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Pride in Austin: Supporting LGBTQIA-owned Food Venues

Austin's food scene steps up as a rainbow refuge.

Published August 9, 2024 at 7:01am by Matthew Odam

Keep Austin Woke: The City's Queer-Owned Cafes and Restaurants are Safe Spaces for the Community

Austin, Texas, often associated with a progressive "weird" culture, boasts the third-largest LGBTQIA community relative to its overall population. The city's culinary scene reflects this, with a growing number of queer-owned spaces fostering inclusivity and community.

Arlo Grey, chef-partner Kristen Kish: Kish, a nationally renowned chef and TV host, opened Arlo Grey in 2018, fusing Asian and American flavors with local ingredients. Kish is an openly gay fixture in Austin's culinary world, appearing at festivals and even judging the city's annual Quesoff competition.

Bureau de Poste, owners Steph Steele and chef Jo Chan: This French bistro, opened in 2023, is a collaboration between two LGBTQIA community members. Chef Jo Chan, who rose to fame after appearing on "Top Chef" in 2022, found support and a sense of belonging in Austin. Collaborating with Tiny Grocer owner Steph Steele, Bureau de Poste serves classic French dishes and embodies the city's "Lezbo Power."

Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, creative director and partner Rand Egbert: Rand Egbert, creative director and partner at Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, uses his position to actively support the Austin LGBTQ+ community. The group hosts an annual Pride Party Charity event and supports local charities, creating an inclusive environment in the city.

Flavor Hospitality Group, owner Cameron Lockley: Cameron Lockley's journey began with a love for hospitality and human connection. As an out and proud gay man, Lockley has supported various queer causes through his restaurants, including Hill Country Ride for AIDS, AIDS Service of Austin, and Equality Texas.

Jacoby's Restaurant and Mercantile and Grizzelda's, owner Adam Jacoby: Adam Jacoby and his husband, Kris Swift, extend their Texan ranch roots to their restaurants, Jacoby's and Grizzelda's. The couple creates an inclusive dining experience, serving refined country cuisine and Tex-Mex with Tulum patio vibes.

La Barbecue, owner Ali Clem: In the male-dominated world of barbecue, Ali Clem, an openly gay woman, found tremendous support and acceptance from the Austin community. Running La Barbecue with her late wife, LeAnn Mueller, Clem serves some of the best barbecue in Texas and fosters an inclusive environment celebrating individual expression.

Lick Honest Ice Creams, owners Anthony Sobotik and Chad Palmatier: This queer-owned ice cream shop, with locations across Texas, celebrates Pride annually with special flavors like Orange You Glad It's Pride? flavor. Lick Honest Ice Creams is a sweet testament to Austin's inclusive spirit.

Patika, owners Andy Wigginton and Nick Krupa: Inspired by their travels, Wigginton and Krupa opened Patika in 2010, creating a space particularly welcoming to the gay, lesbian, and queer community. They plan to marry in the spring of 2024, on the 20th anniversary of their first date.

El Raval, owners chef Laila Bazahm and Laura Freedman: Chef Laila Bazahm and her wife, Laura Freedman, brought their culinary expertise from Barcelona to Austin. Their tapas restaurant, El Raval, named after their favorite Barcelona neighborhood, is a testament to queer ownership and global cuisine in the city.

34th Street Cafe and Santa Rita Cantina, owner Eddie Bernal: Veteran restaurateur Eddie Bernal, who came out during the challenging AIDS crisis of the 1980s, has been a staple of Austin's dining scene since 1996. His restaurants, 34th Street Cafe and Santa Rita Cantina, actively support queer causes and events, including AIDS Services of Austin.

The city of Austin and its culinary spaces continue to foster an environment where the LGBTQIA community can thrive, express themselves, and feel welcomed. These businesses and their owners are a testament to the progressive values that Austin holds dear.

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Read more: Celebrate Austin Pride every day at these LGBTQIA-owned restaurants and cafes