Higher Ground

720 Congress Ave., Austin - 78701
73 reviews
Cocktail Bar Tapas/Small Plates
(512) 291-2060

Had a fun time here, came out for more of a night spot than anything else. DJ was energetic, but did not always read the crowd well and did not ever change up the style of music which could have helped the overall energy. Drinks were good. Outside area upstairs was pretty cool, but not much out there (no bar or anything). Had a fun time, and not overly crowded.

The place and building were beautiful and very unique. The upstairs is only open at certain times not all day but they did let me go take a look even though it wasn’t open yet. They charge manhattan prices for cocktails definitely pricier then most places in the city. I’ve had better cocktails downtown not quite as expensive. It is a small place with seating outside. Might come to try happy hour with some friends. Service was a little hectic since they were preparing to open the upstairs.

. I had reservations at 8 pm for drinks for my birthday and we arrived a few minutes early. The location is absolutely beautiful. The hostess informed us that there were no available seats downstairs due to the "overflow" from the event upstairs, but we were more than welcome to go upstairs and find seats.We weren't there to eat dinner and grabbing drinks was why we were there, so it was not a big deal. We get upstairs and order some drinks. I got the Sloth and my fiance ordered the Lust. My friends ordered drinks, but I don't remember what they ordered. The bartender was very nice and attentive, even help casual conversation.There was a yelp event going on upstairs and it was busy and social. Everyone we spoke to at the event was very nice. We were offered food from someone walking around with a tray we said yes and enjoyed a snack of fries.The servers had come by our table a few times offering snacks. Finally one came by offered snacks then really rudely said "YOU'RE NOT PART OF THE GROUP" and basically snatched the tray away. Apparently, you had to be a part of the yelp party, which TOTALLY makes sense, BUT maybe disclose that when we arrived? or at least say it in a nice tone. This was the only negative part of our visit.Everything else was great. They even had a DJ and a man playing saxophone on the patio which was absolutely delightful!

Envy is delicious!

LOVE this place. We to austin for a bachelorette party. We just wandered around and came here on a whim. I’m so happy we did!! Their cocktails were the BEST out of all the places we went to in Austin.

Amazing burgers, drinks and staff. Rick (the amazing bartender) even customized my burger order to fit my keto diet. The bar itself is eclectic and has a great vibe. Looking forward to becoming a regular here. Prices are super reasonable as well and they take Apple Pay!

Incredible space and delicious drinks! There's lots of seating to explore, with a cool upstairs nook and outdoor patio. Experienced bartenders and staff. It was nice to see the manager being active on the floor too, you can tell they're all putting the work in to make it a great place. 10/10 y'all!

Enjoyed higher ground! Cool atmosphere and great staff!

Hip Congress Ave. bar with dark seven sins mantra in a church setting. Great happy hour and bites. Very cool music and vibe.

Nice venue, the bar downstairs is excellent. I only wish the bar staff upstairs had better customer service. Performed here as a musician and received the worst bar service ever.Guy working the bar made me wait almost 15 minutes to get a drink, fully aware that I was there. Not sure what his problem was, but he needs to get control of his attitude.