Our Story
Sahara Lounge is often described as “the way Austin used to be!”, laid back, good music in a relaxed atmosphere. When you walk in you can feel the musical vibe, you can feel the history.
History
The historic building at 1413 Webberville Road, near 12th and Springdale, has housed different venues for over 50 years. Lincoln Drive Inn opened its doors in 1962, followed by RC’s and TC’s Lounge. TC’s Lounge operated for 33 years and Sahara Lounge opened in 2011, carrying on the tradition of great live music in a relaxed atmosphere.
About the Owners
Sahara Lounge is family owned - Eileen Bristol and her son Topaz McGarrigle, both musicians and community oriented individuals.
Eileen
Eileen Bristol plays electric bass and performs with Zoumountchi as well as other Africa Night house bands, Abou & the Crew and Sahara Allstars. Born in Houston where her parents operated Bruce Bristol Motorcycles, she moved to Austin in 1969 and was one of the founders of the Austin Waldorf School in 1980. In the late 80’s she worked at Onion Creek Farm a bio-dynamic/organic farm in Dripping Springs. She spent time in Chapel Hill, NC and Ann Arbor, MI working as a massage therapist before returning to Austin to open the Sahara Lounge.
Topaz
A native Austinite, Topaz is well known around Austin performing in Golden Dawn Arkestra and Mudphonic, as well as other local acts on tenor sax, keyboards, vocals, guitar and harmonica. His musical career was launched when he was a teenager, playing for tips on 6th St. in Austin, TX and included a ten year stint in NYC.