Since opening independent bookstore and wine bar Vintage in 2022, Jean Buckner has sought to create a space for the community to pour into a good book —and a good glass of wine—with friends.
The early days
Buckner said the idea of opening a hybrid bookstore and wine bar came to her because she felt there was a lack of variety when it came to finding a space where she could sit and read while visiting with friends.
“Our early days were scrappy,” Buckner said. “Very few businesses also straddled these same two—operationally very different—industries that we were playing in, so there was no roadmap or best practices to follow. No tools or resources to leverage.”
Despite the obstacles, Buckner said Vintage has been received with open arms by the community since day one.
What’s special about it?
Nestled inside the historic Haehnel building—previously home to Shorty’s Bar—Vintage offers a curated selection of new, used and antique books. In addition, monthly book club memberships are available and include various perks such as discounts on wine, books and more.
“We also have book-themed trivia nights, live music, author signings, poetry nights, and other community events,” Buckner said.
The rotating wine selection at Vintage provides guests with drink options such as wines, beers and mocktails, with a new Texas winery featured each month.
In her own words
“I'm truly blown away by the unwavering support we've felt from every corner of our amazing city,” Buckner said. “Watching our town come together to turn our small shop into a place of community and connection has been such a joy to witness and I can't wait to see what's in store for the future.”
- 1101 E. 11th St., Austin
- www.vintagebooksandwine.com
