Donns Depot

1600 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78703, United States
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Donns Depot
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Ti
Review №1

Donn’s Depot is a long time Austin classic, but there’s so much more beyond the name. This place has a bar, dancing, and seating throughout. It looks much bigger on the inside and it does from the outside. This place caters to all with patrons both young and old. This place reminds me a little of another Austin classic, the Broken Spoke. The lighting is a little dim and red and you can tell this place has been around a long time just by looking at the ceiling, walls and decor. They play live music which is always a huge plus! There’s a big bar with a variety of draft beers, wine, spirits and cocktails. The layout is a a bit funky with seating in different rooms, some with a limited view of the dance floor. The staff is mostly friendly, which was a surprise as I expected them to be over the top friendly. Regardless, they’re probably understaffed and there’s a lot of picking up to do at the tables and with customers. I really need to visit around the holiday season, when they light the place up with Christmas lights. Overall a cool place and I’ll be back!

Ca
Review №2

Great local hangout bar! Nice to have a place for a drink and be able to hold a conversation. Live music starts at 9pm and goes until 1am every night, closed on Sundays.

Bu
Review №3

Really enjoy everything here. The outdoor seating is very nice, mostly shaded and comfortable. The food is excellent with unique twists to most of their items. Try something out of your comfort zone here, you wont regret it. Margaritas are very spicy, so be warned. Burger is very good. Puffed pork belly appetizer is amazing.

tr
Review №4

Classic old school honky tonk piano bar. Went there with a buddy while they were having 2-Step lessons. Staff was super friendly. Crowd was diverse. Live band was great. A must stop on your next pub crawl or for learning how to trip over your own feet!

Va
Review №5

My privateers and I had been called upon to break the behaviors of a coward who cared more for ornaments than the training of his own children. Being in the presence of such a disgrace had taken the laughter from many of my men, so I ordered a messenger to find delight. The night became royal when we entered the halls of Donns Depot. Everyone was drinking fine ale, and I saw many women with jewels. These people are deserving a good reputation, unlike the rest of this slinking town.

Pa
Review №6

My wife and I loved Don’s depot. We were impressed by the eclectic crowd this place draws. We sat by another couple who had been married 68 years! The dance floor was hopping. And we had a great evening. We can’t wait to go back.

Ro
Review №7

Great music, equally good vibes, bartenders who know your name

Am
Review №8

Another place Im ashamed to admit that Ive never been to, considering Im an OG. Ive driven past it my entire life.. literally, but have never stopped to check it out. My bad. Its a super cool bar that has live music every weekend. And the sweet bartender will make you whatever sweet and fruity cocktail you request. With whip cream on top. And a cherry or two. Its a great place to people watch, too. Its definitely one of my new favorites.

Ot
Review №9

After a friend recommended coming to Donns Depot I decided to give it try. This was the best suggestion anyone has given me in a long time. I have stumbled into a hidden juel in Austin, TX. The best bar that Austin stands for. Great music funky atmosphere with a crowd that goes from Aistin weird to young hipsters. Prices are much better than in Dirty 6th St. Service was great, the two bartenders were busy but kept up with the crowd a drink were served in a timely manner.Holiday drinks selection was amazing.

Ma
Review №10

Great place. I’m not sure how I missed this place all the years I lived in Austin and worked down the street. Anyway, highly recommend for an awesome Austin experience.

Ja
Review №11

This place is really fun to come to during the Christmas season. I came here for a work Christmas party and the atmosphere was perfect. By the time I left I was feeling really jolly, but I felt like the a Grinch the next morning. Oh well, hair of the dog it is!

je
Review №12

First time here .... came with an Austinite to see Murphys Inlaws and was blown away by how engaging they were, and the raw talent! Im a whiskey on the rocks kinda girl and got a double...ended up with a quad pour!!! No complaints here; will return asap

Wi
Review №13

Great place to spend an evening listening at a piano, plus some occasional other instruments, great dance floor also.

Ch
Review №14

Felt like we has stepped back into time here. Atmosphere was weirdly cool in a retro way but there was no music which felt odd. Bartender was very friendly and prices were great.

dy
Review №15

Cool Place, but when musicians are playing, don’t think you will be able to visually see the band. Most seats are blocked by walls, etc, and maybe only about 10 seats have a good view out of the whole band.Wish they had dedicated seating to watch , but no.

We
Review №16

Highly recommend Monday nights at Donns Depot with the multi-talented Chris Gage and rotating musical guests. Always attended by a friendly crowd of happy people, dancing, socializing and enjoying the generously poured adult beverages.

