Your weekend wake up call is at Olivia — that’s Chef James Holmes’ place — named one of the “Top 10 Best New Restaurants in America” by Bon Appétit magazine. Add Goodtaste to its growing fan club. With a bright, spacious setting and seasonal fare that’s fresh and locally sourced, our introduction to this eclectic New American eatery in South Austin began with a beautiful midday brunch!
Olivia’s weekend hours are not something to doze through. Even if you’re a late sleeper, the 10-2:30 PM time frame should accommodate most night owls!
Rich in European and Southern influences, the menu changes almost daily to reflect the season and goods of local farmers and ranchers. We popped in on a sunny Saturday afternoon recently to taste for ourselves. Our meal began with a few starters currently offered a la carte. ‘Delicious’ doesn’t even begin to describe them…
Garden Melon & Local Watermelon Salad:
Mixed Jam & Toast:
Olivia Side Salad, Garden Herb Vinaigrette:
Everything was fabulous, including my main course…the one and only Olivia Benedict [above]. Red wine-braised beef and poached farm eggs atop a homemade buttermilk biscuit in a SUPERB hollandaise sauce. One of the best Eggs Benedict we’ve ever had!
Also on tap for our order was the seasonal Sweetbread BLT — Texas tomato, Boggy Creek arugula, bacon, avocado, aioli and frites. Bravo! While we’re singing the praises of Chef Holmes and Olivia, also pay a visit to Olivia’s southern sister Lucy’s Fried Chicken. Here’s a recipe for Lucy’s Sweet Tea Pie if you need any extra motivation… 😉
For more delicious recipes and fun food and wine pairing ideas, subscribe to my newsletter.
Leave a Reply