Austin’s Donn’s Depot is home to a women’s restroom that has achieved a level of notoriety that many bars would envy. The restroom, adorned with vibrant red and white striped walls, features a well-worn crimson carpet that extends over some wooden chairs, creating a unique bench. Tinsel remnants dangle from the ceiling, and cobwebs add a touch of age to the space, which some patrons claim are older than the rest of the establishment.
The walls are a canvas for graffiti, giving the restroom a distinctive character. Various messages and drawings created with countless Sharpies cover the surfaces, with the artwork ranging from humorous to crude, including references to public figures and playful depictions of anatomy.
On a recent weekday afternoon, Matt Seaton, a first-time visitor to the women’s room, expressed his curiosity about its infamous reputation. Having heard many stories from friends who frequent the bar, he was eager to uncover the allure of what some are calling “the most iconic women’s restroom this timezone has ever seen.”
A Civil Engineer’s Vision
The establishment itself has a rich history that goes beyond its infamous restroom. Originally a train depot built in the 1970s along the MoPac rail line, the building was saved from demolition by civil engineer Bob Ogden, who purchased it for a mere $300. After relocating the structure for $2,000 to its current location at West Lynn and Fifth streets, he transformed it into a bar, initially naming it the McNeil Depot Saloon.
Ogden’s vision also included acquiring old train cars to expand the venue, employing what bar manager Matt Adelman describes as “brilliant Lego engineering.” One of these train cars, a retired caboose, was repurposed into the women’s restroom.
Longtime employee Lisa Gargas highlighted the unique charm of the bathroom, recalling its former life on the railroad tracks. With the addition of sinks and lounge areas, the caboose has been transformed into what Gargas calls “living, functional, historical art.”
A central pole, once used by the train crew to access an upper deck, has taken on a new identity, sparking rumors of it being a “stripper pole” and contributing to the restroom’s legendary status.
An Invitation to Linger
While the restroom’s facilities might be secondary, the space serves as a social hub for patrons. Adelman recounted instances of women seeking solace after breakups, finding a moment of comfort while enjoying their drinks in the lounge-like atmosphere.
On busy nights, the restroom becomes a refuge from the bustling bar, allowing women to socialize and unwind. Jill Siegel, owner of Lavish Kitchen and Bath, noted that unlike many dive bars in Austin, the restroom encourages guests to take their time and explore, contributing to its unique appeal. She likened its singular charm to that of the iconic entertainer Cher, emphasizing that some things are truly one of a kind.
‘If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Break It’
Over the years, the caboose has remained largely unchanged, preserving its original features as a testament to its history. Donn Adelman, who took over the bar in the late 1970s, recalls Bob Ogden’s advice: “Don’t move a cobweb… If it ain’t broke, don’t break it.”
Now in his 80s, Adelman continues to play the piano at Donn’s on Friday nights, maintaining the bar’s enduring appeal. For fifty years, patrons have returned not only for the live music but also for the whimsical charm of the women’s restroom.
In a recent live presentation of this story, the audience was asked to vote on whether the women’s room at Donn’s Depot truly holds the title of the most iconic restroom in Austin, sparking lively discussion and enthusiasm among the crowd.
