What is Shangri-La and when did it open?

Shangri-La is an original East Side bar in Austin that is described as equal parts dive bar, cocktail lounge, and beer garden. It opened in 2008, bringing its tiki vibe to the area as a pioneer of the East Side nightlife scene.

What are the hours of operation for Shangri-La?

Shangri-La is open from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM Monday through Thursday, and from 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM Friday through Sunday.

What features and amenities does the bar offer?

The bar features an iconic rooftop neon sign, a horseshoe-shaped bar, a free pool table, and an expansive back patio. It also offers happy hour deals seven days a week.

Can you get food at Shangri-La?

Yes, you can enjoy snacks and bar food from the Baton Creole food truck located on the bar's back patio.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Shangri-La in Austin

What to know

Located at 1016 East 6th Street, Shangri-La is widely recognized as a pioneering establishment on Austin's East Side nightlife scene. Opened in 2008, this beloved venue helped shape the burgeoning entertainment district by bringing its unique tiki vibe to the neighborhood. It is characterized as an original East Side bar that seamlessly blends the casual atmosphere of a dive bar, the sophistication of a cocktail lounge, and the relaxed environment of a beer garden. The physical layout of Shangri-La offers a variety of spaces for visitors to explore. Inside, guests are greeted by a classic horseshoe-shaped bar and can enjoy a free pool table. Above the venue, an iconic rooftop neon sign shines brightly, serving as a beacon for nightlife seekers on East 6th Street. One of the bar's primary highlights is its expansive back patio. This outdoor space is highly regarded as a dog-friendly patio and is covered during the winter months, ensuring it remains comfortable for guests throughout the year. The patio is also home to the Baton Creole food truck, which serves up delicious snacks and bar food to accompany Shangri-La's signature drinks. Whether you are visiting for their daily happy hour deals, which run seven days a week, or dropping by for special events like Monday trivia nights or $2 Tuesdays, Shangri-La offers a welcoming, rain-or-shine experience. It stands as a testament to the early days of East Austin's modern nightlife evolution, making it a fantastic spot to grab a drink, play some pool, or enjoy a meal outdoors.

Visitor tips

Stop by between 4:00 PM and 2:00 AM Monday through Thursday, or starting earlier at 2:00 PM Friday through Sunday.
Take advantage of their daily happy hour deals, which are offered seven days a week, or check out $2 Tuesdays and Monday trivia.
Head to the expansive back patio to grab a bite from the Baton Creole food truck, which serves snacks alongside your drinks.
Don't worry about the weather; the outdoor patio is covered for winter, and the venue is open rain or shine.

Nearby context

Situated at 1016 East 6th Street, Shangri-La sits in the heart of East Austin's vibrant, burgeoning nightlife district. This area, which Shangri-La helped pioneer when it opened in 2008, has transformed into a bustling corridor of eclectic eateries, trendy cocktail lounges, and historic storefronts, making it a premier destination for walkers exploring the city's modern cultural evolution.