Located in a predominantly residential area in South Austin, Culture Club has formed a family-friendly bar and eatery for community members to enjoy a classic rock-inspired experience.

The background

Owned by Justin Knoch, the bar’s concept was nine years in the making before its launch in November 2024.
Owner Justin Knoch opened the business in November 2024 and owns a separate speakeasy in El Paso. (Dacia Garcia/Community Impact)
Owner Justin Knoch opened the business in November 2024 and owns a separate speakeasy in El Paso. (Dacia Garcia/Community Impact)
As a resident in the Menchaca Road neighborhood, Knoch said he was interested in crafting a space that would be unique to the area while maintaining a family-friendly vibe like the spaces he enjoyed frequenting when he moved to Austin 19 years ago.

“I’ve always loved classic rock,” Knoch said. “I wanted [Culture Club] to be different from the norm on the Menchaca Road.”

Knoch also owns a speakeasy in his hometown of El Paso called 1922. The bars’ atmospheres differ completely, Knoch said, with 1922 reflecting a more upscale ambience lacking the family-friendly element which is prominent in Culture Club’s space.
The business hosts events such as free pinball days, karaoke nights and vendor markets. (Dacia Garcia/Community Impact)
The business hosts events such as free pinball days, karaoke nights and vendor markets. (Dacia Garcia/Community Impact)
The atmosphere


Walking into the eatery, customers can find swings with animal patterns hanging in front of the bar and pinball machines lining one of the dining room’s walls. The bar’s red lights, motorcycle display and guitar wall decor create a vintage feel with 70s and 80s influences.

Knoch said he drew inspiration from a handful of rock artists including ACDC, Metallica, KISS and Guns & Roses.

The space also features an outside patio with areas for customers to dine, children to play and televisions to catch sports games. After being open for a year, he said the business has garnered a group of regulars some of which live in walking distance from the eatery.

Knoch said he tries to maintain a connection with the local community by frequently hosting events such as vendor markets, karaoke nights and themed nights with drink specials.


On the menu

The business offers a menu with pizza, wings and small bites including pepperoni rolls, garlic knots and fried pickles. Individuals looking for a drink to pair with their entree can enjoy signature cocktails, classic cocktails, draft beer, wine, seltzers, frozens and more.

Must-try menu items

Pepperoni Rolls, $9


Lemon Pepper Wings, $10

Nashville Hot Wings, $10

Popeye Pizza with Mozzarella, Ricotta, Spinach, Fresh Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Garlic, $14