Counter Culture re‑entered Austin’s dining scene on Sept. 8 with a soft opening in the Windsor Park neighborhood. Owner Susan Davis said the restaurant will operate Tuesday‑Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. during the soft‑opening phase, with a full schedule slated for mid‑October.
Hours and upcoming expansion
“We aim to be fully operational with hours from 11 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, by mid‑October,” Davis told Community Impact. “While we hope to host a grand opening, we are currently focusing on daily operations.” After the soft opening, Counter Culture plans to add lunch and brunch service, giving Austinites more options throughout the day.
Menu highlights
The menu centers on plant‑based comfort food and includes a dedicated gluten‑free grill. Signature dishes include Asian BBQ seitan skewers served over slaw, a BLTA salad, grilled oyster mushroom plates, and jalapeño artichoke dip. All protein‑focused items are made from seitan, a fully plant‑based alternative.
In addition to the kitchen offerings, Counter Culture features a full bar with cocktails and non‑alcoholic beverages. “Whether you’re plant‑based, plant‑curious, or just here for a damn good meal, pull up a seat,” Davis said. “Everyone’s welcome.”
From trailer to permanent home
Counter Culture began as a food trailer in 2009, later expanding to a brick‑and‑mortar location before closing to create a purpose‑built space. Davis partnered with Havens Construction and Weiss Architecture to transform an older building into a mid‑century‑inspired diner, preserving the charm of classic American eateries while delivering a modern, plant‑based menu.
Community impact
The new diner adds to Windsor Park’s growing culinary landscape, offering a family‑friendly environment that aligns with local values of healthy eating and community gathering. By providing gluten‑free options and a full bar, Counter Culture aims to serve a broad cross‑section of residents, from longtime Austinites to newcomers seeking diverse dining choices.
As the restaurant moves toward its full‑time schedule, Davis emphasized a commitment to consistent service and quality. “Our focus is on daily operations and delivering a great experience for every guest,” she said. The upcoming expansion to lunch and brunch will further embed Counter Culture into the daily rhythm of Windsor Park, giving families and individuals more flexibility to enjoy plant‑based meals.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
