The beloved Koko's Bavarian has returned — and this time, it's a big-budget blockbuster. Open since October 2025 on South Lamar, the new Koko's Bavarian Beer Hall keeps the spirit of the original East Fifth location (which operated from 2021-2023) but scales everything way up.
The sprawling space trades brewing tanks for high-energy beer hall vibes and a robust cocktail program. More than 90 TVs line the walls, anchored by a massive 23-foot screen that ranks among the largest in Austin. Outside, a 2,000-square-foot patio sits under live oaks, outfitted with fans, heaters, and plenty of dog-friendly touches.
Despite the expansion, Bavarian roots remain strong. Koko's was co-founded by Konstantin Prinz von Bayern, an actual Bavarian prince whose lineage traces back to the origins of Oktoberfest in Munich. That heritage shows throughout the space and, more importantly, on the plate.
The house-made pretzels are a must-order — warm and buttery with a lightly crisp exterior and pillowy center. "It never feels like a concession-stand snack but rather a true Bavarian tradition," notes one reviewer. The Belgian fries arrive hot and crisp with fluffy interiors, served with the classic sauce andalouse.
The chicken schnitzel is a standout, available as a plate or a truly gargantuan po'boy. The breading is shatteringly crunchy without drying out the bird, and lingonberry jam cuts through the richness perfectly.
Behind the bar, Travis Tober of Nickel City and Murray's Tavern fame has crafted a cocktail program that complements the beer hall energy. Frozen drinks are a major draw — the creamy frozen Dr Pepper is a nostalgic sip, while the frozen Irish coffee offers something distinctly new.
"Koko's commits fully to the beer hall experience," says the Austin Chronicle. "Big screens, cold beer, food built for sharing, a shaded patio that encourages lingering. It's louder and more maximalist than the Eastside original, but it still remembers its fundamentals. Fries matter. Pretzels matter. And spending time with your chosen community will always matter."