NAYA is now shaking up craft cocktails and serving small plates in downtown Austin. The Mediterranean and Asian fusion tapas lounge opened on July 9, said Matthew Pawlak, general manager.
The new concept took over Irene’s, which closed in 2024.
On the menu
The food menu features sushi rolls and raw fish, as well as hummus-based dishes, salad and more. Patrons can dine on tuna tartare, yellowtail crudo, spicy salmon crispy rice or a tempura mushroom roll made with daikon radish, carrot, cucumber, eel sauce and sriracha.
One of Pawlak’s favorite dishes is the Shiitake Mapo Tofu which is prepared with red Sichuan peppercorn, scallion and cilantro.
Looking for a libation?
At the top of the menu there is a paragraph that incorporates each cocktail’s name. Pawlak invites guests to read the paragraph and let their intuition pick their drink by choosing whichever cocktail name jumps out at them first.
The Silk Road drink features Another Hendricks, Kanada Yuzu Liqueur, Grapefruit Liqueur, Mediterranean Tonic and Kota Pandan Mist. The Midnight Bazaar is NAYA’s take on the espresso martini; the drink is shaken with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Grind Espresso Liqueur, Romana Amaro, Turbinado, brewed espresso and shaved white chocolate.
The lounge also has a cocktail of the month which rotates based on seasonal flavors and holidays, Pawlak explained.
“Come in and let us create an experience for you, but then go tell your story to all of Austin,” Pawlak said.
Learn more
The interior of NAYA features lounge-style seating, inviting guests to stay and enjoy the space, Pawlak explained. The space also features DJ sets starting at 9:30 p.m. playing Afro House music.
What’s next
After its initial opening, the NAYA team is looking to expand upstairs with a hidden cocktail bar. The space will have an intimate and elevated atmosphere, according to signage posted at the lounge; the space will serve as a destination within NAYA.
Additionally, the team is also expanding its outdoor space with a built-in bar, hookah and dedicated DJ space. Hookah will be available for customers starting mid August, Pawlak said.
Once the outdoor bar is completed, NAYA will offer draft beers and cocktails to customers.