Ki
Review №17

Great place to grab a drink , dance and listen to awesome country music.They do not offer food here. There is a cover charge so make sure you have cash.

Su
Review №18

Great place for the locals. Much larger in the inside than appears on outside. Lots of history . Owner and his sone provide a great piano bar experience. Everyone have a great time with sing along songs. Prices are fair. Free popcorn , good size dance floor . Smoking area /patio out side .

Mi
Review №19

This place has been around forever. Love the swing music when we went Saturday night and being around the older generation of folks, a break from downtown night crowd. Service can be a little slow since its so crowded, but everyone is friendly.

Me
Review №20

This is my favorite dive bar in Austin! Christmas themed all year, live music most nights, lots of dancing and they carry my favorite cranberry vodka. Location is great and I love seeing a variety of different types of people getting together and having a good time.

Ar
Review №21

Really neat place. Building was built with train carts put together. Live music every night. Don and the Station Masters have been playing there for 50 years! A must see!!

Ch
Review №22

Went for an escape from sxsw, had a good vibe that night. Was not a lot of people since we got there a little earlier but then a band started to play and it started to jam. The drinks were good, bar tenders was nice and the bathrooms clean. We had a good time and enjoyed the music and then left to head back into the sxsw mix.

Ja
Review №23

Great music very friendly crowd and staff. We love it there. Dance floor area is usually busy. Good drinks. Nearby El Arroyo for Mexican food followed by a visit to Donn’s Depot is a perfect evening. Take an Uber home

Br
Review №24

They often charge a cover, bands can vary too widely between good and meh.

Jo
Review №25

Love this place on Thursdays to dance and chill. Safe for grown up people who enjoy a laid back vibe, good music, good service, and a dance floor that you can actually reach

Gi
Review №26

Please note: They dont allow anyone that wasnt born here or lived here

St
Review №27

Firts time here and it was for a celebration of life. With that being said, the staff was great and this place has lots, and lots of character.

Bo
Review №28

My mom comes here every Wednesday night to listen to the band and dance. She finally got me to go and we had a really great time. The service was great and the band is awesome. Certainly an Austin eclectic place to go.

Ra
Review №29

Interesting place for great live music. It was a hot day and the place wasn’t very cool but no one complained.Not a fancy or super clean place but popular for drinks and live music. The band is very talented. $10 cover charge the night we were there.

Br
Review №30

This is a must go for anyone who loves fun, friendly and eclectic! Great building made from and old train car! Don plays piano and sings! Couples dance to wonderful old country tunes! Its dressed up for the holidays!

Di
Review №31

One of the last old school honky tonks. Great vibe inside the railway car. I have been a few times but most recently on a Monday night. The music came on at 9am and it was incredible. Met a few local bartenders (that work elsewhere), and they told me about the musicians that drop in on mondays. I am so glad I got to experience and Ill be back!

Ma
Review №32

Hidden Gem! My husband and I discovered this place by accident after our Sushi dinner. The band that night was phenomenal. They have been around longer than Ive been alive - but I love big band Sinatra, Barry White, Salsa, Motown and old country and they play it all.

Ga
Review №33

Visited Donns first time on a Monday in March. To begin with its a great music listening venue. Nice dance floor with lots of comfortable seating. Sound system is good. Free popcorn that is theater quality. Drinks are reasonable and strong and the bartenders are simply the best. The music is incredible. Monday nights, Chris Gage can really bring it and has done so for over a decade. Great piano, strong voice, and just a guy who loves to play. Randy Newman, George Strait, Guy Clark,etc.. Spot on. Local musicians with great talent join in or just go to listen. That tells you something. Played for 2 1/2 hours. Wish the night isn’t end. If you find yourself in Austin on a Monday night or any night (great talent every night ). Head to Donns. It’s not fancy but it’s a time you’ll remember.

Pi
Review №34

Fun vibe and good music , bring your dancing shoes

Ma
Review №35

Classic place with lots of history. You’ll have fun even if you’re not into country music but more fun if you are. We always meet cool people here. Bartenders are hard workers and it may take a min to get a drink but it’s worth the wait. Cool mix of young and older crowd. Nice dance floor and the musicians are cool and friendly. You’ll have fun. Just go!

Wi
Review №36

Great Austins Railway theme bar! An Austin Christmas tradition. Local gather to sing the 12 Days of Christmas annually. Great service!!No food except popcorn.

Ca
Review №37

One of my favorite bars of all time. There are few places where you feel like family as much as at Donn’s. Not to mention the drinks are pretty cheap, and the music’s always good! Especially fun during the Christmas season. 15 out of 10

Le
Review №38

Great bar with live music. The bartenders are friendly and welcoming. (Ignore the donuts who say you have be from Austin to come here 😂 so silly of them!) Not too crowded and a lot bigger inside than it looks. Look around the walls for lots of history too!

