Whether you're a high school grad who loves chicken wings or a frequent concert-goer with a taste for luxury, there's something going on in Austin's food scene just for you in the next week or two. Plus, we've got award-winning beers, a distillery party, and a celebratory pig roast.
Openings and closings
Biderman's Deli, one of the closest approximations Austin has to an East Coast deli, has closed for now. In an April 19 Facebook post, management said the store would only be closed temporarily, but did not say for how long or whether any changes would be made. "Unfortunately, we had to close our doors temporarily due to the passing of our store owner," the post says. "The staff extends our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the family during this difficult time."
Moody Center's luxe Moët & Chandon Impérial Lounge has been expanded, and the venue is accepting new members for the first time since it opened in 2022. The lounge provides special food and beverage options and comfortable seating for members, who also get priority access to shows and University of Texas basketball games, VIP parking, and a dedicated entrance. A deposit of $250 will get an applicant on the concert membership waitlist.
Other news and notes
High school grads (yes, it is already that time) have many options around town to celebrate, but the popular chicken wing joint Pluckers is offering them a special deal. Grads will get a free meal as long as they show up on their graduation day and someone orders an entrée for $16 or more. They could also win a gift card by decorating their cap "Pluckers style" and tagging @pluckerswingbar.
Jo’s Downtown (242 West 2nd St.) has upped its food game, now serving a new menu that's inspired by diners. Food isn't new at this coffee destination, which has been open since 2006, but new menu items include a corned beef Reuben; a grilled cheese with tomatoes and jalepeño, plus tomato soup, named for Andy Worhol; and new tacos and salads. Popular items sticking around include the Chico’s Fried Chicken sandwich and Jo's Famous Burger.
Two Austin brewers took home medals at the World Beer Cup, and both were gold. Vacancy Brewing won first place in the American-Style Lager category for its Vacancy Classic. Vacancy calls it "perfectly balanced," featuring "premium ingredients and traditional technique." Pinthouse Brewing won first place in the West Coast-Style India Pale category for its Mosaic Takedown. This IPA is medium-bitter and made with mosaic hops.
Wild Spirit Wild Places, Desert Door's nonprofit arm, is hosting its 4th Annual Hullabaloo Fundraiser on May 18 from 5-9 pm. Hosted by Texas Country Reporter host J.B. Sauceda, the event will include "grazing stations" and passed bites by on-site food truck Lo Salvaje, signature sotol cocktails, VIP distillery tours, and live music by country and blues singer-songwriter David Touchton. Tickets (starting at $150) are available at wildspiritwildplaces.org and proceeds will support Wild Spirit Wild Place programs in nature stewardship, education, and conservation across Texas.
Few Austin restaurants have has as much success yet stayed as humble as the acclaimed Foreign and Domestic, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary with a free parking lot pig roast on May 18. An event listing on the restaurant's website invites guests without an RSVP link, from 4-7 pm or until the food is gone. Beer and wine will be available for purchase.
