Best Italian Restaurants in Austin

30 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Dean's Italian Steakhouse restaurant

1. Dean's Italian Steakhouse

4.8

Exceptional(1335)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 57 times today

At Dean's Italian Steakhouse in downtown Austin, the fusion of classic American steakhouse flair with authentic Italian culinary tradition creates a unique dining experience. Celebrated for its “house-made pasta” and “market-fresh seafood,” this establishment stands out not just for its prime cuts but for its true Italian essence. Guests rave about the authenticity and quality, noting dishes like the “Wagyu Bolognese” which one diner described as making the pappardelle “soaked in the San Marzano sauce making the dish a 4/5.” The ambiance, combined with “outstanding service,” ensures each meal is more than just dining, but a memorable Italian indulgence right in the heart of Austin.

2. Red Ash Italia

4.9

Exceptional(3911)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 163 times today

Dive into the heart of Downtown Austin at Red Ash Italia, where the seafood is as mesmerizing as the atmosphere. This culinary gem stands out not only for its vibrant, modern setting but also for its exceptional seafood offerings, expertly prepared on a wood-fired grill. Guests rave about the freshness and quality, with dishes like the "very fresh red snapper crudo" and the "tagliolini with blue crab" frequently highlighted as favorites. As one reviewer aptly puts it, the seafood here has a "wow factor of 100!" The commitment to excellence is evident, making every dish a celebration of authentic Italian flavors with a special focus on what comes from the sea. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Red Ash Italia promises a seafood experience that's not just a meal, but a memorable event.

A photo of North Italia - Austin 2nd Street restaurant

3. North Italia - Austin 2nd Street

4.6

Exceptional(1708)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 62 times today

At North Italia on 2nd Street in Downtown Austin, the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine is celebrated with a flair for culinary invention. Known for its handcrafted pastas and pizzas, North Italia impresses with "tremendous food" and an atmosphere that makes every dining experience special. Guests rave about the "delicious Italian food," particularly highlighting the Bolognese and Funghi pizza as standout dishes. The restaurant's dedication to freshness is evident, using seasonal ingredients that bring "inventive flavors" to every dish. Reviewers consistently mention the welcoming staff and vibrant ambiance, making it a favorite in Austin for those seeking an authentic and innovative Italian meal. Whether it's the hand-crafted cocktails or the praised Italian doughnuts, North Italia delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

A photo of Taverna - Downtown Austin restaurant

4. Taverna - Downtown Austin

4.5

Awesome(1170)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 52 times today

Taverna in Downtown Austin is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine, offering a delightful neighborhood bistro vibe perfect for both casual meals and special celebrations. Diners rave about the "homemade pasta" and the "risotto topped with parmesan and black truffle cream sauce," highlighting the mastery of traditional Italian flavors. The restaurant's "risotteria" section is a testament to its authenticity, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking genuine Italian dishes. Patrons often applaud the service and ambiance, noting that Taverna is their go-to spot in Austin for Italian fare. As one glowing review puts it, "Truly one of the best meals we’ve had in a while," emphasizing the consistent quality and inviting atmosphere of Taverna. Whether you're enjoying a meal on the scenic wraparound patio or indulging in a brunch with $3 bellinis, Taverna promises an exceptional Italian dining experience.

5. Sammie's Italian

4.8

Exceptional(1441)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 56 times today

Sammie’s is a little taste of old Italy in downtown Austin. It celebrates the great ‘red sauce’ institution—inspired by old school, legendary Italian-American restaurants. The menu offers classic dishes in a casual but sophisticated, retro-designed space that is both lively and comfortable, capturing the essence of a night out at your favorite neighborhood joint. The space consists of a central dining room overlooking Shoal Creek and 6th Street, polished wood bar, Mildred’s Room (a private dining/wine room), and wraparound patio dining area. Please note that patio seating is weather contingent. The menu offers riffs on standards including Housemade Mozzarella Sticks, Clams Casino, and Caesar Salad a la Tommy; timeless pastas like Spaghetti with Meatballs, and Linguine Vongole; and Sammie’s Classics: big portions of iconic plates like Chicken and Eggplant Parmigiana, Veal Marsala, and Baked Manicotti.

A photo of Quattro Gatti Ristorante e Pizzeria restaurant

6. Quattro Gatti Ristorante e Pizzeria

4.7

Exceptional(1477)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 17 times today

Quattro Gatti Ristorante e Pizzeria in downtown Austin stands out not just for its exceptional Italian cuisine but also for its impressive wine bar, which splendidly showcases Italy's diverse wine regions. Nestled in a historic 1876 building, this family-run gem offers a cozy bar atmosphere where guests can indulge in meticulously chosen wines that beautifully complement their authentic Italian meals. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and selection, noting, "the wine was excellent—a Nero D'Avola," and celebrating the overall dining experience as "delicious, with yummy wine too!" This spot is a must-visit for both wine connoisseurs and lovers of genuine Italian fare, making every visit a delightful journey through the tastes of Italy.

