Arkie's Shutters, Makes Way For NOLA-Inspired Diner

Rest in peace Arkie's Grill, the nearly 65-year-old diner on Cesar Chavez that announced it was closed for remodeling earlier this summer. Turns out, the shutter is permanent. Chowhounders are grumbling about the hipsterification of the space, which will be redone by Hillside Farmacy/East Side Showroom designer Mickie Spencer and supper club hosts Stephen and Lauren Shallcross of 2Dine4/Swoop House. Via the Austin Chronicle:

Shallcross says the project's working title is "Sawyer & Co." and describes the new eatery as a "New Orleans-inspired diner serving classy Texas comfort food with a Louisiana flare." He and his staff are busy developing menu items, many of which will get trial runs at the ongoing Supper Friends dinner series in the Swoop House this fall.

· Longtime Eastside Diner to be Re-imagined and Re-opened [Austin Chronicle]
· All Plywood Reports on Eater Austin [-EATX-]
· All Shutter Coverage on Eater Austin [-EATX-]

[Photo: Lenny S./Yelp]