Austin, Texas, might be known for its BBQ and Tex-Mex, but the city’s Italian food scene is a vibrant and delicious secret waiting to be explored. From cozy neighborhood trattorias to upscale dining experiences, Austin offers a diverse range of Italian flavors to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Neapolitan pizza, handmade pasta, or classic red-sauce dishes, this guide will take you on a culinary journey through some of the best Italian restaurants Austin has in store. Get ready to discover your new favorite spot for Italian food in Austin!
East Austin Italian Gems: Authentic Flavors and Cozy Ambiance
East Austin is a hub for culinary innovation, and its Italian restaurants are no exception. Here, you’ll find eateries that emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional Italian cooking techniques, creating truly memorable dining experiences.
Intero
Located on East Cesar Chavez St., Intero lives up to its name, which means “whole” or “complete” in Italian, by offering a comprehensive Italian dining experience. This upscale restaurant is committed to sustainability and sourcing the best ingredients, resulting in a menu that is both stellar and responsible. From expertly crafted amaro aperitifs to exquisite house-made artisanal chocolates, Intero pays attention to every detail. A must-try is anything featuring their house-made ricotta, a testament to their dedication to fresh, quality ingredients. The knowledgeable bartenders and attentive service further enhance the dining experience, making Intero a standout for Italian Food Austin has to offer.
Bufalina
Bufalina is a name synonymous with exceptional Neapolitan pizza in Austin. With two locations, including one on East Cesar Chavez St. and another on Burnet Rd., Bufalina is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas made with the freshest toppings. For a more extensive Italian menu, head to their Cesar Chavez location. Here, Chef Grae Nonas, celebrated for his pasta expertise from Olamaie and Le Cowboy, crafts some of the best pasta dishes in Austin. Bufalina provides a true taste of Neapolitan pizza tradition and innovative Italian cuisine, cementing its place as a top destination for Italian food Austin locals love.
Juniper
Juniper, situated on East Cesar Chavez St., offers an elegant take on Italian food in Austin, blending premium ingredients with “old world techniques.” This restaurant creatively fuses Northern Italian recipes and ingredients with those from Central Texas, resulting in a unique and delightful culinary experience. Their “Puffy Potato” dish perfectly exemplifies this fusion, showcasing a playful yet sophisticated blend of Italian and American flavors. Juniper’s menu features both inventive dishes and classic Italian options like house focaccia and fresh pastas. This balance of innovation and tradition makes Juniper a must-visit for those seeking a distinctive Italian food Austin experience.
Patrizi’s
Don’t underestimate Patrizi’s, a food truck on Manor Rd, which proves that incredible Italian food Austin can be found in the most unassuming places. With a family history of Italian cooking spanning over 50 years, Patrizi’s delivers “tried and true recipes” that are simply mouthwatering. Their menu boasts fresh pastas like Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara Alexandra, and Pomodoro, each bursting with flavor. Despite its food truck setting, Patrizi’s offers Italian food that rivals any brick-and-mortar restaurant in Austin. Their recent brick-and-mortar location in West Austin makes their delicious Italian offerings even more accessible, further solidifying their status in the Austin Italian food scene.
Central Austin’s Italian Delights: Neighborhood Charm and Authentic Flavors
Moving into Central Austin, you’ll discover Italian restaurants that exude neighborhood charm and a passion for authentic Italian cuisine. These spots often focus on seasonal menus and house-made specialties, creating a welcoming and genuine Italian dining atmosphere.
L’oca D’oro
L’oca D’oro, located on Simond Ave, is the quintessential neighborhood Italian restaurant that makes you feel like part of the community. Their commitment to carefully selected, seasonal ingredients and a passionate staff dedicated to authentic Italian food is evident in every dish. Almost everything, from hand-crafted pastas to vinegar and bread, is made in-house, ensuring the highest quality meal. For pasta enthusiasts, the Pasta Club subscription offers a unique experience, featuring fresh house-made pastas and sauces, cheeses, antipasti, and signature pantry items monthly. L’oca D’oro truly embodies the warmth and authenticity of Italian food Austin residents cherish.
Asti Trattoria
Asti Trattoria, situated on East 43rd St, is a long-standing favorite in Austin, known for its upscale yet trendy ambiance and exceptional Italian cuisine. Located in “Austin’s original suburb,” Asti offers a cozy and elegant dining environment complemented by friendly and knowledgeable waitstaff. Their menu features a range of Italian classics, from bruschetta and Capellini Napolitano to antipasti and shaved zucchini & summer squash. With a wine list boasting over 50 Italian bottles, Asti Trattoria provides a well-rounded Italian dining experience. Their seasonally adjusted menu ensures fresh and relevant dishes throughout the year, making it a reliable choice for quality Italian food Austin style.
Gino’s Vino Osteria
Gino’s Vino Osteria, located on East 51st St, offers more than just delicious food; it provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere thanks to owner Gino Catanucci. Known for personally greeting guests, Gino creates a friendly, “everybody-knows-your-name” feel. Chef Luis Reyes curates a menu filled with mouthwatering dishes like Tortellini di Formaggio and the Torta di Granchio Italiano, a flavorful crab cake creation. The combination of great Italian eats and Gino’s genuine hospitality makes Gino’s Vino a consistently delightful spot for Italian food Austin diners appreciate for its charm and quality.
