First Look: New North San Antonio bar The Break Room takes over long-vacant space

San Antonio’s Live Oak Welcomes New Bar ‘The Break Room’

Known for its close-knit community and vibrant atmosphere, San Antonio’s northern suburb of Live Oak has recently been shaken up by the reinvigoration of a long-vacant space. The Break Room, a fresh neighborhood bar, has now set up shop in a strip-mall location previously occupied by the Halftime Lounge, near the Loop 1604 intersection on 8084 Pat Booker Road.

Revamping the Former Space

The once lively nightspot Halftime Lounge closed its doors in 2019, leaving the location to gather dust. In an invigorating turnaround, the Break Room now runs in a soft-opening mode, featuring a fully renovated interior. The brand-new developments range from fresh paint, redesigned bathrooms, an expanded bar, and a spacious patio.

Fresh Ownership and Venue Highlights

Breaking into an exciting business venture, a group of first-time bar owners now control the operations of the Break Room. The team includes a former operator from the well-renowned San Antonio burger joint, Buff Buzby’s. As per a state regulatory filing from the previous fall, the new owners had planned to splash an impressive $100,000 on renovations.

Patrons who have memories of visiting the Halftime Lounge will recall the distinctive dive-bar ambience of the place, encompassing the aroma of nicotine and spilled liquor. However, the Break Room seems to have discarded all traces of this past life. The revamped interior showcases slate grey tile accents, fresh seating, stained concrete floors, and the inviting warmth of pool tables and dartboards.

Drink Selection and Artistic Appeal

Offering four beers on draft, in addition to a selection of canned beer and seltzers, the Break Room’s full bar appears to be well-stocked for an average neighborhood spot. The ambiance is ideal for catching a game or watching a televised fight. Apart from its drink services, the bar distinguishes itself with an interesting array of kitschy environmental art. Credit for this creative touch goes to Helotes-based painter Zhengnan Yu, whose paintings of pop-culture characters make for a visually compelling experience. The back patio is warmly illuminated with string lighting, providing a comfortable space for community gathering.

Grand Opening

A daily operation from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m., the Break Room is preparing for its grand opening slated for June 1st. The owners anticipate a warm reception from the local community, welcoming everyone to experience their newly revamped venue.