Austin Friars Balls Brothers

Trendy Bar Delights with Music & Staff

Stepping into the buzzing atmosphere of Balls Brothers felt like slipping into a well-tailored jacket; it was comfortable in its familiarity yet modern and refreshingly sophisticated. The venue, perched in the heart of the city, seamlessly melds a sophisticated chic ambiance with an unpretentious laid-back vibe—a rare feat that many establishments attempt, but few nail down so effectively. With plush seating that cradles you just right and ambient lighting accentuating rich woods and polished brass, it’s hardly surprising that sets of heels and oxfords seemed naturally at ease here, as people drifted from the bar to intimate nooks reminiscent of a speakeasy.

The culinary journey at Balls Brothers delicately balanced classic flavors with inventive twists. Their platters exude a captivating mix, invoking cheers not just for aesthetics but for mouthfuls that bore their own applause. A particularly winsome performer on my visit was their steak, cooked with precision to tender perfection—a neat somersault of textures between velvety meat and the subtle char. While some bent a little more towards pedestrian fare, like fish and chips that fell slightly short from greatness, the room brims with redemption courtesy of an accomplished service team. One mustn’t overlook their dapper bar program; the savvy staff led us through their illustrious wine parade with knowledge that is richly detailed and just shy of ostentatious. The overarching orchestra of service—from waiters quick to replace any loose-legged chairs themselves to triple-filtered hospitality—compensates charmingly for any culinary missteps, ensuring this is indeed a stop worthy of your celebratory toasts and toast-worthy celebrations. — Clarissa Cuisinier