About 1011 Avenue B
1011 Avenue B is a compact live-music bar on San Antonio’s Lower Broadway (River North) just east of the River Walk . It seats roughly 150 people and has a gritty, dive-bar feel (originally called The Warhol, later Ten Eleven ). From 2008–2016 it was a beloved punk/rock hotspot in the local scene . After the owners closed it in 2016 , the space sat dark until November 2022 when it quietly reopened as “River Sun,” a new music lounge billed as a “non-toxic” bar focusing on jazz, indie and ambient sounds . The makeover added colorful art murals and modern lighting, so the club now blends its dive-bar history with a fresher cocktail-lounge vibe.
Events and Programming
1011 Avenue B now hosts live music nights featuring jazz, soul, indie and electronic acts . For example, the February 2023 grand opening lineup included indie/R&B singer Auji with DJ sets by Diego Chavez and aURaSELF . The venue generally programs weekly or biweekly concerts – small jazz combos, solo vocalists or DJs on weekends – rather than heavy rock. (In its Ten Eleven era it booked punk and metal, and it even hosted the drone-metal act Sunn O))) in 2015 .) Note: between Ten Eleven’s 2016 closing and River Sun’s 2022 launch, the space was dormant, so there were no events at this address during 2020–21. Today’s shows have modest cover charges (many night’s tickets cost under $20) or drink-minimum entry.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets and table reservations for 1011 Avenue B events are handled online. River Sun’s website or ticketing partners let you reserve spots in advance – Axios specifically recommends booking weekend jazz performances online . If a show isn’t sold out, you can often buy at the door if space remains, but seats fill up fast so advance purchase is wise. There is no standalone box office; all sales go through online outlets or phone contacts. (By contrast, Ten Eleven-era shows were very inexpensive, often just $5–$10.) Cover charges and drink-minimums vary by night, but most concerts require only a low ticket fee or the purchase of a couple of drinks.
Seating and Layout
The club’s interior is a single intimate room. Axios describes it as “a small, intimate space where the walls are covered in murals and the lights change color” . There is no balcony – just one open floor. Seating consists of mixed tables and chairs spread across the floor and a few barstools by the indoor bar. Since the venue is compact (Ten Eleven held ~150 people ), virtually every seat has a clear sightline to the stage. In practice the best spots are front-row or center tables near the performance area. A small fenced patio on the back (Avenue B side) was originally a smoking area ; on good weather nights guests may lounge there between sets. Overall, most seats offer a good view and sound; if you want a prime table it’s best to arrive early or reserve ahead.
Getting There and Parking
1011 Avenue B’s address (River North, ZIP 78215) places it in central San Antonio. It’s easy to reach by car: take I-35 (exit Commerce/Brush St or Cesar Chavez), then south on Broadway and east on E. Commerce/Broadway to Avenue B . Uber/Lyft drivers know the bar well. VIA Metropolitan Transit has nearby bus stops (e.g. Routes on Broadway and South Presa within a few blocks). There is no dedicated parking lot. Street parking on Avenue B and adjacent blocks can be found, but spaces are limited and usually metered in the evenings. A handful of nearby public lots (and the El Camino Food Truck Park parking) may offer paid spaces, but many visitors prefer rideshare to avoid parking hassle on busy weekend nights.
Inside the Venue
Inside, the atmosphere is casual and unpretentious. A small bar counter (with stools) runs along one wall, and the rest of the floor is filled with low tables and chairs. Expect a full drink menu with creative craft cocktails (including alcohol-free “mocktails”) and a selection of local beers and organic wines . The “non-toxic” theme means the staff uses natural cleaning products and even two high-grade air purifiers – a quirky health-conscious touch you don’t see at most bars. On loud nights the music can pump, but since the focus is on jazz/soul the volume stays reasonable. There is no coat check (coatracks or wall hooks may suffice). A few light snacks or popcorn are sometimes offered at the bar, but no full kitchen operates here. Cellular service can be spotty inside the old walls, so plane your communications ahead. Above all, bring ID: this is a 21+ bar and IDs are checked at the door.
