Back Lot

By Henry Long

Dive bars do not have to offer much. No craft cocktails needed, no mandate for ambiance and no reputation to uphold. They thrive on being consistent, local and cheap. Backlot Bar, in North University, checks every box.

There is a single pool table and a lonesome dart board (with tournaments on Tuesdays). TVs hang high in the corners playing movies with no sound. The bartenders pour cold beers and make warm conversation. Here you can tap into some of Austin’s best local beers at the best price possible. If you want to experience Austin’s craft beer scene, Backlot, not a brewery, is the best place to start.