Inside Sway’s Bigger, Bustling New Rock Rose Restaurant

Popular Thai restaurant Sway opens its second location today, April 30, at the Domain Rock Rose. The restaurant expansion is only open for dinner for now, with a similar menu to the location on South First. Lunch and brunch are in the works for this summer, as well as a third location in Westlake.

The second location of Sway, which was announced in 2015, is very similar to the original (both designed by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture), with large, blocky communal tables with woven light fixtures over each. Those who want prefer more intimate seating will be happy to hear there are two separate bar areas and patio seating. The main dining room faces a completely open kitchen, so diners can watch the performance in the kitchen.

Eater Austin photographer Courtney Pierce visited the open, wood-heavy space and sampled a few of the dishes, from mild (blue crab fried rice) to mouth-on-fire (tom yum soup), plus the famous Thai tea affogato. Take a tour of the new space below.

Sway first opened in 2012 under Rene Ortiz and Laura Sawicki. Overseeing the current kitchen are corporate executive chef Charles Schlienger and Rock Rose chef de cuisine Stacey Jones.

• Thai Restaurant Sway Finally Opens in the Domain Northside [EATX]
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