Nearby Amenities
Just outside the door are convenient options for food, drink and lodging. The El Camino Food Truck Park (1009 Avenue B) is next door , with multiple trucks serving tacos, BBQ, burgers, salads and more before or after a show. For sit-down meals, the nearby River Walk and Broadway corridor has many Tex-Mex, barbecue and casual restaurants. (For example, the Stop-N-Go Gyros across the river earns praise for its creative sandwiches and wraps .) Live-music bars like Sam’s Burger Joint (330 E. Grayson) and Darwin’s Burgers & Blues (170 E. Commerce) are just a few blocks away if you want an after-party spot. As for lodging, several downtown hotels are within a mile (the historic Emily Morgan near the Alamo, the Drury Plaza Riverwalk, or standard-chain motels near East Commerce). If staying late, rideshares can meet you at Avenue B when street parking is scarce.
What Makes This Venue Special
1011 Avenue B’s uniqueness comes from its blend of underground history and inventive new spin. As Ten Eleven it was a “sticker-covered” punk rock haven – a rite-of-passage venue in San Antonio’s music community. Now it retains that edgy charm while adding modern flair: the walls are painted with art murals under changing colored lights , and its “non-toxic” ethos (organic cocktails, purified air) is rare in a downtown bar . The result is a warm, living-room feel where local fans and touring artists mingle. Notably, alumni of the old club include famous acts like Sunn O))) , and longtime followers appreciate that River Sun continues the tradition of grassroots performance. The venue also plays a role in the area’s revival: it sits on Lower Broadway (now the River North District), which was revitalized in late 2024 . That project restored foot traffic and new businesses to the stretch, so River Sun’s live shows help keep downtown lively and support the local economy and culture. In sum, artists and audiences love 1011 Avenue B for its intimate vibe, authentic dive-bar character, and its contribution to San Antonio’s arts scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to arrive at doors open time (typically around 8:30pm for a 9pm show) to get the best seating. This club enforces 21+ age and ID is required. The dress code is very casual (jeans, tie-dye shirts, button-ups – anything neat is fine). You will need to purchase at least a drink; there is usually a cover or drink-minimum on show nights. Small personal cameras and phones (on silent) are fine for snapshots, but avoid large flashes or professional cameras unless pre-approved. Bags are not subject to rigorous search, but large backpacks may get a quick check. Smoking is only allowed in the back patio – no indoor smoking. If you’re sensitive to noise, know that jazz/soul stays at a comfortable level; earplugs are optional. Finally, tip generously – the bartenders and local musicians appreciate it. In short: bring ID, expect to buy drinks, and enjoy the friendly live-music bar atmosphere.
Where is 1011 Avenue B located and how can I get there?
The venue is at 1011 Avenue B, San Antonio, TX 78215 , in the River North district (east of Broadway). By car it’s easy to reach via I-35 (use the Park East or Commerce exit and head east). Uber/Lyft drivers know the spot, and VIA bus routes on Broadway and S. Presa stop a few blocks away. (Look for the El Camino food truck park next door.)
What is the capacity and seating layout of the venue?
The space can hold roughly 150 people . There’s only one floor with the stage at the front (no balcony). Seating is mostly tables and chairs scattered on the floor, plus a few stools at the bar. All tables have a view of the stage. Front-center tables are best for a close-up experience. No separate VIP section exists – all seating is general admission at tables.
What types of events and music are held here?
Since it became River Sun, the venue focuses on live jazz, soul, R&B and indie music , plus DJ sets on weekends. For instance, the Feb 2023 opening featured an indie/R&B singer and local DJs . Weekly or monthly jazz or acoustic shows are common. In its Ten Eleven days it hosted punk and metal, but today shows exclude hard rock; the programming is mellow and experimental instead.
How do I purchase tickets or book a spot for events?
Tickets and reservations are sold online through River Sun’s official site or affiliated ticket outlets. Many shows can be reserved in advance online, which is especially recommended for weekend jazz nights . If the event isn’t full, you might buy entry at the door, but seating is limited. There’s no physical box office; all sales go through online listings or phone contacts. Always check the event details ahead of time.
Are there reserved seats or general admission, and which seats are best?
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis once you have a ticket or reservation. There is no separate VIP area. You can reserve a table online if available. For most shows, the best seats are the front tables near the stage. Later arrivals will fill back tables. On busy nights it’s wise to arrive early or reserve in advance (Axios specifically suggests online reservations) .
What is the cover charge or typical ticket price?
