Nuez de Azahar, the McAllen-based bakery known for its cookies, cakes, and coffee, plans to open its first Austin location at 902 E. 5th St., Unit 105.
Owner Priscilla Melhem told What Now Austin the project remains in permitting, with no confirmed opening date yet, though she’s hoping for the last week of October, pending approvals.
Nuez de Azahar has built a devoted following across multiple locations in McAllen, known for treats like its Mostachón Banana Brûlée cake, matcha strawberry pistachio cheesecake, custom cookie boxes, and a rotating coffee menu that includes lattes and cold brew.
According to Melhem, what drew her to Austin was the city’s energy and outlook. “I chose Austin for the vibe, the nature, and how forward-thinking the city is,” she told What Now Austin.
Beyond the city itself, she had a specific list of requirements for the physical space. The right spot took nearly a year of searching. “I wanted it to be walkable and on a corner, and it had to be in East Austin, right at the entrance to the city,” she said. “It’s perfect.”
The East 5th Street location places Nuez de Azahar along one of East Austin’s most walkable commercial corridors, an area that has continued to draw new food and retail concepts in recent years thanks to its proximity to downtown and steady foot traffic.
Melhem described a mix of nerves and excitement about bringing her business to a new market for the first time. “I’m so nervous and happy to be able to share all my creations with the city of Austin,” she said.
She pointed to her hometown following as proof of the connection the brand has built with its customers. “McAllen is already addicted; it’s become a must on any visit to McAllen,” she told What Now Austin.
Now, as she prepares to bring Nuez de Azahar to Austin, Melhem hopes to create that same sense of familiarity and community with her new customers.
“I’d love for the whole Travis community to try the best cookies and pastries in the world, and don’t even get me started on the coffee,” she said. “I want everyone who comes in to feel at home, and for Nuez de Azahar to become their favorite local bakery.”
For more information, follow Nuez de Azahar on Instagram and Facebook.
