Empire Control Room & Garage is a dope, smaller venue in downtown Austin with the infrastructure and production quality of a theater and the vibes of an outdoor festival tent. It is an absolute gem for live music fans, great for small concerts fitting a good number of people, around 400-500 at full capacity. The space has plenty of room in back, a thick dance party up front, and sides where people spill out, with a large outdoor patio. The sound system is good, though the piano sound was noted as too distorted for one reviewer's taste. The staff is dope and friendly, working to keep the place running safe and smooth. The venue does not accept cash and applies an automatic 20% tip on opened tabs. There is a large selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, but no food inside, though food trucks are across the street and there are lots of food and bars nearby. Parking is difficult, so an Uber ride is recommended. Some negatives include dirty restrooms, a lack of seating at the height of the night, the outdoor patio reeking of smoke later on, and the main room getting very hot during shows. Homeless people are noted to be outside the venue. Still, it is a sick venue with a very welcoming atmosphere where talented bands perform and artists sometimes give autographs after shows.
It's one of the best outdoor venues in downtown area. Love this place!
January 2026
Interesting venue. I love that they booked a poet (Whitney Hanson). Had a great time.
December 2025
We had a great time here - we really did. It's was awesome to see Los Retros and Xin Xin live. If there's someone you want to see there, go. That said, it's not a great venue.
