The Blackheart

During its first two years, The Blackheart, located at 86 Rainey St, has quickly become a favorite to both locals and tourist. This Victorian era abode, built in 1889, provides that worn-in feel of a neighborhood hangout. This vibe is due largely to a top-notch experienced staff that provides exceptional service. The Blackheart continually proves to be more than just another bar. Along with constantly tweaking their cocktail recipes and updating the menu with each new season, The Blackheart continuously makes updates to the structure, while respecting the integrity of the historical space. The largest updates come in the form of updating their two stages and their sound system. The Blackheart hosts a carefully curated selection of free, live music across its indoor and outdoor stages. Inside, where it is cozy, every show feels like an intimate house party. The breezy outdoor stage has garnered recognition as one of the city’s best outdoor patios by Austin Monthly. As an official SXSW music venue they’ve hosted rising acts such as Diiv, Waaves, Jason Isobell, Corb Lund, & Talib Kweli in addition to official parties hosted by Paste Magazine, Sennhesier & Kings of Leon. Top notch acts dominate year round, with favorites such as Roxy Roca, Mrs. Glass, McMercy Family Band, Jason Anderson (Boston), Cool Piss (Houston), Blackstone Rangers (Dallas), Deejay Honeycomb and the Banditos (Nashville). Although much of the talent showcased at The Blackheart certainly falls in line with the bar's romantic, southern inspired aesthetic, the bar’s reputation for exploring experimental, modern and punk sentiments is growing thanks to a devoted and receptive audience. Perhaps most exciting are The Blackheart’s plans to release a live album pressed exclusively to vinyl by local artist Mrs. Glass, recorded during their year long residency at the budding venue.