Al
Review №39

If you are not an Austin native, do not come here. You will absolutely hate it. They dont have any frilly drinks, you wouldnt like the music, there is plenty of space to sit, and it is reasonably priced. Again, if youve moved here from the west coast, this isnt the place for you!

TK
Review №40

Awesome place, fantastic music, stellar staff, & a real authentic Austin experience.Live music 6 nights a week.Chris did a great job at the bar, prices are reasonable, & the entire cover charge goes to the band.Dont miss out on this Austin gem!

IV
Review №41

Best bar in the area for some good live tunes and great dancing. Couple that with some of the cheapest priced drinks in town and boom! DONNS DEPOT. one of the coolest little places I personally enjoy whenever Im near downtown Austin!

An
Review №42

This was my first visit. I went to go see a local band play on a Saturday night. The place was hopping! The bar staff was very helpful, but extremely busy. They were busy, but on top of their game. The dance floor is small, but enough room for 5 couples to dance comfortably. The stage is fairly small as well, but definitely doable, even with a full band. The vibe was fun, but chill. I highly recommend stopping in at this local establishment to check it out for yourself! A fun place to go for a night out!

Ca
Review №43

Donns is one of my favorite places in town. Incredible vibe, great music, nice staff, and in-F-ing-believable ladies room. Drop everything and go!!

Ju
Review №44

An Austin institution- lots of fun and if you’re into fancy don’t come here bc it’s all about the tradition and music. But I don’t know what it is with the waitstaff. Horrible and rude. I brought some out of state guests and I was ashamed of the way we were so rudely treated. When we asked for Topochico she answered “no we have YYZ” and when my guest said “what’s XYz” she rudely barked something about the managers drink like shame on us bc we didn’t know the brand!! Another female bartender was rude as well when we asked if they served snacks/food- “no there’s a food truck outside” but there was a popcorn machine 10 steps away!!We won’t be going back bc of this unfriendliness. A little bit of a smile and nice can go a very long way. Bad Austin experience.

Ni
Review №45

One of those special, local dive bars that I love. They also have live music and two-step lessons that are a ton of fun. You can tell its an Austin staple, and I hope no matter how much the city changes that Donns doesnt.

Je
Review №46

Nash Hernandez Orchestra was amazing! The way they played, sang, and their selection in music was wonderful! The atmosphere was kind and a lot of fun! Definitely recommend!!

Al
Review №47

Fun piano bar with an old-western twist!

Jo
Review №48

Very unique and classic place. Hanging out in here I felt like I had stepped back in time. No hipsters, no hip hop, no jocks. Just an older crowd wanting to dance and have a good drink! Make sure you wear your dancing shoes!The live band was on point. A lot of fun! Drinks were good, it was definitely crowded though. We had to wait a bit on Saturday night before we could get our own table. The crowd was very friendly, another couple even offered to share their table with us.In between cutting the rug, take a look around. Youre surrounded by train cars!

Ha
Review №49

Barmaid was mean so I didn’t leave a tip, and then she shouted at me.10/10

An
Review №50

So so so so cool. Absolutely love this folksy, homey honky tonk with great live music and dancing!

Sa
Review №51

Website listed one band but they had another when we got there. Also it said there was no cover but $10 when we got there. The reason given is that it was December…?Service is friendly -specialty drinks are a bit overpriced but fun. If you like to watch couples from 30-100 years old dancing this is great people watching!

TX
Review №52

This is one of Austins quintessential dive bars and they have live music. I thought it had closed permanently due to the pandemic but was pleased to find them open the other night. However the popcorn wasnt popping and they do not serve lone star light. That being said, it was well worth popping in and supporting an Austin original.

Ro
Review №53

What a fun spot! Great decor and friendly staff. The live music was great. Only thing keeping me from coming back would be cleanliness. The strings of dust on top of the train cars were off-putting. Still, had a great time!

Ma
Review №54

Definite dive. I suppose it has charm if you are a regular. I had never been despite living here for 22 years, so I was underwhelmed after hearing about the wonderful Austin vibe. Carpet in a bar is a bold choice. Probably just not my scene.

Jo
Review №55

Yall this place is weird. Walked in, not a peep from anyone cus they’re watching jeapordy? The nasty looks we got from people JUST FOR TALKING? stay away from this library.

