Where the coffee never stops, and the wine is always flowing.
Words Sandy Reitman | Photos Baptiste Despois
Strangelove is equal parts coffee shop, wine bar, and neighborhood gathering place. For two Austin natives, opening it was as much about conserving the Eastside as it was about building something new.
The moment you walk in, it feels like a place you’ve been before. And that’s no accident, according to owners, Laura Maddox and Kathleen Carmichael, both of whom are already local business owner icons with Small Victory Bar and Figure 8 Coffee.
When opening Strangelove, the aim was a homey space: a warm, welcoming atmosphere at all times of day. The 1930s craftsman on East Cesar Chavez delivers hometown vibes. A five-minute walk from Town Lake and surrounding trails, their patio catches a natural breeze off the water and is shaded by long-standing greenery. No reservations required.
Whether starting the day or winding it down, Strangelove feels like a place to kick back and relax. There’s Figure 8 single origin coffee always on the menu, along with other seasonal brews. The wine list features small-producer, natural selections by the glass, plus beer, cider, and non-alcoholic options. Food stays approachable: pastries, breakfast tacos, nightly cheese plates, and house-spiced mixed nuts. Backyard food trucks are in the future. But for now, they’re hosting a pizza pop-up residency every Friday with June’s Vine.
Occasional pop-up events include local artists, musicians, and vendors, as a way for guests to shop local and support the community. Latest happenings are posted on their Instagram.
With a first anniversary approaching, Strangelove is hitting its stride. A wine club launches this month, offering monthly wine picks, complimentary tastings, and flight nights for members. For two Austin natives who wanted to preserve what they love about this neighborhood while pushing it forward, the house party is just getting started.
Native Knowledge:
Happy Hour runs all day Monday and 4 to 6 pm on all other days of the week, with select glasses of wine at $10, and 20% off bottles.
Loyalty Program:
Wine: 1 punch per retail purchase, 1 free glass of wine for every 3 punches, 1 free bottle under $60 when the card is full
Coffee & Tea: 1 punch per visit, 1 complimentary beverage after 8 punches
Contact:
(512) 337-2170
2614 E Cesar Chavez St.
hello@strangelove.wine
strangelove.wine
@strangeloveatx
