Emmer & Rye Turns 10: A Culinary Milestone Celebrating Austin's Food Scene

Celebrating a Culinary Journey: Emmer & Rye Turns 10

As the vibrant culinary scene of Austin continues to thrive, few establishments have made a mark quite like Emmer & Rye. Nestled on Rainey Street, this beloved restaurant is not just celebrating its 10th anniversary—it's commemorating a decade of innovation, community ties, and a deep-rooted commitment to local farmers. Opened in 2015, Emmer & Rye was founded by chefs Kevin Fink and Tavel Bristol-Joseph, and has since flourished into a cornerstone of the Austin dining landscape.

Reflecting on a Decade of Dining Excellence

To kick off this monumental occasion, Emmer & Rye is hosting a two-day celebration. On November 8, they will present a special episode of their Breaking Bread Guest Chef Series, featuring acclaimed chef Gregory Gourdet from Portland, known for his award-winning concepts Kann and Sousòl. This unique collaboration will spotlight distinctive dishes that reflect the culinary evolution and philosophy of Emmer & Rye over the past ten years.

Following the guest chef event, the festivities culminate on November 9 with a grand party that unites all restaurants under the Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, including Hestia, Canje, and Kalimotxo. For $65, attendees can savor a wide array of specialties from each establishment while enjoying live music and handcrafted cocktails, making it a perfect gathering for both loyal patrons and new diners alike.

Commitment to Community and the Environment

What sets Emmer & Rye apart is its unwavering commitment to community and sustainability. From the outset, Fink and Bristol-Joseph aimed to redefine how a restaurant interacts with local suppliers and the environment. Emmer & Rye showcases seasonal menus, utilizing rare, heritage grains milled in-house daily and fostering partnerships with local farmers.

Chef Fink noted, “This milestone isn’t just about reflecting on a decade; it’s about looking forward to the next chapter of pushing boundaries, supporting local farmers, and continuing to create something lasting together.” This outlook not only highlights their culinary mission but also their role in cultivating an interconnected community.

A Growing Culinary Family

Since its inception, Emmer & Rye has expanded significantly. In 2019, the restaurant group unveiled its first new concept, Hestia, and eventually unveiled additional venues across Austin and San Antonio. The burgeoning success of Emmer & Rye stands as a testament to what can happen when creativity and passion for local cuisine meet a commitment to sustainability. The team now boasts four full-service restaurants, five quick-service eateries, and plans for further expansion, including a Houston concept anticipated to open later this year.

Bristol-Joseph expressed pride in the restaurant's journey, stating, “To see how one restaurant could spark a whole family of concepts shows what's possible when you stay true to your values.” This growth has resonated with both culinary enthusiasts and the local community, making Emmer & Rye a shining example of how dedication and innovation can transform the dining experience.

Looking Forward: Exciting Times Ahead

The upcoming anniversary celebrations are not simply about looking back; they represent a significant step toward future endeavors. Emmer & Rye’s leadership team is eager to explore new boundaries in the culinary arts while continuing to prioritize their core values of community involvement and environmental sustainability. As Austin's dining landscape evolves, events like the ten-year celebration at Emmer & Rye remind us of the power of food: bringing people together, supporting local economies, and creating memorable experiences.

Join the Celebration

As the festivities draw nearer, Austin residents are encouraged to join Emmer & Rye in honoring this remarkable milestone. Whether you have been a longtime fan or are new to the dining experience, the celebration promises a delightful exploration of flavors and local culture. Tickets for this historical event are available for purchase, providing a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Austin’s culinary community firsthand.

Don’t miss this chance to partake in a vibrant celebration of food, art, and community. Mark your calendars for November 8 and 9 and be part of Emmer & Rye's extraordinary journey as it shapes the future of dining in Austin and beyond.