Si
Review №56

Nice cozy place, friendly staff. Didnt have to wait more than 3-4 mins for ordering drinks each time at the bar, even though it was a busy Thursday evening (happy hour). One might find it difficult to park, but then thats Austin Downtown area for you. Dont expect ultra clean or swanky stuff, has a bit of run down look but nothing in a bad way.

Ru
Review №57

A true dive bar but in a good way. Place is made from railroad boxcars. It old, its dingy, but it feels very quaint. Its certainly not a place to see or be seen, but its comfortable. The staff is polite and the drinks are good (The all you can eat popcorn is a fun touch ;). When the band is playing you can step out on the dark dance floor and relax in the fact that no one is watching. Decent place to unwind or have a quiet drink.

Za
Review №58

I participated in a holiday party there! The service was awesome! Tammy and Michelle are great bartenders! It is a great small venue for an evening of dancing and hanging with friends.Their holiday lights are great for anyone wanting to enjoy some holiday spirit.Great experience!

To
Review №59

I have friends whove been coming here for 20 years and they introduced me to this beautiful, eclectic, historic downtown Austin bar. Live music, great beers, great cocktails with friendly staff and regulars. A must visit if youre downtown.

Li
Review №60

Weve been coming here for decades now and its always fun! There are top notch bands, dancing, fun decor, and Tammy, the worlds best bartender and server. The prices are amazing too!

Fr
Review №61

How have I lived in Austin 25 years and not known about this quaint little dive? Took a first date here and had a great time. Live music, dancing and decent drink selection. Servers were very nice as well.

J.
Review №62

Unreal local bar. Came here last night and this place was impeccably decked out in Christmas cheer. The band that played were amazing and the bartender/owners were super friendly. Great dance floor as well!

Jo
Review №63

Not sure about the food but it’s a cool place to grab a few beers. Christmas decorations are worth the stop.

Jo
Review №64

An icon in Austin, either you come for the incredible bar banter going on during a football game, or you make a night of it with some great live music and some two stepping. Its the people that run Dons and their regulars that will make you love it. A lovely atmosphere for couples, and those looking for good music and good conversations.

Ch
Review №65

Legendary spot, beautiful people, exceptional staff, popcorn 🍿, sufficient lighting for portrait mode

Br
Review №66

My favorite place to listen to music in Austin. Thursday nights are my favorite closely followed by Monday nights. Thursdays Murphys In-Laws is my favorite band in town. Any song that you lived growing up..... Is are they know it. Great guitar playing with right harmonies. These guys are the kind of guys that built Austin into the music scene it is today.

Ge
Review №67

Awesome bar, love it here, great abundance of locals, local music, and fantastic music here. Good drink specials, and lots of free popcorn. Large enough parking lot, free which is nice, but it gets a little crowded on the weekends. Awesome vibe, definitely will be back.

Ja
Review №68

The depot has live music, and its not all country all the time. the people are friendly when and if they would talk with you. bartenders are great.dancers are rare but thats common. the only negative Ive experienced is the parking, especially on Saturday night.i will keep looking for WCS music and dancers, but as a default Dons Depot is one of the best so far.jj

Ka
Review №69

Incredible jewel. We had no expectations but if you go there you will see real Texas , all ages mixed dancing together from 18-99 to the live band music.

Br
Review №70

Loved seeing Chris Albert, we wished his partner Christine Gage showed, but, no. This is a hole-in-the-wall place, definitely worth the trip!

Fr
Review №71

Classic Austin bar, one of the few still keeping the vibe alive. Every inch of this place is authentic to the core, true to itself. Always crowded but not too dirty, staff are respectful.

Ma
Review №72

Hilarious over the top Xmas decorations in a converted 4 railroad car restaurant. A real Austn landmark with talented musicians and singers.. what a fun experience !!

Ad
Review №73

The best of Austin wrapped up and disguised as a Cheers Bar.

Me
Review №74

Nice to grab drinks! I came in December so the whole place was decked out in Christmas stuff (lights, tree, etc). My friends told me that this bar is a regular dive bar the rest of the year.Friendly staff and overall a great place to grab drinks.

Do
Review №75

As funky an Austin dance bar as you will ever find. filled with friendly regulars and playing old classics. iconic. been open since the late 70s. fun for a late night excursion.

Al
Review №76

Very fun place for going out dancing. We paid a $5 cover price at the entrance. Inside you can listen and dance to live music. Its not to crowded. Will definitely try to come again.

Sa
Review №77

We planned our second trip to Austin specifically around being there for Wednesday night to see Frank and the Honkey Tonk Doctors again, and they didnt disappoint. We stumbled in over a year ago and saw them playing and were blown away. We visited Donns Depot twice during our trip and the wonderful bartender remembered our drinks and gave them to us as soon as we walked in the door, she made us feel very welcome. Its a great environment, great dancing and we also appreciate the free popcorn. Wish we could have done a longer trip and come back to see Donn and his band on Friday but we will next time. Highly recommended! Truly feels like Texas.

