The Secret Bar

The only one star I have ever given. So I paid 15 $ for a mojito. It was good but no where to sit. Everything was reserved. Soon yes it was nice and cool but no where to hang. Everything was reserved I was baffled. Very unwelcoming

The Secret Bar or, «The Living Room» is one of many bar/​restaurants inside The W Hotel. It is dark, cozy, and makes you feel like you are in a scene from Mad Men. Thick couches that you literally sink into are where you can enjoy your libation of choice. Bartenders and servers are always friendly and helpful. This is a place that draws not only out-​of-​towners staying in the hotel but locals alike. Every time I have visited I see the same familiar faces.
We came for the Primetime Happy Hour last night which lasts from 7 – 10. Many discounted drinks and food choices are on the menu. Since it is The W, drinks and food still range from $ 6-​$ 9 during HH but they are totally worth it if you are in the mood for a cocktail or some street tacos.
I ordered the Blind Pig which was a delicious beverage although a bit on the sweeter side. They use their own brand of bourbon which is created in a cask specifically for The W — or something like that. Street tacos are messy and delicious. Ask your bartender for more information :)

Perhaps it depends when you go here, but my experience amounted to pricey weak drinks with what I felt was a pretentious and rather smug vibe. You can enjoy all of this in a décor that despite all it’s flair seems, to me at least, cheaply put together. No thanks.

Not that secret. And… not that fun. Lots of tools… and when I say tools I mean that as a lady you may get approached by some strange dudes. Drinks are good, but expensive. I like the location. The staff are amazing and the valet is great.

The secret bar isn’t a well kept secret in Austin anymore, it’s also really the same bar as the living room lounge. But if you’re looking for the perfect spot to gape at all the high heeled, bell bottomed gals, you’ve found just the place.
Definitely a cocktail bar, so ask for a drink menu so you can get a classic Austin drink served with style.
As with any W Hotel, come here to be seen, and lock your target in early or the other girls will steal him from you.

Really great drinks! Service can be slow but the martinis and mojitos are worth the wait…

This bar may have been a Secret at one time, but on a Saturday night at the conclusion of Austin Fashion week at the W — this was not the case. In any event, this lounge is airy with sleek with modern lines, comfy places to sit, and an impressive red interior.
All the pretty people were represented on this night as the vibe was kicked-​up by some bass-​thumping jams. As you can imagine, it was ON!
Can’t wait to try this upscale bar again on a night when it is not SRO.

What’s red, very dark and SMOKING HOT all over?
That’s right boys and girls — The Secret Bar. The Secret Bar that’s hidden inside The Living Room. I just love hidden things.
If walking in here does not immediately make you think about everything you wanna un-​secret, then I don’t know what will. Absolutely gorgeous layout of plush couches and ½ booths complete with pillows; great for conversation and mingling. Totally sleek and radiant glow where the music is almost as delicious as the drinks and appetizers. The air oozes yum and the unobtrusive service seemingly makes whatever you want fall from the sky.
Yes, it is a bit pricey. Yes, there are hipsters. But there are creepies and there are crawlies to balance it out, people! You know what Confucius always said: «any well crafted drink in such euphoria is going to cost you more than a Mickey’s 40 in a paper bag.» Repeat after me.