Downright Dining

Downtown Austin hotel adds terrace restaurant focused on comfort food

The Terrace Bar & Grill takes advantage of a sunny indoor-outdoor space.

Photo courtesy of Downright Austin

Downright Austin, the hotel that contains the whimsical pool bar and restauran t Swim Club, has added another concept to its food and beverage offerings. The Terrace Bar & Grill is headed by the same executive chef, Mitch Austin, and offers a laid-back outdoor environment for enjoying American fare.

The concept utilizes an indoor space as well as an outdoor second-floor terrace, separated by large floor-to-ceiling windows for plenty of light and skyline views.

A press release sums up the menu as "elevated comfort food" made with locally sourced ingredients. Highlighted items include brisket tacos, lemon burrata ravioli, rosemary chicken, salads, 12-inch pizzas, and desserts including local Amy's Ice Cream.

On the beverage side, guests can expect classics like a Cadillac margarita, a smoked old fashioned, and an espresso martini, plus wine and beer. There will also be a weekday happy hour from 4-6 pm, which will offer food and drink specials, and combos such as Margarita Mondays, Wings and Whiskey Wednesdays, and 'Tinis and Burgers on Fridays.

The Downright website lists a "smart casual" dress code for the Terrace, compared to Swim Club's "casual" dress code; lobby breakfast bar Morningbird has none. The press release softens up the ask a bit, promising a "come-as-you-are atmosphere."

“At The Terrace, we wanted to create an approachable menu and a casual gathering space that feels right for all of Downright Austin’s guests,” said Executive Chef Mitch Austin. “We focus on dishes that feel both familiar and a little unexpected, balancing bold local flavors with long-time comfort classics.”

Downright Austin, A Renaissance Hotel is located at 701 E. 11th St., making it a convenient stop for locals visiting the Red River Cultural District, which it shares with many of Austin's most popular casual music venues. It also borders Waterloo Park, a popular place for bigger concerts and other community events. It is relatively new, having opened in spring of 2024.

The Terrace Bar & Grill is open daily from 11 am to 11 pm. No reservations are required.

openings comfort food downtown hotels

Taking the High Road

Austin bar team opens indulgent deli with house sausages and cocktails

Photo by Taylor Hannan

High Road DelicaTexan offers huge sandwiches and fancy cocktails.

The Cavalier, a well-loved East Austin bar and greasy spoon, is branching out with a meaty new restaurant in Bouldin Creek. High Road DelicaTexan opens Friday, December 12, at 915 W. Mary St. The concept combines a cafe with a cocktail bar and market for house-made sausages, cured meats and more.

This is the work of Chef Russell Dougherty (of the Little Darlin'), salumist Ryan Wilson (part of the Burt’s Meat Market family in Houston, experience at Franklin Barbecue), and beverage director Chadwick Leger, plus the creative operating team at The Cavalier. Similar to the East Austin space, this new concept focuses on community — and while that tends to be a buzzword for new restaurants, this team has shown how it can bring together a neighborhood.

Sourcing is a defining element of High Road, with elements that will "largely" come from Texas vendors, according to a press release. The menu will show off sustainably sourced proteins and dairy, premium espresso from the local Figure 8 Coffee Purveyors, seasonal pickles, artisanal sodas, and more.

The menu covers everything from breakfast to a nightcap: check out sausages like andouille and a brisket hot dog; sandwiches like the Sopprestracc with soppressata, stracciatella cheese, mortadella, giardiniera, and basil lemon cream cheese on ciabatta; and twists on classic breakfast items like Burt’s Boudain Waffles with fermented fresno whipped butter and maple syrup.

On the beverage side, guests can expect various teas, alternative milks, and organic syrups, plus signature cocktails. The Dilly Dilly Swag Martini mixes olive-oil washed Ketel One vodka with dill vermouth, pickle juice, and chive-herb oil; and frozen drinks punch up Big Red soda and a classic Irish coffee. The bar will also serve some non-alcoholic options.

Finally, the market allows guests to take some specialty items home. Along with the meats and pickles, that could mean seasonal spice blends, sauces, wine, and apparel.

High Road is open Sundays through Wednesdays from 8 am to 10 pm, and Thursdays through Saturdays from 8 am to midnight.

openings cocktails barbecue wine deli sandwiches