XL Food & Drink
50 places to dance
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Celebration, release, seduction — people dance for all sorts of reasons.
Whether it's hip-hop or country, Tejano or samba, disco or house, it's the sound that sets the people into motion. And, let's be frank, strong beverages often help unhinge inhibitions that keep the less than nimble from expressing their inner Ushers.
This fervid activity can be observed in amazingly varied Austin nightclubs. Some establishments are conceived with dance in mind — broad expanses of open space, twirling lights, DJ booths or stages for live bands — while others encourage discreet dancing almost as an afterthought.
For the past two years, I've capered from club to club, reporting for XL's Night Moves column. Remember the time my friends showed up wearing pastel and ribbons to practice tai chi moves at the Goth club Elysium? And when we barely missed a fierce girl fight at Club Carnaval? And who could forget the accidental discoveries, such as the cool underground Sixth Street club Barcelona?
I've even studied ballroom dancing on this beat, which you, too, can attempt, courtesy of the professionals at Dance International, Arthur Murray Dance Studios or other purveyors of promenading.
While I don't anticipate "Dancing with the Stars" when I move to Los Angeles to study screenwriting this summer, you can bet that I'll recall every gambol, every shimmy, every two-step that this assignment has afforded me in the past 24 months.
1. AGAVE
415 E. Sixth St. 469-7892
Mama always said, 'Tequila makes everything better.' This homespun wisdom is debatable, but Agave, named from the plant source of tequilas, is my cure-all for a dull night on Sixth Street. The long, narrow setup offers two bars, a beer bucket and an elevated dance floor, perfect for showing off. I've rarely been disappointed by Agave's DJs, and I have never been let down by any of its bartenders. If tequila makes everything better, Agave is a grand panacea.
2. BARCELONA
209 E. Sixth St. 236-0900
Feeling too cool for street-level life? This underground club is just for you. The space features a dance floor sandwiched between two bars and a DJ who spins cranked-up house music, perfect for break dancing. If you're sporting a nifty bag of tricks, or just want to enjoy others showing off, take a walk down Barcelona's mirrored staircase and see what's hopping.
3. BOOMERZ
6148 W. U.S. 290. 892-3358
To the pretty far west (290 West that is) sits Boomerz, a club that has everything you need from a friendly joint — tables for card playing, billiards, darts, bar slots, big screen TVs, a checkered dance floor and live music. Most of the crowd is composed of men and women in their 30s or older, clad in denim. The locals are exceedingly affable and there's plenty to do, all set to a kickin' live or recorded soundtrack.
4. BOURBON ROCKS
508 E. Sixth St. 236-1707
If you're aching for a taste of the Big Easy, get your fix at Bourbon Rocks. This Sixth Street/Bourbon Street hybrid offers a Mississippi-wide dance floor, live music and a long winding bar, not to mention models trotting around trays of test-tube shots. Bourbon Rocks is a whole new kind of convenience — now you can sip on a hurricane and party New Orleans style without the hassle of a trans-state commute. (Dear NOLA: Get well soon.)
5. BROKEN SPOKE
3201 S. Lamar Blvd. 442-6189
Now this is pure, uncut country dancing. Broken Spoke is about as red-blooded as you can get, but it still maintains a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Step out onto the centralized dance floor and let the live music move you. You can two-step the night away, pausing now and then to split a pitcher of beer with friends or take a tour of the celebrity memorabilia. Be sure to bring plenty of cash, because this down-home wonder doesn't accept plastic or pretension.
6. CEDAR STREET COURTYARD
208 W. Fourth St. 495-9669
If there's ever been a dull night at the Cedar Street Courtyard, I haven't witnessed it. Nestled between Malaga and Saba, this fun-filled alley provides access to life's essentials: live music, intermittent dancing, big drinks and tables to rest one's weary elbows upon. With few walls and no roof to call its own, the Courtyard fills the Warehouse District with music and the jovial sounds of mass entertainment. For such a small space, it's hard to miss.
7. CHAIN DRIVE
504 Willow St. 480-9017
Austin is known for its easy-going attitude, so it shouldn't be surprising that its resident leather bar is fairly demure. Some chains hang from the ceiling, but they're used to suspend benches near the small dance floor. Hidden away on a dead-end downtown street, the Drive features a small bar, disco-ball-lit dance floor and a serene smokers' haven. Leather bars usually promise sexual/fashion severity, but I walked in wearing a polo shirt and was offered a guided tour by a friendly veteran.