Artipasta
Artipasta, with locations including a food truck in Thicket Food Park and a brick-and-mortar in The Linc, is a pasta lover’s paradise. Offering a wide variety of fresh pastas, from Spaghetti to Gnocchi, Artipasta allows you to customize your meal with an array of delicious sauces. The food truck location provides ample outdoor seating under shady trees, perfect for a casual Italian meal. With its focus solely on fresh pasta and diverse sauce options, Artipasta stands out as a go-to for accessible and customizable Italian food Austin residents enjoy at multiple locations.
West Austin & Downtown Italian Experiences: Elegant Dining and Classic Flavors
West Austin and Downtown Austin are home to Italian restaurants that offer a mix of elegant dining settings and classic Italian flavors. From upscale bistros to red-sauce joints, these locations cater to those seeking a refined Italian food experience.
Sammie’s Italian
Located on West 6th St in the former Hut’s Hamburgers space, Sammie’s Italian is a fancy, old-school Italian red-sauce joint perfect for special occasions. The restaurant boasts large portions, ideal for family-style sharing. Must-try items include their Chicken Parmigiana, Housemade Mozzarella Sticks, and Mafaldine with Funghi & Tartufo. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended. Sammie’s Italian delivers a classic, comforting Italian-American dining experience, making it a popular choice for celebrating with Italian food Austin style.
Cipollina West Austin Bistro
Cipollina West Austin Bistro, nestled in a cozy spot on W Lynn St, translates to “small onion,” a key ingredient in Italian cuisine, reflecting their mastery of Italian flavors. This bistro offers fresh food and fine wine inspired by the Mediterranean region. Executive chef David Garrido’s menu features local ingredients, fresh pasta, and handmade pizzas. With a generous happy hour and an extensive wine list, Cipollina is ideal for a romantic evening. Cipollina provides a refined bistro experience with a focus on fresh, quality Italian food Austin diners appreciate for its ambiance and culinary offerings.
Siena Ristorante Toscana
Siena Ristorante Toscana, tucked away in West Austin, is an elegant Italian restaurant offering exquisite fare in a breathtaking setting. Its ornate stone architecture and rustic terracotta roof create a perfect ambiance for special occasions like engagement events and romantic dates. The menu features seasonal, fresh dishes of classic Italy, including variations of antipasti like Pappardelle al Cinghiale. Siena Ristorante Toscana delivers a truly upscale and memorable Italian dining experience, making it a top choice for special occasions and fine Italian food Austin experiences.
Numero 28
Numero 28, located in Downtown Austin on W 2nd St, brings flavorful Southern Italian food to the bustling city center. Often mistaken as just a pizza place, Numero 28 offers a wide menu of fresh pasta, handcrafted pizzas, paninis, and small plates. Classic and inventive dishes like Lasagna Bolognese and Caprese are menu highlights. With a spacious outdoor patio, Numero 28 embraces the Italian tradition of outdoor dining. Whether you crave artisanal pizza or classic Italian cuisine, Numero 28 is a versatile spot for satisfying your Italian food Austin cravings in the heart of downtown.
Mandola’s
Mandola’s, with various locations around Austin, combines a cafe with a market, offering both a sit-down restaurant menu and a market for Italian meats, cheeses, and pastries. Decorated like a traditional European market, Mandola’s provides an atmospheric and authentic Italian experience. The market offers classic Italian dishes and daily specials like Monday’s Chicken Capricciosa. Mandola’s is not only an authentic and memorable eatery but also a great place to purchase fresh pasta to cook Italian food at home. Its market-cafe concept provides a unique and versatile approach to Italian food Austin has to offer.
It’s Italian Cucina
It’s Italian Cucina, situated on S Lamar Blvd, is an award-winning gem in Austin’s Italian food scene. This bright and airy restaurant focuses on superb Northern Italian cuisine, using imported ingredients and boasting an impressive wine list curated by owner and chef Al Fin. A recommended dish is the squid ink pasta with scallops, a decadent and visually stunning seafood creation. With its commitment to quality ingredients and refined Northern Italian dishes, It’s Italian Cucina rightly earns its place among the best for Italian food Austin has.
More Great Italian Options in Austin
Austin’s Italian food scene extends beyond these highlights, with many more excellent options to explore:
- Uncle Nicky’s Italian Specialties: (Duval St & S. Lamar St) – Known for Italian sandwiches and casual fare.
- Sapori Italian Roots: (Brazos St) – Offers a taste of traditional Italian roots in downtown Austin.
- Andiamo Ristorante: (Rutland Dr.) – A neighborhood spot with classic Italian dishes.
- Quattro Gatti Ristorante e Pizzeria: (Congress Ave) – Offers both pizza and traditional Italian restaurant fare.
- Dean’s Italian Steakhouse: (E. 2nd St) – Combines Italian cuisine with steakhouse classics for an upscale experience.
- Olive & June: (Glenview Ave) – Features Southern Italian-inspired dishes in a charming setting.
- Vespaio Restaurant: (S Congress Ave) – A long-standing Austin favorite for refined Italian dining.
- Juliet Italian Kitchen: (Barton Springs & Research Blvd) – Offers a modern take on Italian-American classics.
- Reale’s Italian Cafe: (North US Hwy 183) – A casual cafe serving pizza and Italian comfort food.
- Il Brutto: (E 6th St) – Known for its rustic Italian dishes and lively atmosphere.
Explore Austin’s Italian Culinary Scene
From traditional trattorias to innovative fusion restaurants, Austin’s Italian food scene is rich and diverse. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these restaurants will surely lead to delightful culinary discoveries. So, venture out and savor the best Italian food Austin has to offer – your taste buds will thank you! Don’t just stick to the usual Austin fare; dive into the world of pasta, pizza, and authentic Italian flavors waiting around every corner.
