Best Italian Restaurants in South Austin

Price: Moderate (103)Price: Expensive (88)Price: Very Expensive (43)

24 restaurants available nearby

1. Red Ash Italia

4.9

Exceptional(3712)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 117 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.

2. Sammie's Italian

4.8

Exceptional(1371)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 59 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.

3. Vespaio Austin

4.7

Exceptional(1677)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 26 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.

A photo of Dean's Italian Steakhouse restaurant

4. Dean's Italian Steakhouse

4.8

Exceptional(1239)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 56 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.

5. Il Brutto

4.5

Awesome(1552)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • East Austin

Booked 48 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.

6. Juniper

4.6

Exceptional(2613)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • East Austin

Booked 43 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.

7. Pizzeria Sportiva

4.8

Exceptional(5)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Austin

Located at the heart of Sola, Pizzeria Sportiva was born out of over three decades of culinary experience and passion to craft Pizzas that are an expression of regionality and our commitment. Our love for bringing our creations onto the table and witnessing the smiles is song to our hearts, oh yeah!We bridge the Traditional with the Contemporary, bringing Roman Style Stone-Fired Pizza and cooking, housemade lasagna, and a robust wine list. Great ingredients make great food. Based on an authentic approach to Italian way of cooking, we go the extra mile (literally!) to source the very best ingredients from around the world.Highest quality Pizzas and food in a lively, welcoming atmosphere! Come for great Pizza, stay for the wine, and catch glimpse of sports!

A photo of North Italia - Austin 2nd Street restaurant

8. North Italia - Austin 2nd Street

4.6

Exceptional(1669)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 51 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.

9. Intero

4.8

Exceptional(1604)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • East Austin

Booked 60 times today

Intero in East Austin stands as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence, capturing the heart of Italian cuisine with a local Texan twist. Celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and fresh, local ingredients, Intero offers a menu that evolves with the seasons, showcasing the region's best produce and livestock. Diners rave about dishes like the "best duck breast I’ve ever had" and the "amazing pizza," affirming the quality and innovation behind each meal. The restaurant's dedication to authenticity is further highlighted by their house-made artisan chocolates and desserts, earning it glowing reviews as "one of the few truly exceptional food and service experiences in Austin." Whether it's the "magical" fried cabbage or the "spectacular" bucatini, Intero provides a culinary journey that's both delightfully familiar and excitingly innovative.

10. Poeta

4.7

Exceptional(307)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • East Austin

Booked 33 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.

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Discover best Italian restaurants in South Austin

Discover the charm of Italian cuisine in South Austin with a variety of top-rated restaurants that cater to all your Italian food cravings. From authentic dishes like handmade pasta, seafood, and rich cheeses to innovative menus that blend traditional Italian flavors with local ingredients, these dining spots offer a truly immersive experience. The dining scene in South Austin is vibrant and eclectic, featuring establishments that not only serve up excellent food but also create inviting atmospheres reminiscent of a cozy European bistro or a classy Italian café. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Italian meal or looking to explore a menu with a modern twist, South Austin's Italian restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey. Patrons frequently praise these venues for their impeccable service and the ability to maintain high standards in both food quality and dining experience. Enjoy a meal in beautifully designed spaces or opt for a delightful outdoor patio setting that adjusts with the seasons. Ideal for both casual outings and special occasions, these restaurants stand out in South Austin for delivering consistent value and authenticity in every dish.

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