News you can eat
East Austin 'bodega' opening this week, Antonelli's slices up free cheese, and more food news
Editor's note: We get it. It can be difficult to keep up with the what’s what and who’s who of Austin food. But we have you covered with our regular roundup of the freshest Austin restaurant news.
After spending the weekend in soft opening, Lou’s Bodega, the latest project from Austin juggernauts McGuire Moorman Hospitality and Bunkhouse Group, will debut at 1900 E. Cesar Chavez St. on January 15, according to an Instagram post from VP of Operations June Rodil. The exterior features several nods to former occupants Leal’s Tire Shop, including a bright yellow facade with Aztec mirrors, garage doors, and tire planters. Inside, guests will find rotisserie meats and vegetables, sandwiches, salads, and frozen custard, as well as coffee, beer, and wine.
After closing its Sixth Street window in June 2018 after 25 years in business, Hoeks Death Metal Pizza announced via a January 3 Facebook post that it was back as a food truck. The trailer, parked at 1606 E. Sixth St., is still committed to feeding late night crowds, staying open until midnight on Wednesday and and 3 am Thursday through Saturday.
French pastry chef and local farmers market favorite Julie Myrtille has revealed the location of her anticipated brick-and-mortar bakery on Instagram January 12. Although the opening date is still being kept under wraps, Julie Myrtille Bakery will be operating out of Springdale General at 1023 Springdale Rd.
Get a first taste of upcoming ramen bar Black Cat Ramen at the Superb Bowl I pop-up at Wright Bros. Brew & Brew February 10. From 4:30-6:30 pm, guests can score one of four distinct bowls for $8.
Antonelli’s Cheese Shop is bringing back its Free Cheese Week in celebration of its ninth year in business. From February 4 through February 8, restaurants like Lenoir, Hillside Farmacy, Central Standard, and 24 Diner will be offering one complimentary cheese plate per table starting at 5 pm. The month also features a packed schedule of classes, including the ever-popular Cheese 101. Search #freecheeseweek for more info on participating restaurants.
Far East Fest, the Asian food festival founded by Jenna’s Asian Kitchen founder Min Choe and blogger Gavin Booth of Couple in the Kitchen, is returning to Austin February 9. This year, the festivities move over to H-Mart at 11301 Lakeline Blvd. Confirmed participants include Mandala Kitchen & Bar, Thai Fresh, DFG Noodles, Revue, and Sway. Tickets range from $40-$100.
According to filings with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, Round Rock will soon see an explosion of new restaurants and bars. Mixed beverage applications have made for The Rock Sports Bar at 114 E. Main St., The Flats at 205 N. Mays St., and Alcove Cantina at 119 E. Main St. Although no other information is currently available, all are filed under the name of the same owner: Erik Hall.
Local juice bar Juice Society announced on January 14 that their packaged beverages are now available at Austin locations of Whole Foods Market. The flagship brick-and-mortar at Lamar Union has also undergone some renovations to add a build-your-own adaptogen latte bar.