La Traviata
This chic yet cozy trattoria in downtown Austin serves up some of the best Italian food in the city. In addition to classic Italian dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, mushroom fettucini, and lasagna, the chefs at La Traviata have a few surprises up their sleeves, like scrumptious pistachio crusted salmon. Owner and executive chef Marion Gilchrist does an excellent job of using fresh ingredients and staying true to the traditional regional recipes of Italy. The tiramisu with toasted hazelnuts is too die for. Make a reservation if you plan to eat on the weekend. The pre-theater crowd loves to eat here.
La Traviata
314 Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 479-8131
latraviata.net
Asti
Located in the heart of Austin's Hyde Park, Asti is a little slice of Italian heaven and just a great place for any occasion. Whether you're treating that special someone to a romantic dinner or just want a quick bite of pizza at the end of the day, Asti shines thanks to the passion and commitment of co-owners Emmett and Lisa Fox. Asti's locally produced ingredients are consistently fresh and reflect the cycle of seasons. Indulge yourself with some butternut squash risotto, Niman Ranch pork chop with apple mustard, or prosciutto wrapped trout. Save some room for the delectable bittersweet chocolate cannoli. Asti also features an impressive list of mostly Italian and Californian wines.
Asti
408 C East 43rd Street
Austin, TX 78751
(512) 451-1218
astiaustin.com
Mandola's Italian Market
Transport yourself to Italy for the afternoon or evening at this authentic Italian "neighborhood grocery store" and adjoining café. You'll be glad you did once you bite into a fresh panini sandwich, pignoli cookie, or homemade sausage. Owners Damian and Trina Mandola invite guests "into their kitchen, into their market, into their dream..." While the cafe food is phenomenal, you can also find everything you need to create that perfect Italian meal right in your own home. The market offers a wide selection of quality olive oils, balsamic vinegars, fresh pastas, and other imported Italian goods that you probably won't find anywhere else.
Mandola's Italian Market
4700 West Guadalupe, Suite 12
Austin, TX 78751
(512) 419-9700
mandolasmarket.com
Article Written By Charlie Higgins
Charlie Higgins is a writer, translator, editor and social-media consultant based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Originally from Connecticut, Higgins holds bachelor's degrees in media studies and music from Oberlin College. He currently works for the financial inclusion and microenterprise news website Microdinero.
