As summer fades into fall, Austin is set to welcome a wave of new dining experiences that are generating buzz throughout the city.
Among the most anticipated is Roya, a Persian restaurant from chef Amir Hajimaleki.
After years of pop-ups and much excitement since its announcement in 2018, Roya will finally open its doors in North Shoal Creek, taking over the former Shortie’s Pizza + Grinders location.
Hajimaleki, who immigrated from Iran to the U.S. at a young age, aims to share his culinary heritage through a menu featuring seasonal dishes inspired by his roots.
Signature items will include the royal egg, a sumptuous egg custard topped with Caspian osetra caviar, and traditional Persian dishes such as short rib ghormeh sabzi, kabobs, and kashk eh bademjan, an eggplant dip.
Desserts will be curated by Hajimaleki’s culinary partner, Dennis Van, who manages dessert offerings at all of their restaurants.
The restaurant promises a full bar featuring unique cocktails like an albaloo (sour cherry) margarita and a turmeric honey-infused whiskey sour, alongside a wine list that highlights selections from the Middle East.
The interior will be adorned with Persian art, including intricate rugs, paintings, and tile work contributed by Shiraz Garden, a venue in Bastrop that Hajimaleki is also in the process of transforming into a Persian cultural center.
Meanwhile, the Berg & Sons restaurant group is making its mark with the launch of VanHorn’s, a New York-inspired steakhouse.
This marks the group’s third opening in just three years, with chef and owner Daniel Berg drawing on his experience from the New York dining scene.
VanHorn’s will serve a variety of aged cuts sourced from Pat LaFrieda Meat Purveyors in New York City and will feature dishes like braised lamb shepherd’s pie, a raw bar, seafood options, and family-style accompanying sides.
Eliminating the pretentious steakhouse atmosphere, the team aims to create an inviting dining experience that caters to diverse budgets and preferences, which is reflected in both the menu and the wine selection.
For those seeking a more casual spot, Grá Mór, a new cafe from the creators of The Dead Rabbit, will soon open next door.
Named for the Irish phrase meaning “big love,” Grá Mór will offer a delightful selection of all-day cafe fare and cocktails.
Morning patrons can look forward to banana cream cold brews, smoothies, and savory brunch options like sausage rolls and scones, while the evening menu will feature pints, mocktails, and hearty offerings such as a spiced salmon bowl.
Grab-and-go options will also be available, including chilled scones, overnight oats, chia pudding, and yogurt bowls.
Additionally, UT students will be thrilled about the arrival of Limegreen, a family-owned Southeast Asian eatery.
Limegreen will specialize in customizable bánh mì sandwiches, pho, noodle and rice bowls, crispy rolls, and wings.
With a sleek, inviting atmosphere and a vibrant wall mural, this fast-casual spot aims to be the go-to destination for a delicious study break.
image source from：austin