Ni
Review №78

Yassssssss. I love this place. My husband and I were visiting from MA and we’re looking for a kind of mid-range divey bar. When we saw “piano bar” “dance floor” “old depot” “set in rail cars” we were sold. When we got there is wasn’t very crowded and we spent some time at the bars with the dynamic lady bartending duo. They were so welcoming and called it like they saw it. When the crowd picked up we moved over closer to the dance floor and watched and sing along with Murphy’s in-laws for a while. They were a lot of fun. The place is amazing- there is train art and memorabilia everywhere, the women’s room is in a caboose, there was a popcorn machine, and live music every night. I wish Donn’s existed where I live.

Ra
Review №79

Did not eat there but a great place and great music.

Na
Review №80

Nice bar, great ppl, dancing, live music.Restroom past bar all the way to the right.

Ca
Review №81

Really excellent bar I love it here. Great atmosphere and excellent service. Some really fond memories made here

T
Review №82

This place is just like a hole in the wall bar on the Gulf.Live music by the owner.Dancing.An atmosphere which is like a real country honky tonk with all the attendant velvet lined walls, dank and Elvis portraits.Inexpensive drinks.

De
Review №83

Great little place! We wandered in here on a Monday and immediately felt welcomed. The bartender was incredibly nice and it seemed like everybody knew each other. They totally welcomed us in and it felt like we had been going there for years.

Yv
Review №84

Great Bar & Great Band!! If You Like A Place Where Real Austinites Hangout & Listen To Live Music, Dance, Socialize & Drink Some Fantastic Cocktails Then This Is The Place For You!! Loved It!!

Re
Review №85

Very quirky and easy going place. Love the piano bar. Staff is as friendly as the patrons. 👍Nice outdoor porch to smoke on, and their bathroom is really unique in a good way.

Ji
Review №86

Perfect little country dive that also happens to be a beached rail car - the clientele (older, with their plaid shirts tucked-in) tell me that this place has been here for respectable amount of time and has history (just look at the sleeping bunks/strip pole in the bathroom) and charm. No one here is stuck-up, no one is obnoxious. That fact, the good dancing music (the dancing!) and the high spirit of Donns make it a wonderful spot to go out for some boot-scootin revelry (they have plenty of beers on tap - I recommend going for a pitcher). Bring a friend, or lots of them and a pair of studded boots.

Gr
Review №87

Frank Cavett & the Honky Tonk Doctors are the best! If you have not listen to them, you need to!

Ha
Review №88

Chris Gage is the regular Monday night performer. He is simply fantastic. Best piano player in Austin, maybe anywhere. Great repertoire, brings up guest performers. Just the best evening of music in Austin

al
Review №89

My favorite how-Austin-used-to-be bar... leave your social affections behind or dont go there.

Jo
Review №90

I love it so much and very delicious food and atmosphere

J
Review №91

Had a great time they had country line dancing lessons for free, and good drinks.

As
Review №92

This place is like a time warp - its an old school dive bar with locals that have been patrons for so long that theyre practically family. The drinks are cheap and Don himself plays the piano for the two-steppin crowd. Its definitely an Austin experience.

Ja
Review №93

Totally cool bar with excellent service

Su
Review №94

1st time at the depot last night. It was so much fun, Frank Cavitts Band was great. The lead guitarist, Erick was a hoot, he is a show on his own. I would recommend this joint to everyone.

Ad
Review №95

The best bar in America. Friendly people, staff is amazing, and live music every night that reminds you about all the great things Austin used to be. Highly recommended

Ja
Review №96

Love this place. Dive bar built from a traincar with friendly service, live music, a dance floor, and secluded spots for deep conversations. There is always a mashup of people---from 80 year olds patrons to drunk college kids to hipsters and scenesters...everyone mixes together on the dance floor and has a great time. Amazing caboose bathroom. Free popcorn. Cover ranges from $3-$5 depending on the night. It is worth it.

An
Review №97

Why on God’s green earth would you come here when Mean Eyed Cat is a stones throw away? carpet in a bar= stinky, drinks way overpriced and they serve it in a plastic cup. Nuff said

La
Review №98

Decided to check it out as its literally right down the street from where I live, and it was an experience. Certainly a local dive bar tailored towards an older crowd. Went on a Thursday night and was surprised by how large the venue was. Smelled almost like my grandmas house. Very old and outdated looking, but that might be part of the charm. My favorite part was honestly the womens bathroom - had steps to an elevated seating area and the bathroom itself was crowded with old writings and decor. I dont know if there is usually supposed to be popcorn in the machine, but when we went there was an interesting knock off chex mix inside (we still ate it tho lol)Im sure it would be interesting for an older, low-key type crowd.

