The Modernist image

The Modernist

Bar

Midcentury-inspired cocktail bar offering custom & classic creations in swank, modish digs. People often mention drinks, time, drink, bartenders, menu, great, good, area, friendly, taste,


Address

516 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215

Website

www.facebook.com

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (481 reviews)

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Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: drinks (23) time (13) drink (11) bartenders (11) menu (9) great (8) good (7) area (6) friendly (6) taste (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 隣野無名 2 years ago on Google
    It was a very nice shop. I am a business traveler in Japan, but the shop staff provided excellent service. I wasn't very strong in alcohol so I could only stay a little, but I had a great time. I want to go again if I have a chance. This document is created by Google Translate.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 LeeAn B. 2 years ago on Google
    Unassuming entry and easily missed. It’s kinda like if you know you know. Once we entered we were greeted immediately. The interior area is rather small and most seats were taken. We were able to sit at the bar and were greeted by Austin. He asked us what we felt like drinking and got to work. We mixed it up with a variety of profile requests. The drinks were on the slightly bitter side, but the flavor profiles were right on the money for the ingredients. One mixologist (curly hair) wasn’t very friendly, he sort of had a superior attitude to my inquiry, questions (which weren’t many) and drink request. Expect to spend anywhere from $80-130 for 5-7 drinks. I didn’t see very many top shelf bottles and most of the vodka used was The Ranch which sells for $13 a bottle, one drink easily pays for a whole bottle of vodka. I did love the atmosphere and the dark and moody vibe. If there isn’t seating inside they also have an outside patio area.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Diana 5 months ago on Google
    Tell them what you’re craving, what spirit, and what flavor profile and let them do the rest. Awesome low key mixology bar without a menu.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Michael B. 1 year ago on Google
    Modernist is a good bar that focuses on cocktails, but they don't use a menu. Experienced drinkers have an advantage when ordering. However, the bartenders are trained to create cocktails geared to each person's taste. Unless you're ordering a classic cocktail, expect to order by saying things like refreshing, dry, fruity, sour, and/or tropical. Mention any allergies or spirits to avoid. They also cater to guests wanting alcohol free cocktails. The indoor seating is limited so arrive early. Outdoor seating in the back is available but nobody will want to be put there in bad weather or stuck waiting for an indoor seat.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris J. 2 years ago on Google
    Solid cocktail bar with exceptional customer service and good vibes. They don't have a menu so if you don't go with a name drink be prepared to tell them what you like and they'll take it from there. Two of my three drinks I had them make based on what I like and they're concoctions were impressive. I look forward to going back.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Emily Ann I. 1 year ago on Google
    So yes, I did walk past this place three to four times before calling my friend that night. The outside was completely unexpected just as the inside and interior of the place was. I enjoyed the ambiance and the romantic setting. The Old Fashions here are made to perfection - I loved watching the process. The bartender was very diligent in his work and also quiet which was a first for me. I may visit again to get the full experience of their worthy cocktails.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Melissa P. 1 year ago on Google
    I just recently moved to San Antonio and The Modernist quickly became my favorite bar to haunt. It's a small intimate, and cozy old house all decked out in mid century modern decor. There is no menu, you describe the flavor pallet you would like and they make you something completely unique. Or you can get out of your comfort zone, put your trust in the universe, and "roll the dice" to get your flavors. This is usually what I do as I like to be adventurous. The bartenders are all very talented, creative, and so fun to be around. This is definitely a gem and such a refreshing take on the bar scene, for sure!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John M. 7 months ago on Google
    There’s not a lot of space, but there’s a lot of atmosphere inside… incredible, mind-blowing drinks that will shock your taste buds. There are some drink artists here… no bartenders, just some highly professional wizards of mixing!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chelsea B. 1 year ago on Google
    We intentionally seek out bespoke bars when we travel and were happy to find this one in San Antonio. There’s no menu so you describe what you like for a flavor profile and the bartenders get to work! We’ve visited these types of bars across the US, in Singapore, Budapest, you name it - and this is honestly one of our favorite experiences so far. The cocktails are really balanced and flavorful. The bartenders are super friendly and love to chat - we sat at the bar and had a fabulous time. I’d highly recommend coming here for a couple drinks - let them take you out of your comfort zone, too!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 C S. 1 year ago on Google
    This may be one of the best bars in town right now. Get in and get your drinks while you can. The atmosphere is chill and intimate, and the drinks are anywhere from familiar to expertly crafted new creations. My personal favorite is a spiced-rum with cinnamon and tamarack. If that sounds good to you then you have to rush down here and try it because this place fills up fast. I can't wait to come back.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dr Fady H. 11 months ago on Google
    Cute little bar at the pearl….It has a speakeasy style…..They have a little outdoor place with a bar as well……The drinks were great …. Our bartender asked what kind of liquor and flavors we like and surprised us with some drinks ..… they were really good …… nice spot to stop by for a drink!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 lisa v. 9 months ago on Google
    If you are looking for a one of a kind bar with a speakeasy vibe, this is the place to go. Amazing service and talented bar tenders. No menu, just tell them what your pallet wants to taste and the customize your own drink.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Taylor D. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing bar. A true speakeasy. Its unbecoming exterior becomes becoming once you walk in the door and understand the true nature of the place. There can be a wait at times but it goes quite quick. You will need to ring the doorbell to get inside which is probably the coolest touch I've ever seen at a speak easy. The drinks are all incredible and I recommend just telling your bartender you're preferred liquor and letting them work their magic. You will be amazed. There is an outdoor area but I just sat at the bar and didn't go out back. If your in the area this is a must experience place to take time out to visit. If any of the owners or bartenders ever need a realtor I would be more than happy to return the favor for your spectacular drinks with my spectacular real estate services. 210-899-HAWK. You guys rock!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jayna H. 5 months ago on Google
    This place was so good, that my husband and I stayed here instead of spending time at the River Walk (and we were seeing San Antonio for the first time ever and only staying one night) They have a cool outdoor bar in the back and the girl behind the bar was blowing our minds. We came up with crazy flavor profiles, and she got it perfect each time. We did not want to stop ordering drinks. The no menu concept should tell you how good they are. Everything is thought up on the spot. Incredible!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Raven De L. 1 year ago on Google
    Stumbled upon The Modernist with my wife intending to go to another bar in the area. But so glad we found this little hidden gem. It is a mid-century, bespoke bar with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Ashanti and Ruby were awesome and we were just in awe of their expertise and ability to make a delicious cocktail with only a spirit or a taste in mind. We will most definitely be going back and would highly recommend.