7. Poeta

4.6

Exceptional(372)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • East Austin

Booked 42 times today

Nestled in the heart of East Austin, Poeta redefines Contemporary Italian cuisine with its artistic flair and exquisite dishes that make each meal feel like a poetic expression. Patrons are consistently impressed, describing the atmosphere as "charming and very insightful," complementing the "superb" food. With its modern twist on Italian classics, the restaurant boasts a menu that features standout dishes like gluten-free pasta, described as "incredible" by guests with Celiac disease, and a branzino that's rated as one of the best. The service at Poeta matches the quality of its dishes, with staff members receiving high praise for their friendly and knowledgeable approach. Whether it's the "life-changing" avo bruschetta or the creatively presented wafflegato, Poeta promises a memorable dining experience that keeps diners coming back for more.

8. Il Brutto

4.6

Exceptional(1612)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • East Austin

Booked 43 times today

Il Brutto is a neighborhood Italian restaurant located in East Austin with an emphasis on classic, multi-regional Italian dishes. The menu features fresh antipasti, daily home-made pastas, and pizzas baked in the restaurant’s Neapolitan wood-burning oven, in addition to house-made gelati, sorbets & desserts. The beverage program highlights an extensive selection of Italian wines from an on-site cellar, as well as local beers and handcrafted cocktails.

9. Juniper

4.6

Exceptional(2674)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • East Austin

Booked 39 times today

Juniper in East Austin is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, brilliantly blending Northern Italian culinary traditions with Central Texas flair. Frequently celebrated by the Austin American-Statesman as one of the city's top 10 restaurants, Juniper's menu showcases locally-sourced, hyper-seasonal ingredients prepared with old-world techniques. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one stating it's "just the absolute best restaurant in Austin. Give it a damn Michelin star." The restaurant offers a special 6-course Pre Fixe Menu that epitomizes fine dining, alongside a complementary 5-course wine tasting, making it a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional Italian meal with a unique, local twist.

10. Vespaio Austin

4.7

Exceptional(1729)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 29 times today

Vespaio Restaurant is one of the original South Congress eateries and remains one of Austin's favorite Italian go-to's among locals and visitors. This casual dinner venue is a popular choice for date nights or evenings out with friends, seating every day at 5pm. The interior of Vespaio Restaurant is decorated with ceiling tiles, ceiling plans, vintage pendant lighting, classic table seating, a plethora of wine racks and vibrant accent walls.In addition to a full bar menu, Vespaio Restaurant offers a lengthy selection of mouth-watering and flavorful authentic Italian dishes. Menu items include carpaccio, mixed seafood stew, lasagna, mussels, calamari, spaghetti carbonara, chocolate hazelnut cake, panna cotta and green pasta with shrimp. Everything on the menu is sourced locally and prepared in-house, including the pasta, bread and pastries.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

X
Xavier
Austin •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Great service, great food, great vibes, overall great experience
More info
Sammie's ItalianPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.8
D
Daryn
Austin •14 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We had the most amazing meal! We shared the Caesar salad and filet with lobster and bone marrow butter and all was delicious. The star of the show was the bread service. Don't pass that up. Dayna our waitress and Holly in training were both awesome. A great experience!
More info
Dean's Italian SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
•
4.8
C
CarlaVIP
Nashville •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
First time: Made reservations about two months in advance— the place was packed! Everyone was either celebrating something or spending time with loved ones. A great atmosphere! The food was outstanding, a great selection of wines and liquors at the bar. Service was faster than expected, especially considering how busy the place was. Reasonable prices all-around and excellent experience from the staff and the atmosphere.
More info
Red Ash ItaliaPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.9
S
Sammi
Miami - Dade •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Everything was great! Hostess and server were very friendly and helpful. I’ve visited the location in Miami several times and it was nice having a location here in Austin as well and everything is just as good! I got the squid ink tonnareli and it was spicy and delicious. Vibe and ambiance was nice, entire restaurant was spacious. Highly recommended having a reservation?
More info
North Italia - Austin 2nd StreetPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown
•
4.6
J
JeannieVIP
Austin •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Perfect for Christmas Eve dinner. The specials were delicious as were the regular menu options. They updated their menu, including the octopus dish but it was still delicious!
More info
Taverna - Downtown AustinPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.5

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Best Italian Restaurants in Austin

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30 restaurants available nearby

1. Dean's Italian Steakhouse

2. Red Ash Italia

3. North Italia - Austin 2nd Street

4. Taverna - Downtown Austin

5. Sammie's Italian

6. Quattro Gatti Ristorante e Pizzeria

7. Poeta

8. Il Brutto

9. Juniper

10. Vespaio Austin

See what locals rave about

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