Know Knew Friends brings disco glamour to San Antonio River Walk area
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The bar's new look. Photo: Courtesy of Justin Vitek
The former home of On the Rocks — a longtime River Walk watering hole — has been reborn as Know Knew Friends, a retro-inspired basement bar beneath the McDonald's on Commerce Street.
The latest: The revamped spot officially opened over the weekend. Nightlife veteran Justin Vitek, who also owns Hills & Dales Ice House, remains the owner.
- Vitek tells Axios he felt it was time for a new chapter in his career and wanted a bar that matched his personal and creative growth.
The vibe: Know Knew Friends channels disco's golden age with velvet couches, mirrored accents and a dose of retro glamour.
- "Know Knew Friends is a modern disco with soul, not just another bar, " Vitek tells Axios. "I wanted to create a space that feels like the future of nightlife, but still hits you with nostalgia the second you walk in."
- Expect a playlist that blends disco-era classics with modern hits across genres.
Zoom in: The cocktail menu includes playful nods to the theme, like the Disco AF — a fruity cocktail with watermelon vodka served in a disco ball glass — plus espresso martinis and other signature sips.
- The bar also dishes out a variety of hot dogs, pizza and wings for late-night cravings.
What they're saying: "Our food and cocktails have as much personality as the space itself," Vitek says. "Everything was built with intention, from the playlist to the presentation."