The Domain Creates Mass Appeal With Infusion of Local Austin Businesses

Look; I get it. The first time I went walking through The Domain, I passed places like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany’s and Michael Kors, ALL IN A ROW, and my first thought was, “Oh, crap. I need to get out of here immediately.”

All pretentiousness-bashing aside, I’m here to talk about why you shouldn’t necessarily jump to conclusions when you think about North Austin’s Domain. While your preconceived notion probably suggests it’s an uppity tourist trap with nothing to offer us common Austinites, I’m happy to report that you’re wrong.

Downtown’s Little Cousin

As host to not only a diverse shopping center, but multiple apartment complexes as well, The Domain is well-suited for young professionals and has something for just about everyone. It serves as a really nice alternative for those who don’t want to venture all the way downtown. Sure, there’s a side of The Domain that’s meant to attract the upper class. But walk a little further and you’ll also find millennial retailer favorites such as H&M and Forever 21.

The same goes for restaurants and bars. If you feel like spending $50 for a piece of shrimp, McCormick and Schmick’s might be your jam. If, on the other hand, you’re someone who likes reasonably priced beer, then local favorite The Park is right around the corner.

Phase III Brings Local Austin to The Domain

Speaking of local favorites, The Domain is focusing on bringing in local flavor with its Phase III. The early part of this year will see an entire new street of bars and restaurants open up, including some of downtown’s most notorious hideouts like The Dogwood and Kung Fu Saloon.

Again, the name of the game is variety. Phase III will add even more options to the already stacked lineup of diverse Domain destinations. A few more of the dozen or so hyperlocal additions that will occupy The Domain’s Phase III area include:

• Birds Barbershop
• East Side King’s Thai-Kun
• Salvation Pizza
• Tarka Indian Kitchen
• Viva Day Spa

By the way, remember those Lavaca St. Turf N’ Surf nachos I told you about back in the day? They’ll be making their way to The Domain, too.

Give The Domain a Shot

I think I’ve made it clear that I’m not a huge fan of overpriced, hoity-toity designer bullsh*t, nor am I a fan of those who go for that sort of thing. I hope I’ve also made it clear that The Domain doesn’t have to be that type of place at all. Of course, if you like scarves that cost more than my monthly rent, there’s plenty for you at The Domain. But with that said, its wildly sundry restaurants, shops and bars offer something for all types, especially young professionals who don’t want the hassle of heading downtown.

Adding to an already impressive roster, Phase III will introduce even more restaurants and retailers to The Domain’s Rock Rose area. With a keen eye towards local establishments such as Birds Barbershop, The Dogwood and Kung Fu Saloon, The Domain is quickly becoming the hub for North Austin’s rapidly developing community. No matter who you are, I’d recommend giving The Domain a shot the next time you’re out and about.

11410 Century Oaks Terrace – Website

 

@andychuckchase wants to know:

What’s your favorite way to pass the time at The Domain?