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Travelers seeking an authentic Austin experience without leaving the airport can now immerse themselves in the history of legendary blues club Antone’s at its newly opened satellite location at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Antone’s also celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025.

Founded in 1975 by the late Clifford Antone, Antone’s is known as the Austin club that has “helped put the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’ on the map” (Austin American Statesman). Over the past 50 years, the iconic venue has served as a “home away from home” for a Mount Rushmore of legends, including B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Jimmy Reed, Ray Charles and James Brown. 

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Antone’s has continued to define the present and shape the future of blues music, bolstering the careers of internationally-renowned talents such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Fabulous Thunderbirds and Bob Schneider, and nurturing a new generation of trailblazing Austin artists, including Antone’s co-owner Gary Clark Jr., Jackie Venson and many others. 

The new Antone’s outpost, located across from Gate 25, replaces Haymaker and is operated by Delaware North, a global leader in hospitality and entertainment. Delaware North manages the majority of food and beverage and retail concepts at AUS, including the award-winning Salt Lick BBQ, Peached Tortilla, Juiceland and The Austin Chronicle.

“We are thrilled to finally have an Antone’s location in the airport. It has been a dream of ours for many years, and we’re so appreciative that Delaware North shared our vision and helped make this project possible,” said Will Bridges, co-owner of Antone’s. “It is truly an honor for our Antone's airport location to serve as a beacon of Austin’s live music scene, welcoming and entertaining visitors and locals alike as they travel to and from our amazing city.”

“The timing couldn’t be more fitting as Antone’s celebrates its 50th year,” said Terry Mahlum, Delaware North’s Austin-based director of operations. “We first brought live music to the airport in 1999, and the support from Austin-Bergstrom has been phenomenal. Adding Antone’s brings the heart of Austin’s blues scene directly to travelers, sharing an iconic slice of the city’s music history with the world.”

The new venue reflects the signature look and feel of Antone’s current 305 E. 5th Street location, with features like its distinctive neon sign – handcrafted by local neon legend Evan Voyles – vintage show posters, a memorabilia wall showcasing historic artifacts, and photos celebrating Austin’s musical legacy. The live performance stage is complete with authentic replications of the iconic Antone’s stage sign and curtain, ready to showcase Austin’s up-and-coming artists and bring a local music experience to airport visitors.

Antone’s at AUS offers a diverse menu throughout the day, including staples such as the “Boss Man Breakfast Sandwich,” the “Home of the Blues Burger” and the classic beer-braised “Cliffy Dog.” The bar menu features drinks inspired by blues history, including the “Ice Queen Twist” – named for Antone’s favorite and 2025 Grammy nominee Sue Foley – and “Muddy’s Bloody,” ensuring travelers can unwind with a taste of Austin’s blues spirit.

The location will also offer a kiosk with grab-and-go sandwiches from Antone's Famous Po' Boys, the Houston-based restaurant chain started by Jalal Antone, Clifford’s uncle and inventor of the Houston-style po' boy. 

“We are proud to partner with Antone's Nightclub in this way. Antone's Po’ Boys are an iconic part of our past and present," said Craig Lieberman, CEO of Antone's Famous Po’ Boys. "We have partnered with Delaware North since 2021 in the Austin airport, and this unique addition provides a fantastic showcase for a brand that is embedded in Texas culture.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Antone’s to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport,” said AUS CEO Ghizlane Badawi. “As a cornerstone of Austin’s music legacy, Antone’s brings the spirit of the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’ directly to our travelers. This iconic venue’s rich history and upcoming 50th anniversary make its addition to the airport all the more exciting.”

In celebration of its 50 years, the opening of Antone’s at AUS is a testament to its place as the leading ambassador for Austin’s rich live music culture and history. Antone’s will continue to mark their anniversary with an ambitious slate of live performances, historical exploration, new releases and much more. Full info is available at https://antonesnightclub.com/