In 2013, Kristen Kish won the tenth season of Top Chef. This incredible cook turned culinary star went on to host numerous other shows, write a book, and start her own restaurant right here in Austin. Arlo Grey opened in 2018 along with The LINE hotel, bringing a refreshing and modern update to this lakeside location. Kish has expertly melded influences from her upbringing and training to create a unique and delicious menu. Bringing her work full circle, Kish has now hosted Top Chef and is advising future chefs on their journeys.

Arlo Grey is a restaurant where you can enjoy premium plates from a world class team within a more casual and relaxed atmosphere. They present a perfect balance of class and comfort, allowing guests freedom to dress up or down for the occasion. While there, we saw a diverse mix of couples, coworkers, hotel guests, locals, and more. In other words, you’ll feel welcome at Arlo Grey whether setting out for a nice date, or just looking for some quality dinner. My favorite aspect of the dining room is that they’ve extended the lush greenbelt setting indoors with vining plants throughout and huge windows showcasing some of Austin’s lovely live oaks.

The focus here is, of course, the food! You’ll find French and Italian inspired dishes with a Kish twist. We noticed the superior simplicity of their menu that features just a handful of starters, pastas, proteins, and desserts. In my opinion, these menus might seem brief but are actually beautifully complex creations that pack a flavorful punch. With Kish’s vision plus fresh and local ingredients, this team sends out sensational plates. Get your appetite cooking with the tuna crudo, burrata, or grilled Texas beets. Do not miss out on their house made grilled sourdough, some of the best bread I’ve recently had. Move on to some familiar favorites like their bucatini or try a new bite like the rabbit and ricotta dumplings. Fill up on a famous Arlo Grey burger or dive into delightful dishes featuring swordfish, wagyu, and other prime proteins. Finish out with something special and sweet. With the summer sun on the rise, I was especially drawn to their lime sorbet and toasted sourdough ice cream.

Accompany your meal with clever cocktails and worthy wine. Sip on the Hey Seoul Sister, a soju and gin based sour with egg white and campari. Warm up with browned butter bourbon in The Den, or refresh with the vodka and cucumber Waterfall.

Arlo Grey’s 2024 Event Series:

Top Chef
 Season 21 Watch Party

We had the pleasure of attending a Top Chef watch party hosted by Kristen Kish and her team and the experience we had was fun and remarkable. Our table of ten sat down for a cozy dinner in a family style private dining room while watching the latest Top Chef episode. They based the meal courses around the episode, with paired cocktails to choose from, and even a special menu signed by Kristen Kish herself! Each night of the watch parties featured different foods and flavors. We especially loved the braised wagyu short rib and their house made sourdough bread. My favorite sip was the light and refreshing One Stop Drop. After the episode ended, the group decided to watch a movie while we finished our meal (We landed on Groundhog Day!). Being able to mingle and bond with the new faces around a dinner table was a unique and special experience and Arlo Grey’s fabulous food helps to bring people together. If you are looking for a fresh experience and new friends, events at Arlo Grey are the way to go. Check out the latest series they're offering on the website. 

Whatever the occasion, Arlo Grey will come through for you and your appetite. Experience new foods and flavors, spend some quality time with your people, and leave with a full heart and belly.

Huge Thank You to the team here at Arlo Grey as well as The LINE Hotel for the incredible hospitality.

P.S. If you don’t make the Top Chef watch parties, Arlo Grey hosts new series events all throughout the year. Wait to see what the next series will be or email them to book your own table or party!