Chef Amir Hajimaleki is bringing a deeply personal new concept to North Austin as Roya, an upscale casual Persian restaurant, officially opens February 11 at 7858 Shoal Creek Blvd., perched above the North location of District near Anderson Lane. Reservations are now live, marking the evolution of a project that began as intimate pop-ups across the city back in 2018.
Roya reflects Hajimaleki’s heritage while staying grounded in the local ingredient driven style that Austin diners already know from District Kitchen + Cocktails, Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar, Keepers Coastal Kitchen, and Daisy Lounge. The menu leans into traditional Persian flavors with modern touches that keep things approachable without losing authenticity.
The opening lineup highlights dishes like Wild Mushroom Borani layered with garlic labneh and black garlic chili oil, Mahiche Gheymeh featuring saffron tomato braised lamb shank, and a Wagyu Chenjeh Kabob finished with fenugreek seasoning and tarragon chimichurri. Guests looking for a full experience can opt into the Sofreh Experience, a curated multi course dinner where chefs guide the table through a personalized Persian spread inspired by the warmth of home hospitality.
Desserts come from pastry chef Dennis Van, a Sugar Rush winner and longtime collaborator across Hajimaleki’s concepts, who also joins the project as a culinary partner.
Upstairs, Roya trades typical restaurant flash for a more immersive atmosphere. Designed by Amir and his brother Ali, the space blends modern design with Persian artistry through intricate tile work, rich textiles, deep blue tones, and curated pieces from Azerbaijani artist Alexei Antonov alongside local Austin artist Ed Booth. The result feels polished but intimate, more like stepping into a private gathering than a traditional dining room.
The cocktail program leans into Persian inspired flavors with drinks like the Babajooni vodka martini with lemon and caviar, the turmeric forward Talla bourbon cocktail, and the nut infused Ajeel built with pistachio and walnut notes. A wine list highlighting Middle Eastern bottles rounds out the beverage program.
Roya opens February 11 at 7858 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin, TX 78757. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 4 to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 3 to 9 p.m. Lunch and brunch service will be added in the coming months. More information is available at royaaustin.com and on Instagram at @royaaustin.