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Cover 3

Upscale Dining Meets Austin’s Sports Spirit

Article by Nik Manning

Photography by Denim Koshell and Sleeping Owl Photography

Originally published in ATX City Lifestyle

Nestled comfortably within Austin's bustling food scene, Cover 3 brings together the
best of both worlds: a relaxed sports bar atmosphere with elevated, from-scratch
cuisine. While the city offers no shortage of sports-centric spots, Cover 3 sets itself
apart with its commitment to quality, versatility, and community connection.


For the uninitiated, Cover 3 might sound like just another sports bar. But don’t be fooled
by the name—it’s more than flat-screen TVs and pitchers of beer. Co-owner Katie
Young describes the concept as an “upscale sports restaurant,” where “upscale” doesn’t
mean fancy—it just means no compromises. Picture this: Instead of wings and nachos
as the stars, it’s a well-crafted Allandale salad, ahi tuna tartare, and a wine room
stocked with thoughtfully selected bottles.


One of the first things that strikes you about Cover 3’s Austin location is its dedication to
the community. With over 15 years of service, the team takes pride in giving back,
partnering with organizations like Austin based Partnerships for Children, which
supports kids linked to Child Protective Services. Cover 3’s annual golf tournament and
year-round donations are just a few examples of how they stay engaged with local
causes. They’re also embedded in Austin’s sports culture, frequently catering for major
teams, including the University of Texas Longhorns.


When it comes to the menu, Cover 3 offers a surprising array of dishes not typically
found in sports bars. Their chef brings a unique spin to the menu, crafting chef specials
that reflect the diversity of Austin’s food scene. From shrimp and lobster pasta with a
rich, buttery sauce to expertly prepared pork chops, each dish is a statement that this
isn’t your run-of-the-mill sports joint. Yes, you can find classic sports bar staples, but
they’re likely elevated with a Texas twist or paired with a craft cocktail.


For sports enthusiasts, Cover 3’s Austin location is a game-day haven. During football
season, the energy is electric, especially for University of Texas fans. Game days turn
the restaurant into a sea of burnt orange, with every TV tuned to the Longhorns. Yet, for
those who prefer a quieter visit, the venue’s expansive social hour offers an unbeatable
experience. From 3 to 7 PM, you can indulge in gourmet bites and craft cocktails at
prices that rival fast food—making it a top choice for locals.


But Cover 3 isn’t just about food and football. The Austin location regularly hosts a
variety of community-focused events, from ladies’ football clinics with local sports
celebrities to quarterly cocktail classes that draw crowds for their inventive themes (the
Taylor Swift cocktails were a hit). And if brunch is more your speed, Cover 3’s weekend
offerings include a make-your-own bubbles bar and a build-your-own Bloody Mary
station, where creativity is encouraged.


Cover 3 proves that sports bars can be about more than just the game—they can be
about great food, great company, and a commitment to the city they call home. Whether
you're a die-hard football fan or just in the mood for a top-tier meal, Cover 3 offers
something special that keeps Austinites coming back season after season.

Businesses featured in this article