The iconic Austin-based bar, Cain & Abel’s, has been a staple in the community ever since it opened its doors in 1991, especially beloved by University of Texas students due to its proximity to the West Campus. However, a new development in the Austin area is pushing Cain & Abel’s to find a new location to call home. 

Student Housing High-Rise

The development is spearheaded by Bleyl Engineering and is theorized to be a high-rise building that will help to satisfy the continually rising demand for University of Texas student housing, specifically in the West Campus neighborhoods. This residential development has long been planned for the cherished Cain & Abel’s location at 2313 Rio Grande Street, with City of Austin permits first filed in mid-July 2022. Now, a pending permit with city demolition has revealed that the Cain & Abel’s structure is set to be torn down at the end of the month to make way for a residential building. The 30-story student housing will occupy the two lots where Cain & Abel’s is situated, across roughly ⅓ of an acre.

Cain & Abel’s Relocation

While the owner of the Longhorn favorite bar, Ellis Winstanley, didn’t expect this development for several years, plans for this high-rise building are now underway, leaving Cain & Abel’s to close by the end of this April. However, Winstanley already has his next move mapped out – a new location for Cain & Abel’s to open not long after the current location’s closure. The specific area had previously been under wraps, but recent reports indicate the bar will reopen at 907 West 24th Street, only a few blocks away. This destination is set to open in May, so keep your eyes on my blog for more information on this development.

Follow along with this University of Texas student housing development and stay tuned for more details on the relocation of Cain & Abel’s by following my blog or contacting me at tmcneil@kw.com with any questions!