4 Venues, Researched and Ranked
Top Pick
Open 11am Friday
7-min rideshare from Thompson
Banger's Sausage House
and Beer Garden
and Beer Garden
79 Rainey St, Rainey Street District
| (512) 386-1656
Friday Hours
Open 11am - 11pm
Must Order
What People Are Saying
"The outdoor space is massive and there's almost always live music on a Friday. The sausages are house-made from scratch and you can absolutely taste the difference. Best overall vibe on Rainey Street."
"200+ taps means you will find something you love. Dog friendly, lawn games, and they always have something going on. This is the authentic Austin experience your out-of-town friends need to see."
Open Fri Lunch
Closes 2pm - Arrive by 12:30
6-min walk from Thompson
Wu Chow
500 W 5th St, Downtown Austin
| (512) 476-2469
Friday Lunch Hours
11am - 2pm (arrive on time)
Must Order
What People Are Saying
"Best Chinese food in Austin, no contest. The lunch dim sum service is a hidden gem most people don't know about. The space is stunning and makes you feel like you're somewhere special."
"Perfect for impressing an out-of-town guest. Attentive service, beautiful space. Arrive by 12:30 and you have plenty of time before the 2pm close."
Brand New 2026
Open Fri Lunch
10-min walk from Thompson
Fat Rabbit Social House
Friday Hours
8am - 2pm (closes 2pm)
Must Order
What People Are Saying
"So happy this place finally opened downtown. The patio is adorable with the string lights and the food is actually really good, not just pretty."
"Been twice already and already a regular. The vibe is playful and fun without being loud. Great for a real conversation over a long brunch."
Open Noon Friday
4 Blocks from Hotel
4-min walk from Thompson
Parlor & Yard
601 W 6th St, West Sixth District
| (512) 524-0466
Friday Hours
Open 12pm - 2am
What to Do Here
What People Are Saying
"Great bar right on West 6th with a solid outdoor space. The cornhole and yard games make it a super fun stop, especially if you get there early before it fills up. Very chill during the day."
"Perfect spot to kill an afternoon. Games, cold drinks, good snack food, and it's walking distance from everything on West 6th. Ideal for a laid-back Friday."
Recommended Itinerary
Your Perfect Friday Plan
Designed around your 5pm flight - wraps up near your hotel so you can grab your bags and get to AUS with plenty of time
1
11:30 AM or Noon
Banger's Sausage House
Rainey Street. Live music, 200+ beers, house-made sausages, lawn games on the patio. Settle in and take your time - this is the main event.
2
1:30 PM
Parlor & Yard
Short rideshare to West 6th. Cornhole, yard games, sports on every screen, cold drinks. Wraps up 4 blocks from your hotel - perfect for the end of the afternoon.
3
2:30 PM
Head Back to Your Hotel
Parlor & Yard is a 4-minute walk to the Thompson. Grab your bags and get settled - you need to leave for AUS no later than 3:15pm.
4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Rideshare to AUS
About 25-30 min to the airport on a Friday afternoon. At AUS by 3:45pm. Have a safe flight!