About Us
Serenade reimagines a classic brasserie through a Lone Star lens, creating one of Austin’s most central and relaxed dining destinations. Welcome to a place where the allure of French oak meets the draw of Texas smoke.
Featuring locally-sourced dishes for all day dining, Serenade offers elevated comfort food in a setting that is both approachable and tranquil. French and continental influences are evident in dishes like Housemade Gougeres and Duck Confit, while refined-yet-rustic Texan flavors shine in Steaks and Quail Knots. The cocktails are bespoke and inventive, the wine list is globally curated, and the beer selection ranges from European specialties to local Austin brews. Serenade is led by Chef Johnny Ray Stinebaugh, with menu development also overseen by W Austin’s Executive Chef Manuel Rodriguez.
Located on the ground floor of W Austin, Serenade spans an inviting indoor-outdoor and day-to-evening space. In the dining room and at the large focal point bar, double-height ceilings enhance the soft, golden light, while avian motifs appear throughout, from wall art to menu jackets. Private dining spaces abound, including an intimate glass-enclosed wine room, while the open air courtyard features natural Texan flora and additional seating.
Reserve your table at Serenade, today.
Meet Johnny Ray
Johnny Ray Stinebaugh was first inspired to become a chef in 2012 while he was working as a dishwasher at Austin's inaugural F1 race. After graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in 2013, Stinebaugh started his career at Hudson's on the Bend before continuing to cook in kitchens throughout the Austin area. He then took on the challenge of running the culinary operation for the esteemed Contigo Catering, where he led high-profile events with up to 900 people that often required creative problem solving and unique dishes.
Stinebaugh has traveled the country opening and improving restaurants in Marriott hotels, which created opportunities for him to work with renowned chefs and restaurant owners. His biggest takeaway from this experience was observing how every chef and restaurant owner operates their kitchen and restaurant differently, and he's enjoyed incorporating their styles into his own. This experience, Chef Johnny Ray's roots in the Austin community, and his belief in being of service to others make him the perfect chef to lead Serenade.