Al
Review №99

We had a rude experience at the bar. An individual sitting at the bar, who apparently worked there but was off, was name-calling people and being a bully. That kind made the night a bit awkward. Aside from that, we had a good night.

An
Review №100

Very friendly and efficient bar staff. decor and clientele on point

Za
Review №101

Austin is changing, and not for the better. Donns, though, is classic Austin. Im glad I stopped here because I was about to write Austin off as a city I enjoy visiting. Quirky and energetic with cheap drinks and a fantastic crowd.

Ia
Review №102

Divey local haunt with a truly Austin atmosphere, a great dance floor, and a house band that rocks. If youre new, BE RESPECTFUL. This place sees a lot of regulars!

ch
Review №103

Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name, velvet Elvis and Christmas (in July) decor deck the walls, free popcorn is served, cassette tape collection on the wall behind the baby grand piano, and the bartender turns down your credit card to start a tab. I think this is some of the Old Austin holding on that we cannot let die. Long live Donns.

Gr
Review №104

Cheap drinks and live music with a small dance floor. Absolutely love this place. Cover on Friday and Saturday.

An
Review №105

Best place in Austin. Tammy great waitress so nice. Don and his band outstanding and best dancer is Shelly in his mid 90s.

Mi
Review №106

Dive Bar with Elephant Room shiners feel. Decent alcohol. Good prices. Jeopardy. Be quiet during jeopardy.

Cu
Review №107

Great atmosphere. Band was good. Need another bartender, they were swamped.

Mi
Review №108

The best place for fairly priced drinks and live music happens a lot. This is one of my main usual spots and its going to remain that way!

Ho
Review №109

Great little bar with live music and two step

An
Review №110

Unfriendly bartender. Nice ambience. Patrons seem mostly stuck up and conceded. Didnt stay for music

Re
Review №111

Friendly place; a mixture of older crowd, and some youngsters. One medium dance floor, and another small dance floor. Great place - an Austin institution!

Ha
Review №112

Place is super awesome. big mix of all ages, and good sized bar. live music most nights.

Mi
Review №113

This was one interesting place. They had good live music, good drinks and a diverse crowd. I’m glad I stopped by.

Bu
Review №114

Great live music, cheap drinks and a great staff. Awesome bar. Be sure and check out the perch in the womens restroom if you can.

Ia
Review №115

Well whistlin tumbleweeds, I sure had a hee haw of a time tonight at Dons Despot. The music was loud, the dancing was fun and the shoes were correctional. Ill definitely be back @ Rons Repo for a night of winking mannequins and Bob Wills covers!

Tr
Review №116

Great place, reminds me of Lalas with a much more honky tonk influenced atmosphere.Bar staff is very friendly, small dance floor, and outside patio area

Sh
Review №117

Literally the best bar in W Austin. Love this place. Great for country dancing or enjoying great conversation over great live music.

Zo
Review №118

We had a great time here for our work holiday party. The bartender was very nice, and the decorations were over the top (in a good way).

Er
Review №119

Its the hidden gem of Austin. Great music, fun atmosphere and Michelle is without a doubt the best bartender I have ever come across.

Cl
Review №120

Donns is one of my favorite dive-type bars. Two-stepping to live music, cold beer, friendly staff, and great people watching.

Jo
Review №121

Great seeing the Honky tonk doctors at 8:30. Great old tunes with plenty of Bob Wills.

Ar
Review №122

Loved this place! Fantastic atmosphere, good drinks, friendly staff and a great band!! Loved reading all the graffiti in the bathroom too!!

Be
Review №123

Drinks are good, atmosphere is old Austin. Service industry people come here to hang out after shifts, that usually says good things about a place.

Au
Review №124

Classic Austin spot. Big and small, young and old, Donns depot has em all (with a country-wood-grain-accent). Built out of old caboose train cars, and sweet bathrooms ;)

Gr
Review №125

Donns is another great local hangout. Come for the country dancing and good beer specials. If you are looking for the 6th St scene then this is not your place.

Cl
Review №126

Unique spot where all generations mingle in front of a live band

ca
Review №127

Such a great dive bar. People of all ages go to Dons for the cheap drinks, great live music, and the dancefloor

Sa
Review №128

There are not many places left that can still be considered classic Austin, but Donns is a great exception. Go on a Tuesday (no cover) or a Friday, when you can see Donn Handelman himself play the piano.

