Ēma, a Mediterranean and California-inspired restaurant from Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, is set to open its first Texas location at Domain NORTHSIDE in Austin on Saturday, January 31, 2026. This marks the third overall location for Ēma and the second Lettuce concept in Texas, joining Aba on South Congress Avenue.
The restaurant was created by Executive Partner and Divisional President Marc Jacobs and Chef Partner CJ Jacobson. Ēma originally opened in Chicago’s River North neighborhood in June 2016, with a second location following in Glenview, Illinois, in September 2024. The name “Ēma” means “mother” in Hebrew and reflects the restaurant’s focus on lighter California-style cooking with an emphasis on vegetables and seafood.
“We’re excited to expand into North Austin,” said Jacobs. “So many of our Aba regulars now live, eat and shop in The Domain, so this location is a natural next step for our growth.”
Chef CJ Jacobson is recognized for his approach that blends California roots with modern Mediterranean cooking. The menu at Ēma features mezze-style dishes such as Sweet Corn Hummus, Broccoli & Kale Hummus, Octopus Carpaccio, Crispy Wild Mushrooms and Grilled Oishii Shrimp Kebab.
“Since opening Aba in Austin in October 2020, we’ve been grateful for all the support we received from the community,” Jacobson said. “We look forward to introducing our guests – both old and new – to Ēma and to continue learning and drawing inspiration from Austin’s diverse culinary scene. Openings always bring fresh ideas and refinements that we can’t wait to share.”
The beverage program is led by Senior Beverage Manager Nicholas Berggren with cocktails that use Mediterranean ingredients. Options include the Tequila Yuzu Espresso Martini made with Lalo Blanco tequila and Oka Yuzu Vodka; Don Higo featuring Uruapan charanda rum; as well as non-alcoholic drinks like the Hugo Spritz using Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. elderflower syrup and Austin Beerworks hop water. The wine list curated by Sommelier John C. Slatter includes selections from both Mediterranean regions and California producers.
The design of the new space was overseen by Lettuce’s In-House Director of Interior Design Avril Zayas along with Marc Jacobs and local architecture firm coXist. The 5,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor venue seats up to 314 guests with an outdoor patio shaded by trees. Inside features include ivory tones, textured finishes such as thin brick and reclaimed wood, cream sheers, ivy-covered walls, potted trees and other greenery.
Ēma will offer lunch and dinner service daily; weekend brunch as well as delivery options are planned for later dates. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Sunday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Reservations can be made via OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.
For more information or reservations visit emarestaurants.com/austin or follow Ēma on Instagram.
