel part of what I do because I want to feel part of what they do,” Pezzi said. “This is a pub, a public house. That’s what we are, and that’s what we do. You can come up here with your kids and watch a game and relax.”

Rusty Cannon Pub celebrated its one-year anniversary in January. The pub offers a full menu and bar options daily. Parents are invited to bring their children during the day, but after 9 p.m. the pub serves patrons age 21 and older only.

“It’s giving the locals a nice place to stop by,” Pezzi said. “The drink prices are reasonable, and the kitchen stays open until midnight.”

As a single dad and longtime bar owner, Pezzi said he understands the need for a neighborhood hangout. The South Austin area has grown a lot over the years, he said, and he hopes to appeal to a wide range of customers.

“It’s another great spot in South Austin to sit and grab a few drinks and something to eat that is close to home,” Pezzi said. “The days of going downtown to have fun are kind of over. There’s a scene down south now. This is a very densely populated area, and I just wanted to be part of it.”

The American-style menu provides visitors with a variety of choices, such as nachos, wings and burgers.

The Cannon Ball, Pezzi said, is a customer favorite. The signature dish features an avocado stuffed with chicken, bacon and cheese, deep fried and finished off with a queso and chipotle sauce and topped with green onions and chives.

“I’ve always been a fan of the pub model,” Pezzi said. “We’re neighborhood and family friendly.”

Rusty Cannon Pub

730 W. Stassney Lane, Ste. 120, Austin 512-494-5271 www.rustycannonpub-hub.com

Hours: Mon.- Sun. 11 a.m.-2 a.m.