A brand new restaurant called Austin Nola is getting ready to make its debut in North Park, located at 2519 El Cajon Boulevard.
This is the latest concept from owner Pete Cich, whose team helped open Miss B’s Coconut Club, Park 101, and Louisiana Purchase, according to the press release from Location Matters, which handled the lease transaction for the development. The new 2,800-square-foot restaurant will anchor a new mixed-use project from Hub & Spoke Communities called Niima Outpost, a 5-story development featuring 55 apartments and two ground-floor restaurant spaces. Austin Nola is expected to open by the end of the year.
“Location Matters is proud to announce that Niima Outpost, the sustainable mixed-use development located at 2519 El Cajon Blvd. in North Park, has signed a lease for its 2,800 SF ground-floor restaurant space,” according to a press release from Location Matters. “A new 10-year lease valued at over $2,068,000 was signed for this eco-conscious project that was built using materials that ensure a reduced carbon footprint and a natural living environment.”
The new concept will come to life with the help of several major contributors, first and foremost from executive chef Quinnton Austin, a New Orleans native trained at the Culinary Institute of New Orleans. The well-known chef has showcased his Southern-inspired flair in local restaurants such as Louisiana Purchase Q&A Restaurant and Oyster Bar in Oceanside. Austin will use his roots and culinary skills to create a menu focused on New Orleans soul food. Customers can expect oxtail dumplings with red wine sauce, gator carbonara, and wagyu meatballs with goat cheese grits, according to Eater San Diego.
Cich is partnering with GTC Design, who helped design Coco Maya and Rare Society, and Design Perspectives to help create a welcoming environment with a private dining area. Rob McShea, head mixologist from Grind and Prosper Hospitality, will lead the bar program and offer variations of new-age classic cocktails. Austin Nola will be the main attraction at the upcoming Niima Outpost, which includes a 2,000-square-foot courtyard adjacent to the restaurant. Location Matters handled the lease transaction for development, with Alexis Couch and Hannah Sierpina representing the landlord and Alexis Couch also representing the tenant.
