Austin’s rapid growth is changing more than just the skyline—it’s wiping out the restaurants that gave the city its flavor. In 2025 alone, we lost icons like Aster’s Ethiopian, Black Star Co-op, and Jim-Jim’s Water Ice, each with decades of memories and community behind them. Rising rents, burnout, and relentless development are squeezing out these beloved spots, leaving empty dining rooms and a sense that the city’s soul is fading. What’s your take—are these closures just part of progress, or are we losing something irreplaceable in Austin’s rush to grow? #Food #AustinEats #SupportLocal