About Lefty’s Day & Night
Lefty’s Day & Night is a casual East Austin indoor/outdoor bar and cafe located in a century-old brick warehouse at 1813 C E 6th Street . Part of the boutique Arrive Austin hotel complex, it was redeveloped by local hospitality group Emmer & Rye into an all-day hangout . The venue features a tree-lined courtyard and patio, giving it a neighborhood-patio vibe under string lights . Acclaimed as “East Austin’s best neighborhood patio bar,” Lefty’s runs morning-to-night service – from specialty coffee and breakfast burritos to craft cocktails and late-night snacks . Signature menu items reflect this blend: you’ll find Basque-restaurant staples (like the sister-worker Kalimotxo’s Kali Burger and croquetas) alongside Lefty’s own handhelds (for example, the Hot Ham Bodega Sammie sandwich) . Despite its trendy scene, Lefty’s atmosphere is unpretentious – many locals love its friendly service and laid-back patio charm .
Events and Programming
Lefty’s keeps a vibrant weekly schedule of events and themed nights. Regular programming includes fun weekly nights like Movie Mondays (classic film screenings), Open Mic Comedy on Tuesdays, Trivia contests on Wednesdays and weekend DJs spinning on Friday and Saturday evenings . Sundays are known for big-screen sports – the patio becomes a football watch party all day . Beyond the weekly line-up, Lefty’s is famous for over-the-top holiday pop-ups and one-off parties. Each Halloween the bar transforms into “Lefty’s Shop of Horrors,” complete with haunted decor, special cocktails and events like drag bingo and tarot readings . The bar also serves as an official SXSW venue (in 2024 and 2025 it hosted showcase sets), so live music and showcase events fill its calendar during festival week. In short, there’s *always* something happening at Lefty’s – from themed happy hours and drag bingo to vinyl dance parties – so it pays to check their online event calendar or social pages. In fact, Emmer & Rye describes Lefty’s new concept as a “sports bar culture, wellness programming, and beverage-forward experience” to engage both hotel guests and locals .
Tickets and Booking
For most nights at Lefty’s, you don’t need tickets or a reservation – admission is walk-in, first-come-first-served. There is no official box office or ticket outlet. On typical nights there is no cover charge, though special ticketed events (like SXSW showcases or prebooked parties) may require sign-up in advance. If you plan to attend a feverishly popular event (such as a music showcase), look for announcements; sometimes promoters will sell tickets or wristbands online. For private gatherings, Lefty’s can arrange partial or full buyouts: the venue’s info notes that private parties and celebrations are welcome . Private-event bookings are handled through Arrive Austin’s event team (an inquiry form is provided on the hotel’s site ). In general, though, most visitors just show up on a night out and enjoy Lefty’s lively, reserve-free setup.
Seating and Layout
Lefty’s is built around a large open-air courtyard and patio, with a casual layout and no fixed seating charts. According to Arrive’s description, the “charming courtyard space” is ideal for outdoor gatherings . Inside you’ll find simple bar stools, picnic-table benches and café tables scattered under string lights and patio heaters (nice for cooler nights). The stage or DJ area faces the main patio, so the best spots for shows or DJs are near the lattice-covered stage or under direct line-of-sight to it. Otherwise, any open seating will do – there are high-tops and low-seats along the walls too. In short, seating is general admission. Arrive early if you want a prime bench on a busy night. The brick walls and open roof give the space an industrial-rustic acoustic; music will have some echo off the walls but overall it’s an intimate, friendly setting, not stadium-loud. (There are no VIP sections or reserved balconies – it’s all one level of patio.)
Getting There and Parking
Lefty’s Day & Night sits on East 6th Street at Chicon Avenue (the Arrive Austin hotel address) . It’s just east of downtown Austin and one block from I-35. Street parking is available along 6th and nearby blocks. Metered spots typically operate on weekday daytime hours (usually ~$1–$2/hour) and become free on evenings and weekends – but spaces can fill up on busy nights. The hotel’s underground garage is primarily for patrons, so visitors generally rely on street parking or nearby paid lots (the 6th Street corridor and the parking lot west of Chicon often have spaces). Due to limited parking, many guests use rideshare – drop-offs are easy right at 6th and Chicon. For public transit, CapMetro buses run on East 6th Street (check routes 105 or 26, for example), and the MetroRail Red Line downtown station is about 1.5 miles away. From downtown, the easiest access is by hopping on the eastbound 6th Street bridge or Congress Avenue bridge, then a quick turn to Chicon. In any case, the location is very walkable to nearby restaurants and hotels, so many opt for a short Lyft/Uber instead of hunting for free parking.
