Elephant Room

Swift Building, 315 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, United States
+1 512-575-2925
$$$ Live music bar , Bar , Night club
(2358 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Elephant Room is a live music bar and night club uniquely anchored in Austin’s vibrant downtown, tucked into the Swift Building’s basement at 315 Congress Ave. This venue is tailor-made for jazz enthusiasts and anyone looking to settle into a comfortable, dimly lit space where the music takes center stage.

Walking into Elephant Room feels like stepping into a classic jazz lounge. The basement setting creates an intimate, low-ceiling atmosphere that naturally draws attention to the musicians performing on stage. It’s not a sprawling club but rather a snug spot where the crowd feels close-knit yet relaxed, which suits both a casual night out and a special occasion—especially for fans of live jazz.

The lineup typically features professional, high-quality jazz acts that maintain a steady groove throughout the evening. Locals and visitors alike come here expecting well-crafted music without the distraction of loud chatter or overwhelming lights. The venue embraces that authentic jazz club vibe where the band and the audience share the same space with no barriers.

Service at Elephant Room has a reputation for being attentive and personable without crowding the experience. Staff strike a good balance between friendly and unobtrusive, helping create a warm environment. The drink menu is simple but thoughtfully put together, spotlighting classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds and inventive mixes such as the Jazzy Fitzgerald with Hendricks gin and bitters. Beer and wine by the glass are also steady options, alongside house specialties like the Elephant Mule and Cool in the Basement lemonade cocktail. Expect quality drinks that complement a slow-paced, music-forward night rather than flashy bar theatrics.

One unique aspect is that Elephant Room encourages guests to bring in outside food, which lets visitors stay comfortable as they enjoy multiple sets without rushing. It’s a laid-back policy that reflects the venue’s emphasis on the music and atmosphere over traditional bar dining.

Since the venue can get busy—especially once the band starts—the best time to arrive is a bit earlier to secure a good seat and settle in before the first notes play. The crowd ranges from jazz lovers and local musicians to evening explorers and out-of-town visitors wanting a true taste of Austin’s live music scene. Though the room can get crowded during popular sets, it rarely feels overwhelming.

Overall, Elephant Room fits seamlessly into Austin’s music-centric core. It’s a spot where the live sound is the real attraction, where the lighting and setting encourage listening rather than socializing over drinks alone, and where you can soak up the genuine pulse of the city’s jazz culture without distractions.

Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Has live music
Has live performances
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Best for
Outside food allowed
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Does not have assistive hearing loop
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid multi-storey car park
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

5:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Tuesday

5:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Wednesday

5:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Thursday

5:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Friday

5:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Saturday

8:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Sunday

7:00 PM - 1:00 AM

2358 Reviews
Layla Gonzalez

16 Dec 2025

I brought some family in from out of town & I decided to introduce them to The Elephant Room. & the service & atmosphere did not disappoint. The band was amazing, the drinks were incredible & the service was so friendly! The crew worked so diligently to ensure everyone in the room was having the best time & the most pleasant experience. We can’t wait to come back! Thank you so much for working hard & giving us a great night out!

Ernest Taylor

03 Dec 2025

This is exactly the place you would expect to see live jazz. In a basement, low level lighting, just you and the band. Waiters and staff were very accommodating and friendly. They only serve drinks, but allow outside food in. In fact, they encourage it. We arrived early for the first singer and after they finished their set, we decided we were hungry. We had a great table and didn't want to lose it, so the staff put a reservation on our table to let us walk a couple blocks down and grab some food to bring back. They even removed our trash when we were finished. Amazing staff and perfect ambiance.

Ivy F

24 Oct 2025

This place was recommended by an Austin local. Nice Jazz bar in downtown Austin. Drinks were good. The place was nice felt cozy and intimate. Jazz band sounded great. There was a line to get in but it moved pretty quickly. I waited in line for about 10 minutes and I arrived there right before band started to play. I'd say you will probably wait longer in line if you arrive once band starts. Overall great experience and exactly what I was looking for in a casual Jazz bar.

Ken Beatty

20 Oct 2025

Its a really cool place, I went to go see my saxophone teacher perform. Kind of crowded but not horrible. All in all its a great place and the staff is super friendly!

Cam Martinez

01 Oct 2025

This place is absolutely wonderful in all the ways you would want a jazz music venue to be. Let's get to the basics: 1. The service is amazing, fast, and friendly 2. The music is of the utmost top quality professional musicians. 3. The location is easily accessible (as soon as all this construction downtown is finished) 4. The atmosphere is the best part about the whole facility. Dimly lit, not too crowded, and perfect for a date night. -The only reason I don't leave 5 stars is because no food. With food choices, I'll come back and update my review to 5 stars.

Amber Landrum

14 Sep 2025

Watched the BIG BRASS BAND that plays every second Tuesday, AMAZING! Waitstaff was friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable. The basement feel lends to a Speakeasy and the atmosphere was relaxed. Took a friend of mine to listen to the music, she was blown away! Will be returning when I am back in town. Stop by and check them out. You will not regret it!

Gina Porumb

12 Sep 2025

Omg! Just amazing! Jazz at its finest! And the speakeasy vibes makes you feel like going back in time. Perfect date night.

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