Things to do in Abilene at Night
Abilene sits at the heart of the Lone Star state as a true representative of Texas culture. Known for its strong sense of community, the city is home to ~200,000 residents, three top-tier universities, and a historic downtown complete with cherished restaurants and entertainment venues. Our team at The Reserve at Abilene wants to help you explore the city’s many opportunities, which is why we’ve put together a list of downtown restaurants and our favorite things to do in Abilene at night.
Downtown Abilene Restaurants
The Beehive
The Beehive Restaurant & Saloon is emblematic of the American dream. Founded by Iranian brothers Ali and Nariman Esfandiary after a long journey towards citizenship, the steakhouse was their entrance into entrepreneurship. The menu delivers classic cuts like filet mignon, ribeye, and sirloin alongside items like chicken and shish kabob that give a nod to Middle Eastern cuisine. Patrons can also enjoy burgers, salads, sandwiches, and seafood plates. From Iran to Abilene, the Esfandiary brothers have proven that the American dream is real and attainable.
Front Porch Coffee Company
Vagabond Pizza
Specializing in woodfired pizzas, creative appetizers, and artisan desserts, Vagabond Pizza’s catchphrase is a fitting one— “inspired by the fire.” Owners Jason and Jessica Adams opened Vagabond with the intention of serving the highest quality pizza in Abilene. Fan favorites include the Arabella topped with ground beef, poblano peppers, and red onion, the part-calzone, part-pizza Bindle stuffed with herbed ricotta, crispy garlic, and tomato sauce, and the Sofia, which features Italian sausage, piquillo peppers, and heaps of mozzarella. Their in-house pastry chef creates innovative and delectable dessert options like the lemon cake and butterscotch pot de crème. Vagabond Pizza does not disappoint.
Cypress Street Station
When it comes to fine dining, Cypress Street Station is your go-to in Abilene. Opened in 1992 during the city’s process of urban revitalization, Cypress was given the title of “Downtown Abilene’s Landmark Restaurant,” as it was the only restaurant downtown for many years. Over the last few decades, downtown Abilene has become a bustling hub, yet Cypress Street Station is still serving innovative dishes like honey glazed quail, the ‘Bayou Florentine’ pasta, and a fantastic mahi mahi dish. This family owned and operated restaurant is one of Abilene’s culinary crown jewels.
.png)
Taylor County Taphouse
The team behind the Taylor County Taphouse has branded their cuisine as “Texas Comfort Food” with a made-from-scratch menu that honors the culinary heritage of the Lone Star State and its many influences. Choose from entrees like the low country shrimp & grits, the chili-rubbed pork loin, and the gargantuan 18oz black angus ribeye. Appetizers include chips and queso, fried mozzarella, and a bacon-wrapped quail. Of course, the Taylor County Taphouse also features taps on taps of Texas-made brews. This is Abilene’s hometown destination for good drinks and great eats.
Things To Do in Abilene at Night
First opened in 1930, the Paramount Theatre is Abilene’s landmark theatre, a time-honored institution that has provided the community with entertainment for a century. The auditorium is designed to emulate a Moorish courtyard and features golden trim and a scene of the Spanish night sky along the ceiling. It’s a stunning interior that sets an impressive stage for music, theater, and cinematic events throughout the year. Located in the heart of downtown, the Paramount Theatre is just a short fifteen minute drive from The Reserve at Abilene community.
When it comes to exciting new pastimes, axe throwing is all the rage. Indeed, there’s nothing quite as exhilarating as chucking an axe and landing it smack dab in the middle of a target! Abilene Axe Company is a family owned and operated axe throwing venue located in the SODA District that is certified by the WATL (World Axe Throwing League). The venue itself is an impressive 4,500 square feet and features axe throwing lanes, pool tables, dart boards, and an outdoor beer garden. Abilene Axe Company accommodates first timers by providing safety training, throwing coaches, and an encouraging environment.
The teetotalers of the Prohibition era did their best to end alcohol consumption in America, but to no avail! Almost as soon as the 18th amendment was passed to outlaw the manufacturing and distribution of alcohol, the 21st amendment swooped in to repeal the 18th and effectively end Prohibition. Hurrah! Amendment 21, Abilene’s favorite whiskey bar, honors this iconic period of history through an impressive list of whiskeys, cocktails, and brews, along with speakeasy-inspired décor. Located in the historic SODA District, Amendment 21 serves up classy drinks inside a sophisticated atmosphere.
KAO Lounge has perfected the art of the craft cocktail. Locally owned by Colby and Jamie Marcee with Tim Smith, the name “KAO” is “Oak” spelled backwards (a nod to another Abilene event venue called ‘Oak Street Arbor’) but also means “expression” or “face” in Japanese. The vibes here are immaculate, featuring local art on the walls which provide photo opportunities for patrons. Combining fresh ingredients, house made simple syrups, and reams of mixology know-how, the bartenders at KAO Lounge are veritable masters serving signature drinks like the cold brew martini, the gin-based “Bee Sting,” or the “Night Cap,” prepared with rye whiskey and chocolate bitters. KAO is one of Abilene’s most well-loved cocktail lounges.
Staying true to the name, the Peacock Patio offers a peacock-themed tropical oasis in the heart of West Texas. The cocktail bar is an indoor-outdoor haven which features a 40-foot-long wall of waterfalls, fire pit tables, and an array of activities like cornhole and putt-putt golf. When it comes to drinks, the fan favorites are the “Blood Meridian” old fashioned and the miniature umbrella topped piña colada. Alongside a long list of creative cocktails, the Peacock Patio also serves up an impressive soul food-influenced menu with items like Cajun buffalo bites, catfish baskets, fried shrimp, and meat pies. If you’re looking for a vibrant environment in Abilene, Peacock Patio should definitely be on the list.