Buda, Texas, January 10, 2026

The downtown Buda culinary scene is set to get a boost with the upcoming opening of Astra Restaurant & Bar, which will focus on locally sourced, scratch-made dishes. Founded by Matti Bills, Astra is designed to be a community-friendly eatery offering a diverse all-day menu. With an emphasis on sustainability and local sourcing, the restaurant is anticipated to fulfill the growing demand for quality dining options in the area. A welcoming atmosphere for families and pets is also a key feature.

Astra Restaurant & Bar: A New Culinary Gem in Buda, Texas

Buda’s vibrant culinary scene welcomes Astra, focusing on local, scratch-made cuisine

Buda, Texas – The local entrepreneurial spirit continues to thrive as renowned restaurateur Matti Bills prepares to unveil Astra Restaurant & Bar on Main Street in downtown Buda, slated to open in late January or early February 2026. This new establishment is positioned to significantly enhance the community’s culinary landscape, emphasizing locally sourced and scratch-made dishes. The emergence of Astra reflects the tenacity of local entrepreneurs and showcases the positive impact of a business-friendly environment.

Astra aims to provide a diverse all-day menu featuring shared plates, artisan sandwiches crafted on seeded sourdough with house-cured meats, sourdough pizzas made from organic heirloom flour sourced from Barton Springs Mill, handmade pastas, crudo, seasonal vegetable dishes, burgers, and delectable house-made soft-serve waffle cones. The commitment to sustainability is underscored by an on-site garden and products grown at their other urban farms. Designed with the community in mind, Astra is expected to be kid-friendly and dog-friendly, featuring a welcoming outdoor space shaded by large oak trees, making it a perfect gathering spot for families and pet owners alike.

### The Visionary Behind Astra

Matti Bills’ legacy as a native Austinite and eighth-generation Texan sets a strong foundation for Astra. Known for her expertise in butchery, barbecue, and local sourcing, she is the co-founder of Mum Foods, a Michelin-recommended establishment. Additionally, the house-made cured meats at Astra will be produced by Bills’ other venture, Three Six General, which will include a variety of meats such as mortadella, coppa ham, bacon, and salamis. The cocktail program will be curated by Lauren Beckman, renowned for her innovative mixology at Mixtli, further elevating Astra’s culinary offerings.

### Support from the Community

The Buda Economic Development Corporation (Buda EDC) has played a crucial role in supporting Astra’s establishment on Main Street. This alignment with the EDC’s strategy to cultivate a vibrant, walkable downtown underscores the importance of nurturing local entrepreneurs and promoting destination-quality dining experiences in Buda. The enthusiasm for Astra’s contribution to the community is palpable, with many anticipating its opening as a sign of growth and vitality in the local economy.

### Initial Hours and Future Plans

Astra will initially open with the following operating hours:

• Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Monday: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Tuesday & Wednesday: Closed (temporarily)
• Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Plans to expand to seven days a week by summer 2026 are already on the table, with hopes for additional programming such as happy hour offerings and Sunday brunch as the restaurant develops its customer base.

Astra Restaurant & Bar is an exciting addition to Buda’s thriving local business scene, driven by a deep commitment to quality, community, and sustainability. As the opening date approaches, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to stay engaged with Astra’s journey through its Instagram profile, hinting at a bright future for this innovative culinary establishment.

### Conclusion

Astra Restaurant & Bar embodies the resilience and creativity inherent in Austin’s local entrepreneurs. With its focus on locally sourced, scratch-made cuisine and community involvement, Astra stands to become a staple in Buda’s dining scene. Supporting such local ventures not only enriches our neighborhoods but also promotes economic growth and job creation. Keep an eye out for this exciting new addition, and remember the importance of supporting local businesses that contribute to the unique character of our communities.