A new bar concept is opening in the courtyard of South Congress Avenue's Austin Motel.

Rocky's Bar, named after the hotel's former mascot, a cat called Rocky, will be tropical-themed. The bar will offer cold cocktails and shave ice from a walk-up window.

On the menu

Cocktail creations include Jungle Cat, made with light rum, Campari, cherry Heering, almond and pink grapefruit; Hissy Fit, made with coconut water, dark rum, cold brew coffee liqueur and cold brew; and Cosmos on Soco, made with citrus vodka, Cointreau, white cranberry, sour cordial and fun ice.

Shave ice options include the nonalcoholic Chica Cherry Cola with cola, wild cherry and maraschino cherry, or the alcoholic Aperol Drift with orange delight, Aperol and cava.
Hotel guests and Austin locals alike can order from Rocky's Bar at the walk-up window, offering shave ice with an alcoholic option. (Courtesy Chad Wadsworth)
“The cocktails are inspired by the Austin Motel setting—playful and fun with a hint of tropical," said Jamie-Lynn Argenta, Bunkhouse Hotels vice president of food and beverage. "My personal favorite is our riff on a lychee jalapeno margarita featuring a chia seed and salt rim, called the Neighborhood Stray.”


The bar will have seating and shuffleboard available in the courtyard.

Check it out

Rocky's Bar will celebrate its grand opening Oct. 3 from 6-9 p.m. The party will include live music from country musician Dale Watson.

Quote of note


“Rocky's is our own little oasis right in the heart of South Congress," Austin Motel General Manager Gaby Sierra said. "It’s a perfect encapsulation of the spirit of the motel. It offers a laid-back option for locals and visitors to relax, play shuffleboard, and enjoy a boozy afternoon or evening with friends and soon-to-be friends. We wanted to create one more space where all ways are always welcome.”