Inside the Venue
Expect a fun-loving but casual atmosphere inside Lefty’s. When you arrive, security is minimal – typically staff may check your ID before serving alcohol, but there is no formal door line or metal detector. You simply walk up and order at the bar or a service counter. The open courtyard means dining is outdoors (though partly covered), so wear weather-appropriate clothing (the venue will turn on patio heaters when it gets cold). Space is relaxed: coat check is not offered, so keep your belongings on your chair or bench. Both indoor and outdoor areas are non-smoking (Lefty’s is smoke-free ). The bar sat on one side of the courtyard serves drinks and a limited menu of shareable bites. Food orders are made at the counter – expect pub-style items like fries, tenders, burgers and wraps (for example, they serve a popular Buttered Rice Latte or hefty breakfast burritos until noon ). Drinks include Texas craft beers and craft cocktails; signatures range from classic margaritas to lighter “crushable” cocktails (the Lychee Lemonade with gin is one featured example) . Servers will bring drinks to any table in the patio. High-speed Wi-Fi is available to guests , so you can post photos (often of the Instagrammable murals or holiday décor) while you’re here. Restrooms are located indoors near the entrance. Overall, the vibe is very Austin-style – colorful decor, upbeat music (when DJs or bands are on), and a friendly crowd. Don’t expect fine dining etiquette; instead anticipate a neighborhood party feel with attentive service and lots of energy.
Nearby Amenities
When you want a bite or drink before or after Lefty’s, the neighborhood offers plenty of options. The on-site sister restaurant is Kalimotxo , a Basque-inspired tapas and cocktails bar in the same building – you can step directly upstairs for Spanish small plates and paella. East 6th Street also has many other eateries within a few blocks: casual taco joints, coffee shops and diners (for instance, Buenos Aires Cafe is one block east). Downtown’s Sixth Street nightlife and Congress Ave dining districts are a short one-mile walk or drive away. Hotels near Lefty’s include Arrive Austin itself, as well as the new Hotel W and downtown boutique hotels (all within 1-2 miles). If you plan to stay overnight, Lefty’s is essentially a walk-out into the Arrive lobby. For public transit, the #801 MetroRapid stops on Congress/6th (one block west), and the MetroRail is accessible near I-35. Late at night, rideshare pickup is easy from the intersection. In short, everything from morning coffee to late-night eats is available within walking distance – from specialty brunch cafes to craft breweries – making Lefty’s a convenient anchor of this East Austin corridor.
What Makes This Venue Special
Few spots capture Austin’s quirky charm like Lefty’s Day & Night. Architecturally it preserved the city’s history – the owners kept the original one-story brick warehouse look when converting the space to a hotel bar . This gives Lefty’s a characterful backdrop of exposed brick, retro signage and string-lit patios. The “Day & Night” concept itself is unusual: by day it’s a bright courtyard cafe (complete with house-made coffee concoctions like the Buttered Rice Latte ), and by night it turns into a lively bar with DJs and dance music. Culturally, it embraces East Austin’s inclusive community. It’s famous for hosting drag bingo, LGBTQ-friendly events and funky theme parties . Local musicians and arts groups also love playing here – it even served as an official SXSW venue, highlighting up-and-coming bands. Pet lovers will appreciate that dogs are welcome on the patio , an uncommon plus. In short, Lefty’s serves as a laid-back neighborhood centerpiece: it feels like someone’s fun backyard party that never ends, right in the heart of East Austin. Both locals and travelers alike praise its friendly staff, strong cocktails and atmosphere (the venue averages a 4.4 star Google rating) . It’s a place where Austin’s old-meets-new story is told over comfort food – a burned hot ham sandwich, burger, or a plate of fried pickles and fries – and great music under the Texas sky.
Visitor Tips and Information
If you’re planning a night at Lefty’s, here are some handy pointers: On event nights (especially Fridays/Saturdays or holiday parties), aim to arrive early – by 8pm or even 7pm – to grab a table or spot near the stage. Dress is very casual (think jeans and a fun T-shirt). Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to drink. Lefty’s is wheelchair accessible and provides accessible restrooms . It’s also pet-friendly, so well-behaved dogs on leashes are allowed in the patio area . Lefty’s can get loud once the music starts, so if you’re craving a quiet chat, consider an early evening visit before DJs turn it into a dance party. The patio is open-air, so on sunny days wear sunscreen sunglasses; on cool nights they do have heaters. Cash isn’t strictly required (they take cards), but small bills can be handy for tips or quick drink tabs. Lefty’s staff frequently posts last-minute specials or door policies (like cover charges for big DJs) on Instagram, so following their handle can save you a surprise. Finally, remember that seating is first-come, so if a friend is running late, you may end up splitting up at different tables. Otherwise, just relax and enjoy: this is a friendly neighborhood bar where everyone is welcome and no special permit is needed.
What are Lefty’s Day & Night’s hours of operation?
Lefty’s is open daily. Currently it opens at 7:00 AM every day, closes at 10:00 PM Sunday through Thursday, and stays open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays . (Happy hour specials run daily 3–6 PM.) Always double-check any special holiday hours on their social media before you go.
Where is Lefty’s Day & Night located?
Lefty’s is at 1813 C East 6th Street in Austin, TX (in the East Cesar Chavez neighborhood) . That’s the corner of East 6th and Chicon, inside the Arrive Austin hotel complex . If you see the Chewbacca mural on Arrive’s wall, you’re at the right place.
