Meet the chef
Roya is owned and operated by chef Amir Hajimaleki, who also owns Austin restaurants District Kitchen + Cocktails, Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar, Keepers Coastal Kitchen and Daisy Lounge.
Hajimaleki has served Roya's Persian cuisine at exclusive pop-up dinners across the Austin area since 2018, and the new restaurant will take over the former Shortie's Pizza + Grinders space, located above Hajimaleki's District restaurant.
“I started the journey of creating Roya to find a connection with my Iranian roots," Hajimaleki said in a news release. "I came here at a very young age, and not being able to go back to Iran left a huge void that I have been able to fill through cooking. I've been able to learn more about Iran's beautiful history and culture through Roya, and the best part is I get to share what Persian culture is to our Austin community."
On the menu
The seasonally rotating menu will feature traditional Persian dishes with "minor modern tweaks" by Hajimaleki, per the news release.
A few mainstays will include the Royal Egg, or a savory egg custard with caviar, labneh and a chive blossom garnish; ghormeh sabzi, or an herb stew made with short rib; kashke bademjan, or eggplant dip; kabobs; and caviar service.
Desserts will be done by Dennis Van, who currently serves as pastry chef for all of Hajimaleki's concepts.
What else?
Roya's interior design will feature contemporary elements that incorporate traditional Persian rugs, paintings and tile work.
"I find that the best way to share [Iranian culture] is through culinary, art, poetry and music, and we intend to do just that at Roya," Hajimaleki said.
- Opening in the fall
- 7858 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin
- Instagram: @royaaustin
