Chavez Sneak Peeks Abound as Opening Gets Close

Chavez, chef Shawn Cirkiel's new restaurant in the Radisson, hosted a media preview party last night, and the internet is blowing up with sneak peeks. The Austin Business Journal has posted an entire slideshow of somewhat-blurry photos that show elegant light fixtures, a large bar, and some impressive sunset lake views. Writer Jan Buchholz raves about the transformation architect Michael Hsu worked on the former TGI Friday's space.

There's no official opening date yet, and the restaurant is still waiting on some final furnishings to be delivered. Eater contributor Tom Thornton has provided some photos of the menu, and plenty more media folks tweeted out photos, opening rumors, and other observations. Eater rounds up the best of them below.

Beer and small plates menu. [Photo: Tom Thornton/EATX]

Smoked cherry margaritas, fried oyster tacos, & lots of local chef love at the Chavez opening party! Great fun! pic.twitter.com/XFvsgTDS23

— veronica meewes (@wellfedlife) January 30, 2014

So my good restaurants in Austin! Welcome to Chavez another great food place from Shawn Cirkiel! pic.twitter.com/nkhvXpbsGy

— Cathy Strange (@WFMCheese) January 30, 2014

@radissonaustin new Chavez restaurant. Beautiful space and great eats. pic.twitter.com/BG50vohOHx

— Lillian Sonnenberg (@lillianraye) January 30, 2014

Shawn Cirkiel is off to a good start at Chavez, already serving hotel guests; probably be open to the public by the weekend.

— Chronicle Food (@ACFood) January 30, 2014