Did you mourn the loss of the historic Longbranch Inn on East 11th when it closed last fall? Did you shake your fist at the sky and curse Austin's ever-changing landscape? Calm down—Nickel City, the Longbranch's new inhabitant, just opened, and it's a pretty legit replacement.
Owned by Via 313 brothers Brandon and Zane Hunt, the bar aims to serve as a neighborhood watering hole, one where you can enjoy everything from a craft cocktail to a not-so-craft cocktail (hello, aperol spritz) to an ice cold beer. You'll find local suds on draft, like Friends & Allies' Noisy Cricket IPA, at prices that are more than reasonable ($3 to $4).
The Delray Cafe truck is parked in the narrow patio out back (open Sun-Thu 5pm-2am; Fri-Sat 5pm-3am), but you'll be ordering your food at the bar. Don't forego snacking here—the Detroit-style Coney dog is a solid option, smothered in chili and onions and, at $3.96, affordable enough that you can order two. Not in the mood for a frank? There are sliders and wings, fries and mozzarella sticks to keep you satiated. Post up at the bar (the Hunts kept the old bar top) or settle in to one of the snug booths that line the wall.
While Nickel City is still in soft opening (daily from 2pm-2am), Eater reports that they'll be hosting a grand opening party on August 1. Until then, stop by for a cold one—especially on days over 100 degrees, when all drinks are a dollar off.
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