"I recently took my family to Olivia for a graduation dinner. Making reservations online was very easy, and we were seated promptly when we arrived. Our waiter, Vincent, took excellent care of us all night, ensuring that our wine and water glasses were full and that we had everything we needed. One of our diners is vegetarian, so Vincent checked with the chef to see what sorts of accommodations could be made since there was only one veggie plate on the menu. They ended up deciding on something delicious. The appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts were paced well--we never felt rushed and had lots of time to chat and relax. The food was excellent--each dish was cooked perfectly and composed well. It was a fantastic dining experience."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"Recently new to Austin and had many people tell me about Olivia's. I was especially interested in knowing that had their own Organic Garden that they use produce out of when available.
We walked in about 5 minutes before out reservation time and we were seated right away. Service was very good, having a tandem duo helping us. Attentive without being overbearing.
This is a place we will be back to and bring friends."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"Service was a wee bit slow and everyone at our table of 8 said pretty good, except one who found it terrible, and he was having bacon and eggs. The bacon was thick and limp and the eggs , I think, sat too long and were sort of plasticy and cold. The trout salad was tasty, but very small - not a meal, though that is how it was listed. The cheese grits werent very cheesy. Have no desire to return.Too expensive for a meal that is meh."
Dined on 5/18/2013
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"Olivia's is one of my favorite restaurants in Austin. Menu changes often...always something for everyone. One in our group had beef tongue. Said it was wonderful, great flavor. I'm not that adventuresome...had the sea scallops, which were good. The server made suggestion for each of us and was very attentive."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, notable wine list
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"While in town for a race at COTA, I tried Olivia's on the advice of my dad. I love trying new restaurants and this one was superb! The decor & ambiance lends itself to either a romantic dinner for two or, in my case, satisfying a foodie itch after a long day. The waitstaff was excellent and their recommendations were top notch. The goat rack was great by itself, but the addition of the to-die-for goat brisket made it one of the best dishes I've ever tasted....and I live and eat in Vegas! You could drop Olivia's anywhere on the Strip and it would be an instant hit. Luckily for Austin, and unlucky for me, it's only available in the capital."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"We went to Olivia's for brunch on Mother's Day. The food was fantastic - creative without being silly. I wouldn't say it's the most kid-friendly restaurant but that's OK, I wouldn't say they advertise themselves as such. Our waiter, while professional, was not as personable as I would have liked. He could have been having a bad day. . . I've waited tables in the past and I'd imagine the a Mother's Day brunch is a bit stressful. Overall, I enjoyed the meal very much and plan on coming back again soon."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"This was the best brunch I've had in Austin. Everything was perfect; presentation, creativity of food and menu, service! The food was amazing and we loved the garden and chicken coup outside."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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"The food is great, with locally grown vegetables and a new menu daily, but it is very expensive. For instance, the $15 cheese platter had one small piece of cheese, some pear slices, and some caramel. Compare to other restaurants where a similarly priced item would have three cheeses, jam, and olives."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list
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"Lovely atmosphere. Innovative menu. The beef carpaccio was amazing, as was the salted caramel gelato. Our server, Kate, was the model of friendly, zen efficiency. A wonderful evening!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
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"Fantastic restaurant! Love the food and the service. Overall my experience was terrific!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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"The food, although good, was surprisingly underwhelming for the price. Will have to try brunch sometime, but the dinner wasn't outstanding. Ordered pork cheek appetizer, lamb rack, and tuna, and all tasted like something that could have been half the price at a different restaurant."
Dined on 04/25/2013
2013
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"Food was delicious and inventive if overpriced. Service very good, but no checkbacks from wait staff to refill water, coffee, or tea. Is that the new norm? For these prices, I expected at least more of a checkback than after the 1st bite to ask if the food was ok. Ambiance a total zero unless your dining experience for expensive meal is desired to be filled with LOUD NOISE of other diners yelling at each other to be heard, loud music better suited for a bar and not for digestion, and no soundproofing. Seriously? Had been wanting to enjoy a nice meal here for some time, but the restaurant blew it big time. Only plus is a reservation gets one to a table very quickly."
Dined on 04/07/2013
2012
Special Features: kid-friendly
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"Albeit a little pricey, Olivia is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or special occasion. We went during Austin restaurant week and were able to get an appetizer, entree, and dessert for $37. Our waiter recommended an exceptional bottle of wine.
