Welcome to Austin: Kimbal Musk’s The Kitchen Opens its Doors!
Austin, Texas has officially welcomed another exciting culinary destination, and it’s none other than The Kitchen, an upscale farm-to-table restaurant opened by the brother of infamous tech billionaire Elon Musk. This stylish eatery made its Texas debut on November 14, taking over a prime spot on the ground floor of the city’s tallest skyscraper at 400 W. Sixth St.
A Culinary Journey 18 Years in the Making
The Kitchen, which first opened its doors in Boulder, Colorado back in 2004, has since established additional locations in Denver, Chicago, and now our very own Austin. Kimbal Musk has always had his eye set on this vibrant city, referring to it as a “sister city” of Boulder with a penchant for quirky charm and culture. He recently revealed to sources that a staff poll conducted back in May 2020 unanimously favored Austin as the next expansion location, and who can blame them?
Big Flavors with a Twist
Under the direction of Chef Michael Bertozzi, The Kitchen promises an innovative menu that bridges American classics with flair. Growing up with roots in both Florida and Peru, Chef Bertozzi is inspired by the rich tapestry of tastes from various parts of the world. Think flavors from India, Morocco, and Japan, combined to surprise your palate.
“His passion lies along the spice route—from Italy through to China,” Kimbal explains. The goal? To offer an assortment of dishes that are not just delicious but also totally unique. For instance, the menu includes an enticing item dubbed the Indian Puffy Taco, which is a fun reimagining of the beloved Texas staple but with tantalizing Indian flavors. It’s all about familiar ingredients with a clever twist!
A Feast for the Senses
The atmosphere at The Kitchen is just as vibrant as its menu. The restaurant boasts an impressive 8,300-square-foot space, comfortably seating 211 guests. Designed by local architectural firm Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, the aesthetic blends sturdy blues with cream and gold accents—plus, the stunning three triangular chandeliers by lighting artist Jen Lewin take the ambiance to a whole new level.
During the opening party, guests were treated to an array of small plates, including delightful yellowtail bites, scrumptious lobster rolls, flavorful steak tartare, and, of course, the crowd-favorite Denver steak, cooked to perfection.
Drink Up!
And let’s not forget about drinks! The bartenders whipped up refreshing cocktails, showcasing everything from a classic smoked bourbon old fashioned to a unique blackberry spritz. The drink menu is guaranteed to make your taste buds dance, complementing every delicious bite you take.
What’s Next for The Kitchen?
As for pricing, diners can expect dishes ranging from $12 to $280. The menu will rotate seasonally, ensuring a fresh experience every time you visit. Reservations are currently being accepted, and it’s wise to snag yours now before the word really gets out about this culinary gem!
With its official opening now just around the corner, The Kitchen is poised to become a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re dining with friends or celebrating a special occasion, the restaurant aims to cater to every palate. So, mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable dining journey at The Kitchen in the heart of Austin!
The Kitchen is open daily at 4 p.m. with plans to expand hours for lunch and brunch in the future. It’s high time to gather your friends, family, or that special someone and discover what all the buzz is about!
