A new restaurant from one of Austin’s most respected hospitality groups is on the way, and this one taps into something more personal. The team behind Suerte, Este, and Bar Toti has announced Karaz, a Middle Eastern concept set to open at 2627 Manor Road in East Austin.
The restaurant will be led by chef Alejandra Kuri, who steps into an executive chef and partner role after helping shape the kitchen at Este. If you’ve been paying attention, this is one of those moves that feels earned. She’s been with the group for over five years, working her way up from line cook at Suerte to leading one of the most talked-about kitchens in the city.
Karaz takes its name from the Arabic word for “cherry,” a subtle nod to the Cherrywood neighborhood nearby, but the real story runs deeper. Kuri is a third-generation Lebanese Mexican who grew up in Mexico City surrounded by family cooking and catering, which heavily influences what’s coming to the menu.
The concept first came to life during a family-style meal she cooked for the Este team, built around dishes inspired by her Lebanese heritage. That moment turned into pop-ups at Bar Toti, which quietly built momentum and led to the decision to open a full restaurant.
Karaz will center around Middle Eastern flavors with a strong focus on seasonality and Texas sourcing. Expect fresh pita from a wood-fired oven, hummus and spreads, and charcoal-grilled kebabs, all built around ingredients from local farms.
It’s not trying to be overly complicated. The goal here is food that feels rooted, intentional, and meant to be shared. The kind of place where the table fills up quickly and nobody’s in a rush to leave.
Located at 2627 Manor Road, Karaz lands in one of East Austin’s most quietly evolving pockets, sitting between Cherrywood and the Rogers-Washington-Holy Cross neighborhoods. The space is being designed as a neighborhood restaurant first, with an emphasis on gathering, hospitality, and making people feel like they belong there.
More details on the opening timeline, design, and full menu are expected soon.