Our Austin

Mendocino Farms Opened South Lamar Restaurant

The chain’s third Austin location is now serving the South Lamar corridor.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Philanthropy

Screen-print poster illustration of a bowl filled with fresh, colorful farm-to-table produce on a wooden surface, representing a new restaurant opening.
Mendocino Farms has officially opened its third Austin location, situated at 1100 South Lamar Boulevard in the South Lamar corridor. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe the addition of national restaurant chains benefits your local community's food scene?

South Lamar diners have a new spot to eat as Mendocino Farms officially opened its third Austin location at 1100 S. Lamar Blvd. The expansion follows the brand's arrival in the city just last year.

Why it matters

This opening reflects steady growth for the company in the Austin market, driven by community support since its 2025 debut. The brand continues to focus on integrating with local schools and nonprofits through its community giveback model.

The company now operates 3 locations in Austin as part of a 14-store footprint across Texas, with 102 total restaurants nationwide. It is currently unknown which specific local organizations will benefit from the fundraiser program.

The players

Mendocino Farms

A restaurant chain founded in 2005 that currently operates over 100 locations nationwide.

The details

The new restaurant occupies space at 1100 S. Lamar Blvd., Suite 1125. As part of its local engagement, the restaurant offers a community giveback program where participating schools and nonprofits can receive 50% of qualifying sales through December 2026. Customers looking for a deal can also register for an eClub account to receive a free entree after selecting the South Lamar location in their profile.

Timeline

  1. Mendocino Farms was founded in 2005.

  2. The first Austin location opened in 2025.

  3. The South Lamar location opened on September 29, 2026.

  4. The community giveback program runs through December 2026.

The Texas Context

This opening extends the documented trend of fast-casual chains expanding their footprint within the South Lamar neighborhood. It follows a pattern of steady market entry for regional brands looking to establish a presence in rapidly growing Austin corridors.

Diners can earn a free entree by signing up for the company's eClub online and designating the South Lamar shop as their home location. Local nonprofits and schools can also coordinate with the management team to utilize the 50% giveback program through the end of the year.

The takeaway

Keep an eye on the South Lamar corridor for potential community fundraising events through December 2026. If you want a free meal, be sure to register your eClub account specifically for the new South Lamar restaurant.

Further reading

You can learn more about how local businesses engage with the community by checking out our Philanthropy section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Fast Casual.

Live Poll

Do you believe the addition of national restaurant chains benefits your local community's food scene?