In a city where sports bars are often synonymous with pitchers of beer and fried food, COVER 3 has carved out a different lane. At its Austin and Round Rock locations, the restaurant pairs a scratch kitchen with a carefully curated wine program, creating a dining experience that feels elevated without losing its casual appeal.
“We genuinely enjoy a good glass of wine, and that vested interest shows in the thoughtful way we curate our selections,” said Denim Koshell, who helps lead the restaurant’s food and beverage program.
The list ranges from crisp whites and sparkling rosés to bold Cabernets, with every bottle chosen to complement the menu. Guests can sip Sauvignon Blanc with seafood, toast with bubbles at brunch or settle into a ribeye taco with a medium-bodied red.
Wines by the glass emphasize value and accessibility, while the bottle list offers higher-end options for special occasions. Seasonal trends also guide choices. Lighter wines dominate during the Texas summer heat, while cooler weather brings guests toward richer Chardonnays and reds.
The same attention to quality drives the kitchen. COVER 3’s dishes are made from scratch, from the award-winning Mac N Cheese to the Chilled Shrimp & Crab Tower layered with lump crab, avocado and pico. Desserts, particularly cheesecakes, are also created in-house and often highlight seasonal flavors.
“We’re a restaurant first, offering Dining, Spirits, and Sports—in that order,” Koshell said. That approach has resonated with guests, who return for everything from weekday lunches to milestone celebrations.