Bridget Dunlap's First East Side 'Conquest,' Mettle, Officially Opens Today

Mettle, the first Austin restaurant venture from Bridget "Queen Of Rainey Street" Dunlap is a little over four hours into its opening day at 507 Calles Street, next door to the Hops & Grain brewery. According to the "Mettle Story," the restaurant is a kind of "conquest" for Dunlap:

Mettle may be the oft-proclaimed Queen of Rainey Street's first venture away from her outset, but as with any true conquest, it begins when steps are taken away from comfort. For first time visitors, this new hotspot offers an impressive taste of not only East Austin but also what one could expect from any establishment emblazoned with the DunlapATX brand. For frequenters of Dunlap's other flagships, Mettle's medley of great dining and a unique atmosphere, highlighted by the work of local artisans, will leave them once again in awe of her Midas touch.

The daily menu, developed by executive chef Andrew Francisco, formerly of Olivia and general manager Daniel Brooks, spans a variety of cuisines, with offerings that range from spaghetti with braised pork, beef tongue tacos, crab soup with gnocchi and a cheeseburger. The specialty cocktail menu includes a "Siamese Caipirinha," with Thai chili and basil infused cachaca and lime, a "Rainey St. Mule" with Ketel One and ginger beer and an "East Side Collins" with Ketel One or Tanqueray, lemon, lime, cucumber and Topo Chico.

Mettle is open Tue­­sday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a brunch menu "coming soon."

· Mettle [Official]
· All Mettle Coverage on Eater Austin [-EATX-]

[Photo: Courtesy of Mettle]