In a redevelopment that merges the past of South Austin's bar scene with its inevitable future, FBR Management has scooped up the site of the former Crow Bar at 3116 South Congress Avenue, promising a new establishment in the fire-ravished space, as reported by Austin Eater. Details about the nature of the venue, dubbed "The Bar at South Congress" during the permitting process, are currently sparse but confirmed by company representatives.
The site's backstory is marred by tragedy, after an arsonist’s wave of destruction in September 2022 left Crow Bar in ruins. Steve Gee, the owner of Crow Bar since its 2010 inception, faced the arduous process of rebuilding until the Spring of 2023 when, according to KVUE, he learned that the damage was insurmountable and the landlord terminated Gee's lease. Now over a year since the blaze, the fate of Gee’s reopening efforts remains afloat as he continues his search for a new home for Crow Bar.
FBR Management isn't new to the Austin bar scene, with a portfolio brimming with the likes of Mean Eyed Cat, Lala’s, and Dive Bar. The group’s latest undertaking fits a pattern of preserving the social fabric of the area while adapting to its evolving landscape. Their recent expansion included adding a second Lala’s location in South Austin and preparing to launch Old Gregg Brewery in Pflugerville, per Austin Eater.
Meanwhile, the spirit of Crow Bar lives on through Gee's resilience and dedication to its community. In a heartfelt acknowledgment of Crow Bar's loyal patronage, Gee told, KVUE, "I couldn't have been around if it wasn't for these people, man." The search for Crow Bar's new location is pressing, a narrative of perseverance amid loss, chronicled on the establishment’s social media, where Gee vies to "aggressively" find a new spot, as noted in a post relayed by KXAN.
Gee's optimism in the face of adversity is echoed through his own words, "Hopefully, we can get back on our feet and open, and start serving cocktails and beer," KVUE reported. The community watches with anticipation, eager for the return of a local favorite, adapted though it may be, in an ever-changing Austin landscape.
