Odd Duck

About Odd Duck

In 2009, brothers Bryce and Dylan Gilmore set out with a bold vision: to create an eatery that would showcase the rich bounty of Austin’s local farms. With a commitment to using only locally sourced ingredients, they purchased a Fleetwood Mallard trailer and began a journey that would change the Austin food scene forever. Their goal was simple—create an innovative dining experience that was both sustainable and delicious.

Transforming the Fleetwood Mallard Trailer

After driving to Wisconsin to pick up the trailer, the Gilmore brothers invested over a hundred man-hours into rehabbing it and outfitting it with a wood-burning grill. The transformation of the trailer into a functional, charming eatery was a labor of love. It wasn’t long before their hard work paid off, as the trailer was ready to serve the Austin community. With its rustic charm and delicious food, Odd Duck quickly earned a loyal following.

Opening the Doors of Odd Duck

In December of 2009, Odd Duck officially opened its doors to the public. What started as a humble trailer serving food made with locally sourced ingredients quickly became a beloved spot in Austin. The trailer’s success went beyond just great food—it became a symbol of the city’s burgeoning food scene. Bryce’s innovative approach to cooking earned him national recognition and acclaim, cementing Odd Duck as a standout in Austin’s dining landscape.

A Commitment to Local Sourcing

From the very start, Bryce made it his mission to use only the finest ingredients sourced from local farms. He developed close relationships with local farmers and suppliers, buying whole hogs from nearby farms and using every part of the animal—from snout to tail—in his dishes. Bryce also formed a lasting partnership with a local egg farmer, whom he still buys from today. The emphasis on fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients became the foundation of Odd Duck’s menu.

The Farm-to-Table Movement

Bryce’s dedication to sourcing local ingredients extended beyond the kitchen. At the time, the Saturday farmers market in Austin was small, and local farmers rarely sold wholesale to restaurant owners or chefs. But Bryce, always committed to sourcing fresh, quality products, became a regular at the market, forging relationships with local farmers and helping to raise awareness about the importance of supporting local agriculture. This effort, along with Odd Duck’s success, played a significant role in transforming the way restaurants in Austin work with local suppliers.

Making an Impact on Austin’s Food Scene

Odd Duck’s influence on Austin’s food scene cannot be overstated. Bryce and Dylan’s passion for local sourcing and innovation helped put Austin on the map as a culinary destination. The success of Odd Duck inspired other chefs and restaurateurs to follow suit, and the city’s food culture flourished in the years that followed. The Gilmore brothers’ commitment to quality, sustainability, and local sourcing paved the way for a vibrant, farm-to-table movement that continues to thrive in Austin today.

A Lasting Legacy

Today, Odd Duck is not just a restaurant; it’s a symbol of Austin’s evolving food scene and the Gilmore brothers’ dedication to quality and community. Through their efforts, they’ve made a lasting impact on local agriculture and inspired countless others to embrace the farm-to-table philosophy. Odd Duck continues to be a place where fresh, innovative dishes are crafted with care, always celebrating the bounty of Austin’s local farms and the community that supports them.