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If you know me, you know the East Side of Austin has a special place in my heart. It’s vibrant, charming, and full of culinary gems—and Uptown Sports Club is no exception. Located at 1200 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702, this spot has been on my radar for a while, and I finally got the chance to visit for Saturday brunch with a couple of girlfriends. Let me tell you—it did not disappoint!

First Impressions

We snagged a 10:45 AM reservation, perfect timing as they were just opening for the day. From the moment we stepped in, the ambiance screamed Louisiana charm. The building’s history, shared with us by one of the friendly staff members, only added to the experience. It turns out that Uptown Sports Club has been a neighborhood staple for decades, long before becoming the buzzing restaurant it is today. You can feel the deep connection this place has with the community, and it’s clear why it’s so beloved.

The space itself is beautifully designed—spacious with a mix of tables, booths, TVs, a full bar, and thoughtful decor that captures that easy-going New Orleans vibe. Out back, the patio is lush with plants and greenery, giving it a cozy, tucked-away feel. Naturally, we had a mini photoshoot to capture the beauty of it all.

The Drinks

I kicked things off with a French 75 ($12)—a classic cocktail made with gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar. It was light, refreshing, and the perfect way to start brunch. (For those wondering, sometimes I switch it up with a French 76, which uses vodka instead of gin.)

The Food

The star of the show? The Shrimp & Grits ($18)—creamy white corn grits topped with seared shrimp and a Cajun butter sauce. This dish was absolute perfection. The grits were smooth and flavorful, the shrimp were perfectly cooked, and the Cajun butter tied it all together. I know some people shy away from shrimp with the tails still on, but when the dish is this good, you won’t care! Every bite felt like a warm hug, the kind of comfort food that instantly transports you to the heart of Louisiana.

The pricing here is super reasonable for the quality of food and service you get. It’s clear the team takes pride in every detail, from the flavors to the presentation.

A Bit of History

The building itself has a fascinating backstory. Here’s a refreshed version of its history:
In 1949, Uptown Sports Club opened its doors as a local gathering spot for Eastside residents to drink, bet, watch games, and socialize. Fast-forward to today, and the space has been thoughtfully reimagined by Aaron Franklin and a group of friends who wanted to breathe new life into this historic building.

Now, Uptown Sports Club offers a Texan take on Louisiana-style brasserie fare, serving up coffee and breakfast in the morning and cocktails and homestyle dishes from lunch to late night. It’s a laid-back spot where you can come as you are, relax, and enjoy everything from oysters to expertly crafted cocktails.

Final Thoughts

This was such an incredible experience that I couldn’t wait to share it with everyone I know. For years, I had walked by this boarded-up building on E 6th, wondering about its potential. Now, it’s become a thriving hotspot, and it’s easy to see why. Aaron Franklin and his team have done an outstanding job, preserving the soul of the space while giving it new life.

I’m already planning my next visit to try the fresh oysters and dinner plates. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, grabbing a drink at the bar, or settling in for dinner, Uptown Sports Club has something special for everyone.

If you haven’t been yet, make plans to check it out. This isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that captures the essence of East Austin and Louisiana hospitality.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve been or plan to go—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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