Katz’s is closing on January 2, 2011

Another little part of Austin I fell in love with when I moved here in 1994 bites the dust as the city continues to transform into Dallas II; I could live with San Antonio, Jr. but I think it’s becoming more Dallas-esque with the rising selfish Republican asshole population.

I knew the place had been suffering from financial troubles. The founder (Marc) and his son (Barry) had a fight years ago splintering the business, the founder also wasted time pursuing a couple political offices and lastly, the founder sold the building then leased it back. Not sure why on the latter move. It must be some piece of MBA wisdom which defies the logic of us mere mortals.

So many great memories I will have. I took guests there when they visited me in my new adopted home: Cindy, Kama and Jose come to mind. Early dates with Somara and other romantic disasters. Ethan and I satisfied our post-drinking munchies during another evening: it’s when I discovered that fried pickles are good and tried again sober to make sure. Post-concert snacks while making new friends: Mary and Jessica! The list goes on. It may not have been genuine New York or kosher; Garrett told me it couldn’t be if melted cheese on meat is served; but it certainly became part of my personal perspective on what Austin is.

Recently, I got permission to take the entire holiday break off from work. I was a bit disappointed since I didn’t have enough lead time to plan a little trip. No I will at least have the opportunity to squeeze in one final order of blintzes, potato pancakes and matzo ball soup before the doors close. Maybe I’ll get to thank Mr. Katz in person too.

I’m not going to lament for long though. I’ll hope for a successor to come to the rescue, satisfy Austin’s craving for corned beef on rye with brown mustard. Manny Hattan’s gave up a while ago with their shift into some kind of Nouveau crap so there’s an opportunity if any VCs are reading.