Spotlight on Austin, Texas: Unmasking the Roosevelt Room’s Elegance

In the heart of downtown Austin, sited amidst the urban jungle of high-rise buildings and buzzing establishments, lies an unexpected piece of classic antiquity. It’s a place that whisks you back in time while offering the tastiest of today’s amenities with each sip – the Roosevelt Room. Inside its doors, you’ll find the fusion of old-world elegance and modern brilliance in a single glass.

A Nostalgic Walk Down Memory Lane

Stepping through the doors of the Roosevelt Room, one is immediately encapsulated by an homage to a bygone era. Named after the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, this establishment carries an undeniable air of vintage elegance in Austin’s vibrant cityscape.

Intricately designed with exposed brick walls, beam ceilings, and the glint of perfectly placed lighting, it delivers an authentic speakeasy vibe while remaining welcomingly sophisticated. The aesthetics are a tribute to the roaring 1920s, echoing remnants of those days when hidden cocktails bars flourished under Prohibition’s shadow.

The Roosevelt Room, renowned for its artful libations and ambient charm, stands as a symbol of Austin’s dedication to preserving history while embracing innovation. And right here, in our city, it serves an unforgettable cocktail experience rooted in both tradition and modernity.

Mastery in Mixology Encapsulated on Menus

The specialized cocktail menu at the Roosevelt Room is a testament to its dedication to the craft of mixology. Presented as a timeline, it walks patrons through the cocktail history, showing off innovative techniques and time-honored classics, all the way from pre-Prohibition era to the future.

  • Pre-Prohibition Era: Delight yourself with a Fish House Punch first recorded in 1744. The mix of rum, cognac, peach brandy, and lemon, produces a jolt of flavors dating centuries back.
  • Golden Age (1850-1900): Sip on the velvety Martinez, a delightful blend of Old Tom Gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino, and orange bitters or experience the eponymous Pisco Sour with pisco, lime, egg white, bitters, and gum syrup.
  • Old School (1900-1950): Sample a true Old-Fashioned ala Don Draper, a whiskey-based cocktail with bitters, sugar, and a twist of citrus.
  • Dark Ages (1950-2000): Enjoy a Fuzzy Navel, a mix of peach schnapps and orange juice that dominated the cocktail scene of this era.
  • Revival (2000-now): Try out the Penicillin – a fusion of blended & peaty Scotch, lemon, honey-ginger syrup, that’s considered a modern classic.
  • Future: The Roosevelt Room teases patrons with experimental mixes that push the boundaries of mixology. Case in point: Jungle Booby – a blend of Parrot rum, macadamia, banana, lime, passionfruit, pomegranate, and absinthe, promising a sense of mystery with each sip.

The cocktail experience at the Roosevelt Room is akin to enjoying a beautiful symphony. The drinks are carefully curated and perfectly balanced, demonstrating the craft, imagination, and expertise that the people behind the bar bring to the table.

The Maestros Behind the Masterpieces

The magic behind the Roosevelt Room’s cocktails rests in the hands of two seasoned mixologists — co-owner Dennis Gobis and his partner Justin Lavenue.

Dennis, with his years of bartending experience and profound knowledge of spirits, ensures that every drink served is a remarkable journey in itself. By his side is Justin, a nationally ranked mixologist known for adding intrigue and flair to every concoction. Their duo makes the drinks menu not just a list of beverages but a collection of enchanting tales told through a mixologist’s lens.

Accolades That Echo Excellence

The Roosevelt Room’s reputation as a top-tier cocktail bar isn’t a mere claim; it’s validated by several national recognitions. With features in Playboy‘s “Best Bars in America”, Time Out‘s “Top 50 Cocktail Bars in the U.S.”, and Eater Austin‘s “Best Happy Hours in Austin”, the Roosevelt Room has established its rightful place in Austin’s drink-lore. These lauds bespeak the excellence visitors can expect with each visit.

An All-Encompassing Experience

From the ambiance to the award-winning drinks and first-class hospitality, everything about the Roosevelt Room spells uniqueness. Its dedication to providing a memorable experience is captured in every aspect, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re a die-hard cocktail aficionado, an aspiring mixologist, a history lover, or a regular visitor looking for a drink with a twist, the Roosevelt Room is a perfect fit, exuding a sense of belonging for every patron.

Our City’s Spotlight that Dazzles

Austin has often been hailed for its vibrant nightlife and fascinating mix of dining options, but even among this bustling panorama, the Roosevelt Room emerges as a sparkling gem.

Beyond being just a bar, it represents the perfect medley of past and future, tradition, and innovation, providing a unique experience that’s unparalleled in the city.

If you’re seeking an unforgettable evening in Austin, the Roosevelt Room is a place to see and be seen. Stepping inside, be ready to be overwhelmed by the splendid blend of nostalgia, artistry, and first-rate mixological craftsmanship. Where else in the city can you travel through time with a cocktail in your hand?

Epilogue: Roosevelt Room and its Resplendent Promise

In the heart of Austin, the Roosevelt Room continues to command attention for its exemplary fusion of yesteryears’ charm and today’s mixology modish – making it a shining beacon in our beloved city’s prominent cocktail scene.

An evening at the Roosevelt Room is more than just about savoring handcrafted cocktails; it’s about reveling in the intoxicating blend of the past and present unfurling with every sip you take. It stands as a timeless testament to Austin’s burgeoning food and drinks landscape that thrives on innovation while treading respectfully along historical lineages.

So, here’s the toast to Austin’s vibrant spirit and our Roosevelt Room — the spotlight, the star that brightens it. Simply put, a visit to Austin simply isn’t complete without stopping by at the Roosevelt Room. After all, why would you not want to take a trip through time with a good drink in hand?

Ladies and gentlemen, this is your friendly neighborhood guide, telling tales from Austin, Texas. Until next time, keep exploring, keep discovering, and remember — every good story is best savored with a great cocktail!

Lauren Critzer

I was born in Charlottesville, Virginia and after college, I moved to San Francisco to explore new opportunities and broaden my horizons. I fell in love with the city's vibrant culture and unique atmosphere, but eventually, I moved again, this time to Austin, Texas.

As much as I loved living in different parts of the country, having a baby boy brought me back to my hometown in Charlottesville, where I now live with my husband, our little one, and two furry friends. I enjoy going to wineries, taking my pups everywhere, and spending quality time with my family.

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