Ba
Review №129

Fun and festive place...and iconic old Austin surviving spot. Its definitely worth checking out.

An
Review №130

Very cool place, and definitely going back to hear the fantastic live music

St
Review №131

Diverse croud! Bar needs help! Very very very crowded. 2 bartenders and a bar back one soda gun. People were really 5 people deep to order drinks.

Ta
Review №132

The staff here are great! Such a cool bar, I love the atmosphere! Decently stout cocktails too!

Al
Review №133

Good drinks, friendly staff - they made up some weird drink for us and it was delish! Also super cool caboose bathroom and boxcar seating area.

Pe
Review №134

Iconic old dive bar inside several rail cars. Fun experience with great service and live music.

Vi
Review №135

Authentic, cool and trashy.. exactly how a dive bar should be

Su
Review №136

Donns Depot is old, in every way. It hasnt changed significantly in the 40 years since I first went there. There have been 10 year gaps between visits and the only obvious change would be who was performing. So if you want the latest thing, dont go, it will leave more room for fossils like me.

Ga
Review №137

Great place to go to dancelots of atmosphere and a friendly crowd. Great bar and staff. Also has a popcorn machine with free popcorn.

Bi
Review №138

5 stars because its great just the way it is. If it aint broke dont fix it. Great music, dance floor and some of the most unique architecture in town.

Ro
Review №139

Donns depot was awesome. If you are a fan of live music and just good old wholesome fun.. this is the place. Donns band is wicked fun.

Ro
Review №140

Austin land mark bar with amazing live music and nice dance floor. Located in central Austin very accessable location on 5th street.

Mo
Review №141

I have come to this establishment to hear live music. Services was good considering the amount of people that were present. The place has an eclectic feel.

Ta
Review №142

Down to earth . . .old fashioned food fun great great band!!! Chill dance drink in thise old train station building!!!! So much fun!! Major jam session!!!

He
Review №143

A true staple of Austin history, get it while you can. Donns is warm and inviting any time and any season. Tammy is an amazing server.

Do
Review №144

Another world. Wonderful music on a Tuesday night, dancing in the moonlight, great bar, patrons who have honored this institution for decades.

Vi
Review №145

Very quaint place, great music, wonderful ambiance. I have been cooking here since 1979 and its already awesome!!

Jo
Review №146

Saw/heard Chris Gage on the piano. Had great time. Impressed that so many music lovers are out so late on a Monday night!

Su
Review №147

This is a dive with live music, a dance floor and great staff. Its a local gem and always a great time.

La
Review №148

If you’re looking for an Austin original this is it. Love music, quirky “keep Austin weird” vibe, decent drinks. Love the dance floor. Throwback.

Ja
Review №149

Another interesting place I came across last night what is this place called Donns Depot, is constructed out of a wooden Santa Fe Depot,along with three Santa Fe wood Caboose a steel Santa Fe box score, and an old heavyweight Santa Fe built passenger coach, the other side has railroad memorabilia, its a bar and dance club, bad live acoustics, another great place to be.

V.
Review №150

What a wild setup here during Xmas. Check it out. Its a good time.

Am
Review №151

Old school dive bar! great country music

Lo
Review №152

A dive bar in a train car? Yes please! Very divey, but super cheap booze and great place to hang out with friends.

Pa
Review №153

Killer bands. Classic dive bar grime and rock solid staff.

Te
Review №154

Quaint little dive bar with live music, friendly bartenders, reasonably priced drinks.

Un
Review №155

Local treasure. Great mix of people. Good music for dancing, friendly staff

Mi
Review №156

Classic Austin music spot, With a great bar staff, and easily the bet place in town for music on a Monday night. Try the popcorn.

Ma
Review №157

Cute, kitschy, Christmas. I think beer/cider wouldve been a better call than a mixed drink.

Ja
Review №158

Very good place to listen to or dance to music that appeals to a variety of tastes especially when Craig Calvert and crew are playing.

Jo
Review №159

Donn is one cool kat

Mi
Review №160

Awesome place to ring in the holidays.

Ki
Review №161

Glaf my friend recommended this place....when I thought of Austin..well this is what I saw! Wish we would have ended out night here as all of the other spots minus white horse left me tecnoed out...um!

Ro
Review №162

If you want to experience line dancing def the place to go. Wasn’t my vibe.

Mi
Review №163

Best place to chill in Austin. Great people, strong drinks, great service. Tammy rocks!

Ma
Review №164

We are early birds, nothing Poppin on a Wednesday night at 8:00. Tv had beavers on it, BEAVERS... HUM? no country or music. To bad.

