West Austin, TX October 2024 by City Lifestyle

Celebrating 2 Years!

As we welcome fall and the cooler weather, it’s a great time to reflect on the comfort and connection this season brings. October holds special meaning for us at West Austin City Lifestyle—it’s our two-year anniversary, and we couldn't be more excited to celebrate with you.

Reflecting on the past two years, I am filled with immense gratitude for our Founders Circle and the incredible community that has supported us from the very beginning. Your commitment to West Austin and support for local businesses have been the driving force behind our publication.

This October, we’re particularly excited about Bee Cave Restaurant Week, hosted by the Bee Cave Chamber of Commerce from October 6th-12th. The week is all about treating yourself to specially priced menu items at your favorite local spots while supporting the Bee Cave community. As you explore the restaurants, share your experiences with us using the hashtag #BeeAFoodie—we can't wait to see how you’re enjoying the local flavors!

Celebrating our two-year anniversary reminds us of how much we've grown and evolved alongside this wonderful community. Our October issue is one of our most delectable yet, showcasing the talented chefs, artisans, and local businesses that contribute to the area's unique and thriving food scene. It's issues like this that define our journey and make it all worthwhile.

Thank you for being a part of West Austin City Lifestyle and helping us celebrate the place we proudly call home.

Cheers!

BRYAN STONE, PUBLISHER @WESTAUSTINCITYLIFESTYLE

October 2024

PUBLISHER

Bryan Stone | Bryan.Stone@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michelle Wood | Michelle.Wood@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Claire Smith | Claire@littleacornsphoto.com

Kim Ortiz | Kim@kimortiz.com

Melissa Glynn | Melissa@melissaglynn.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

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MEET THE VISIONARY BEHIND THE BEST FOOD AND DINING EXPERIENCES IN AND AROUND WEST AUSTIN.

Restaurateur Simon Madera

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JODY HORTON AND TACO CREW MANAGEMENT LLC

Simon Madera, Founder and Owner of Taco Crew Management LLC.

Photographed by Jody Horton.

Driven by his cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, Simon Madera’s journey in Austin’s food scene reflects both resilience and innovation. With an MBA from St. Edward’s University and a background in banking, Simon’s career took an unexpected turn during the subprime mortgage crisis. Rather than being discouraged, he bought a liquor store at The Triangle, but he soon discovered his true passion lay elsewhere.

Inspired by his South Texas and Mexican upbringing, Simon developed the Taco Flats brand on Burnet Road. He also transformed Kellee’s Place in East Austin into the mezcal cantina La Holly and, in 2019, converted Zocalo Café in Clarksville as Taco Flats Clarksville. His ventures, including Junction Prime and Hooper’s in Kingsland, Texas, have made a significant impact on the community by celebrating quality and tradition while elevating the local food scene with authentic flavors and the best dining experiences.

CONTINUED >

Taco Flats - Lakeway, located at 900 Ranch Rd 620 S c104, Lakeway, TX 78734. Photographed by Taco Crew Management LLC.

HOW DO TACO FLATS - LAKEWAY AND JUNCTION PRIME DISTINGUISH THEMSELVES COMPARED TO YOUR OTHER VENTURES?

Taco Flats, a local chain with four stores and a presence at Austin FC, has become a local staple. We’re known for serving some of the best frozen margaritas and tacos in town. Our tortillas are homemade, and our drinks are made with fresh-squeezed citrus, ensuring that our food and cocktail programs maintain the highest quality even after 10 years.

In late 2022, we expanded by purchasing the historic Antler’s Inn and the on-site restaurant, now Hooper’s, which served as the original movie set for the Texas Chain Saw Massacre. On those 8 acres, we created a town square and added Junction Prime, a steak and seafood restaurant in Kingsland, part of the Highland Lakes area. At Junction Prime, we bring in fresh fish daily and source prime meat from top ranches. The moody ambiance, paired with a curated wine and cocktail menu, offers a unique dining experience on Lake LBJ.

Photographed by Jody Horton.

HOW DO YOU KEEP YOUR MENUS FRESH AND EXCITING WHILE STAYING TRUE TO YOUR BRAND?

