by Daniel P. on The concept is great -- featuring locally sourced food and a wide range of drinks but the execution suffers because of the staff... really depends on when you go and your luck. We and our friends have all come to similar conclusions over the course of a few visits each... This place was ok an a wednesday but just stupid on a thursday or weekend... the bartender and the waiter independently blatantly overcharged for clearly priced drinks (not once, but twice) -- and the prices are already higher than most places in Austin. They pride themselves on the art and craft of "mixology" but have far too much attitude for most people and certainly for Austin. It's an example of the stereotypical gentrification moved in to a working class neighborhood and makes it over-the-top unaffordable for most people. It has it's heart in the right place in a way but then screws it all up with it's big ego. The bartender sneered at anyone who didn't want a $10 specialty cocktail... I understand that the bar offers a specialty skill but that doesn't mean that they should not be able to pour a person a good quality drink. on the rocks, no bullshit, at a reasonable price, without being a douche, and without overcharging. The majority of bars and restaurants on this street, and in this rapidly changing neighborhood, offer honest quality drinks and food at fairly reasonable prices. ESSH basically offers high end product with no option for a middle ground all presented with lame attitude that shouldn't last long in Austin. It's a shame too, because the bar has well-done decor with just the right amount of authentic design touch... the bartenders and wait staff pull it way down. It could have been a really great bar....
by Sheryl S. on Take your girl or guy here if you wanna do some impressing!!! 1. Sexy & modern interior designing with dim & neon lights. 2. Delicious martinis & sakes 3. Kick-ass sound systems 4. Fresh sushi 5. There's no need to travel across the bridge to Oakland. After a trip to Yoshi's SF, you should definitely get laid!!!
