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Party like a local: How to celebrate a birthday in Austin

You can have your cake and eat it too — here’s how we recommend spending a birthday in ATX.

An outdoor bar and seating area in the evening, filled with people enjoying drinks and conversation. The setting features long wooden picnic tables under string lights and a large ceiling fan. The bar area is partially enclosed with a wooden slatted design and illuminated by round hanging lights. In the background, a building with purple lighting and a sign that reads 'COSMIC' adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

City Editor Morgan spent her birthday at Cosmic Saltillo last year with a group of friends.

Photo by ATXtoday

It’s birthday season in the US — the most birthdays fall in between July and October.

Whether your birthday is coming up or you’re planning a bash for a friend, there are plenty of ways to celebrate another lap around the sun in Austin.

If you’re gathering all of your besties

An indoor bar space filled with people sitting at long communal tables, watching a sports game on a large screen at the back of the room. The ceiling is industrial with exposed beams, and hanging lights are interspersed with potted plants. The atmosphere is lively and social, with patrons enjoying drinks and conversation in the spacious, rustic setting.

Play card games, dig into a pizza, and sip beer + cocktails at Central Machine Works.

Photo by ATXtoday

  • Cosmic Saltillo + Cosmic Pickle | With plenty of picnic tables and a photo-worthy ambiance, these coffee-shop-cocktail-bars keep larger groups caffeinated, buzzed, and well-fed. They’ll even pop your cake in the fridge until you’re ready to blow out your candles.
  • Central Machine Works, Jester King Brewery + Lazarus Brewing Co. | Does the birthday king or queen prefer a cold beer over a cupcake? These local breweries offer plenty of seating, food for drinks-turned-dinner-parties, and robust beer selections to keep conversation flowing.

If you love intimate celebrations

Sushi Bar-27.jpg

The bites and service at Sushi | Bar ATX will make you feel like it’s your birthday any day of the year.

Photo by Zenko Photography

  • Sushi | Bar ATX | Surprise someone on their special day with a snazzy sushi experience. This high-end restaurant only seats 10 people and each guest tastes 17+ flavorful courses for $159.
  • Trona | If cocktails are the way to their heart, celebrate at this moody bar with tables for two. The interior vibe is equally artistic and cozy, which creates the perfect setting for a night worth remembering.

If you want to begin the day with a bang

The original Kerbey Lane location in Austin's Rosedale neighborhood.

You’re looking at the first-ever Kerbey Lane location in Austin’s own Rosedale neighborhood.

Photo courtesy of Kerbey Lane

  • Kerbey Lane All Day Cafe | Kick off your best year yet with a breakfast as unique as you — just stick some candles in the monthly and seasonal pancake specials at this local mainstay.
  • Paperboy | You’re never too old for a homemade strawberry vanilla pop tart. Grab one (or two) and a cold brew martini for a boozy birthday brunch.

Have an idea for a birthday celebration in Austin? Give us the ultimate gift — send us an email.

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