Taco Flats and Junction Prime Steakhouse may be under the same management, but they have distinct approaches to sourcing and serving food. At Taco Flats, we focus on making everything in-house, from our tortillas to our salsas and marinades. What we are proud of is our commitment to being a fresh, never frozen establishment. Our crowd favorites include the Pirata and Gringa tacos, as well as the fresh tuna tostadas. And, of course, our frozen margarita is a standout!

Junction Prime, on the other hand, takes a different approach. We source our meat from MTX Ranch and Dean and Peeler, ensuring top-quality cuts, while our seafood comes from Austin Seafood, a purveyor that brings in fresh fish from all over the world. Our greens and microgreens are supplied by smaller, specialized vendors. Among our offerings, the dry-aged ribeye and Cajun pasta are personal favorites, and our smoked prime rib, available on Thursdays.

HOW HAVE YOU NAVIGATED THE CHALLENGES OF EXPANDING YOUR RESTAURANT CONCEPTS WHILE MAINTAINING QUALITY AND ADAPTING TO MARKET SHIFTS?

Our concepts are managed by the same management company, so our patrons know what to expect in terms of quality. The versatility of our group is what I believe contributes to the culinary scene. However, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Due to inflation, food costs have skyrocketed, and we’ve noticed a drop in consumption over the last 12 months. Despite these challenges, we believe that places like ours will recover as the market stabilizes. We’ve always had family-friendly restaurants, and expanding into Lakeway felt like a natural fit for Taco Flats. As for the Highland Lakes expansion, it happened somewhat by accident—we saw an opportunity as the area started to grow, and decided to bring our concept to a new community.

REFLECTING

ON YOUR CAREER, WHAT’S YOUR PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT, AND WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING RESTAURATEURS?

There isn’t a single moment that stands out as my proudest. I’m just happy that we still exist, and I’m grateful to have the drive and motivation to keep serving the community and opening cool spots. As our group of restaurants grows, the work gets harder. My advice to aspiring restaurateurs is simple: you have to stay with it. Restaurants are tough, but if you pay attention and truly enjoy what you do, success is in the makeup of the operator.

Junction Prime, located at 1020 Altman St., Kingsland, TX 78639. Photographed by Jody Horton.

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD

Socialize Sip, Savor, &

Frontyard Brewing, located at 4514 Bob Wire Rd, Spicewood, TX

October in Spicewood, Texas, reveals the breathtaking beauty of the Hill Country, making it a popular spot for locals ready to indulge in life’s simple pleasures. This charming area offers a variety of family- and dogfriendly venues where you can savor craft beer, artisanal spirits, and award-winning wines. With vibrant fall events and inviting spaces, Spicewood is the perfect place to unwind and fully embrace the season’s spirit.

Frontyard Brewing, located at 4514 Bob Wire Road, is the heart of the Spicewood community. Hosting an Oktoberfest on nine picturesque acres, Frontyard offers traditional activities like “Stein Holding Competitions,” “Pretzel Necklaces,” and hearty food specials. Highlights of their seasonal drinks include the Oktoberfest, a rich, toasty German-style Märzen, and pink hard seltzer cocktails supporting breast cancer awareness initiatives. As Halloween approaches, the brewery transforms for “Boos and Brews” on October 26th, featuring Halloween costume contests, themed games, and local food trucks. On October 27th, young entrepreneurs will showcase their businesses at the Kidpranuer Fair, with speakers sharing insights on starting a business. The festive atmosphere, complete with live music every Friday and Saturday, makes Frontyard Brewing a top destination for immersing yourself in seasonal celebrations and connecting with locals.

Iron Wolf Ranch and Distillery, located at 101 Co Rd 409, Spicewood, TX 78669.

Just a short drive away, Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery, located at 101 County Road 409, offers a unique spirited experience. This expansive venue is ideal for a family day out, with plenty of space for kids to play and leashed pets to relax. The month is filled with events for all ages, starting with a live performance by Texas Country musician Matthew Upchurch on October 5th. As a proud veteran of the US Army, Matthew follows in his father’s footsteps, pouring his heart into both his family and his own unique style of Texas Country music. Warm up with seasonal spirits like a Texas Hot Toddy or a spiced rum cocktail that captures the essence of fall. For a memorable experience, visit on October 20th for “Painting with Baby Goats,” where you can paint a wooden pumpkin while adorable baby goats in Halloween costumes add an extra dose of fun. On October 26th, the distillery’s “Booze & Boos: Sip, Shop, & Trunk or Treat” features a variety of vendors and trunk or treat stations with live music by the Caterwaulers. Enjoy delicious bites from local food trucks and signature specialty drinks available all day.

