Food

Austin’s Historic Driskill Hotel Debuts a Redesigned Driskill Grill and Bar

May 20, 2026

Austin’s historic Driskill Hotel, which opened in 1886, is blending historic tradition with a bold new future with the debut of its newly redesigned Driskill Grill and Bar, a refreshed steakhouse concept.

The reopening marks a major milestone for the nearly century-old dining room inside the legendary hotel, which first introduced The Driskill Grill in 1930. As one of Austin’s most iconic hospitality destinations, the hotel’s latest transformation aims to preserve its rich character while ushering in a new era of food and hospitality.

Austin-based MML Hospitality, the restaurant group behind several of the city’s best-known restaurants, led the redesign. The restored space features warm walnut finishes, brass accents, rich textures, and a dramatic pewter bar, creating a timeless, upscale atmosphere.

At the center of the new concept is a classic steakhouse menu focused on in-house dry-aged steaks, refined comfort dishes, and polished service inspired by old-world dining traditions. Executive chef April Bloomfield, making her first major Southern restaurant debut, collaborated with the culinary team to create a menu that balances elegance with Texas-inspired flavors.

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Desserts focus on nostalgic favorites such as New York cheesecake, a 10-layer chocolate cake, and key lime pie. The cocktail program embraces timeless cocktails like chilled martinis and other classics designed to match the restaurant’s vintage atmosphere.

The reopening is part of a broader revitalization happening throughout The Driskill, one of the oldest operating hotels in Texas. Originally opened in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, the property hosted governors, celebrities, political figures, and generations of travelers over nearly 140 years.

With its refreshed dining room, renewed focus on hospitality, and deep connection to Austin history, the Driskill Grill and Bar is positioning itself as both a destination for visitors and a historic icon in Austin’s evolving culinary scene, bringing large Texas hospitality.

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