Southwest Austin Business Buzz: New Spots & Local Milestones
Southwest Austin’s vibrant business scene continues to grow and evolve, with a mix of fresh openings, anticipated arrivals, and established local favorites celebrating significant anniversaries. From new eateries to unique retail and essential services, there’s plenty for locals to explore. This roundup highlights the latest updates across the community, keeping you informed about where to eat, shop, and play.
Now Open in Southwest Austin
The past few months have seen a flurry of new businesses opening their doors, adding even more flavor and variety to the Southwest Austin landscape. Whether you’re looking for a new read, a healthy meal, or expert equestrian training, you’ll find exciting options.
Barnes & Noble
Book lovers rejoice! The renowned nationwide book chain has unveiled its latest Austin location in Southpark Meadows. Offering a wide array of books, magazines, toys, games, gifts, vinyl, and CDs, it’s a perfect spot for leisurely browsing or finding that perfect present. This new location opened on November 5 at 9600 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Austin.
Firefly Equestrian
For those passionate about horses, Firefly Equestrian is a full-service English riding and dressage facility that launched in August. Located at 12901 Trails End, Austin, it offers comprehensive full-care horse boarding, expert dressage training, and English riding lessons suitable for ages three and up. With over 100 acres of trails and arenas, it caters to both competitive and recreational riders.
Mendocino Farms
Expanding its Texas footprint, Mendocino Farms opened its 11th Texas location on October 14 at 4301 W. William Cannon Drive, Bldg. H, Ste. 110, Austin. Known for its signature salads and sandwiches, the menu features popular items like the “Not So Fried” Chicken Sandwich and the Avocado & Quinoa Superfood Ensalada, alongside exciting chef specials such as The Seasonal Goat with Pink Lady Apples.
Moreno Barbecue
Southwest Austin now boasts Moreno Barbecue, a new locally-owned joint serving up classic Texas barbecue. Since its late September opening at 9900 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Ste. M700, Austin, patrons can enjoy meat by the pound, sandwiches, tacos, nachos, macaroni and cheese, burgers, and breakfast options.
Southern Steer Butcher
Under the ownership of Jonathan Candee, Southern Steer Butcher opened on October 18 at 8701 W. Hwy. 71, Ste. 100, Austin. This butcher shop offers a premium selection of beef, chicken, pork, and prepared sides and appetizers. They also feature a unique Dry Aging Program, allowing members to reserve custom-named spaces in their dry ager for bespoke cuts.
Waterloo Audiology
Founded by Kelli House and Sara Burge, Waterloo Audiology provides essential hearing services including hearing aids, hearing protection, and tinnitus treatment. Their newest location, which opened in November at 7415 Southwest Parkway, Bldg. 6, Ste. 400, Austin, complements existing practices in Georgetown, Seguin, and San Marcos.
Coming Soon to the Area
Keep these exciting new ventures on your radar, as they prepare to open and further enhance Southwest Austin’s offerings.
Granny’s Tacos
Fans of authentic Mexican cuisine will be thrilled to learn that Granny’s Tacos is bringing its popular food truck to the new South Austin location of Crux Climbing Center. The exact opening date is to be determined, but you can anticipate delicious tacos soon at 220 Ralph Ablanedo, Austin.
LEONA Botanical Cafe & Bar
A collaborative culinary destination from Lakana and Justin Trubiana, and Reyna and Maritza Vazquez, LEONA Botanical Cafe & Bar is set to open on November 11 at 6405 Brodie Lane, Austin. This unique spot will host three counter-service restaurants: DEE DEE’s first brick-and-mortar location, Veracruz All Natural, and Bun Bun Burger.
St. David’s CareNow Urgent Care
Expanding healthcare accessibility, St. David’s is opening a new CareNow Urgent Care center on Slaughter Lane. This facility will provide crucial care for minor conditions and illnesses, including colds, flu, and sprains. An opening date is TBD for the center at 200 W. Slaughter Lane, Ste. 110, Austin.
Relocations
Tribe Comics & Games
A community hub for enthusiasts, Tribe Comics & Games has relocated from its previous South Lamar location to 321 W. Ben White Blvd., Ste. 101, Austin. Since late October, the store continues to offer a diverse collection of comics, manga, and graphic novels, alongside hosting frequent game nights and events.
Celebrating Local Milestones
Several beloved local businesses are marking significant anniversaries, showcasing their enduring commitment to the Southwest Austin community.
- Altitude Trampoline Park: This indoor trampoline park, located at 6800 West Gate Blvd., celebrated its 10-year anniversary in October, continuing to offer fun for all ages with a rock wall, basketball, dodgeball, and more.
- Meanwhile Brewing Co.: The popular South Austin brewery at 3901 Promontory Point Drive will mark its fifth anniversary with three days of festivities from November 7-9, featuring special beer releases, food deals, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- Doc’s Backyard Grill: Celebrating two decades in Austin, this neighborhood bar and grill at 5207 Brodie Lane reached its 20-year milestone in October. They’re offering monthly specials on the 20th of each month until next October to commemorate.
- Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital: Providing fear-free veterinary care, this center at 10706 Brodie Lane also celebrated its 20th anniversary in October, offering comprehensive services from preventative care to acupuncture.
A Recent Closing
While the business landscape is largely expanding, there are also some departures.
CVS
The CVS location at 520 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin, closed its doors on November 11. Signs indicated that nearby locations on South Congress and another on Slaughter Lane remain open to serve customers.
Southwest Austin Business Scene at a Glance
Here’s a quick look at some of the new establishments:
| Business Name | Category | Key Offerings | Opened |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barnes & Noble | Retail | Books, magazines, gifts | Nov 5 |
| Mendocino Farms | Dining | Sandwiches, salads, chef specials | Oct 14 |
| Moreno Barbecue | Dining | BBQ by pound, sandwiches, tacos | Late Sept |
| Southern Steer Butcher | Specialty Food | Meats, sides, Dry Aging Program | Oct 18 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Southwest Austin Businesses
- What kind of new dining options are available in Southwest Austin?
New dining options include Moreno Barbecue for classic BBQ, Mendocino Farms for fresh salads and sandwiches, and the upcoming LEONA Botanical Cafe & Bar with multiple counter-service restaurants. - Are there any new places for family activities?
Firefly Equestrian offers English riding lessons for ages three and up, and Altitude Trampoline Park continues to provide indoor fun after celebrating its 10th anniversary. - Is there a new bookstore in the area?
Yes, Barnes & Noble recently opened a new location in Southpark Meadows on November 5. - What essential services have recently opened?
Waterloo Audiology has opened to provide hearing services, and St. David’s CareNow Urgent Care is coming soon to Slaughter Lane for minor medical needs.
With new businesses popping up and long-standing favorites reaching impressive milestones, Southwest Austin continues to offer a dynamic and exciting environment for residents. Be sure to visit these new and established local spots to show your support and discover your next favorite.
Southwest Austin Business Buzz New Spots Local Milestones