Is there a cover charge or tickets required?
On most evenings Lefty’s does not charge a cover (it’s first-come, first-served). You generally do not need to buy tickets for routine nights. Special events (like SXSW showcases or big-ticket parties) may be an exception – those would be announced in advance. For regular shows or DJ nights, you can just walk in and pay as you go.
Can I make a reservation or book a private event?
Lefty’s does not typically take dinner reservations, since seating is open-air and first-come. However, the space can be reserved for private parties or buyouts. The venue’s information notes they offer everything from partial reservations to full buyouts for events . To book, you would contact Arrive Austin’s events team (contact info is on their website ). For a normal night out, though, just walk in and get a seat.
Does Lefty’s have free Wi-Fi?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available to guests at Lefty’s . Ask a server for the network name or simply look for the “Arrive Austin” network on your phone. (Since the venue is also a hotel bar, the guest and public networks may share the same credentials.)
Is Lefty’s wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The facility is listed as accessible, and there is ramp access from the street into the courtyard . The bar area itself is flat and open. The restrooms are also ADA-compliant. If you have specific accessibility needs, the friendly staff can assist you when you arrive.
Can I bring my dog or pet?
Absolutely – Lefty’s is pet-friendly. Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome to join you on the patio . (They even mention “including furry friends” on their site.) It’s one of the few bar patios in Austin where your pup can grab a drink too (water bowls are usually available).
What payment methods do they accept?
Lefty’s accepts cards and cash. Most patrons pay by credit or debit card at the bar, though you can also tip or pay with cash if you like. There’s a bar-to-table service so your receipt can go to any seat. (There’s no service charge or minimum unless noted for large groups.)
What nights have special events like trivia or DJs?
Lefty’s keeps a regular weekly calendar. For example, trivia nights usually happen mid-week at 7 PM , open-mic comedy is on Tuesdays , and DJs spin on Friday/Saturday nights starting around 9 PM . Sunday afternoons are often a football watch party . These nights are free to join. Special events (holiday parties, tap takeovers, etc.) are announced on Lefty’s Instagram and at the bar.
Is there a dress code at Lefty’s?
No formal dress code – Lefty’s is very casual. Most guests wear jeans, T-shirts or shorts and casual shoes. You do not need to dress up, even for late-night. Keep in mind it’s an open-air patio, so on summer days wear cool clothes and on cooler nights you might want a light jacket. (Just avoid beachwear or bare feet; common sense attire is fine.)
Where can I park for Lefty’s Day & Night?
Parking is on-street around the neighborhood. You can usually find metered spots on East 6th or adjacent streets, or a paid lot one block away. Meters operate weekdays from around 8 AM–6 PM (rates ~$1-$2/hr), and parking is usually free overnight and all day on Sundays. The Arrive hotel garage is for hotel guests, so plan to use street parking or a nearby paid lot. Rideshare drop-off at 6th & Chicon is often easiest on busy nights.
Does Lefty’s serve breakfast or food?
Yes – Lefty’s has an all-day food menu. In the morning they serve breakfast items (like burritos, kolaches and special toasted tortillas) , and through lunch/dinner they offer sandwiches, wraps, burgers and appetizer plates. Popular choices include a sizable “Hot Ham Bodega Sammie” sandwich , a “Smashburger” with wagyu beef , and shareable sides like waffle fries and fried pickle wedges . Portions are casual pub style and prices are modest (most items under $15). The kitchen stays open all day, so you can eat whenever you like between the coffee and cocktail services.
What are Lefty’s signature drinks?
Lefty’s is known for creative cocktails and coffee specialties. Housemade fixtures include the Buttered Rice Latte (a toasty, spiced coffee drink) . On the cocktail side, look for “crushable” light cocktails like the Lychee Lemonade (gin, lychee, lemon and elderflower) mentioned at launch . They also carry local beers and ciders on tap. If unsure what to get, bartenders can suggest something based on your taste – the vibe is experimental but accessible.
Is Lefty’s suitable for kids?
Lefty’s is a bar at heart, so it’s mostly geared toward an adult crowd. However, during daytime or early evening hours families are sometimes seen enjoying the food menu and coffee. If you bring children, be aware that the atmosphere will become more adult-oriented later in the night (especially after 9pm when DJs start). There’s no explicit age restriction posted, but once alcohol is being served heavily they may enforce a minimum age of 18 or 21 inside the bar area.
Why is it called Lefty’s “Day & Night”?
The “Day & Night” name reflects the venue’s all-day focus. When Emmer & Rye redesigned the space, they emphasized a 7am–late schedule with different vibes. In the mornings it’s essentially a cafe (coffee, breakfast sandwiches) and by afternoon it transitions into beer-cocktail bar mode . So the same place serves breakfast and also stays open for cocktails and late-night fun. In short, Lefty’s truly operates around the clock, hence “Day & Night.”