  • 3/5 Isaac M. 2 years ago on Google
    The first two times we went to this bar, the experience was great. The bartenders weren't talkative, but they were friendly. The ambience was chill and the drinks were also great! Unfortunately, we went for a third time for my partners birthday and as others have stated there's one rude/ pretentious bartender that works there. Must be an owner or something? It definitely kills the vibe.

  • 5/5 Marissa W. 1 year ago on Google
    A no-menu-concept bar. Questionable, certainly. But does it deliver? Absolutely. The bartenders know what they’re doing. Tell them what flavors, smells, textures you lean toward when it comes to your drinks and they will create a custom cocktail based on your description. Or, roll the bar dice and leave it up to chance. Interior set up is intimate and swanky, dark but not too dark. It’s sexy and cozy and inviting.

  • 5/5 Alexis G. 7 months ago on Google
    Very unique place. Nice house bar with cute furniture. They make drinks based on your taste so its a cool concept. Service is a bit slow but if you know that it wont be bother. They were so nice and place wasnt crowded on a Tuesday night. I really liked it.

  • 5/5 Rose Y. 1 year ago on Google
    I had great time celebrating my 50th birthday at this amazing place. The cozy environment and friendly staff made the experience inviting and definitely merits coming back again. As for the drinks you've heard the phrase "A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS" well just take a look.. Ruby thank you for the incredible drinks and remarkable show. If you haven't experienced the pleasure of having an exquisite cocktail Modernist won't let you down. And dont forget to ask RUBY for her twist on traditional drinks. She is amazing.

  • 5/5 Joseph S. 1 year ago on Google
    By far the best drinks in San Antonio. Get away from the riverwalk and make a trip out here. There is no menu, they mix your drinks based on your palate which is super neat. Brian and Tori were fantastic with the drinks and great hospitality. This hole in the wall is a place you cannot miss out on.

  • 5/5 sehill10 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent experience here! They don't have a drink list, they ask what you like and if you would like it traditionally or a creative take on the drink. I ordered a creative approach spritz and it was amazing. Also love the vibe!

  • 5/5 shelby s. 1 year ago on Google
    A lovely cocktail bar! Ask for whatever you like and the bartenders make every drink with expertise, precision, and care. The Lavender Bee’s Knees was my request and it was incredible. Can’t wait to swing by once I’m in SA again.

  • 5/5 Kien H. 1 year ago on Google
    I enjoyed this place thoroughly. It was a bar with a little kind of a speakeasy feel to it. They didn't have a menu but you described what you would drink and then they will make you a special drink. I thought it was great! The bartenders were fun and engaging and they really made you feel like they cared! They were very humorous and I had a good time and I would definitely come back the next time I'm in the area.

  • 1/5 Yve 2 years ago on Google
    Went twice first time was a great experience and tasteful drinks friendly staff. Second time rude bartenders inside. However, outside bartender was sweet and checked up on us. But definitely last time coming here.

  • 5/5 Shannon H. 2 years ago on Google
    The staff were so very friendly and welcoming here! Cute and comfortable atmosphere. Recently into mixology but I feel like female bartender nailed both of my drinks according to my taste profile last weekend! Just go!


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Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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