8. CHARLIE'S
1301 Lavaca St. 474-6481
Charlie's is the kind of club that lends itself to familiarity. The casual atmosphere makes it very easy to become 'a regular.' Charlie's hosts the usual gay-bar comforts: a central bar, open floor and a few tame go-go dancers. A cool little patio houses a second bar. Charlie's crowd consists mostly of men, ages 30-plus, with a few younger guys and women thrown in for good measure. Feel free to dance the night away in this laid-back night spot.
9. CHROME
419 E. Sixth St. 476-5654
This second-story bar takes the expression 'sitting on high' to a whole new level. After making your way past the doorman and ascending the stairs, you'll find an open, loftlike setup, with a dance floor and a fully loaded bar. When you place your drink order, be sure to look up and wink at the DJ, as he or she is perched above the bar, raining down a pop/hip-hop mix for your dancing pleasure.
10. CLUB CARNAVAL
2237 E. Riverside Drive. 444-6396
This bit-time Tejano spot might look a bit dodgy from the outside when swarming with security guards, but never judge a club by its cover. I had a fantastic time, mostly due to the combination of lively music, tequila shooters and good friends. The dance floor is crowded with hip-shakers and fast-paced two-steppers. Don't be shy about strutting your stuff; after all, life can seem like one big carnaval.
11. CLUB RODEO
7601 N. Lamar Blvd. Suite A. 453-6615
How do you say 'Yee ha!' in Spanish? This would be a useful phrase at Club Rodeo, a country-and-western-themed Tejano club. Staying in tune with the country motif, the interior spaces spread far and wide, the dance floor is huge, perfect for twirling your partner 'round and 'round, and even the seating areas are expansive. Be wary of the dress code. Not that Rodeo requires a tie, but sneakers are a 'no go' at this spot.
12. COCKPIT
113 San Jacinto Blvd. 457-8010
Tucked away on San Jacinto Boulevard by the Austin Convention Center, the Cockpit is easy to miss. Once inside, the aluminum décor molds a casual mood for its 18-and-older patrons. You can lounge at the bar, play a round of pool, try your luck at the bar slots, take advantage of the spacious dance floor or chill out on the heated patio. The music depends on the DJ du jour; I've heard everything from non-stop '80s hits to the latest in pop music. In the pit, anything goes.
13. COPA
217 Congress Ave. 479-5002
Salsa with style in this elegant hot spot. The first floor is divided into three sections, including a seating area, a bar and a dance floor flush against a mirrored wall and capped off by a DJ booth. The upstairs is also divided; this time into two sections: a comfortable lounge area spotted with black sofas, and a dance floor encased by a second DJ booth and a bar that stretches almost the length of the room. Two stories, two bars, two dance floors; it's almost too much. Almost.
14. COTTON CLUB
212 E. Davilla St., Granger. (512) 859-0700
They come from far and wide to chomp down on red-rare steaks, shop for nifty gifts, string along the very long bar, tap toes to the live bands and two-step as if there were no tomorrow on the ancient dance floor. Cowboy hats and boots dominate, both inside the 1909 building and outside on the generous deck and patio. It's small-town, far-north Williamson County, but the club also attracts a country-friendly suburban crowd. — Michael Barnes
15. COUPLAND DANCE HALL
101 Hoxie St., Coupland. (512) 856-2226
The dance floor takes center stage in this warm, authentically historic hall, located at the end of nowhere. (Coupland could be licked and slapped on an envelope for postage.) Texas is spelled TEXAS here, and an old-timey bar sits conveniently near the entrance, while a mechanical bull stares down the timid. This ain't Anson, so there's lots of dancin'. — M.B.
16. DALLAS NIGHTCLUB
7113 Burnet Road. 452-3456
In trouble recently from state alcohol cops, this spacious country-and-western club still comes fully stocked with several bars, pool tables, a large, central dance floor and a stage for the live band of the moment. Dallas' wood paneling and neon signs spark the classic country environment. Put on your boots, grab your wallet and, please, pick a designated driver in advance.
17. DESPERADO'S
9515 N. Lamar Blvd. 834-2640
You might want to arrive at this Tejano club a little early, as parking can get pretty hairy later on. Done up in pastel Western murals, Desperado's offers one central bar and a packed dance floor illuminated by alternating spot lights. Ages range from late 20s to late 40s, and for the image-conscious, mirrors line the walls, which not only add dimension, but allow you to constantly check yourself out. Don't lie. You do that, too.
18. ELEMENT
301 W. Fifth St. 480-9888
As often happens in the club world, Element has recently altered its format from hip-hop to pop, rock en español, salsa and merengue. Although we have not made a return visit, we remember the watering hole downstairs and a second bar in a crow's nest lounge with eye-spy views of the action below. The chief attraction is the dance floor, which comes with all the elements of a truly great party space — platform boxes, hypnotic lighting and bouncy music.
