Canvas- Austin, TX

Although it is not one of the most well-known bars in Austin's 6th street district, Canvas (located around 5th and brazos, just east of Congress Avenue) is a must-visit. Since it is tucked away off of the main bar area, there is rarely a huge crowd- which is a great bonus if you are sick and tired of pushing your way through swarms of drunken sweaty college kids and homeless people peddling for beer money on the 6th strip. Yet it is also a step away from the overly-priced over-hyped warehouse district down the street, making this a great in-between bar for those who appreciate a well-crafted atmosphere but don't want to empty their wallets enjoying it. Canvas-- designed in part like an art gallery (hence the clever name) has a fantastic interior ambiance, and a wide selection of drinks and attractive bartenders to enjoy.

The layout of the place is what makes this one of my most favorites in town- the bar is oval-shaped, and placed in the center of an old renovated warehouse. Above the entrance floor, there is a second level which parallels the bar, in a horseshoe shape. Here, you can perch on a barstool and watch the young up-and-coming Austinites mingle and dance. Or, you can launch your own private dance party, while pretending to analyze the artworks on the walls, which are purposefully abstract and confusing, no doubt to amuse those who are drunk and those watching the drunks alike. Beautiful Japanese paper lanterns hang from the ceiling, and the illuminated bar works well to provide just enough light to see by, making this a great place to bring a date or meet new people in this city of singles.

Overall, Canvas is one of the best swanky locales, tucked neatly away from the madness of 6th street, but close enough that you can start the night here, and then stumble over there for cheaper drinks when you are too drunk to care anymore. There's rarely a cover, and the bartenders enjoy experimenting with new shots, if you're willing to tip well. Also, the music is usually spun live by local DJ's- and doesn't consist of only rap and top singles, as does the entire flock of 6th street bars around the corner. The house DJ's like to mix it up as much as possible, throwing in a nice variety to please all dance-ready customers.