Something is brewing off of South Congress Avenue. The Buzz Mill has revealed an opening timeline for its new location in South Austin, sharing details of its highly anticipated new space.
The 24-hour bar and coffee shop is slated to open in February. The southern outpost, located at 111 Pickle Rd., shares a 2-acre lot with the Infinite Monkey Theorem urban winery and soon-to-open Crux Climbing Center. Buzz Mill owner Jason Sabala refers to this new location as the "homestead," due to its cozy yet utilitarian feel. The 15,000-square-foot space features a 30-foot cedar bar, a larger stage, more indoor seating, and a designated study area.
The new locale signals a revamp of The Buzz Mill's beverage program. Coffee perks include a local house roast, more seasonal options and green coffees, and a high-end espresso machine. The bar will offer 16 rotating taps, more than 30 craft cans, and over 20 house-made liquor infusions.
The buzziest new addition to the Southern location is an onsite garden. The Buzz Mill is looking to inject even more local flavor into its drink lineup by growing ingredients like pecans, peppers, and herbs.
"I know in the food and beverage world, it's very en vogue to use buzzwords like 'organic' and 'locally grown,' but that's not what it's about for us," Sabala said in a release. "We've created our own garden-to-table drink program because it's in line with the Buzz Mill philosophy. Our staff literally built the new Buzz Mill by hand, so it just makes sense for us to grow our own ingredients as well."
That philosophy extends to new food options, which center around a food truck courtyard dubbed the "frontier." Initial offerings include game-based charcuterie boards and Sunday brunch, with more trailers and cuisines planned for the future.
Sabala and the rest of The Buzz Mill crew view this second location as just the beginning for the brand. San Marcos will welcome the third Buzz Mill later this spring, and Sabala has his eyes on expansion into Louisiana next year.
"I think the reason our concept has worked so well is because we're doing something no one before us has really attempted," said Sabala. "Each day my team tries to go beyond providing top-quality products and service to actually building a real community. My vision is to have fun with everything and to spread our 'fort vibes' with our Buzz Mill family and community throughout the country."
The second Buzz Mill location is slated to open in February.
There were burnt orange accents in outfits everywhere.Photo by Guillermo Rosas
Some team members from the Jerk Shack came all the way from San Antonio to share their food.Photo by Guillermo Rosas
Tatsu Aikawa and Takuya “Tako” Matsumoto celebrate their well-earned win.Photo by Guillermo Rosas
Wide receiver Xavier Worthy's shiny helmet looked magnificent on the table.Photo by Guillermo Rosas