Continuing your journey in Spicewood, be sure to visit Spicewood Vineyards located at 1419 County Road 409. Here, you can savor a bold Texas red wine or a crisp Chardonnay while sampling an array of mac and cheese dishes at their “1st Mac and Cheese Championship” on October 12th. This event showcases local culinary talent and offers a unique opportunity to experience exceptional flavors. The 5,000-square-foot facility boasts a

newly redesigned tasting room on the top floor and shaded porches that offer a tranquil escape. Guests can take in the serene ambiance and gorgeous views that make this a perfect spot for relaxation. For those wishing to stay connected, joining their exclusive Wine Club provides year-round benefits. Membership includes access to limited-release wines, a 15% discount on all Spicewood Vineyards wines, and invitations to exclusive events like Wine Club Member Pick Up Parties, ensuring that the stunning vineyard is always part of your Spicewood experience.

Spicewood, Texas, captures the Hill Country’s beauty with its unique blend of experiences. Enjoy craft beer at Frontyard Brewing, a spirited afternoon at Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery, or award-winning wines at Spicewood Vineyards. This one-of-a-kind place invites you to savor the season with your family and pets by your side. Each visit offers a distinct opportunity to appreciate the local culture and community.

Discover more about these incredible local businesses by following West Austin City Lifestyle on Instagram and Facebook at @WestAustinCityLifestyle or visiting CityLifestyle. com/WestAustin. Share your experiences using the hashtag #WestAustinCityLifestyle for a chance to be featured in our City Scene section on page 10.

Spicewood Vineyards, located at 1419 Co Rd 409, Spicewood, TX 78669.

Chad Hart FOUNDER

SETTING THE SCENE

Transform Your Living Space with the Timeless Beauty of Sunburst Shutters.

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUNBURST SHUTTERS AUSTIN

As the beauty of fall arrives, there’s something magical about the way the season transforms our homes, especially the spaces where we gather with loved ones. Sunburst Shutters Austin has been helping Texans create the perfect backdrop for cherished memories for over 35 years, offering timeless window treatments that do more than just enhance the look

of your home. These interior shutters, shades, and blinds also create a cozy and inviting environment, perfect for family meals and gatherings, making every moment spent together even more special. In many homes, the dining room serves as a multifunctional space, accommodating everything from entertaining guests and creating a quiet corner to traditional activities like family dinners and festive holiday feasts. With larger windows and open floor plans becoming more popular, Sunburst Shutters Austin has seen a growing interest in the louver style window treatment in sizes—3.5 and 4.5 inches. These larger louvers are perfect for controlling light and ensuring privacy, whether you’re enjoying a peaceful morning brunch bathed in soft sunlight or setting a warm and inviting scene for an evening of pumpkin carving and cider sipping. The beauty of these shutters lies in their ability to blend seamlessly with both modern and traditional designs, making them a versatile choice for any style of home.

Sunburst Shutters offers more than just good looks. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures start to dip, the practicality of these shutters truly shines. Their Polywood Shutters, for instance, are known for superior insulation, ensuring your dining room stays cool during those lingering hot Texas afternoons and cozy during the brisk October evenings. This insulation isn’t just about comfort; it’s also about efficiency. In fact, these shutters are so effective at regulating temperature that they qualify for the federal energy tax credit, a benefit that’s especially valuable as we navigate the extreme weather conditions that Texas can throw our way.

For those who appreciate a touch of modern convenience, Sunburst Shutters Austin also offers motorized roller shades that can be easily adjusted with the touch of a button. This feature is particularly handy when transitioning from a bright breakfast to a more intimate dinner setting or preparing your home for those early October sunsets. The seamless operation of these shades ensures that the focus remains on the meal and the company, not on adjusting the lighting. With their versatile designs, large or hard-to-reach windows can be covered effortlessly, adding a functional yet stylish element to any room

The energy-efficient features of Sunburst Shutters ensure that your dining space isn’t just stylish, but also comfortable and inviting for everyone who gathers there. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner, celebrating Halloween with a special meal, or simply enjoying a quiet evening as the leaves change color outside, these shutters enhance the ambiance in a way that’s both timeless and welcoming.

