February: Perky Beans Coffee
Angie and Ron Diaz started their eight-year food entrepreneurship with a food truck serving American cuisine in San Diego.
March: The Republic Kitchen and Bar
From the decor to menu item names, Leander’s Republic Kitchen and Bar is Texas proud.
April: Gloria's Cafe and Bakery
When Manny Romero bought Gloria’s Cafe in July 2018, he wanted to solidify its presence in the community by hosting fun, family-friendly events, participating in fundraisers for local schools and expanding the menu.
June: Paw-Paw's BBQ
Owner Andrea Cameron said she grew up watching her grandfather cook barbecue in a brick pit in front of his home in Austin. Known around the neighborhood and even the city, James “Paw-Paw” City was a pit master.
Note: Paw-Paw's Bell Boulevard location is closed, but the business is offering catering services.
July: Sabino's Pizza Pub
The restaurant is known for its Chicago-style pizza—deep-dish pizza in which the dough is worked up the sides of the pan and filled with cheese, sauce and toppings.
August: Cocky Teriyaki
Owner Alex Brockway brought chicken teriyaki with him when he moved, with the help of his dad, from Seattle to Austin in December 2019.
September: Cajun Skillet
When the Gillams moved to Texas in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina, they brought their love of cooking and hosting traditions.
October: Whipped Bakery
Owner Dawn Ki began baking 14 years ago with a three-tier cake for her daughter’s birthday. It took over three weeks of preparation, and the final product tilted slightly to one side. Over time, though, Ki honed her craft and built a side business as a baker.
November: La Joie
Growing up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Nick Harrison said he would watch his grandmother labor over gumbo just for small family dinners. When he asked why she spent so much time on meals, she would respond in French, “c’est la joie,” which translates to “for the joy.”
November: Jack Allen's Kitchen
Owners Jack Gilmore and Tom Kamm chose Cedar Park as the restaurant’s fifth location to move closer to its employees and restaurant regulars.
December: An Thinh Asian Cuisine
An Thinh Asian Cuisine, which translates to “peaceful and lucky,” is bringing many different Southeast Asian tastes to Leander.
Have ideas for our business features in 2022? Email us at [email protected].
