Mesa Ranch Closes

Things are getting a bit dicey in Northwest Hills. First, Mirabelle gave way to Bistro Mirabelle which barely stayed around long enough for a cup of coffee. Now, after looking like it was actually going to hand in there, Mesa Ranch, which had taken over the space from the bizarre Cathy’s Steakhouse, has finally called it quits. Mesa Ranch had a 7-year run but the failure of their S. Austin store hurt their cash reserves. That store opened in 2008 and closed in 2009. Even owner Steve Ray admitted that was a lousy time to open a new restaurant.

I enjoyed the food (particularly the steaks) at the Northwest Hills location and have to wonder if they’d still be around had it now been for the cash drain of the south store. But Steve Ray has got the restaurant business in his blood. If he doesn’t go to work for one of the “big boys,” as he phrased it, look for he and his wife to consider another project!