Proper Ash Steakhouse Is Coming to Dripping Springs, Texas
Dripping Springs continues to welcome new businesses and dining concepts, and another exciting addition is officially on the way. Proper Ash Steakhouse is preparing to open at 136 Drifting Wind Run, Suite 101, bringing an elevated steakhouse experience to the heart of the Hill Country. BizJournals
A New Upscale Dining Option for Dripping Springs
Proper Ash Steakhouse will take over the approximately 5,200-square-foot space formerly occupied by Garbo’s. The concept is being created by co-owners Manny Santillan and Kim Russell, both of whom have lived in the Dripping Springs area and saw an opportunity for a more elevated local dining experience. BizJournals
Rather than requiring residents to head into Austin or San Antonio for a traditional steakhouse experience, Proper Ash plans to bring prime steaks, seafood, cocktails and polished hospitality closer to home.
The restaurant is currently expected to open in 2027. A Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filing lists a renovation of approximately 5,173 square feet, with work scheduled to begin in October 2026 and an estimated completion date of June 2027. Texas Licensing and Regulation
Steaks, Seafood and a Hill Country Touch
At the center of the menu will be prime-cut steaks and seafood, led by culinary partner and executive chef Robert Garcia. Garcia brings extensive steakhouse experience, including time with Ruth’s Chris Steak House, J-Prime Steakhouse and Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood. BizJournals
But Proper Ash isn't planning to be just another traditional steakhouse. The team wants to incorporate the surrounding community into the experience by featuring a menu or beverage item from a local business each month. That could mean sourcing a particular ribeye from a nearby ranch, incorporating bread from a local bakery or using ingredients such as Fredericksburg peaches in the cocktail program. BizJournals
That local focus feels particularly fitting for Dripping Springs, where supporting area businesses, producers and makers has long been an important part of the community.
More Than a Special-Occasion Restaurant
Although Proper Ash is being positioned as an elevated dining destination, the owners envision it as more than a place reserved for anniversaries and special occasions.
Current plans call for the restaurant to serve guests throughout the day, from breakfast and Italian espresso to lunch, dinner and late-night drinks. The approximately 160-seat restaurant is also expected to feature live music, a patio overlooking Hill Country scenery and a second-level mezzanine that can serve as a private dining space. BizJournals
The combination could make Proper Ash equally appealing for a morning coffee, business lunch, date night, celebration or an evening of cocktails and live music.
Another Sign of Growth in Dripping Springs
The arrival of Proper Ash is another example of how quickly the dining and business landscape in Dripping Springs is evolving. As the community grows, we're seeing more concepts designed to give residents experiences they previously may have traveled farther into the Austin area to enjoy.
For longtime residents, that growth comes with plenty of change. But businesses that intentionally incorporate local suppliers and Hill Country character have an opportunity to become part of the community rather than simply another new development.
Proper Ash's plans to work with nearby ranches, bakeries and other businesses make this opening particularly interesting to watch.
Coming in 2027
An exact grand-opening date has not yet been announced, so details may continue to evolve as construction moves forward. For now, Proper Ash Steakhouse is planned for 136 Drifting Wind Run, Suite 101 in Dripping Springs, with its debut anticipated in 2027. BizJournals
At NestHaven Properties, we love keeping our community informed about what's new and what's next in Dripping Springs. From new restaurants and locally owned businesses to residential and commercial development, there's always something happening in our growing Hill Country community.
