About
It’s two in one! Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is a popular barbecue and lounge experience for the entire family. Located on Congress Ave in Austin, Texas, this place offers a root tooting great time.
Visiting this awesome restaurant, I discovered the property is a bit misleading from the front, as it is much larger and more impressive inside. There’s an indoor and outdoor patio with an upstairs lounge for 21+.
The indoor patio area is decorated with lots of wood and an old-time feel, which makes you feel like you are stepping back in time. There's lots of seating, including large picnic tables, dining tables, and a beautiful bar area. You'll never miss the big game here either—there are numerous TVs to keep you up to date.
Then there's the saloon experience. It's fantastic. I have found it to be a fantastic experience for those looking for more of a traditional and old-style saloon rather than a modern bar.
Built in 1888, this building has a ton of history. Home to numerous locations throughout time, including several pubs, restaurants, and a café, like the Copa Lounge, Pearlhouse Saloon, and Tradewinds Lounge, Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que embodies the memories of time past.
And during those times, it was located right across from the International and Great Northern Rail Road Depot.
In fact, the upstairs portion also was used as the Travis Hotel at one time. It is rumored, though no one knows for sure, that it was once a cat house.
All that history aside, there are a lot of reasons to visit, including the incredible food that's served here and the drinks.
They also do catering (and do an exceptional job with it!) and party rooms for those who want to host an event.
Vibe
I love that this location is a funky saloon vibe, but it is also a great location for the entire family (I would recommend an early meal for the kids).
They also have Cooper's Derby Day, which benefits the Austin Rodeo. In fact, the location offers a wide range of events and does a great job of supporting the community as a whole.
I also have to say that the staff is fantastic. It may feel like you come here, get the food you want, eat out back at the picnic tables, and manage the entire process yourself. However, it's such a friendly place. If you come enough, you'll become family here.
Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que: Menu & Drinks
It's all about the slow-cooked meat here. It's hard to say which is my personal favorite, but the ribs will fall off the bone, and the prime rib is perfectly seasoned.
I also enjoy the Chopped Beef Sandwich, Jerky to take home, and the Whole Chicken. Also, they have goat on the menu, too.
Then there are the sides. There are lots of scratch-made options here, with my favorites being potato salad, mac-n-cheese, and coleslaw.
When you want a steak dinner, make sure to stop by here, too. The Ribeye is my favorite because it is perfectly marbled, and they prepare it in the perfect method. I also enjoy the grilled corn as a side dish here.
Local Tips
- You have to try the cobbler. Save room for it – choose peach, apple, pecan, or blackberry.
- They make their pickles in-house. They have a different vibe to them that is all their own and super worth it.
- If you are visiting for the first time, be sure to ask for recommendations. They can pull together a plate for you that offers lots of options, including turkey, pork ribs, sausage, and much more.
