On August 26, the Najar family celebrated the grand opening of Treze, a family‑owned restaurant located at 318 N. Main St. in Buda, Texas. The eatery, founded by chef Joaquin Najar, his wife Xochi Raquel, and their three sons—Diego, Joel and Leonardo—offers a menu of sandwiches, soups and other made‑to‑order items designed for families and neighbors alike.
Decades of planning become reality
The concept for Treze began in 1990, when the Najar family first imagined opening a restaurant. The idea solidified into a concrete plan in 2013, and after years of preparation the family finally broke ground on the property next to the historic Carrington House. In 2018 the Najar family purchased the lot, and the City of Buda and the Buda Economic Development Corporation (EDC) provided construction and operating incentives, as well as a sales‑tax rebate, to help bring the project to fruition.
Built for families, by families
“Treze is more than a restaurant to us—it’s a dream nearly 40 years in the making,” said chef and owner Joaquin Najar in the restaurant’s news release. “We built this place as a family, for families, and we can’t wait to welcome our neighbors and share good food with everyone in Buda.” The family’s emphasis on community is evident in the restaurant’s layout, which features a casual dining area that encourages conversation and a kitchen that prepares each order fresh.
Chef Najar, who trained in culinary arts before returning to his hometown, oversees a menu that highlights simple, wholesome ingredients. Signature items include a roasted‑tomato basil soup, a variety of cold‑cut and grilled‑protein sandwiches, and a rotating selection of daily specials that reflect seasonal produce. All dishes are made to order, ensuring freshness and allowing guests to customize their meals.
Local support and economic impact
The opening of Treze adds another family‑run business to Buda’s growing Main Street corridor, a district that has seen increased foot traffic and new development in recent years. City officials praised the project for creating jobs and contributing to the local tax base. The incentives provided by the City of Buda and the Buda EDC demonstrate a continued commitment to fostering small‑business growth and revitalizing the downtown area.
According to the news release, the restaurant expects to hire a staff of 12‑15 employees, many of whom are local residents. The Najar family hopes that Treze will become a gathering place for families, seniors, and anyone seeking a quick, quality meal in a friendly setting.
Looking ahead
As Treze settles into its new home, the Najar family plans to host community events, such as family‑style brunches, local school fundraisers, and seasonal celebrations. The restaurant’s focus on family values and community engagement aligns with Buda’s broader vision of preserving a small‑town atmosphere while encouraging economic development.
For those interested in trying the new menu, Treze is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Reservations can be made by phone or through the restaurant’s website.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
