The Friendly Spot is not the stereotypical, obnoxious college hang-out filled with loud rock music and clouds of smoke. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. There isn’t a name that could fit this icehouse better.
The Friendly Spot is reminiscent of what the perfect back porch should feel like. Brightly colored aluminum porch chairs are scattered across a large gravel patio. Every chair is filled with friendly faces, some people sparked in deep conversation, others laughing among friends. Dogs lie at their masters’ feet and wait patiently as their humans converse. Children giggle and run up and down the playground while parents watch from a distance while visiting with one another. Local bicyclists roll up and lock their bikes to the surrounding fence and bike racks, stopping for refreshments before making their trip home.
The whole place has a backyard neighborhood block-party vibe to it; a welcoming place to sit with friends, or to meet new ones. You walk in and you feel like you know everyone. The bar is great for sitting outdoors on a cool summer night, but they also have some indoor seating for those who just can’t stand the heat.
There always seems to be something going on at the Friendly Spot. Spurs games or other sports entertainment play on the giant slab outdoor cinema.
Crowds of spectators group around cheering for their favorite team. Jerseys of different colors come together in friendly competition. When there isn’t a game playing, a crowd still gathers to catch a movie. And if that’s not exciting enough, on Sundays The Friendly Spot serves brunch with two-dollar Mimosas all day! There’s even a side stage for live music.
In addition to everything else, the Friendly Spot has recently been named one of the top 20 restaurants in San Antonio. This little icehouse definitely fits in perfectly with Southtown’s environment.
Located down South Alamo Street, the spot is right in the middle of First Friday with probably some of the best seats in the house.
The Friendly Spot won’t even break a poor college student’s budget! There is almost nothing on the menu over eight dollars. The alcohol is cheap and there always seems to be some kind of special running. If it’s not $2 Shiners on Thursday or $3 Blue Moons on draft on Tuesday, other local brews are on special. And with over 180 different brews with 24 on draft, there is something for everyone on the menu.
The Friendly Spot is open Monday through Sunday 11 a.m. to midnight.