19. ELYSIUM
705 Red River St. 478-2979
Named after the abode of the dead in classical mythology, Elysium is Austin's answer to the call of the Goth scene. Black, sponge-painted wood creates a dark, dungeonlike feel, not exactly what the Greeks had in mind, but whatever. The dance floor, which is to the left of the entrance, offers a raised area at its far left side. Across from the floor is the bar and seating area, which is slightly raised. The patrons tend to dance with the music, not to it. Very Depeche Mode circa 1984.
20. ETERNAL
418 E. Sixth St. 476-0000
Do you ever just want to rave, but have no idea where to scratch that late-night itch? Take it down to Eternal, where the throbbing music and pulsing lights generate a rave-like atmosphere. You can bounce around on the first floor or travel to the upstairs VIP section for a better view. This one-of-a-kind club will have you spinning in no time. Laser lights, pacifiers and glow sticks — roll on ravers, roll on.
21. FABRIC
101 W. Fifth St. 322-9333
Oh beauty, thy sting is deep. This posh gay club offers plenty of eye candy, friendly bartenders and the ever important opportunity to see and be seen. The club itself is divided into three sections: a comfy and stylish lounge area, a standing-room-only bar zone and a small dance room. If you arrive too early, the dance floor might be a bit barren, but if you arrive too early at any hot spot, you're probably at the wrong place.
22. FRIENDS
208 E. Sixth St. 320-8193
Looking for something casual yet spirited? Round up your posse and head to Friends. The wood paneling and giant fish tank behind the lone bar create a low-key atmosphere native to Austin. But my favorite thing about Friends is the dance floor. Tiny but fierce, the elevated dance stage is perfect for showing off. The stage is flush against the front windows looking out on Sixth, affording the fantastic opportunity to display to downtown denizens as well.
23. GINNY'S LITTLE LONGHORN SALOON
5434 Burnet Road. 458-1813
If you're not paying attention, you're likely to pass this little house on Burnet. In this cramped room, you'll find one bar, a cluster of wobbly tables, a pool table and a little bit of space reserved for a band and some dancing. This country club usually hosts a crowd of men and women in their 30s or older. It breeds an undeniable charm that keeps its patrons coming back for more — and dancing wherever they can find space.
24. GRAHAM CENTRAL STATION
1719 Grand Avenue Parkway. 252-0664
This sprawling complex under one big-box roof markets something for just about everyone. Located just outside Pflugerville, the Station houses country dancing, techno/house dancing, girls dancing on bars, '80s rock, a stage for live music, and, oh yeah, karaoke because why not? They have almost everything else. The venues change from room to room, but the party maintains its pitch.
25. GRUENE HALL
1281 Gruene Road, Gruene Historic District, New Braunfels. (830) 606-1281
This is it. Where it all started. Where social dancing indoors began in Central Texas, or at least in places like this, the oldest surviving hall given over to the instinctual human activity called dancing. The bar, which faces the only real intersection in Gruene, is simplicity itself. Tourists in every manner of costume relax along worn tables and benches, which can be parted for slipping across some of the smoothest floors in the state. — M.B.
26. HANOVER'S
108 E. Main St., Pflugerville. 670-9617
The well-established clubs in Central Texas suburbs and exurbs tend to serve multiple functions. Hanover's, located in a former lumberyard off the main highway in downtown Pflugerville, makes a fine place to stop for an after-work drink. It also offers diversion in the form of games and a fair-sized stage for live acts. There's just enough space to dance, if you so choose. — M.B.
27. KARMA
119 W. Eighth St. 469-0504
Hip-hop must have built up a lot of good karma in a past life to be reborn in such a glamorous fashion. Karma, a stylish lounge, utilizes plush, crimson décor and soft lighting to create a dark, sensual atmosphere. It hides several tucked away nooks for lounging, as well as a full bar and plenty of hip-hop beats. For a small cover charge, you, too, can cash in on some fabulous Karma.
28. LATITUDE 30
512 San Jacinto Blvd. 472-3335
Depending on the context, Latitude 30 relates to Austin's global coordinates, or just a really first-rate time downtown. This small, open club is formed from white brick and blue walls with red trim. The music varies depending on the band of the evening, but the crowd is mostly twentysomethings casually dressed and ready for a good time. There are two bars, one big, one small; a stage for the band; and space in front to dance along.
