Today we’d like to introduce you to Raf Miastkowski.
Hi Raf, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started the @texasdives Instagram account out of a mix of curiosity and interest in getting back into travel writing. I had written previously for outlets like Thrillist and Eater when I lived in Chicago. I moved to Texas for work during the pandemic, and I noticed many dive bars were closing. So, I began documenting them more intentionally, taking road trips across the state, photographing interiors, talking to bartenders and regulars, and digging into the history behind each spot.
What began as an Instagram page quickly grew in scope. I realized there wasn’t a comprehensive record of these places, especially as many of them are disappearing or changing. That led me to start organizing my research into something more permanent. Over time, that evolved into the Texas Dive Bar Encyclopedia, which was published last fall.
Along the way, I’ve balanced writing, publishing logistics, and building a social media audience across Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. It’s been a hands-on process from start to finish, from visiting hundreds of bars to figuring out how to package and share the work. Where I am now is really the result of staying consistent with something that I think people genuinely care about—documenting a side of Texas culture that deserves to be remembered.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Ha! No, it has not been a smooth road, but I’m happy with where it has led. I couldn’t have made the book into the polished product it is without the help of my good friend Max Rasche, a talented designer who spent way too much time on it. Self-publishing has its benefits—like retaining ownership of all words and photos—but it’s arguably more work. I didn’t know anything about copyrighting or paper costs. Now I do! I definitely learned a lot about the book industry along the way, and it’s a tough nut to crack.
I’m still learning how to grow and have fun with my social media pages, but it’s been a creative outlet from my day job in tech. And I’ve met a lot of cool people along the way. So, it’s been worth it. I think tons of people with interesting perspectives can do a similar project; it’s just about finding your niche and sticking with it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I think people gravitate towards Texas Dives because it shows them a place they’ve maybe driven by 100 times but never thought to stop there. I try to offer a peek into these places and definitely do not believe in gatekeeping them. Many are struggling to get by.
I also try to be a straight-shooter when I write, whether that’s through personal stories, bawdy jokes, or absurd commentary. I definitely look to Hunter S. Thompson’s work for inspiration. But people seem to enjoy it, and I’ve received compliments about it when I’m out and about.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I’ve been a big fan of great authors’ nonfiction travel works, and I recommend them whenever I can. Some favorites are Hemingway’s ‘Death in the Afternoon’ and ‘A Movable Feast’, Graham Greene’s ‘The Lawless Roads’, and Hunter S. Thompson’s ‘Hell’s Angels’.
I’m also a big advocate of planning your trips and weekends. Lock in some weekend plans by Thursday, so you’re ready to hit the road when the weekend rolls around. Check out the Eater 38 list for a city you’re traveling to. Pin some spots to your Google Maps. This will help you avoid ending up in a tourist trap.
Pricing:
- 59.99
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/texasdives
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Texas-Dives-61550925872633/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@texasdives
