The Abilene Bar and Lounge story begins in March 2008, when Danny Deutsch opened the corner saloon and honky-tonk in a rehabbed 19th century building in the heart of downtown Rochester.

Music is the straw that stirs the drink at this Cheers-meets-Austin club. A who’s who of local, regional, national and international musicians have performed up close and personal in Abilene's intimate space. The all-star roster of Abilene alums includes Dale Watson, Hayes Carll, the Spampinato Brothers, Jonathan Richman, JD McPherson, Jim Lauderdale, Amy Lavere, Eilen Jewell, Bill Kirchen, Big Sandy, Rosie Flores, Chris Trapper, Lake Street Dive, Nikki Hill, The Sadies, Cabinet, The Hi Risers and The Lustre Kings, among many others.

Abilene also served as the official Roots-Americana venue for the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival from 2010-14, hosting artists such as Garland Jeffreys, Hackensaw Boys, Christine Ohlman, Walt Wilkins, Black 47, Rosie Ledet & The Zydeco Playboys, Elizabeth Cook, Whitey Morgan, Kim Lenz, Marti Brom, John Mooney, Woody Pines and Selwyn Birchwood. Abilene’s audience spans the generational spectrum, from 20-somethings to octogenarians attracted by the club’s unpretentious, uncookie-cutter character, good drinks (check out a Moscow Mule, Texas Breakfast or any of our dozens of draft and bottled beers), friendly neighborhood bar feel, and good music. Another Abilene attraction is its distinctive back deck with unique views of the downtown skyline and the night—and afternoon—sky. What’s not to love?

Hours
Wednesday-Friday 4:00pm-11:00pm and Saturday 7:00pm-11:00pm. Check out our calendar for special events on other days.