It was a Wednesday night and therefore a little slow, but I can imagine the small restaurant filling up more quickly on a weekend.
The food was super fresh and they change their menu daily, incorporating foods from the vegetable garden out back. The rest of their food is all locally sourced. Everything was exceptional, but the oyster appetizer and "surf and swine" scallops really stood out. I thought I had died and gone to heaven with every bite of almond tart. Delicious!"
Dined on 04/17/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, special occasion
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"Had the ARW special which included appetizer/entree/dessert. The scallops with bacon were so good I wanted to lick the place, and the almond torte is not to be missed."
Dined on 04/14/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"Great for Austin warm spring/autumn nights if you want to sit outside, but it's very nice too. We went their with another couple and unlike in many other restaurants where the noise level forces you to yell at each other, we could have just quiet undisturbed conversation. Food was very tasty, portions moderate that left some space for dessert. Great service too. Close to downtown but with feeling of privacy."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic
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"Wow! I had heard that this was a restaurant experience not to be missed. Well it's true. We ate here during Austin Restaurant week. Each course was beautifully presented. The server accurately described each plate to us as well as answering any questions. Everything was garnished with homemade little touches such as pickles or peppers or a sauce that enhanced the dish perfectly. The ingredients were top notch as well as the preparation. But the thing that most sets this restaurant apart is the inventiveness of the chef and his ability to combine ingredients to produce unexpected delights."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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"The atmosphere and environment isn't too stuffy or pretentious. It was fine dining, Austin-casual style. I loved the booth seating, it just felt really special and private. The food here is absolutely wonderful. Each dish was carefully balanced in flavor in a notably thoughtful way. Though it is presented elegantly, it's not fussy or overly done. It makes sense. Our server was attentive, warm, funny and down-to-earth. I felt relaxed and treated well the whole time. The entire experience made us feel great, from beginning to end, and it reminded me of the magic that a great night out can give you. This is my new go-to spot for a treat!"
Dined on 04/10/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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"This was not our first time at Olivia and it will certainly not be our last. The food was delicious, the service impeccable and the ambiance is great. We highly recommend it."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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"My wife and I have lived in Austin for over 10 years, but have never taken the time to start trying Austin's little gems, in the way of restaurants. This Friday it was our choice to try Olivia's. Outstanding - from the ambiance to the food to the service - nothing lacked. With all the restaurants Austin has to offer, very few make it on our "visit again" list, but that is not the case with Olivia's. It is a fave and recommend it to anyone who is looking for an amazing night out with their significant other"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2011
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic
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"Olivia is one of Austin's great restaurants. I have been dining here since they opened. The location, architecture, gardens, patio, and the food are excellent. Four of us recently dined there and each had the chefs 6 course selection..fabulous and more than 6! Loved every lovingly prepared morsel."
Dined on 04/04/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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"I chose Olivia for a recent date night and was not disappointed. The food was wonderful and unique. The service was great, and both the host and server were friendly and seemed to be sincerely interested in making our experience a good one. The restaurant was lovely and the atmosphere was great, quite and not very busy as it was a week night. I'd absolutely recommend Olivia to anyone, particularly for a small group dinner or date! The price also seemed appropriate."
Dined on 04/02/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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"Loved the brunch but wish they had not run out of fried chicken by 1. Since they own Lucy's, I think they should have had some sent over. Lots of families go for the fried chicken at brunch."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"Outstanding brunch. We were able to dine for Easter brunch. Made a reservation and was seated within minutes of arriving. Fabulous food display and even better food. I would recommend this place to anyone."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"Oliva's brunch never disappoints. I go every Easter or Mother's Day, and for any other occasion and am always impressed by the fresh ingredients used in the delicious food. Eggs Florentine are the best!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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"The food was very creative and tasted amazing! Each course the chef created a flavorful and textural experience. The kitchen also used great fresh vegetables, which added another level of goodness. The service was excellent, too. We had a dietary restriction that they paid very close attention to and accommodated without issue."
Dined on 03/28/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"Olivia meets one rare characteristic: a good restaurant that is open on Sunday night. However, on this occasion the menu was excessively inventive and the service was slow."
