East Austin’s Juniper is preparing for its biggest chapter yet as it approaches its 10th anniversary. The Northern Italian restaurant has announced a leadership refresh and a full interior renovation, all set to roll out by fall 2025.
Leading the next phase is Executive Chef Sterling Ridings. A Le Cordon Bleu graduate and Rising Star Chef nominee, Ridings has worked at some of Austin’s most respected kitchens, including Uchi, Uchiko, and Parkside. His vision at Juniper is to create a menu that balances technical precision with approachability.
Also joining the leadership team is General Manager Sophie Fitzpatrick. With over 15 years of hospitality experience in both the U.S. and U.K., Fitzpatrick brings a guest-first approach shaped by roles with Mattos Hospitality and The Moore NYC.
The changes are part of a broader vision set by Chef Nic Yanes and Excelsior Hospitality Group, with continued guidance from Chef Partner Junior Borges. According to Yanes, the updates are a celebration of what Juniper has achieved and a statement of what’s next.
Juniper’s renovation plans include a newly built indoor lounge, which will be converted from the current patio. The new space will serve as a relaxed gathering area for cocktails and casual meetups, offering a more flexible experience than the formal dining room. Other upgrade plans include refreshed seasonal menus and updated service touches.
All of these updates aim to reflect both the legacy and future of Juniper, ensuring the restaurant continues to grow alongside Austin’s evolving food scene.
Juniper is located at 2400 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702.
For more information or media inquiries, contact Excelsior Hospitality Group directly.