Popular New York-style eatery purchases iconic three-story original Katz’s property in Austin
Austin, TX (RestaurantNews.com) Katz’s, the beloved New York-style eatery that originated in Austin in 1979, is making waves again in the city where it all began. Barry and Lisa Katz have officially purchased the three-story building located at 618 W. 6th St. in Austin. This acquisition marks a significant step towards Katz’s long-awaited return to Austin after the original location closed in 2011.
Barry Katz was just a boy when his father opened the first Katz’s in the same building his company just re-acquired.
“I grew up in that restaurant, and have very fond memories there,” said Barry Katz, Owner of Katz’s. “Lisa and I couldn’t be more excited to bring Katz’s back to where it all started. Katz’s Never Kloses, but we did Klose on this building, and I’m beyond thrilled about what’s next.”
The Austin property, previously owned by WC 6th & Rio, LLC, was won during an auction at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Austin on Aug. 23. The purchase officially closed on Aug. 30. Mark Shapiro, the Chapter 11 Trustee, facilitated the sale from an entity owned by Nate Paul.
“We are excited that Katz’s is returning to Austin,” said Michael Hsu, Principal & Founder of Michael Hsu Office of Architecture. “The fact that they are going back to the old location is really special. We look forward to helping design a space to help welcome back former regulars and to attract a new crowd of Austinites.”
This will be the sixth Katz’s location with the Katz/Hsu team. With four thriving locations in Houston and a fifth set to open in Memorial City in late 2025 or early 2026, the Austin location opening date has yet to be decided.
About Katz’s
Since 1979, Katz’s has provided Texans with New York-style flavor, all-day breakfast, mouthwatering sandwiches, famous fried pickles and delectable desserts on its massive menu served 24 hours a day. Originating in Austin, Katz’s migrated to Houston in 2000, where Barry and Lisa Katz opened the Katz’s on Westheimer in the bustling Montrose neighborhood. It is here that “Katz’s Never Kloses” really took-off, and was followed by restaurants in The Woodlands, Heights and Galleria areas. For more information, visit KatzsNeverKloses.com.
Contact:
Jay Brasher
Champion
806-437-9583
jbrasher@championmgt.com
