IT WAS A PLACE FOR DEBATE AND DISCUSSION, FOR THE EXCHANGE OF VIEWS AND OPINIONS, FOR ARGUMENT AND FOR THE WORKING OUT OF PROBLEMS.
IT WAS A FORUM, A PARLIAMENT, A FOUNTAIN OF WISDOM AND A CESSPOOL OF NONSENSE... WHERE ACTS OF KINDNESS WERE CONSIDERED AND MURDERS PLANNED.
Alex La Guma
Murray’s is a neighborhood watering hole that lives outside of time and space. It’s a throwback to the classic New York City style tavern, with a cordial nod to Texas. It’s comfortable, approachable, easy. It’s where everybody goes and where everyone wants to be.
The vibe inside is energetic and cozy. It’s filled with motion and laughter, warmth and glow. It feels worn-in, like it’s been there forever – and so do most of the folks there. The bartenders are knowledgable, efficient, and not above giving you a little bit of a hard time, just because they like you. Dark wood and deep leather fill the space, and tablecloths add a touch of sophistication. The bar beckons you to sidle up and stay awhile.
Murray’s feels like New York, an old-school respite from the burgeoning newness that surrounds. It’s a tribute to those who came before and a gift to those who will come after. It’s a toast to a life well-lived.
The original PJ Clarke’s was established in 1884 in Midtown Manhattan as a saloon for Irish immigrant laborers and is now one of New York’s greatest old-school bars, steeped in Irish charm. There is also separate restaurant upstairs called Sidecar, which is has a slightly more formal ‘speakeasy vibe’.
Founded by Doug Quinn, a former PJ Clarke’s bartender, Hudson Malone features a long mahogany bar, vintage photography and artwork, a jukebox and a chalkboard listing ‘Quinn’s laws’.
Opened in 2019 by Billy Durney as an homage to — and subtle elevation of — the working-class pubs of New York. It features a long, dark space with muted floral wallpaper, tin ceiling tiles, exposed brick walls and a contrast grain wooden bar.
Opened in 1979 as 20th century-era German-Irish style pub, known for comfort food and a comfortable setting. Walls are adorned with period murals, rich mahogany features, and handmade tile throughout.
TIMELESS. TRANSFORMATIVE. COMFORTABLE.
+ Authentic period details interspersed with modern takes
+ Materials and finishes appear worn in, yet cared for
+ A variety of seating options and scenes: wooden high tops, dining-height tables with tablecloths, banquettes
+ An abundance of natural wooden finishes
+ Patterned flooring
+ Classic light fixtures
+ Non-direct light sources in a warm, considered lighting scheme
+ Eclectic yet curated art and decor
+ Functional storage in booth seating and throughout
The bar is the focal point of the Murray’s experience and spans the length of space. The best Guinness in town and a classic cocktail menu are served up by friendly, knowledgeable bartenders, who greet guests with a twinkle and maybe just a little ribbing. It’s a hub of activity and theater, featuring a considered collection of paraphernalia and spirits on display on the back bar.
+ Period paneling detail in a richly-grained wood
+ Loose bar stools span entire length of bar
+ A central arch at the back bar
+ Semi-round tops at each end accommodate 4 diners
+ Back bar features mugs and bottle storage for regulars
+ Functional storage throughout back bar and below bar
The entry gives and the snug is where deals get made. It’s at the front of the space, so shady characters don’t linger.
+ Rich velvet entry curtain to create vestibule
+ Lounge-style furniture
+ Small hostess stand
+ Arched and mottled glass framework over snug entry
+ Wood paneling with coat hook detail
+ Button-back leather banquette seating
+ Dark and moody lighting
The artwork injects a little humor into the space It’s eclectic yet considered – and a little like a dream, where something might be just enough off to make you do a double-take. There’s a mix of photography, paintings, and other as-yet uncategorizable styles.
The longest bar in Austin comes with the longest back bar in Austin – which means there’s plenty of opportunity for folks to make Murray’s their own. The Crock Club is one way to do it: regulars can have their own mugs along the back bar, so when they’re at Murray’s, they always feel at home.
+ Plaques feature customer names and numbers on wood shelving
+ A limited number of spaces are available, and a loyalty (or lottery) system allows regulars to have their mugs on the shelf
+ Branded, matching mugs or personal mugs brought in by customers and approved by management – the wilder, the better
True Murray’s diehards have access to bottle storage featured on the back bar.
For an annual fee, their liquor of choice is stored on the back bar in a keyed locker with their name (or their pseudonym) featured on a brass plaque on the door.
+ Keyed wooden doors with glass fronts and interior lighting
+ Limited access, limited number
+ Guest names are on brass plaques on the front
+ Yearly dues apply
+ P. Murray has a standing cabinet with her favorite liquor faced out
A bronze bust of “Grandma Murray” lives on the back bar, in tribute to the bar’s namesake.
It not only keeps her spirit alive but also adds literal personality to the space. The bust is a focal point of the bar, and it gives folks plenty of opportunity for something to celebrate.
+ Bronze bust sculpted to Phyllis Murray’s likeness (or an exaggerated version of it)
+ A lit cigarette hangs from her mouth (real or fake)
+ Her hat changes seasonally (or whenever the bartender feels like it)
+ On her birthday and on special occasions, she has flowers and drink specials
+ Guests can buy Grandma Murray a drink or a cigarette
REACH OUT WITH QUESTIONS, LOVE LETTERS, OR TOPO CHICO. WE'LL LOOK FORWARD TO IT.
Chris McCray chris@mccray-co.com 512.666.5793 x 101
Grace Hall grace@mccray-co.com 512.666.5793 x 102