{"id":384223,"date":"2026-07-23T19:48:53","date_gmt":"2026-07-23T19:48:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/384223\/"},"modified":"2026-07-23T19:48:53","modified_gmt":"2026-07-23T19:48:53","slug":"naya-is-now-open-in-downtown-offering-mediterranean-and-asian-fusion-central-austin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/384223\/","title":{"rendered":"NAYA is now open in downtown offering Mediterranean and Asian fusion | Central Austin"},"content":{"rendered":"

NAYA<\/a> is now shaking up craft cocktails and serving small plates in downtown Austin. The Mediterranean and Asian fusion tapas lounge opened on July 9, said Matthew Pawlak, general manager.<\/p>\n

The new concept took over Irene\u2019s, which closed in 2024.<\/a><\/p>\n

On the menu<\/p>\n

The food menu features sushi rolls and raw fish, as well as hummus-based dishes, salad and more. Patrons can dine on tuna tartare, yellowtail crudo, spicy salmon crispy rice or a tempura mushroom roll made with daikon radish, carrot, cucumber, eel sauce and sriracha.<\/p>\n

One of Pawlak\u2019s favorite dishes is the Shiitake Mapo Tofu which is prepared with red Sichuan peppercorn, scallion and cilantro.<\/p>\n

Looking for a libation?<\/p>\n

At the top of the menu there is a paragraph that incorporates each cocktail\u2019s name. Pawlak invites guests to read the paragraph and let their intuition pick their drink by choosing whichever cocktail name jumps out at them first.<\/p>\n

The Silk Road drink features Another Hendricks, Kanada Yuzu Liqueur, Grapefruit Liqueur, Mediterranean Tonic and Kota Pandan Mist. The Midnight Bazaar is NAYA\u2019s take on the espresso martini; the drink is shaken with Tito\u2019s Handmade Vodka, Grind Espresso Liqueur, Romana Amaro, Turbinado, brewed espresso and shaved white chocolate.<\/p>\n

The lounge also has a cocktail of the month which rotates based on seasonal flavors and holidays, Pawlak explained.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome in and let us create an experience for you, but then go tell your story to all of Austin,\u201d Pawlak said.<\/p>\n

Learn more<\/p>\n

The interior of NAYA features lounge-style seating, inviting guests to stay and enjoy the space, Pawlak explained. The space also features DJ sets starting at 9:30 p.m. playing Afro House music.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s next<\/p>\n

After its initial opening, the NAYA team is looking to expand upstairs with a hidden cocktail bar. The space will have an intimate and elevated atmosphere, according to signage posted at the lounge; the space will serve as a destination within NAYA.<\/p>\n

Additionally, the team is also expanding its outdoor space with a built-in bar, hookah and dedicated DJ space. Hookah will be available for customers starting mid August, Pawlak said.<\/p>\n

Once the outdoor bar is completed, NAYA will offer draft beers and cocktails to customers.<\/p>\n