The couple purchased El Arroyo, located at 1624 W. Fifth St., Austin, in 2012 and have a history of purchasing and revitalizing “distressed, historic restaurants,” Ellis said.
El Arroyo had multiple locations throughout Texas prior to their purchase of it, and they have been aiming to expand the brand once again. The Winstanleys had already been involved in the Rockin’ R business, and a partnership naturally flourished to make way for their expansion.
“We want to grow the brand quickly but in a healthy way,” Ellis Winstanley said. “This timing feels right.”
The home of the second El Arroyo location will be located at 1405 Gruene Road, New Braunfels. The site is an approximately 7,500-square-foot, two-story building that will require extensive renovations, which are slated to begin in early 2023.
There will be no change in operations at Rockin R', though the Hollidays and Winstanleys plan to build about 15-20 overnight stay cottages at the property in the next two years.
"With New Braunfels growing how it is and the demand for good food in town and especially more options in Gruene specifically, ... it kind of all worked out really well," Justin Holliday said.
The Winstanleys are aiming to open the second El Arroyo location in late 2023.
"We've always liked New Braunfels. ... I think it's a fantastic market. I think it's a really beautiful place that has a lot of opportunity," Ellis Winstanley said.
512-474-1222. www.elarroyo.com
Sierra Martin contributed to this report.
