Roya's Upscale Persian Dining Experience Debuts in North Austin

The new restaurant offers an immersive, luxury take on Iranian cuisine in a moody, intimate setting.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Roya, a new Persian restaurant from chef-owner Amir Hajimaleki, has opened in north Austin, bringing an upscale yet homey dining experience that transports guests to an immigrant household. The restaurant features deep blue interiors, a multi-room layout, and a "Sofreh Experience" tasting menu that allows the kitchen to guide diners through a curated Persian meal.

Why it matters

Roya represents a unique addition to Austin's dining scene, offering an elevated take on Iranian cuisine that aims to evoke a sense of hospitality and belonging. As the city continues to grow and evolve, restaurants like Roya that celebrate diverse culinary traditions and create immersive dining experiences can help preserve the city's cultural identity.

The details

Roya is located above District Kitchen + Cocktails at 7858 Shoal Creek Blvd. Guests enter at street level and ascend either by stairs or elevator into the restaurant's moody, blue-hued dining rooms. The space features several distinct seating areas, including a main dining room, cozy corners, a patio, and a bar. The menu offers small plates, entrees, and a $75 "Sofreh Experience" tasting menu that allows the kitchen to guide diners through a curated Persian meal. Standout dishes include the smoky bademjan eggplant, the charred koobideh kabob, and the deeply earthy ghormeh sabzi herb stew. Cocktails also feature Persian flavors like turmeric, pistachio, and walnut.

  • Roya opened earlier this month in February 2026.

The players

Amir Hajimaleki

The chef-owner of Roya, who is drawing on his Persian heritage to offer an upscale take on Iranian cuisine in Austin.

Roya

A new Persian restaurant in north Austin that aims to provide an immersive dining experience with moody interiors, luxury cocktails, and a curated tasting menu.

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The takeaway

Roya's debut in north Austin represents a unique addition to the city's dining landscape, offering an elevated, immersive experience that celebrates Persian cuisine and culture. As Austin continues to evolve, restaurants like Roya that highlight diverse culinary traditions can help preserve the city's identity and sense of community.