Driving down South Lamar, I am always struck by the sheer eclectic vibe of the area, which is just a nice way of saying you might pass a big hot mess of a place with stacks of tires or cheap couches sitting out front and then, practically accompanied by an angelic choir singing in your head, you encounter something fabulous. Arriving at Gibson Bar was definitely the latter. Gibson Bar, yet another winning Matt Lucky endeavor, is a lively new place with a great staff and a beautifully polished ambiance.
Directly across the street from Alamo Draft House, Gibson Bar is painted an understated deep charcoal with large paned windows and a welcoming array of pretty plants lining the front sidewalk. What made me a bit giddy was the nice and totally free parking lot. Close and dedicated parking is a comfort for those becoming tired of forgetting where one parked one’s car. (I am not speaking of myself, it happened to a friend.)
The snazzy Gibson Bar, designed by the insanely talented Joel Mozersky , boasts a Carrera marble bar which I covet to a fault, a cool chandelier, circular black tufted leather booths that are cushiony enough to sleep in, and warm red candleholders glowing on the tables. The look is so chic, dark and sexy that I would almost expect to see Humphrey Bogart nursing a drink in the corner while waiting for for Lauren Bacall to slink through the door. An open floor plan, set up so that there is room to push tables aside for a bit of impromptu dancing, doesn’t detract from the intimate vibe that the comfortable booth seating delivers. Single dudes pay attention: reportedly there were more lovely female patrons in attendance than male the night prior to my visit, and lots of bubbly being consumed by said females. Nice odds.
Quick with a drink and friendly conversation, Kevin (on the left) and Robin are dedicated to great service and making their patrons feel at home. It is also obvious that there is an attention to detail at Gibson Bar, because that place is C.L.E.A.N., with each liquor bottle faced “just so”. A thoughtfully planned and well priced beer and wine list rounds out the top shelf bar menu.
Future plans include hosting special events and an Airstream trailer parked on the property to serve food, so there will be even more good reasons to make Gibson Bar a new favorite place.
Marlo and Will enjoying their drinks AND their Austinontherocks Koozies
For Hours, Happy Hour info and Upcoming Events visit: www.austinontherocks.com
Gibson Bar
1109 South Lamar
512-386-1345
