Something new for patrons; Torge’s follows trend, adds three-season patio

Published 9:57 am Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Tracy Benesh, general manager, stands in the new patio area of Torge’s Live. The area, recently opened, offers an open-air place to relax and enjoy a drink and a meal. Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com

Torge’s Live has been a staple in Austin dining and night life since the 1980s, but the bar and restaurant recently added a new element.

Torge’s, at 1701 Fourth St. NW, held a grand opening in early June for a new three-season patio, and customers are enjoying a whole new side of the restaurant.

“Everyone likes it,” general manager Tracy Benesh said.

Construction for the patio started Feb. 9 and a soft opening was held in May.

Benesh wanted to follow in the footsteps of other restaurants who have been adding patios recently.

Torge’s Live’s new patio is now open for patrons to use. Photos by Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com

“We noticed in our industry that the outdoor patio is a growing trend,” Benesh said.

The new pavilion has seven TVs, seating for 60, a grand double-sided fireplace and ceiling heat, among other things.

Torge’s started opened in 1989, but didn’t serve a full menu at first, but it had Green Mill pizza in the hotel for a few years. Ever since, they’ve continued to change and evolve the restaurant. New drinks and food are constantly added, however some classics have remained, like the Torge Burger.

In the future, Benesh hopes Torge’s continues to expand and remain popular in town.

“We want to continue to be a hot spot in Austin and grow with the trends,” Benesh said.