Austin Welcomes New Texan Icehouse, Chalmers
Austin, TX – July 4 marks a new chapter in East Austin’s vibrant nightlife as Chalmers, a casual Texas Icehouse, opens its gates at 1700 East Cesar Chavez Street. The new joint is another feather in the cap of the team behind Armadillo Den and the Dainty Dilly, marking their third new establishment this summer.
Chalmers: West Texas Meets Luckenbach
In an interview before the launch, Armadillo co-owner Brett Berry positioned Chalmers as an intersection between West Texas and Luckenbach, introducing a laid-back, casual vibe that resonates with a rich southwestern appeal. The menu reflects this same spirit, featuring fry bread tacos, a signature of Navajo cuisine, garnished with strip steak, mushrooms, or spiced ground beef.
More Than Just Tacos
While the fry bread tacos certainly steal the show, the menu also includes a range of sandwiches, from the American classics like burgers and patty melts, to the unique creation known as the Roadrunner, made from blackened chicken, smoked bacon, roasted mushrooms, amongst others. On the appetizer front, diners can savor some crispy fried onion strings, country-fried steak tenders, and the delectable arancini made with Spanish rice.
Outdoor Delights and Liquid Elixirs
Chalmers also highlights two on-site food trucks to enhance the outdoor dining experience. Sweet Nothings makes the dessert wish list come true with snow cones and soft-serve ice cream. The Rollin Smoke BBQ truck is set to join the lineup soon, introducing a delightful fusion of smoky, sizzling flavors.
The bar keeps up the pace with draft cocktails and beers, frozen Mexican martinis, and Desert Zombie featuring tequila and mezcal, alongside others.
Chalmers’ Evolving Landscape
The venue takes up a former Shell gas station and enthralls guests with a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. A defunct gas pump morphs into an alfresco bar, radiating a cool fusion vibe. The venue also features fire pits, live music stages and areas, televisions, and a fenced-in off-leash dog park, promising every patron a wholesome experience.
While the main building and front patio began service on its launch day, the backyard is expected to open to the public a few weeks later. Providing entertainment begins with hosting live music shows on Wednesdays and weekends.
Hours and Amenities
From Monday through Wednesday, Chalmers will be open from 4 pm to midnight. On Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays, and Saturdays, it’s open from noon to midnight or 1 am. All family members, including kids, are welcome until 6 pm each day.
The Creators Behind Chalmers
Chalmers carries the legacy of successful establishments conceptualized by the dynamic Armadillo team and the Excelsior Hospitality group, with general manager Aaron Amtower helming the operations.
Prior to Chalmers, the Armadillo team launched their original bar, Armadillo Den, in late 2020 and Dainty Dillo in February 2021. They also manage the armed Warren’s Backyard venue bar in Granbury, Texas, and have plans in sight for an expansion in Gruene, Texas.
With Chalmers, Austin’s nightlife witnesses a fresh space that vows a unique blend of Southwestern tastes, intriguing aesthetics, and memorable experiences.