29. LIGHT BAR
408 Congress Ave. 473-8544
When you first walk through the back alley entrance you'll find a pretty posh setup. The elevated booths, comfy chairs, full bar and corresponding water wall create a trendy atmosphere for Light Bar's young-professional crowd. The roof-top terrace, however, offers another bar, some tables, a live band and space to dance. All you have to do is decide how to best divide your night.
30. MIDNIGHT RODEO
2201 E. Ben White Blvd. 443-2623
When I think of Midnight Rodeo, I think of dollar you-call-its, a fresh crop of young cowboys and girls and a big ol' dance floor for a whoopin' boot-scooting good time. Discover here two bars, a beer trough and shot girls strapped with bottles and fully prepped to serve you an on-the-spot-shot. The dance floor is the epicenter of this rodeo and it has plenty of room for twirling. If you need a breathe, you'll find plenty of seating to rest, drink and people-watch.
31. OILCAN HARRY'S
211 W. Fourth St. 320-8823
For anyone who's ever wanted to drink, play pool or dance surrounded by beefy go-go dancers and well-groomed gay men, there's Oilcan Harry's. Inside this prominent bar you'll encounter a main area with a large bar and the dance floor where patrons move around to remixed pop hits. Off to the side are a second bar and a pool table. If you need a break you can step out to the back patio, which holds a third bar and some tables. This longtime Austin club has it all — and then some.
32. OSLO
301 W. Sixth St. 480-9433
A sleek, mod haven awaits your pleasure on the corner of Lavaca and Sixth streets. Oslo, trendy as the night is long, offers drinks, dancing and food with 'Austin Powers' meets 'Clockwork Orange' style. That said, don't expect a lot of room for freestyling here; the dance floor is tiny and almost always packed. Arrive, order one of the fantastic house drinks, cruise the crowd, then try your luck.
33. PARADOX
311 E. Fifth St. 469-7615
Serving as one of Austin's premier 18-and-older dance clubs, Paradox offers popular hip-hop music mixes for everyone and reasonably priced drinks for those old enough to imbibe. Paradox creates a classic, casual atmosphere that fits snugly into Austin's hip-hop scene. The sunken dance floor is worth taking a spin around, and there are even a few poles and platforms for those star performers out there who love to put on a show.
34. PARDNER'S NIGHT CLUB
1100 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock. 244-1204
Snug as a worn boot, Pardner's is tucked away in a Round Rock strip shopping center. Inside, the country club is divided into three zones: pool hall, bar and old-fashioned dance floor. Live acts make the act of dancing almost irresistible. If there's an iota of pretension in this small, suburban spot, we haven't detected it. — M.B.
35. PLUSH
617 Red River St. 478-0099
Sometimes it's house, sometimes it's hip-hop, sometimes it's ambient — the scene shifts from night to night at this compact club. The one consistent element is excellence. Plush operates with one bar and a dance floor in the front area, and a cozy lounge room in the back. It's the kind of place you would recommend to a friend, because it's always on the mark.
36. RAIN
217 W. Fourth St. 494-1150
Arguably Austin's prime gay dance club, Rain draws quite the crowd. Men and women of all ages (older than 21, of course) line up for a chance for a few drinks, or dance along to the club's re-vamped pop music sets. Inside the small warehouse setup is a compact dance floor and limited seating. Too cramped? You can move to the second bar at the back patio.
37. RAINBOW CATTLE COMPANY
305 W. Fifth St. 472-5288
There's been a lot of speculation lately about gay cowboys. Proof of said cowboys (and girls) can be found in the heart of Austin's Warehouse District. Rainbow Cattle Co. is our answer to the gay kicker scene. With pool tables, two bars and an elevated dance floor, this is a prime spot to kick it up with your favorite dancing partner. Classes in leading and following are available.
38. RED 7
611 E. Seventh St. 476-8100
Fresh to the downtown scene, Red 7 works well within its limited confines. Inside, two bars complement a generous amount of standing room and a compact dance floor accessorized with poles and platforms. Red 7's DJ spins a mix of house music that's easy to get lost in. The crowd is generally composed of casually, yet stylishly dressed men and women in their 20s and 30s. The new kid on the block seems quite promising.
39. ROPERS
2113 Wells Branch Parkway. 990-5991
Ropers' barn-style setup is pretty close to perfect. The large, central dance floor is surrounded by bar space and tables, the bars stationed in each corner. This leaves plenty of open area for a DJ or a band, plus a pool table. This smoker-friendly club — it's just outside the Austin city limits — attracts a crowd ranging from the 20s to beyond. It's a bit north but worth the drive.
