Wonder Bar took only about 3 months to construct in the same space where St. Genevieve stood. The round bar is still there, as is the cool concrete detail wall on the side patio. Both have been accelerated into new, improved versions with the coolest touches.
The first thing you'll notice is the entrance location has changed. Walking in is an instant party that will make you want to stop and pull out your phone for that selfie. "The idea was to have a fun, colorful, interactive bar" says Lisa Nguyen of Union Venture Group - and in my opinion, they nailed it! With the popularity of all the Instagram-geared pop-ups around town and around the country, the concept of Wonder Bar was to incorporate some favorite things from each into one space - like the colorful fringes at the entry, along with many other fun aspects. If it looks familiar, it's because there was similar fringe treatments at The Fomo Factory and Tacotopia.
For me, it is like an incredible adult playground. Everywhere you look, there is something to play with, take some selfies and simply be a kid for a moment. From the banana swings, bubble room and outdoor cloud bed to the Statue of David peep frame, you will want to enjoy every part of it. One of my favorite things was the giant wheel where you can present your Wonder Token and spin for a prize. Just pray you don't hit the Get Thrown Out spot! (Not to worry too much if you do, they'll let you back in, but still ... ) And there's even a secret room that's just ducky!
Enjoy bites from the menu with fun, carnival-like food like mini corn dogs to a hearty Wonderburger. Drinks are creative and well-thought out, not to mention suitable for that perfect photo. Of course, I had to have one of each vodka cocktails on the menu. Try the Austin Jackass featuring Grey Goose Vodka or the Two In The Pink made with Deep Eddy Ruby Red.
If you haven't made it out yet, be sure to get there on Thursday, May 16th starting at 6pm for their Official Grand Opening. I'll be there too as I just can't get enough of this place. And mark your calendars for July 25th for the Official 5-Year VodkaGirlATX Anniversary party from 4-7pm in the Bubble Room. RSVP via event on my VodkaGirlATX Facebook page.