One of Austin's leading Italian restaurants, Juniper, still feels fresh after nearly a decade, and some operational changes on the horizon are opening another new chapter in the restaurant's 10th year. Most notable is the addition of a new executive chef, paired with a new general manager and some interior renovations.

The restaurant announced its new chef on social media in late May, and followed up with a press release containing more information on June 13.

"A decade in this industry is something to celebrate, especially in a dynamic culinary city like Austin," said Juniper's founding chef and Excelsior Hospitality Group owner Nic Yanes in the release. "This evolution represents both a celebration of what we've built and a recommitment to excellence, hospitality and our place in Austin's dynamic food scene."

The physical renovation is expected to be completed by fall 2025. The current patio will become an indoor lounge, which will serve as a dedicated space for more casual meet-ups such as cocktail outings and "spontaneous gatherings." The press release also notes a "newly re-imagined bar and lounge experience."

Sterling Ridings will be Juniper's new executive chef, executing the already established vision of chef partner Junior Borges. Ridings is a graduate of the world-famous Le Cordon Bleu and has worked with Tyson Cole of Uchi, Paul Qui of Uchiko, and Shawn Cirkiel of Parkside. From Riding's résumé on LinkedIn, his longest commitment to a restaurant was six years at Uchi as a sous chef, chef de cuisine, and finally executive chef.

According to the release, Ridings' goal at Juniper is to create a new menu that is "both elevated and accessible," fit for Austin's changing dining scene. Juniper is known for its artistic takes on Northern Italian food, which tends to be hearty and rustic — so this directive is good news for longtime Juniper fans. They can expect new seasonal menus and "continued refinements to service."

Ridings will have support from new general manager Sophie Fitzpatrick, who will be tasked with increasing Juniper's commitment to hospitality and the guest experience. She has more than 15 years of experience in the United States and United Kingdom, including at Mattos Hospitality and The Moore hotel, both upscale operations in New York City.

Sophie Fitzpatrick is Juniper's new general manager.Photo courtesy of Consumable Content

“Sterling and Sophie each bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the table,” said Yanes. “Their leadership and vision align perfectly with Juniper’s continued evolution, and we’re thrilled to welcome them as we continue pushing toward even higher standards of hospitality.”

Separately from these announcements, Juniper has a new aperitivo hour. Sundays through Thursdays from 5-7 pm, there will be an antipasti menu with dishes that aren't on the regular menu, plus deals for complimentary beverages and $2 off cocktails and wine.

Juniper is located at 2400 E. Cesar Chavez St. Hours are 5-10 pm Sundays through Thursdays, and 5-11 pm Fridays and Saturdays.