Ticket prices vary with the act. Many nights have modest covers (often around $10–$15) or just a required two-drink minimum. Headliner events may cost slightly more, but this is not a high-end concert hall – most shows remain affordable (well under $20 for a night). In the old Ten Eleven era, tickets were even cheaper (often $5–$10) due to its punk-rock focus.
What are the age restrictions and dress code?
1011 Avenue B is strictly 21 and up. Be prepared to show a valid photo ID at the door; staff will not admit underage guests. There is no formal dress code – most people come in casual attire (jeans, T-shirts, or nice casual wear). Neat clothing is fine; just avoid anything overly beachy or gang-related. Generally the vibe is laid-back.
Can I use cameras, phones or recording devices inside?
Smartphone snapshots or videos (on silent) are usually fine for personal use, but don’t use a bright flash during performances. Most patrons take casual photos. Professional cameras, tripods or audio recorders may not be allowed without permission. In short: casual fan photos are okay, but professional gear is generally discouraged to avoid disturbing others.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible and ADA-compliant?
The club is on the ground floor, so its entrance is at street level. It was updated recently, so basic wheelchair accessibility is expected (official city info indicates regular restrooms). The layout is one room and not especially spacious, but an accessible restroom is likely provided. If you require special accommodations, it’s best to call ahead; generally this small downtown bar should be passable for wheelchair patrons.
What parking or public transit connections are nearby?
There’s no private lot. Street parking runs along Avenue B and neighboring blocks (typically metered after dusk). Paid lots nearby or the El Camino Food Park lot may have a few spaces. Given this, rideshare or taxi are common – cars can pull up to the front door. VIA buses run on Broadway and South Presa; both are a short walk (couple blocks) from the venue. Check the VIA route map for current stops.
Are food and snacks available inside 1011 Avenue B?
Inside, food options are very limited. The focus is on drinks – you’ll find cocktail bar snacks (like chips or popcorn sometimes), but there is no full kitchen. The real food is next door: the El Camino Food Truck Park offers tacos, burgers, BBQ and more . Many visitors eat at the trucks before shows or dine at downtown restaurants on adjacent streets.
Are pets or service animals allowed inside?
Service animals (like guide dogs) are allowed by law. Otherwise, pets are not permitted after dark (the bar atmosphere and safety make them inappropriate). If you have a service animal, alert staff on arrival. No pet-friendly policy is advertised for this live music venue.
What does “non-toxic bar” mean at River Sun?
“Non-toxic” here refers to the owners’ focus on health and sustainability. The bar offers organic and zero-proof cocktails, natural wines , and uses environmentally friendly practices. They use natural cleaning products and industrial air purifiers for cleaner air . In short, it’s a marketing term indicating a more health-conscious approach to bar operations.
What was 1011 Avenue B previously known as?
Previously this address was home to The Ten Eleven club (originally named The Warhol) from about 2008–2016 . Ten Eleven was a well-known punk/rock venue in SA. It briefly became another bar (“Ventura”), but had no long-term success. The space remained unused from 2016 until late 2022, when it reopened as River Sun with a new concept.
When did River Sun open at this location?
River Sun quietly opened in November 2022, with a public grand opening in February 2023 . So it’s a very recent venue; any older references (pre-2022) to 1011 Avenue B will refer to the old Ten Eleven club. Since its 2022 launch it has been hosting shows and supporting the revitalization of the River North nightlife.
Is smoking allowed, or is there a smoking area?
Smoking is not allowed inside the building. However, there is an outdoor patio area in back (alongside Avenue B) where smoking is permitted. Guests may step outside between sets. This patio was originally Ten Eleven’s smoking area . Just remember to use the main door to go outside safely.
Are there coat check or storage facilities?
There’s no formal coat check with staff. Some venues provide wall hooks or a free-standing rack for coats, but don’t plan on leaving valuables. It’s best to carry a small bag or hang up your coat by your seat. Because the crowd is music fans, theft is very uncommon, but keep personal items close and be aware in the crowd.
What are common mistakes first-time visitors make?
First-timers often underestimate how full it gets. Arrive 15–30 minutes early for busy shows, especially on weekends. Bring your ID – they will firmly enforce 21+. Also remember there’s no restaurant menu, so don’t show up hungry expecting a meal. Street parking can be misleadingly tight, so pack patience or use a rideshare. Finally, the vibe is very casual and welcoming – just relax and enjoy the night.