Li
Review №165

The kindest bartenders in town! And an excellent Christmas decor 10/10 stars

D
Review №166

Saw Chris Gage formerly of Red Willow Band perform (most Mondays). Really enjoyed it.

Ro
Review №167

Classic, iconic bar/dance-club on 5th st just off mopac. Great live music

Do
Review №168

Oh my GAWD! I met Cassie at Christmas time ! She shared the best ever Cassies Christmas Crack ive ever tasted!!!

Co
Review №169

Mondays at Donns with Chris Gage is THE place to have a good time and enjoy local musicians.

Cl
Review №170

Its a fun venue with an old-school vibe.

Gr
Review №171

Amazing bar and friendly people everytime I go

Mi
Review №172

Popular place in Austin to visit. Some great music!

Ch
Review №173

Great place for ambience, good live music and watching people dance (if youre not a dancer).

Se
Review №174

Small dance floor. Hole in wall dive. Folks were socializing, but not much fun dancing.

Ma
Review №175

Nice old school piano bar. Thanks for them birthday cupcakes!

Ma
Review №176

Amazing

AL
Review №177

Great old style bar people all ages from college to their 80s having a lot of fun. Lots of single people.

Re
Review №178

Frank Cavitt and the honky tonk doctors made our last night out on the town a memorable one 💗

St
Review №179

True Texas eclectic honky tonk.You got to check out the ladies restroom!

Ja
Review №180

Great live music especially when you want to dance close with your girl!

Da
Review №181

A place where baby boomers and young folks mix over beer/drinks, cool decorations, and live music.

Re
Review №182

Always so much fun! Great live music, dancing, interesting people.

Wi
Review №183

I love this bar. Its become a Christmas tradition. I always spend too much money there.

Cr
Review №184

Super sweet staff... great place to hang out and enjoy live music!

Ma
Review №185

This is clearly a place that has a lot of regular clientele who enjoy the atmosphere. But certainly not the place for an out of Towner to go whos looking for a happening place!

Da
Review №186

Classic Austin. Fantastically friendly staff.

Du
Review №187

Unpretentious. Small but good wooden dancefloor. Live music. Inexpensive.

Jo
Review №188

Such a gem of a place! Go see Tammi she is awesome!

Sa
Review №189

Enjoyed this bar. Unique and fun. Great live music.

Ro
Review №190

Fantastic Crowd. Good Atmosphere. The bar can get pretty busy.

To
Review №191

Best old school live country bar in Austin

Ca
Review №192

Excellent music 🎶! Cant say about service because Im a teetotaler, but everyone was quite jolly!

An
Review №193

Unique old school Texan experience with great live country / rock. Very friendly staff

Ho
Review №194

Definitely worth a visit if youre from out of town, this local establishment has been catering to the Austin Community for decades!

Ra
Review №195

Great music. Great staff. Great patrons. Lotsa dancers.

Cl
Review №196

Kind and lovely people, good drink prices, and great live music!

Br
Review №197

Great dive bar. Classic old school service.

Ca
Review №198

Best bar in Austin! Live music and dancing nightly in this quintessential Austin dive.

Kl
Review №199

Piano player was a treat and free popcorn! Drinks were good too!

Information
268 Photos
199 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:1600 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78703, United States
  • Site:http://donnsdepot.com/
  • Phone:+1 512-478-0336
Categories
Working hours
  • Monday:2 PM–2 AM
  • Tuesday:2 PM–2 AM
  • Wednesday:2 PM–2 AM
  • Thursday:2 PM–2 AM
  • Friday:2 PM–2 AM
  • Saturday:6 PM–2 AM
  • Sunday:Closed
Service options
  • Outdoor seating:Yes
  • Dine-in:Yes
  • Delivery:No
  • Takeaway:No
Highlights
  • Fast service:Yes
  • Great beer selection:Yes
  • Great cocktails:Yes
  • Live music:Yes
  • Live performances:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Offerings
  • Alcohol:Yes
  • Beer:Yes
  • Cocktails:Yes
  • Dancing:Yes
  • Food:Yes
  • Happy-hour drinks:Yes
  • Spirits:Yes
  • Wine:Yes
Dining options
  • Seating:Yes
Amenities
  • Toilets:Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual:Yes
  • Cosy:Yes
Crowd
  • Groups:Yes
  • Tourists:Yes
Planning
  • Accepts reservations:No
Payments
  • Credit cards:Yes
  • Debit cards:Yes
  • NFC mobile payments:Yes
  • Credit cards:Yes
Parking
  • Free of charge street parking:Yes
  • Free parking lot:Yes
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