About The Vibe Check

We believe a great experience shouldn't be a gamble.

You know the feeling. You spend an hour scrolling through reviews, looking at photos from last year, and finally picking a spot, only to walk in and realize the vibe is all wrong. The quiet date night you planned is now a loud happy hour. The lively group dinner is at a silent, empty restaurant.

We started The Vibe Check because we believe Austin deserves better.

This blog is the home of Vibeslinks, a new blog dedicated to solving the discovery gamble. Our mission is to capture the real-time atmosphere of Austin's best restaurants, bars, and cafes, so you can know the vibe before you go.

Here, you won't just find another list of "the best" places. You'll find a guide to the feeling of our city. We're obsessed with the details that make an experience special—the music, the lighting, the energy of the crowd. This is your insider's guide to finding the perfect spot for any mood, any time.

What you'll find on The Vibe Check:

  • Neighborhood Deep Dives: Honest guides to navigating the unique scenes in East Austin, South Congress, and beyond.
  • "Vibe Check" Reviews: Our signature format that goes beyond the menu to review a venue's real-time atmosphere.
  • Curated Recommendations: Actionable lists for any occasion, from the perfect first-date spot to the best patio for a lazy Saturday.
  • Industry Spotlights: Conversations with the innovative owners and managers who make Austin's hospitality scene one of the best in the country.

Our team has spent years exploring every corner of this city, building genuine relationships with the people behind its most iconic venues. Every recommendation is built on real experience and a passion for supporting Austin's independent culture.

Follow our journey on Instagram @vibeslinks_.

Let's find a vibe.