October 24, 2024
Food & Drink, Feature, Guide,
As an Austinite of 20+ years and simultaneously a proud granddaughter of Italian immigrants, it is my DUTY not to let any of you eat bad Italian food in Austin. Having spent all my life eating authentic Italian food, here are my picks for the best Italian restaurants in ATX.
See also: The 10 Best Brunch Spots in ATX
Intero Restaurant
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2612 E. Cesar Chavez St. / 512.599.4052 / Website
Not your typical Italian spot, this beloved Austin staple serves a farm-to-table menu full of invigorating in-season specials made with fresh spices from their garden. We love the housemade ricotta on crunchy sourdough toast, and their focaccia is a must-order. Not to mention, their cozy patio will remind you of Rome.
Juniper
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2400 E. Cesar Chavez St. / 51.220.9421 / Website
An East Austin urban gem built with the intent of being a fine dining restaurant, this is a new-age-style Italian spot. Juniper came to life in 2015, making it a seasoned restaurant on the block. It comes as a prix fixe menu, allowing you to relax and enjoy your cocktails as your oak-grilled short rib floats to your table while you’re finishing up your risotto. Yum!
Patrizi's
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2307 Manor Rd. / 512.522.4834 / Website
Great since 1948, this is a delicious option for casual Italian fare. Not the type of spot you need to get dressed up for, though your taste buds may think you’re in New York. Patrizi’s is locals’ go-to for craving homemade buttered noodles or cacio e pepe and wanting it done right.
Red Ash
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303 Colorado St. / 512.379.2906 / Website
An elegant night of Italian with a waiting list of nearly three months ahead, Red Ash will deepen your pallet and surprise you with Italian dishes you didn’t expect. The incredible wood-roasted beef marrow and exceptional service are certainly worth the struggle to get a reservation. Handmade tagliolini with fresh blue crab, parmigiana roasted potatoes and osso buco Milanese await.
Sammie’s
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807 W. 6th St. / 512.474.2054 / Website
Waiters in red jackets looking dapper. Sinatra and Deano on blast, san pellegrino or aqua panna? Honey, I’m home! Sammie’s brightly lit sign always brings us home. Do yourself a favor and make a reservation. The meatballs with whipped ricotta, veal marsala and burrata are a must-order. You’ll be a regular like the rest of us in no time.
Trattoria Lisina
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13308 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Driftwood / 512.894.3111 / Website
In Driftwood, about 45 minutes from Austin “proper” in the Hill Country, lies the brick building with delicious pasta and pizza that is Trattoria Lisina. With the sweetest little winery next door, you’ll feel transported into Tuscany. While the family-owned spot is my favorite for its location and wine from the neighboring vineyard, the gnocchi certainly doesn’t hurt. Don’t you dare leave without dessert, too! Their espresso and tiramisu will end your dinner perfectly.
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