PHILADELPHIA— Marc Vetri's anticipated spot Pizzeria Vetri is nearing its opening date, so to make sure its 72"-inch-diameter Renato Oven was functioning properly, the chef flew "legendary" oven-maker Renato Riccio to Philadelphia to make the restaurant's first test pizzas. [Eater Philly]
LOS ANGELES— As previously reported, former French Laundry chef de cuisine Timothy Hollingsworth is conceptualizing a "tacos and salsa" restaurant in LA, and now, the chef will "preview" some of the working menu at a pop-up event September 15. Eater LA reports that the event, at Manhattan Beach's Shade Hotel, will offer "passed trays of tacos, fresh salads, house made salsas, and four specialty cocktails." Tickets are $75. [Eater LA]
BOSTON— Ever since Todd English's Olives restaurant closed earlier this summer, Boston's been hearing its share of rumors as to what will occupy the space in Charlestown City Square. Among the rumors Eater Boston's currently fielding: the site could welcome a hotel, an outpost of Legal Test Kitchen, or possibly a project by Mario Batali. [Eater Boston]
AUSTIN— Sad news for those who wait: Texas Monthly's BBQFest 2013 is already sold out. But, as Eater Dallas points out, tickets for Josh Ozersky's Meatopia — inexplicably, on the same day as the TxMo fest — are still available. [Eater Dallas]
Renato Riccio at Pizzeria Vetri. [Photo: pizzeriavetri/Instagram]