TEXAS ROOTS
Anthem was inspired by two Texans — Anthony Hitchcock, an Austin-native, and Tony Gentile, a Houston-native (but we love him anyway). Anthony and Tony met in college while working at the same specialty market. They quickly discovered they were both foodies before that word was even a thing, so they joined forces and embarked on a 16-year food odyssey. Together they merged their expertise with Flagship Restaurant Group and developed multiple restaurant concepts in the Midwest.
Their most personal concept, Anthem, was born out of Anthony’s desire to highlight the diversity and range of food from his childhood. He considers himself lucky to have grown up in Austin, surrounded by so many cultures and so much variety. Together, he and Tony created a menu to celebrate the food and people that nourished him along the way.
anthony’s anthem
Do you remember what Friday nights felt like when you were in high school?
Anything was possible. Your friends were full of crazy ideas. The air was thick with anticipation. The Pasture was our gathering spot. It was our turf. We were independent out there, free to explore, tease each other, try new things, and hatch big plans.
Anthem pays homage to the exuberant freedom of being young and the eclectic group of friends I had in those days here in Austin. We all came from different backgrounds — growing up on dumplings vs casseroles, okra vs brussels sprouts, or hoisin vs aioli — but we always found common ground.
At Anthem everyone is welcome to the party. Let’s rally around some drinks, fill our bellies, and revel in the unexpected combinations that make us special.
Anthony Hitchcock, Owner & COO of Flagship Restaurant Group