Live Oak - Austin

The Four Seasons Hotel still maintains a charming atmosphere despite the years and changes it has seen. I've visited before when the restaurant was known as Tri... read more The Four Seasons Hotel still maintains a charming atmosphere despite the years and changes it has seen. I've visited before when the restaurant was known as Trio and enjoyed live piano music in the upstairs bar. I’ve also had several work luncheons for RECA here. Today, we stopped by during the day and ordered a cold brew, some dips and chips, a brownie skillet, and a dirty martini. That’s when the experience took a turn. I was charged $15 for Grey Goose, $7 for the martini, and $2 for blue cheese olives. When I mentioned the extra charges to our very friendly server, Cristina, and explained I hadn’t expected Grey Goose in my drink, she assumed I wanted the top-shelf option. While I do appreciate quality drinks, I felt a bit taken advantage of. Having worked as a server myself in college, I believe it’s better to ask than assume. Still, I left a 20% tip. I briefly thought about returning to the Four Seasons for a date night as locals, but I’ve decided against it. Instead, I recommend the Driskill bar for drinks and outstanding service.

We went to Live Oak on a weekend evening expecting live music, as advertised on their website. However, by 10 PM, there was no music playing. I asked a staff me... read more We went to Live Oak on a weekend evening expecting live music, as advertised on their website. However, by 10 PM, there was no music playing. I asked a staff member about it, but after waiting for around 20 minutes in the lounge without any service, we chose to leave. It was disappointing to waste $10 on parking for nothing.