Olivia Goes Back to the 80s; John Bates on Austin

SOUTH LAMAR — Because, you know, why not, Olivia's throwing a set of themed summer chef's dinners. First up, on May 23, is "1989," which will be an "homage to the era of towering, architectural food." Also, apparently Chef de Cuisine Andrew Francisco will be rocking a pony tail for the occasion. $89, 512.804.2700. [Eaterwire]

NORTHWEST — Community Impact ran a profile of cult-favorite sandwich shop The Noble Pig and its chef/owner John Bates in which he reveals that he often wakes up at 4:30 (ouch) and the secrets to his success: "We're filling a gap that nobody else has addressed...How do you stand out in the crowded restaurant market like Austin? You have to step it up." [Community Impact]

Olivia. [Photo: Olivia / Facebook]