The Austin metro area is buzzing with fresh dining news this month. A historic candy maker, a beloved Venezuelan eatery, a coffee‑and‑car concept, and a new handroll bar are all back in action, offering families and faith‑centered communities more choices for wholesome meals and treats.
Lammes Candies Returns Under New Ownership
Founded in 1885, Lammes Candies—one of Texas’ oldest confectioners—has resumed production after a change in ownership. Delightful Development Co., based in Fort Worth, partnered with the Lamme family to acquire the brand. Pre‑orders opened on Sept. 29 for a limited run of classic treats such as Longhorns, Texas Chewie Pecan Pralines, and Sherbet Mints. Nationwide shipping begins Nov. 1, and while there is no physical storefront yet, the company promises a full retail rollout in spring 2027.
Arepitas Reopens in Round Rock
After closing in November 2025, the popular Venezuelan restaurant Arepitas reopened in August at a new Round Rock location. The menu features traditional dishes like empanadas, tostones, and arepas, alongside tacos, sandwiches, and burgers. The revival gives Round Rock families a new option for flavorful, family‑friendly meals.
Second Wind Coffee Co. Combines Vintage Cars and Coffee on South Lamar
South Lamar Boulevard now hosts a unique coffee bar run by Second Wind Coffee Co., the first permanent concept from the PourTwentyFour mobile‑bar service. The shop shares its space with Roadrunner Relics, an antique store that displays vintage automobiles. Patrons can enjoy expertly brewed coffee while admiring classic cars, creating a welcoming environment for both car enthusiasts and coffee lovers.
Comedor Chef’s Walk‑Up Kitchen Opens Inside Lavaca Street Bar
Chef Philip Speer of Comedor, together with Via 313 co‑founder Brandon Hunt, launched a walk‑up kitchen inside the Lavaca Street Bar. The concept occupies the former Turf N’ Surf space and offers “business‑casual bar fare” such as blue‑corn hush puppies, nachos, the Nobody’s Cheeseburger, a fish sandwich, and sticky baby‑back ribs. The new venue adds a flavorful dining option for downtown Austin residents seeking hearty, family‑style meals.
Hope Floats Returns to Smithville
Hope Floats, a beloved ice‑cream and sweet‑shop in Smithville, reopened under its original owners after a brief closure on Aug. 30. Kalin “KK” Eskew, who took over the business in 2025, cited family and health needs for the temporary shutdown. Regina and Ryan Blackmore plan to relaunch the shop next door as Hope Floats Ice Cream & Sweet Shop, offering ice cream, baked goods, and coffee after renovations are complete.
Yuki Handroll Bar Brings Omakase‑Style Sushi to Northwest Austin
Yuki Handroll Bar, founded by Hyo Lim and Chef Jun, offers an intimate omakase‑style Japanese dining experience. The bar‑only venue lets diners watch handrolls being prepared at the counter. The menu includes bluefin tuna, salmon, and yellowtail handrolls, with fish sourced multiple times weekly from Japan, Korea, Mexico, and Spain. Lim recommends newcomers start with cooked options such as shrimp, crab, or scallop handrolls, while his personal favorites are the yellowtail and salmon‑belly nigiri.
These updates reflect a vibrant and growing food scene that supports traditional families, encourages community gathering, and upholds the values of quality and hospitality that many Austin residents cherish.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
