The story
Hestia, at 607 W. Third St. in Austin, Texas, is an American restaurant that earned one Michelin star in 2026 for high quality cooking. The kitchen builds its menus around a live-fire hearth, using Texas produce and wood smoke.
A 20-foot hearth anchors the dining room, and most of the cooking starts there. The restaurant describes its approach as live-fire cooking, with each dish shaped by what the fire does best. Paul Wensel leads the kitchen as chef de cuisine, alongside executive sous chef megan brijalba.
Guests can order à la carte or choose the twelve-course tasting menu, priced at $215 per person. The progression moves from raw and smoked courses through roasted and embered ones, and a wine pairing is available. The menu follows the season and changes accordingly.
The wine list holds about 400 bottles, overseen by wine director Alicia Schmidt. Wine Spectator gave the restaurant its Best of Award of Excellence in 2023. Parties of up to 14 can book the main dining room, and groups of seven or more are seated on set menus.
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