Designed with comfort, style, and energy savings in mind, Sunburst Shutters are ideal for updating your dining room or adding a cozy touch to any part of your home. And with the added benefit of qualifying for the federal energy tax credit, these shutters offer a practical advantage that goes beyond aesthetics. Schedule a free consultation at (512) 549-6077, and explore the range of products to find the perfect fit for your home by visiting SunburstShuttersAustin.com

KERBEY LANE CAFE Gives Back

Mason Ayer, CEO of Kerbey Lane All Day Cafe, shared the heartfelt inspiration behind Kerbey Kindness and its powerful impact on the Austin community.

WHAT SPARKED THE IDEA FOR THE KERBEY KINDNESS PROGRAM, AND CAN YOU HIGHLIGHT SOME OF ITS STANDOUT INITIATIVES?

Kerbey Lane’s mission has always been to create a welcoming space for all. Launched in January 2023, Kerbey Kindness supports local organizations focusing on four pillars: nutrition, health and wellness, education, family, and animal welfare. Impactful partnerships include Austin Pets Alive!, The Kindness Campaign, and CASA of Travis County.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE ROLE OF SUSTAINABILITY AND LOCAL SOURCING IN THE KERBEY KINDNESS PROGRAM’S CHARITABLE EFFORTS?

Kerbey Lane prioritizes supporting the Austin community by sourcing food ingredients from local partners and sustainable farms, focusing on animal welfare and environmental stewardship.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE ORGANIZATIONS YOU SUPPORT, AND HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY GET INVOLVED?

Local nonprofits aligned with Kerbey Kindness pillars apply online to become quarterly beneficiaries. Residents can support by ordering the monthly pancake special, and Kerbey Lane also hosts in-kind donations and school Spirit Nights.

UPCOMING EVENTS & INITIATIVES:

Kerbey Lane Cafe chooses a new Kerbey Kindness beneficiary each quarter. By visiting a Kerbey Lane location and ordering the monthly pancake special, you are supporting our neighbors who are doing good in the community. Kerbey Lane also supports local fundraisers and hosts school Spirit Nights to support PTAs.

For more information on in-kind donations or school fundraisers, visit KerbeyLaneCafe.com/ About-Us.

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERBEY LANE ALL DAY CAFE

Building a CommunityFocused Restaurant Through Kindness and Commitment.

Mason Ayer, Chief Executive Officer of Kerbey Lane All Day Cafe

Kerbey Lane Cafe - Westlake, 701 S. Capital of TX Hwy, Austin, TX 78746.

Holiday & Harvest Pumpkin Patch

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLIDAY & HARVEST

When it comes to celebrating seasonal traditions, Holiday & Harvest is your go-to destination. This locally owned annual Pumpkin Patch and Christmas Tree lot offers holiday-specific events year-round. It is more than just a place to pick out the perfect pumpkin or tree - it’s a community hub where magical memories are made and traditions are cherished.

Conveniently located throughout Austin and the Texas Hill Country, Holiday & Harvest offers a festive retreat with free entry for all ages. The new Bee Cave

location is perfectly situated off of Highway 71 near RR 620, making it a convenient choice. Families can enjoy a range of activities, from decorating stations and photo opportunities to pumpkin-related games and pick your own pumpkin patches.

Founder DJ Smith emphasizes the importance of community, stating, “Our success as a business is measured by the number of smiles we bring to our customers and the impact we have on local kids.” This commitment to community and youth development is

Where Festive Fun Meets Community Spirit

what makes Holiday & Harvest truly special. High school students are encouraged to join the leadership team, gaining valuable experience in responsibility and teamwork, while the partnership with Austin Sunshine Camps, a local nonprofit, furthers their dedication to making a positive impact on the youth.

Don’t drive too far for a pumpkin function this fall, visit Holiday & Harvest in Austin at Barton Creek Square Mall or in Bee Cave. Open from September 27th to October 31st, the pumpkin patch is available Monday through Friday from 12pm to 8pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 8pm. It’s the perfect place to embrace the holiday spirit and create lasting memories. Plan your visit at HolidayandHarvest.com .

Holiday Fun For All

• Free entry is available for all ages.

• Guests can pick the perfect pumpkin for carving, decorating, or baking.

• Visitors can get creative at the decoration station and craft zone, where they can personalize their pumpkins or make festive crafts.

