Listen at Winflo: Never Gamble on Live Music Again

Editor’s Note: Winflo Osteria closed at the end of March 2018.

Live Music ≠ Good Music

Admit it, Austin – you’ve been to some questionable concerts. Just because you live in the most popular city in the world for live music, doesn’t mean your ears are safe from toxic noise waste. How many times have you walked out of a music venue and thought to yourself, “I really wish I hadn’t spent money on that”?

Two years ago, I stopped trying to see and hear everything this town has to offer. I was over “interesting” and “experimental” entertainment. I wanted good music – memorable, refreshing. Not something that was so new it was foreign, but not something I’d heard before, either. If that meant going to fewer shows, then so be it.

Then I discovered Winflo’s music series, Listen at Winflo. Danny Malone was the artist who first caught my ear there. He was talented and odd, with a stage presence and story-telling knack that left me wanting more.

Good Taste in Music

The talent bookers for Listen at Winflo have a palate for music that is beyond remarkable. Other than Danny Malone, you can see the likes of Casey McPherson of Alpha Rev, The Roosevelts, Dan Dyer, Tameca Jones, Ruby Jane, Reed Turner, Suzanna Choffel and Erin Ivey.

When I’m in the mood for a night of great live music paired with amazing food, I know I’ll get the most bang for my buck at one of these shows. I’ve never walked away disappointed. Quite the opposite.

3-Course Meal

Before the music starts at 9 PM, guests of Listen at Winfo dine on a 3-course, chef-prepared meal. I’ve been to roughly seven of these shows and the menu typically consists of: a seasonal salad or soup for the first course; steak, chicken, pork or a vegetarian dish (usually risotto or fresh pasta) for the main course; and Italian cookies, chocolate mousse or cheesecake for dessert.

You can pair the meal with wine or hand-crafted specialty cocktails. Guests are encouraged to be in their seats by 7:30 PM to ensure the meal is finished before the talent arrives.

Listen Up or Get Kicked Out

The space where these dining+music events take place is small and intimate. If you’ve dined at Winflo Osteria before, you might be wondering: “Where would a band fit?” They actually play underneath the restaurant in a chic speakeasy-style space that’s draped in deep plum and gold décor.

And there are rules to follow if you want to experience Listen at Winflo.

1. Don’t use your cell phone. That means no texting, tweeting or ‘graming to your friends. Don’t worry, you’ll survive.
2. If you’re not at your table by 8 PM, you won’t get in or get a refund.
3. Talking throughout the show is not tolerated. The guests of Listen at Winflo come to hear a show, not a drunk concert-goer blabbing about nonsense.

Price of Admission

If you’re ready to up your game in terms of the music you hear and cuisine on which you dine, try a Thursday night Listen at Winflo. There’s no need to be subject to mediocrity, my friends….The price for this evening event will cost you $50 per person ($20 for the show, $30 for the meal). This does not include drinks.

For more information, visit Winflo Osteria’s website.

Upcoming Shows

Always on Thursdays…

• January 22, 2015 – Matt the Electrician
• January 29, 2015 – Ruby Jane
• February 5, 2015 – Possessed by Paul James
• February 13-14, 2015 – Valentine’s Day with Penny & Sparrow
• February 19, 2015 – Amy Cook
• February 26, 2015 – Water & Rust
• March 12, 2015 – Guy Forsyth

 

@TheAustinot wants to know:

Where do you go for dinner and a show in Austin?

 

All photos courtesy of cReagan Hackleman.