Support Us Button Widget

The story behind Lutie’s Garden Restaurant

The restaurant is the only part of the resort open to the public.

The Lutie's dining room, which has checkered tiled floor and an ornate bar. The ceiling is draped in plants and round green spheres.

Step back into the 1920s with a dinner at Lutie’s.

Photo by ATXtoday

You might have seen that your City Editors recently enjoyed a meal at Lutie’s Garden Restaurant. We’ve already told you about our favorite dishes, so now we’re going to give you a little background on the spot’s history.

The restaurant is named for Lutie Perry, the wife of Edgar Howard “Commodore” Perry, head of the Austin Housing Authority in the early 1900s. The couple bought the Waller Creek site now known as the Commodore Perry Estate, and in the mid-1920s they constructed the 10,800-sqft manor and surrounding sunken gardens.

Lutie’s is the only part of the estate open to the public. And unlike the main estate rooms, it’s mostly new construction, designed by local architect firm Clayton Korte. (Read our interview with Paul Clayton to learn more.) That said, the eastern edge of the restaurant is built around the original stone wall still bordering the garden.

Learn more about the history of the property.

More from ATXtoday
Allow us to take you on a sleigh ride through the Austin area’s huge collection of holiday lights, shows, and displays.
It’s a mini city-wide scavenger hunt in the supermarket, and all the references are different throughout each Trader Joe’s location.
If you knead an excuse to eat a sweet treat, these local bakeries will rise to the occasion.
Visions of sugarplums are dancing in our heads... and on stages around Austin this holiday season.
‘Tis the season to give back to the Austin community through Me Nd Adam’s Keep Austin Cheer’d — an annual charity event that benefits Casa Marianella.
In need of a weekend getaway? You’re in luck — we’re sharing our favorite restaurants, wineries, and stores in Fredericksburg, Texas.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Austin, TX includes everything from building homes for people in need to fostering shelter animals.
Kirk Watson has a storied history of being Mayor of Austin, and with his re-election confirmed, he’ll serve another four-year term.
‘Tis the season to start shopping for the holidays and anything you can buy, you can buy local at one of these holiday markets.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Austin?