Gift Yourself a Festive Drink at AUS
Whether you’re mentally preparing to board your flight or where that flight is about to take you, the holidays call for no ordinary drink. And AUS has quite the festive lineup to make treating yourself feel extra special, no matter your beverage personality.
Ever had an espresso martini? Let us introduce you to its seasonal cousin, the Pumpkin Spice Carajillo. A classic Carajillo is a Spanish coffee cocktail made with espresso and Licor 43, a sweet liqueur known for its vanilla and citrus notes. This sweater-weather spin swaps in LALO Tequila as the base and tops it all off with pumpkin purée. Think of it as a pregame for pie. You can find this cozy cocktail at Departure Lounge, Second Bar & Kitchen, or Hut’s Hamburgers.
Next up, another cousin in the Carajillo family tree, the Cinnamon Apple Margarita, related by LALO Tequila, of course. This sweet twist on a classic margarita blends apple cider, lime juice, agave, and cinnamon for a perfectly balanced sip that’s both sweet and sour. She’s fun, festive, and the type to drop an unhinged comment at family dinner, available at the same locations above.
Not a cocktail person? That’s totally fine. We would never call you lame, especially because we still have festive options just for you. Ever thought about coffee in your beer?
Meet SPUTNIK, a Russian imperial coffee oatmeal stout from Austin Beerworks. This local favorite is rich, toasty and built for bold palates. You can find it, along with other beloved Austin Beerworks brews, at The Beerdrop inside Austin City Market , 24 Diner, and Parkside.
More into spiced flavors than coffee notes? Those same locations also carry Samuel Adams Winter White Ale. This golden, citrusy beer features cozy hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, orange peel, and clove, basically the holidays in a glass.
Alright, let's switch palates. We know not everyone wants caffeine or seasonal spices in their drink. If fruity and refreshing is more your speed, mosey on over to Parkside.
There, you’ll find the Blackberry Bramble, a pie-esque cocktail made with fresh blackberries, pressed lime juice, Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, and fresh mint. Looking for something lighter? Tito’s Lavender Lemonade is as simple, smooth and pleasant as it sounds. Feeling fancy? Order the White Clouds cocktail, featuring white cranberry juice, Elements Citra Sour, Hendrick’s Gin, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
If wine is your love language, Vino Volo, with locations near Gate 8 and Gate 22, is pouring festive flights that pair perfectly with whatever you’re munchin’ on! Try “Holidays and Cabernets,” featuring three bold, rich Cabernets, or “Holiday Hits,” a crowd-pleasing mix. Bottles are available—your host will thank you later.
And if alcohol isn’t your thing at all, we’ve got you covered. Medici is serving up hot chocolate and a seasonal cheese Danish, a first-class cozy combo. Plus, many of these cocktails can be made as mocktails. All you have to do is say please!
However you celebrate this season, we’re happy to be part of your journey. Travel safe, sip responsibly and be sure to gift yourself a little holiday treat. Happy Holidays!
*FAA regulations prohibit passengers from drinking alcohol on board the aircraft unless it is served by the air carrier.