Austin Culinary Icon Patricia Sharpe Retires After 50 Years, Spoetzl Brewery Expands with New Distillery and Cocktail Lounge

Austin Bids Farewell to a Culinary Legend

Austin, Texas – After half a century as a key figure in the Texas dining scene, Patricia Sharpe is set to retire from her role at Texas Monthly. The announcement came on September 12, revealing that the veteran food critic will hang up her hat at the end of this year. Sharpe’s departure marks a significant moment in the state’s food culture, as she has been a vital part of it for decades.

A Journey Through a Culinary Transformation

Sharpe’s career at Texas Monthly began in 1974, just after the magazine was established. Starting as an editorial assistant, she quickly climbed the ranks, eventually managing and editing the magazine’s Dining Guide. Over the years, she developed popular columns, including Pat’s Pick and the long-standing feature Where to Eat Now, which has become a staple for food lovers in Texas.

At the time Sharpe began her career, Texas’ restaurant scene was quite different. The state had less than half its current population, and dining out was not as prevalent as it is today. Commenting on her impact, Dan Goodgame, the editor in chief of Texas Monthly, acknowledged, “Pat has covered the fine-dining scene in Texas for so long, and in such a discerning and engaging manner, that she has become a vital part of the scene herself. There is no replacing Pat Sharpe.”

The Charm of Sharpe’s Writing

What sets Sharpe apart is not just her extensive experience but also her engaging writing style. Her ability to blend humor with insightful criticism has resonated with readers for years. In a retrospective piece from 2005, she humorously recounted her thirty-year journey with the magazine, noting changing food trends and the evolving culinary landscape of Texas.

“Since it was founded in 1973, this magazine has published more than 28,000 restaurant reviews,” she wrote. “If that indicates anything, it’s that people are endlessly fascinated with food and dining.” This statistic showcases not only her commitment to the craft but also the deep-rooted interest Texans have in their food scene.

Looking Ahead

While Sharpe’s official retirement may be on the horizon, readers will still have the chance to enjoy her work for the remaining months of 2024. Her rich collection of writings can also be revisited in her Texas Monthly profile and other publications, such as the UT Press collection Texas Monthly on…Food.

New Ventures in Culinary Delights

In a different corner of the Texas food landscape, another exciting development is brewing at the Spoetzl Brewery in Shiner, Texas. Known for its iconic Shiner Bock, the brewery has taken a bold step in expanding its offerings with the opening of a new distillery and a cocktail lounge.

Groundbreaking for New Experiences

The groundbreaking ceremony took place on September 6, marking the start of construction on the new cocktail lounge and restaurant near the brewery, located between San Antonio and Houston. The distillery will not only produce a variety of spirits, including vodka and gin but also offer a space designed for crafting unique cocktails.

The newly planned facility is quite the ambitious project, covering 8,500 square feet and promising a large, modern black barn that contrasts with the brewery’s traditional architecture. It aims to provide a space for over 200 seated visitors and more than 300 standing guests, along with cozy settings like an indoor fireplace and outdoor fire pits for relaxation.

Brewery and Distillery Fusion

With the addition of this cocktail lounge and a private event space, the Spoetzl Brewery property is set to attract lovers of both beer and spirits. The distillery will offer tours that include tastings, allowing guests to explore the new offerings and learn more about the craft of distilling.

Though details about the full-scale restaurant are still under wraps, the existing dining options at the brewery include classic barbecue fare like brisket and pulled pork, which are already established crowd-pleasers.

Conclusion

As Patricia Sharpe retires, she leaves behind a legacy that has shaped the dining experience in Texas for decades. Meanwhile, Spoetzl Brewery is preparing to usher in a new era of beverage enjoyment, ensuring that the Texas culinary scene continues to thrive and evolve. For those looking to explore these developments, more information can be found at the brewery’s official website.