Topi Topics: The Breakthroughs Austin (Food x AI x Culture)
Topi Topics Live brings together restaurant operators, founders, creators, investors, and technologists to explore what’s next in food, hospitality, and culture.
This isn’t a conference. It’s a working session designed to spark ideas, share real operator insight, and build meaningful community in real time.
Austin is where independent thinking meets scale. This edition leans into that energy.
What’s happening
Vibe Coding: 1:00-3:00 PM
A hands-on session where attendees work at tables to prototype simple tools live. No technical background required. Just bring your laptops. Presented by Databricks.
This is about moving from idea to execution quickly, and understanding what’s actually deployable in the real world.
Lightning Talks: 3:30-5:30 PM
Fast, high-signal PechaKucha-style talks.
20 slides × 20 seconds.
Clear thinking. Bold perspective. No panels-for-panels’ sake.
Conversation + Connection: 5:30-6:30 PM
Thoughtful discussion followed by real time to connect with operators, founders, and builders across the Austin ecosystem.
Food and drinks throughout.
Speakers
Eli Feldman — Founder, Shy Bird | Founder, Collette AI
Founder of restaurant brand Shy Bird and Collette AI, exploring how AI and automation can unlock new revenue models for restaurants. He also writes Elided Opinions, a widely read newsletter on restaurant economics and technology.
Bob Somsith — Chef & Founder, Lao’d Bar
Chef and founder of Austin’s Lao’d Bar and a 2026 James Beard Foundation nominee for Best Chef: Texas, bringing Lao culinary traditions into modern American dining.
Bleu Adams — Indigenous Chef & Restaurateur
Mandan/Hidatsa/Diné chef and founder of Black Sheep Cafe / Love Letter speaking on Indigenous Food Futures—how Indigenous leadership is reshaping the next era of food, land, and culture.
Mason Arnold — Founder, Small Potatoes Unlimited
Serial entrepreneur and sustainability advocate building ventures that rethink how food systems can be healthier for people and the planet.
Roberto Nunez Moreno — Global Marketing Leader, Patrón
Marketing leader helping guide Patrón as drinking culture evolves, navigating the rise of non-alcoholic trends while maintaining the relevance of iconic spirits brands.
Why come
Topi Topics Live is for people closest to the work.
Operators who want clarity on where AI, creator-led growth, and shifting distribution models are headed.
Founders who care about ownership and economics.
Builders who want to participate in what’s next without losing what makes their brands distinct.
If you’re building in food, hospitality, or culture in Austin, this room is for you.
RSVP required.
Space is intentionally limited.