The Palm Lounge

If you are looking for a place with a rich past and authentic character, then the legendary Historic Palm Lounge is a must-see on your itinerary. Located in the heart of the historic district of Brownsville, this establishment has remained a significant cultural landmark on the USA map for decades.

Once a classic men's bar famous for its stunning burgers, it has evolved over time into a modern gastropub and cocktail bar. Recent modernization has breathed new life into it, preserving its vintage charm while adding sophisticated drinks, seafood, and live music to the menu.

Please note that the establishment is currently undergoing a massive transformation and is temporarily closed for renovations. Very soon, a new lounge named Hunky Dory will open here, promising to be a unique destination for relaxation while maintaining the historical significance of the building on Elizabeth St.

To contact the management or get the latest updates on the major renovation progress, use the contact details provided below.

Prior to its temporary closure for reconstruction, the Historic Palm Lounge was a favorite hangout for both locals and travelers. Visitors came here to enjoy some of the best burgers in Texas, try signature cocktails, or have a cold beer in a cozy, air-conditioned setting.

The venue regularly broadcasted major sporting events on large screens, and in the evenings, it was a hub for live music across various genres. Additionally, the Palm Lounge was considered the perfect vantage point for watching the Charro Days parades—an annual festival where guests could meet old friends and soak up the festive atmosphere right from a window-side table.

Once the current renovations are finished, visitors can expect a refreshed menu and a completely new interior design tailored to a modern and stylish lounge format.

Finding the venue is easy, as it is located at 757 E Elizabeth St, in the very heart of historic Brownsville. If you are downtown, the bar is a short walk away, allowing you to enjoy the local architecture and old-town atmosphere along the way.

For those arriving from further out or from Brownsville/South Padre Island Intl Airport (BRO), a taxi or rental car ride will take approximately 10–15 minutes. Parking spaces are typically available along Elizabeth St, making the location convenient for those traveling by car. City buses also have stops within easy walking distance of the entrance.

The history of this location dates back to the mid-20th century. In the 1970s and early 80s, it was a strictly men's bar managed by Johnny Quiroz. In those days, the establishment served as a "sanctuary" for locals: men came here for the air-conditioned coolness, fresh beer, and the legendary burgers prepared by bartenders Beto, Servando, and Toque.

The place held the unofficial title of the "poor man's haven," though you could meet a diverse crowd here—from simple laborers to influential politicians. Later, the building was purchased by Edwin Hernandez, who saved it from closure and added the word Historic to its name, transforming the cantina into a full-fledged lounge with an expanded menu and live music.

By the end of 2025, a significant new chapter began: the Palm Lounge closed for a total reconstruction. The new tenants plan to launch a project called Hunky Dory, completely updating the interior and concept while promising to preserve the spirit of this landmark city spot.

Guests typically set aside 1 to 2 hours for a visit—plenty of time to enjoy a hearty lunch and a few drinks. If you plan to catch a live music performance or watch a sports broadcast, you should count on staying for 3 hours or more.

During the famous Charro Days festival, many visitors spend 2 to 4 hours here, as the location of the Palm Lounge provides a comfortable spot to watch the festive parade while enjoying the air conditioning and excellent service.

Under normal circumstances, the venue operated on the following schedule: Monday and Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM, closed on Tuesdays. However, due to the current major reconstruction, the doors are temporarily closed to the public.

It is recommended to check the official Facebook page or the project website for the latest updates regarding the reopening date and the new schedule before planning your visit.

A stroll through the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the rich history of the border region. Nearby are notable buildings, historical monuments, and cultural sites that reflect the unique spirit of this part of the state.