Nestled between the Bryker Woods and Rosedale neighborhoods, a charming new Southwestern bar and grill has taken root in the former Spread & Co. space on West 38th Street. Teddy’s, which opened in November 2024, is the latest venture from Chef Daniel Berg, who cut his teeth at acclaimed fine dining establishments in New York City like Daniel and Le Bernardin before opening his own restaurants in NYC and Houston. In Austin, Berg launched Bill’s Oyster with Stewart Jarmon in the 2nd Street District in 2023. Teddy’s, named after Berg’s second son, Edward, who is affectionately nicknamed Teddy, strikes the perfect balance between neighborhood charm and elevated Southwestern cuisine.
A menu rooted in Texas and Mexican influences
The menu, led by Berg and Managing Partner Dylan Salisbury, also a partner at Bill’s Oyster, features bold Southwestern flavors with Mexican influences. Appetizers include Duck Confit Flautas served with mole amarillo and crema, Stuffed Quail wrapped in bacon with jalapeño and cream cheese and Parker House Rolls paired with cinnamon ancho butter. Standout entrées range from Ancho Chile Salmon atop a black bean purée to the Wild Mushroom Quesadilla filled with queso Oaxaca and salsa roja. For heartier options, diners can savor the New York Strip with a pineapple-chipotle marinade or the Pork Chop with cheesy grits and braised collards, a personal favorite of Berg.
Berg draws inspiration from his years living in Texas, where he developed an admiration for the region’s culinary traditions.
“Being in Texas for almost eight years now, I’ve fallen in love with the culture and cuisine here,” shares the chef. Dishes like the Stuffed Quail nod to the state’s rich culinary heritage, while his elevated take on King Ranch Casserole pays homage to a beloved Texan comfort food.
Teddy’s also features an impressive bar program, crafted by Cory Starr, who was previously the beverage director of Tiki Tatsu-Ya, with craft cocktails, martini specialties, frozen drinks and a curated wine and beer list. Signature drinks include the Tex-Mex Martini, made with Dulce Vida Reposado and Fino Sherry, and the Ocean Front Property in Arizona, a tropical mix of roasted jalapeño rum, pistachio orgeat and pineapple.
A space that feels like home
Teddy’s interior, designed by Studio Steinbomer with Berg’s creative direction in mind, blends bold, Southwestern roots with a touch of sophistication. The space features warm-hued floral wallpaper by Supply Showroom, black- and-white checkered flooring, a copper bar and dark wood accents. Guests can also enjoy a 40-seat enclosed patio bordered by lush greenery, a comfortable spot for brunch or happy hour gatherings.
“I love the design process just as much as I love menu-making,” says Berg. “I really wanted (the space) to be the best version of what you would expect to go into like a cool hill country tavern.”
A vision for longevity
Teddy’s represents a return to smaller, boutique-style restaurants for Berg after managing large-scale operations. His dedication to consistency, service and fostering a positive team culture has been key to the restaurant’s early success.
“If your staff is happy and you treat them well, it translates to the guest experience,” explains Berg.
As Teddy’s settles into its new home, the restaurant has introduced weekend brunch and happy hour specials. Brunch, available Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., offers creative spins on classic dishes such as the Huckleberry Pancakes, Mushroom Carnitas Frittata and Flat Iron Steak and Eggs.
Berg’s ultimate goal is for Teddy’s to become a beloved neighborhood staple.
“One of the best compliments I’ve gotten was from a guy who comes into Bill’s Oyster a lot, and he said, ‘Oh, it’s great. I love that place. How long has that been there?’ so I responded with, ‘It’ll just be two years in May.’ He was like, ‘Really? I feel it’s one of these staple Austin restaurants.’” shares Berg. “That’s all I want for Teddy’s — to be a great neighborhood restaurant that’ll hopefully be there for a long, long time.”
This philosophy, combined with a passion for local flavors and a knack for curating inviting spaces, has positioned Teddy’s as a standout addition to Austin’s dining landscape.
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