New Asian Restaurant Takes Over Old El Burro Space | Eater Austin

"I'm intrigued by Mandala Kitchen & Bar, a new Vietnamese and Thai spot coming to Lamar Union to replace the suddenly shuttered El Burro; it's expected to open relatively soon, though no exact date has been set. The menu will focus on modern and homestyle Vietnamese and Thai dishes, which chef/owner Kieu Pham says are similar because "both are very flavorful and use a lot of herbs," and she's looking for other chefs who want to try out new things. Pham is cost-conscious — for every dish she asked herself, 'Would I pay this much for this plate? I don't sell anything that I wouldn't want to pay for' — and Mandala is previewing dishes at Lamar Union's Valentine's Day event next week. She originally wanted to open a food truck but an investor convinced her to open a restaurant instead; Pham, who grew up in Vietnam, moved to Amarillo where her family operates several restaurants, and came to Austin for school, says she's hopeful about the plaza under new management. The space will undergo minor renovations to exude a "modern vibe and warming atmosphere," and the full bar and patio will remain in use." - Nadia Chaudhury