Austin-based Tex-Mex restaurant, Trudy’s, has recently debuted their new branding at the reopening of the North Star and South Star locations. As part of the new branding, Trudy’s has introduced a new program, Women of Trudy’s, which recognizes ten local women who are pillars of the community. Local CEO and Owner Dan Smith has led the charge to not only rebrand the iconic restaurant, but to also renovate the three current locations along with revamping the restaurant’s menu while preserving old fan-favorites, as well as welcome award-winning Chef Julian Rodarte to their team. As part of their mission to protect and enhance the iconic brand’s legacy for generations to come.
“I am honored and extremely humbled to be a part of such an iconic restaurant brand,” said Chef Rodarte. “Many people have beloved memories from Trudy’s, and I am excited to be part of a team that will foster and create those great memories for many more years to come. My parents met working in restaurants here, in Austin, and have their own Trudy’s stories from over 30 years ago. I am ecstatic to join team members in the front and back of the house who have been with the brand for 15, 20, and even 30 years.”
A San Antonio native, Chef Rodarte is also a TV personality, a “30 under 30” chef and restaurateur with years of experience working as a concept chef for national brands. Chef Rodarte and his father recently opened Beto & Son at Trinity Groves in Dallas and at DFW Airport.
Rodarte offers several fan-favorite dishes, such as Trudy’s Classic Queso; Cholula Honey Chicken Fajitas served with onions, peppers, zucchini, squash, rice, and choice of beans; Trudy’s Famous Stuffed Avocado, a chicken-and-cheese-stuffed fried avocado, Suiza sauce, and melted cheese served with rice and choice of beans; and Flaquities, Trudy’s original Tex-Mex egg rolls available with chicken, vegetables, or brisket. Additionally, Trudy’s has brought back the Chorizo-Stuffed Chicken—discontinued years ago—with sauteed vegetables, pico, avocado slices, and queso cotija, served with rice and a choice of beans.
The revitalized Trudy’s menu debuted at the reopening of the South Star location and will be available when the North Star location reopens on Monday, August 2. Trudy’s is currently undergoing a system-wide schedule of remodeling, rebranding, and renovations, which will be finalized with the reopening of the Texas Star location later this summer.
We probably won't see a white Christmas in Austin, but don't let that ruin your…
The LINE Austin has unveiled their latest concept, Cantero, a bar that takes mixology to…
The demand for sugar free hard candy is on the rise, especially among those managing…
Thanksgiving in Austin is a time for festive feasting, and there’s no shortage of delightful…
Pursuit Farms has become a beacon for discerning palates seeking the finest Wagyu beef available…
New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive,…