Dined on 03/24/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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"It has been awhile since i have been to Olivia and I don't know why I waited so long. We went on a Monday night to celebrate a work anniversary and decided on the tasting menu that would be a chef surprise. It was all delicious, but the portions were small and it took about 2.5 hours for all the courses. They serve just wine and beer, so be prepared if you don't prefer either. I highly recommend Olivia's."
Dined on 03/11/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, special occasion
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"Some of the portions are small and it is overpriced. But other than that...amazing service and people. The food is delicious and a big well thought-out wine list. Love the lighting and decor as well."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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"The food was exceptional and unique. I've had brunch here before, better portions and prices. Dinner was spectacular, but the service tarnished our experience. It was during SXSW and we were treated like tourists in an almost empty restaurant, even though we are locals. In the first 5 minutes we got a lot of attention, but maybe the kitchen was asleep because our appetizers took 15 minutes. Putting an oyster in a piece of endive surely doesn't take that long, not with only 2 other parties in the restaurant. After that, we could hardly get ahold of our server. Yes, we were celebrating and drinking wine, and we have a trend of having long meals out. However, the only reason we spent 3 hours at Olivia was the lack of attention from the server."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, notable wine list, special occasion
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"While we loved the atmosphere and charm of Olivia, the service left quite a bit to be desired. Our waiter disappeared for long stretches of time and left us waiting on things that even a diner could've gotten right- like coffee. It also irritates me when I spend good money on a nice brunch and we are not full after eating our respective plates. This was the case at Olivia, and we were left ordering another $6 sticky bun. Wanted to like it, but unfortunately found it lacking."
Dined on 03/17/2013
2007
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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"Our waiter knew his food and appreciated that we did too. We decided on the 6 course tasting menu, and along the way mentioned that we pretty much had no limits and would eat anything they wanted to serve. The chef took that as a dare and made a couple of off-menu dishes that blew us away. It's clear they love what they are doing here, and you will too."
Dined on 03/10/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"Olivia is very solid. I would enjoy visiting again but it didn't blow me away. Portions are a bit pricey but the portions are large for a restaurant of this style. The design of the place is nice. Service was friendly but a bit slow. All in all we had a nice dinner but not particularly memorable."
Dined on 03/06/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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"This restaurant was featured on Unique Eats---& it certainly was. I had the best time here this past weekend for brunch---wow--the trio mimosa with the FOIE GRAS & slab bacon over the Gouda grits was to die forthe ricotta pancake, oyster benedict. I love the garden to table---& can we say FRESH EGGS??? (yep--the chicken coop is down from the restaurant)----I am so glad I had reservations---book yours NOW--you won't be sorry. Please let the staff at Olivia read this review."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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"The ambiance was great; we arrived for our reservation an hour early so we sat at the bar. The bartender was nice, very laid back. He gave us a free order of oysters that someone didn't want. We got to our table exactly on time and got the window view that we had requested. The waiter was personable and prompt. Our beef heart tartare was chewy so that was a disappointment but the flavor was good. When our food finally came my wife had the scallops which were very delicious and I had the surf and turf which was something like a 12oz steak with a 12oz prawn and the steak tasted burnt and the prawn was chewy. In hindsight I should have sent it back but I didn't. I just think it is pricy for what you get which may not always be good!"
Dined on 02/15/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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"We booked our reservation fairly last minute, and it was a 9:45 pm reservation to be fair. When we got to Olivia's and were seated they didn't notice we had requested a booth or if they noticed, the booths were full, and they didn't ask if we wanted to wait. We then waited for about 5 - 10 minutes while at our table before we were brought water, and by that time a booth had opened so we asked to be moved. Ahh. The booth was great and more relaxed.
The food was great, our waiter was very nice, but the start of the evening has been our experience more than once at Olivia's.
It sort of feels like you have to be a certain social order or class to be treated great there from beginning to end. Well go back for the food."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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"My goodness. This used to be such a great place, a "go-to" for a special occasion, romantic dinner, a treat for the out-of-town guests. Things have changed. My wife and I went saturday to celebrate a new job, and were thrilled to get a last-minute reservation. Such a disappointment. The only good course was the foie gras, and when my wife tried to change her mind about her entree and just get a second foie gras, she was told that her meal was already cooking, and that that wouldn't be possible. Then we waited another 25 minutes for our entrees. The dessert was a parody of what has happened to "new American" cuisine-a worthless blend of flavors that have no business being on the same plate, much less a dessert plate. Such a shame."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2011
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