Business Details
38 Years
experience
Experience Award-Winning American Cuisine in Austin
Founded in 1988 by Sharon Watkins, Chez Zee has become an Austin dining institution by blending old-world bakery charm with American bistro cuisine. Our commitment to locally sourced ingredients and creative, art-filled ambiance reflects our deep roots in the Austin community. With over three decades of experience, we specialize in award-winning desserts, weekend brunch, and a signature brand of American fare infused with southern regional influences. Our team combines hospitality expertise with a passion for supporting local artists, evident in our rotating gallery exhibits and whimsical decor.From our iconic red piano providing live music to our dedication to culinary excellence, we deliver a dining experience that balances tradition with innovation. As a multi-award-winning establishment recognized in Austin Chronicle Readers Poll and Zagats annual survey, we maintain rigorous quality standards while fostering a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Our transparent approach to sourcing and preparation, combined with decades of industry experience, ensures every guest receives exceptional service and memorable meals.
Services
American Fare
Weekend Brunch
Award-Winning Desserts
Private Events
Art Gallery Space
Live Music
Catering Services
Bakery Specials
Wine Selection
Happy Hour Menu
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- Over 35 years of culinary excellence in Austin
- Award-winning desserts recognized by Austin Chronicle
- Rotating local art exhibits in a whimsical atmosphere
- Locally sourced ingredients with southern regional influences
- Live music and art-filled ambiance unique to Austin
What people say
Award-winning desserts
Art-filled ambiance
Live music
Weekend brunch
Exceptional service
Services
Weekend Brunch
Our weekend brunch features classic and creative dishes made with local ingredients. Guests enjoy options like our award-winning Creme Brulee French Toast and surf-and-turf Benedict. The menu combines traditional favorites with innovative creations, served in an art-filled setting with live music.
Private Events
The Gallery at Chez Zee accommodates up to 150 guests for receptions or 100 for seated events. This flexible space includes a private entrance, movable bar, and stage. Ideal for weddings, corporate events, and celebrations, it features our signature festive lighting and art exhibits.
Award-Winning Desserts
Our bakery creates nationally recognized desserts like Lemon Rosemary Cake and Chocolate Decadence Cake. Each item combines traditional techniques with modern presentation. The dessert menu features both classic favorites and seasonal specialties, many incorporating house-made components.
Art Gallery Exhibits
Rotating art exhibits showcase local artists throughout the restaurant. The Gallery space hosts dedicated art shows alongside dining events. This program supports Austin's creative community while providing diners with an immersive cultural experience in a working restaurant environment.
Happy Hour
Daily happy hour offers discounted appetizers and drinks during afternoon hours. Menu features include half-price wine bottles on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The program provides premium quality at accessible prices while maintaining our culinary standards.
People
Sharon Watkins
Owner
Sharon Watkins founded Chez Zee in 1989 after careers in theater, arts administration, and advertising. With over 35 years in Austin hospitality, she combines creative vision with business expertise. A community leader, she serves on multiple local boards and has shaped Austin's dining scene through her unique artistic approach.
Questions
What makes Chez Zee unique?
Our combination of award-winning American cuisine, rotating local art exhibits, and live music creates a distinctive Austin dining experience.
Are reservations recommended?
Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend brunch and dinner, especially during peak hours.
Do you offer private dining options?
The Gallery at Chez Zee accommodates up to 150 guests with dedicated event space and customized menus.
What are your signature dishes?
Signature items include our Lemon Rosemary Cake, Creme Brulee French Toast, and 12" Artisan Pizzas featuring local ingredients.
Do you serve happy hour specials?
Daily happy hour features discounted appetizers and drinks from 3-6pm, with half-price wine bottles on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Is there parking available?
Complimentary parking is available in our lot with valet service for special events.
Reviews (6)
Kate Stotesbery
Jan 22, 2022
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Where do I begin! Chez Zee made the most spectacular three-tiered gluten-free dairy-free wedding cake. They created the recipe from scratch and it tasted even better than it looked, incredibly! They went completely above and beyond our expectations and delivered a cake that our guests chased around the venue and are still talking about today. Thank you for making my wedding day so sweet and for creating such a groundbreaking wedding cake! Our gluten-free and vegan friends were so excited!
Joshua Ukinski
Jan 19, 2022
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Rarely do I ever give a place 5 stars but Chez Zee deserved it. Went in last night with my girlfriend on a date and the ambiance is lovely. From the lights hanging down over the glass, to the gorgeous red piano in front of the bar, this is a very relaxing place to be. The food was also fantastic. We got fried pickles, smoked pork tenderloin, flat iron stake, and a few desserts and everything was top notch, and they desserts in particular were excellent and very fresh. Our server was very nice and knowledgeable and even though I could kind of tell the place was understaffed, it didnt feel like
Daisy Martinez
Jan 06, 2022
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One of my favorite spots in Austin. The atmosphere of the place is incredibly cute and very aesthetically pleasing. Their cocktails and mimosas are great. Wide selection of alcoholic beverages. All the food is plated beautifully and tastes as good as it looks. I have shown every person I know this spot.
Tom Alexander
Jan 05, 2022
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We have dined at Chez Zee on several occasions. Each time we experienced a marvelous time. The food is superb, especially the house made hummus. Multiple exquisite main courses to choose from.The desserts are over the top delicious. You will not be disappointed.
Brad Williams
Jan 02, 2022
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Chez Zee. An Austin fav. Wonderful atmosphere and friendly staff. Good pricing with great meal choice diversity but compelling flavors with every dish.
Jessica Morse
Dec 28, 2021
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Went for my birthday - did not disappoint. Everyones appetizers and meals were great and we all got the dessert we wanted. Service a little slower than I recall prepandemic, but nice place to relax with family.
