Read about the newest restaurants, a dessert shop and more recently opened businesses in South Central Austin.

Now open

Banyan & Bamboo Day Spa & Med Spa

The spa offers a range of beauty treatments, from rejuvenating facials and massage therapy to advanced aesthetic procedures. Owner Jennifer Rushing bought the existing day spa, Austin Urban Retreat, last year and has rebranded and relaunched it as a complete medical spa. Banyan & Bamboo Day Spa & Med Spa offers packages and membership opportunities.Dish Society

The local farm-to-table all-day cafe opened in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood following the success of its first Austin location in the Mueller neighborhood in 2023. Owned by Aaron Lyons, Dish Society serves brunch, lunch and dinner using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from local farmers, producers and ranchers.Dulce Frida


The family-owned gelato trailer opened its brick-and-mortar location on South Lamar Boulevard. Dulce Frida first opened in 2020 and serves artisan Italian ice and freshly squeezed lemonade. Owner Francisco Rosales said they have introduced breakfast tacos and mini pancakes to the menu and would eventually like to add pastries such as churros.
  • Opened March 8
  • 1701 South Lamar Blvd., Austin
  • Instagram: dulcefridaatx
Mage's Sanctum in South Austin has regularly schedules Magic the Gathering events on Fridays. (Courtesy Mage's Sanctum)
Mage's Sanctum in South Austin has regularly scheduled Magic the Gathering events on Fridays. (Courtesy Mage's Sanctum)
Mage’s Sanctum

Local gaming and hobby store Mage’s Sanctum has reopened in a new location after closing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The game haven carries board games, card games, apparel, accessories and more. Mage’s Sanctum also hosts events, including regularly scheduled Magic The Gathering tournaments.Love Lamp Matcha

The matcha shop opened its second location above Wanderlust Wine Co. The cafe opened its first location on Shirley Avenue in North Austin in January and serves only matcha drinks.
  • Opened Feb. 15
  • 1601 Barton Springs Road, Austin
  • Instagram: lovelampmatcha
Axiom Fitness Studio

Owner and trainer Jessica Okimura Knight has opened a new fitness studio offering one-on-one private personal training for women. Okimura Knight told Community Impact that the studio was created to provide a private, empowering space for women without the intimidation of a traditional gym setting.In the news


SIMS Foundation

The Austin nonprofit organization will celebrate its 30th anniversary in May. Founded in 1995 in memory of Austin musician Sims Ellison, the SIMS Foundation provides mental health and substance use recovery services and support for musicians, music industry professionals and their families. The organization will host an anniversary celebration with live music, live screen printing, photo booths and more at Empire Control Room & Garage on May 18.