Second Bar + Kitchen
Date night? Birthday dinner? Just a casual wine Wednesday with the girls? Second Bar + Kitchen is the place to be! Located in downtown Austin and the Domain, this restaurant is at the cornerstone of casual and sophisticated. I have made my rounds of the trendy Austin restaurants and Second Bar + Kitchen is continually at the top of my favorites list. I’m not kidding when I say that I probably pop in there at least once every three weeks; the experience is always consistent. Great for group dinners, or an intimate dining experience, Second is accommodating for any occasion. The Americanized menu has something for everyone; the most popular dishes being their shareable pizzas ($12-16), addicting black truffle fries ($8), and my meal of choice, the island salmon with pork belly fried rice ($24)...Is your mouth watering yet? I always go to Second expecting to spend a little cash, but if you utilize their happy hour then money shouldn’t be a problem.
Second Bar + Kitchen definitely gives off a hip vibe with an easy- going and friendly feel. Inside the restaurant there is bar stool seating, big black leather booths or high bar tables, all accompanied with sleek, silver chairs. Chic light fixtures around the restaurant also add to the fashion-forward theme. Outside on the patio you will find that the décor is paralleled with the indoor interior and I personally like this area the best if the weather is nice.
In line with the typical Austin mantra, all of the servers seem to carry themselves in a calm, cool and collected manner. Think handlebar mustache and a lax server’s uniform. Nothing about the service screams “in your face” but they’re keen on giving dish recommendations or participating in casual conversation if that’s what the diner is in to.
Compared to the excellent service you will receive, the parking situation is not so excellent. Like anywhere downtown, parking can be a little tricky at times. You have the option to valet, but the flat rate is $10 which can be frustrating if you’re only going to be at Second for around an hour or so. With that being said, I think the valet fee is worth it and you have the option of putting the charge on your meal ticket inside the restaurant.
While this parking set back is the only minor complaint I have to give, I recommend Second Bar + Kitchen 10 out of 10 times to any friend that asks. Offering a brunch, lunch, and dinner menu that always feature the diners’ favorites, I can’t imagine someone leaving Second disappointed. The hip service combined with the modern furnishing makes for a very ‘happening now’ atmosphere that is hard to ignore. When you’re at Second, you’re not just eating, you’re involved in an experience, an experience so great that you’ll keep coming back for more.
Atmosphere: casual while sophisticated
Sound level: Average
Recommended: black truffle pommes frites, seared faroe island salmon, black and bleu pizza
Drinks and Wine: full bar
Price: $$
Reservations: Yes
Hours + Downtown Location:
Sunday through Thursday 11am-11pm
Friday and Saturday 11 am- 1 am
200 Congress Avenue Austin, Texas 78701
Contact:
512-827-2750
mail@secondbarkitchen.com