40. RUTA MAYA
3601 S. Congress Ave. 707-9637
On the face of it, dancing and caffeine don't sound like a match made in heaven. (Unless you're doing the jitterbug.) Yet this beloved coffeehouse at Penn Field is a beehive of incongruous activity, including dance classes and meetings for dance clubs. And why not? The central floor is as spacious as any dance club's, and the dance-averse can always retire to one of the exterior tables. — M.B.
41. SKY & VUE LOUNGE
416 Congress Ave. 477-3151
Sky is best known for its ability to pull hot DJs and, of course, the 'Vue.' The first floor holds a bar, lounge area and a well-placed dance floor. Upstairs is a second bar and lounge area and a killer view of the downstairs dance floor. The music varies a bit depending on the DJ, but they tend to turn out house music and remixed '80s hits. If you're into house, keep your eye on Sky's guest DJ lineup.
42. SOHO LOUNGE
217 E. Sixth St. 236-1705
This two-story Sixth Street lounge enjoys two bars, one loosely defined dance floor and, of course, plenty of space for lounging. I use the term 'loosely defined' because patrons pretty much just dance when the mood strikes them — perfect for the floor-shy crowd. Soho's DJs spit out anything from hip-hop to '80s power ballads. It's a great place to go with friends and conquer one's dance fears.
43. SOUTH 40
629 W. Ben White Blvd. 444-9329
A Tejano club — with benefits. I'm not talking about the lounge areas, pool tables or free dance lessons; the primary benefit is the blending of musical and dance genres. South 40 will throw out country, hip-hop and pop tunes along with Tejano tracks. The club's musical variety draws in a crowd just as eclectic as its mixed sets. At this Austin club, there's something for just about everyone.
44. SPEAKEASY
412 Congress Ave. 476-8086
After spending a few moments inside Speakeasy, it's easy to see why this sexy club attracts so many chic young professionals. The brick and dark wood décor is beautifully complemented with vintage posters and glowing candles. Patrons can hang at the bar, chill in the lounge area or dance to the live band. The beauty extends upstairs on the enclosed roof-top terrace, which offers one bar and several couches for relaxing.
45. SPILL
212 E. Sixth St. 320-8005
Full disclosure: Spill is one of my personal club favorites, especially for the mood-muddled looking to cut loose. The music is of the pop or hip-hop persuasion, the dance floor is almost always packed and, no small miracle, the drinks are cheap (I recommend the Long Islands). Spill is the picture of a worthy Sixth Street club and is worth exploring for any night crawler.
46. SPIRO'S
611 Red River St. 472-4272
This is a labyrinth of a club; seriously, people have been known to get lost after a few drinks. The winding hallways and numerous niches offer plenty of room to wander off target. Spiro's caters to a wide age range — meaning anyone who likes hip-hop or salsa. The old wooden walls lend an antique feel, but one look at the casually fashionable crowd and you'll agree Spiro's is anything but old-fashioned.
47. TEXAS UNION BALLROOM
Guadalupe and 24th streets. 475-6599
Glide across this glorious dance floor with the greatest of ease, because it was designed when moving in tandem with your partner meant elegance and elán. Timber beams, enormous chandeliers and Spanish Colonial decor add to the Texas Union allure. Special events, such as ballroom dancing competitions, are held here. Let's hope that plans for a new student union building don't endanger this glowing, historic hall. — M.B.
48. VICCI
404 Colorado St. 476-7799
Vicci goes against the grain and dares to be fabulous in a town where casual reigns supreme. Throw on your best outfit, grab your cash and get ready for this Vegas-style hot spot. Whether you're dancing on the first floor, chilling upstairs in the VIP area, or cruising the cage and catwalk dancers, you'll always feel in the highest of style. Be prepared for a line; fabulousness is a hot commodity.
49. ZERO DEGREES
405 E. Seventh St. 474-5514
A mod club can feel a bit cold with all that concrete décor, but the friendly service is sure to warm you up. And if that doesn't do the trick, take a spin on the dance floor or belly up to the bar. After a round of dancing, you can cozy up on one of many couches. Between the DJs house mix and great bar service, Zero Degrees can thaw out your otherwise average night.
50. ZOCALO
2003 E. Riverside Dr. 445-6888
No longer a hip-hop haven, this Latin international locus can still get you moving. Decorated with an appropriate plaza painting, Zocalo invites a feeling of crossing borders, embracing popular culture across the Americas. Like its predecessor, Kaos, it offers two bars, one downstairs, and one up, which overlooks the main attraction — the dance floor. The Zocalo denizen have every opportunity to dance away long into the night in mirrored self-reflection.
