‘I love the challenge’

There’s a new restaurant in Austin with a traditional, family-style take on dining.

Alija “Al” Lika is the new owner of Barley’s Family Restaurant, the former Olivia’s Family Restaurant, at 1209 N. Main St. Lika bought the restaurant six weeks ago from former owners Olivia and Logan Hughes.

“I found out that the place was for lease or sale, and I checked Austin and I loved it,” the restauranteur said. “It’s a nice town, beautiful, and I saw an opportunity to try and do business here.”

Lika has more than 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry and owns Barley’s Hops and Malt in East Troy, Wis. Though it’s a four-hour drive from East Troy to Austin, Lika said he is excited about the challenge.

“I loved the challenge, and the art of cooking and serving people,” Lika said.

Lika said Barley’s will retain its family-style dining but he plans to add several signature dishes, including an expanded fish menu, several types of French fries, and several Italian-style dishes. Above all, Lika said, Barley’s will have high-quality food at reasonable prices.

Lika is finalizing the menu and plans to announce a grand opening for Barley’s within the next few weeks.