East Austin is saying goodbye to Salt & Time Butcher Shop and Restaurant, an establishment that has been a local favorite since 2013. According to KVUE, the business is set to close on July 6, with Radius Butcher & Grocery slated to occupy the space at 1912 E. 7th St. by the end of the year. The founders of Salt & Time express both a sense of accomplishment in what they've built, and optimism in passing the torch to Radius, a grocer sharing their commitment to "sustainable practices and quality craftsmanship."
While the closure might seem abrupt to the devoted clientele, co-founder Ben Runkle conveyed excitement for the new chapter, "We feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of the East Austin community for over a decade," he said, "Salt & Time, along with everyone who has worked here over the years, will always hold a special place in our hearts." As stated by CultureMap Austin, adjustments to Salt & Time's operations are imminent, with the butcher shop adjusting its hours and the wine shop set to close sooner.
Radius Butcher & Grocery promises a curated selection of products and continuing partnerships with local farms such as Peaceful Pork and Richardson’s Farm. Their commitment is to offer goods that support seasonal home cooking, shying away from the processed foods that populate larger grocery stores. Radius also intends to engage the community through events and monthly published recipes that complement their in-store offerings.
Amid concerns about the treatment of grocery workers in Austin, Runkle assured that Salt & Time employees are being looked after. "We are equally thrilled that our butchery staff will have the opportunity to continue serving East Austin as part of the Radius team," remarked Runkle, "Additionally, we have worked diligently to secure job offers for our restaurant staff, ensuring a seamless transition to new opportunities." He credited the local restaurant community for their support in these relocation efforts. The store’s redesign falls to the Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, a firm already involved in other transitions within the city.
Leading Radius Butcher & Grocery will be Joe Saenz, a seasoned professional in the culinary industry, originally from San Antonio. "Radius is the grocery store we wish we could go to," Saenz stated, emphasizing the store's focus on high-integrity, healthy products. While Salt & Time will vacate its longtime location, it isn't leaving the commercial scene altogether. Salt & Time will continue to provide their charcuterie to retailers and events across the city, fulfilling a legacy that's been a part of East Austin for over a decade.
