H-E-B opens in place of iconic Nutty Brown Amphitheatre

AUSTIN — There is now another grocery store option for Hays County residents after the Nutty Brown H-E-B opened its doors in west Austin on Wednesday, July 5.

Dating back more than 70 years, the site’s rich history will be on display at the 107,000-square-foot store, as it incorporates building materials and showcases memorabilia from the iconic location, according to a news release. The site previously operated as the Nutty Brown Café & Amphitheatre and was originally home to Nutty Brown Mills, which served as a flour mill and candy shop. Throughout the store, H-E-B incorporated materials such as red brick from the original brick oven used at Nutty Brown Café.

The H-E-B design team also designed a tribute wall that serves as a beacon near the store’s entrance. To preserve and celebrate the site’s history, the mural includes vintage photography and colorful iconography inspired by original signage such as the blue "Welcome” awning and the cowboy neon sign.

“This is a special store at an iconic site and we are excited to preserve and showcase the history of such an important landmark as well as provide a unique shopping experience our loyal customers will be proud of for decades to come,” said Sarah Longoria, Nutty Brown H-E-B top store leader.

Mike Farr, who owned the Nutty Brown Café & Amphitheatre, gifted more than 15 signed guitars from legendary Texas musicians who once graced the stage, which are displayed at both entrances.

Crafted to fit in the fabric of the surrounding communities of Bear Creek, Cedar Valley and Dripping Springs, the location’s exterior design embraces the Hill Country aesthetic. Two entry towers and a large section of windows above the check stands area allow for an abundance of natural light and several native trees were added to the landscape.

At a ribbon cutting ceremony held on July 5, H-E-B announced its support of local nonprofits. The company presented donations of $5,000 each to the Central Texas Food Bank, Health Alliance for Austin Musicians and Treefolks, as well as two $2,500 donations to the Dripping Springs Education Foundation, which will support Sycamore Springs Elementary School and Rooster Springs Elementary School.

H-E-B created more than 400 jobs at the Nutty Brown store. Job openings can be found at www.heb.com/careers. The store is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and is located at 12021 U.S. 290 West in Austin.