• Participate in fall games and explore hay mazes.

• Capture holiday memories with festive photo backdrops.

• Leashed dogs are welcome to join the fun.

• Bulk pumpkin ordering is available for homes and businesses, with delivery, installation, and pickup services, learn more at HolidayandHarvest.com

• Bee Cave Pumpkin Patch

September 27th - October 31st

Monday - Friday: 12pm - 8pm

Saturday & Sunday: 10am - 8pm

Garden LUTIE’S RESTAURANT

Seasonal, Ingredient-Driven Dishes

Led by a Husband-and-Wife Chef Team.

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY COMMODORE PERRY ESTATE, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION

Lutie’s, nestled within the historic Commodore Perry Estate, is an intimate garden restaurant renowned for its regional cuisine. Led by the husband-and-wife chef team, Bradley Nicholson and Susana Querejazu, Lutie’s has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors.

Lutie's Executive Chef Bradley Nicholson and Executive Pastry Chef Susana Querejazu

Nicholson and Querejazu bring their expertise from acclaimed kitchens in San Francisco and Copenhagen to craft seasonal, ingredient-driven dishes. “When a new ingredient becomes available to us, we try to think of the best representation for that item on our menu,” Executive Chef Nicholson explains. His culinary approach focuses on a few key ingredients, as demonstrated by the classic Blue Jasmoon Rice, Mt. Lassen Trout, and Smoked Trout Roe dish, capturing simplicity and depth of flavor. Nicholson’s “no-waste” philosophy is showcased in the beet dish, which combines ingredients like reduced beet juice, beet greens, and black garlic. “We try to make dishes that are based around one or two ingredients, so we have to get creative in how to make the dish complete,” he explains.

Pastry Chef Susana Querejazu brings her own flair to Lutie’s with desserts like Chocolate Cremeux paired with Lutie’s Kouign Amann ice cream. “My style for dessert is very technique and flavor-driven with super simple flavors, which is what I crave and how I like to eat desserts,” she says, highlighting her commitment to quality ingredients and precise execution, a practice she honed in Michelin-starred restaurants.

The focus on combining technical skill with straightforward execution results in dishes that are more than meets the eye. “We want Lutie’s to be an approachable, delicious, and exciting restaurant; to get there we think of how to make the impact on the plate,” Nicholson says. This philosophy ensures that every meal at Lutie’s is a memorable experience.

Since opening in April 2021, Lutie’s has reflected Austin’s vibrant culture and history. The estate’s lush surroundings complement the thoughtfully crafted, seasonal cuisine. Lutie’s is open daily for dinner from 5 to 10pm and for brunch on weekends from 11am to 2pm, and is located at 4100 Red River St. Follow @LutiesAustin for the latest updates, or learn more about the Commodore Perry Estate and its offerings at AubergeResorts.com/CommodorePerry

Blue Jasmoon Rice, Mt. Lassen Trout, and Smoked Trout Roe

Chocolate Cremeux served with Kouign Amann Ice Cream

Lutie's Garden Restaurant

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONSUMABLE CONTENT

The League Kitchen & Tavern

CELEBRATE THE FALL SEASON AT HILL COUNTRY GALLERIA’S MUST-VISIT RESTAURANT.

The League Kitchen & Tavern at Hill Country Galleria has some exciting October events lined up, including UT Football Viewing parties and Oktoberfest with Altstadt Brewing. Join us at 13420 Galleria Cir Suite A-128, Bee Cave, TX 78738, for delicious American comfort food and good times this month!

Cirque du Soleil Songblazers

Reliving the Best Highlights of Cirque du Soleil’s New Country Music Show.

Imagine the timeless country tunes you love, brought to life by Cirque du Soleil’s breathtaking performances. Songblazers lit up Bass Concert Hall, the flagship theatre of Texas Performing Arts, with an incredible mix of acrobatics and country music, featuring costumes by award-winning designer Zerina Akers. The night began with a lively yodeling contest, followed by acrobats impressing everyone with their skipping rope act to “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” Bruno Macaggi captivated the crowd by juggling red solo cups to Toby Keith’s “Red Solo Cup.” From aerial routines set to Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like A Woman!” Songblazers brought together the best of art, music, and entertainment, leaving everyone wanting more. Don’t miss the next show—follow @CirqueDuSoleil on social media and visit CirqueduSoleil.com.