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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in South Austin

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of It's Italian Cucina restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(892)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • South Austin
Booked 10 times today
It's Italian Cucina in South Austin is a seafood lover's paradise, celebrated for its exceptional Northern Italian cuisine. The seafood dishes here are crafted with "fresh ingredients and authentic Italian flavors," ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. One standout dish is the seafood tagliatelle with squid ink sauce, described as "remarkable" by delighted patrons. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every bite, making it a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of Italy. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with attentive service, enhances the overall experience, promising a delightful culinary journey for all seafood enthusiasts.
A photo of Juliet Italian Kitchen - Barton Springs restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1040)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 46 times today
Juliet Italian Kitchen - Barton Springs is a gem in Downtown Austin, offering an exquisite Contemporary Italian dining experience that combines authenticity with a modern twist. Diners rave about the "absolutely delicious" and generously portioned dishes, all crafted from scratch to ensure the freshest flavors. The Chicken Marsala and Pasta de Mare are particular standouts, praised for their outstanding taste. The ambiance, both indoors and on the charming outdoor patio, is warm and welcoming, making every visit feel like a special occasion. With attentive service and a varied menu that includes delightful surprises like complimentary Italian gelato, Juliet Italian Kitchen is a must-visit for true Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Juniper restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2722)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • East Austin
Booked 35 times today
Juniper in East Austin is a culinary gem that masterfully blends the flavors of Northern Italy with the unique, hyper-seasonal ingredients of Texas. Consistently ranked among the top 10 best restaurants by the Austin American-Statesman, it offers innovative yet comforting Contemporary Italian dishes that delight diners. The restaurant’s “authentic Italian cuisine with impeccable service” has garnered rave reviews, with guests praising its “immaculate” food and the standout cacio e pepe. Juniper’s world-class beverage program, complemented by a special 6-course pre-fixe menu, ensures a dining experience that's both memorable and delicious, making it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.
A photo of North Italia - Austin 2nd Street restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1737)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 75 times today
North Italia on Austin's 2nd Street is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering an authentic and inventive dining experience that delights its patrons. With an emphasis on "Italian from scratch," the restaurant excels in crafting handmade pastas and pizzas with seasonal ingredients. Diners rave about the "delicious pasta and salads," and the signature "truffle cheesy garlic bread," which is noted as the "best Italian food appetizer" by enthusiastic guests. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with exceptional service, makes it a standout choice for any occasion. It's no wonder that patrons, charmed by the "stellar service" and "amazingly great food," keep returning to savor the modern Italian flavors.
A photo of Intero restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1697)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • East Austin
Booked 31 times today
Intero, situated in the vibrant East Austin, offers a remarkable experience in Contemporary Italian cuisine that consistently delights its patrons. Embracing a genuine farm-to-table philosophy, Intero ensures every dish is crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, epitomizing the heart of Italian cooking with "innovative, yet familiar dishes." The menu is a delightful showcase of seasonal produce, deftly paired with traditional Italian techniques. Diners rave about the "incredible handmade pasta" and the "phenomenal brown butter cake," while the house-made artisan chocolates provide a sweet finale. With exceptional service in a modern casual atmosphere, Intero is a must-visit for any Italian cuisine enthusiast.
A photo of Poeta restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(405)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • East Austin
Booked 27 times today
Nestled within The Frances Modern Inn on historic 11th street, Poeta offers a remarkable journey into the world of Contemporary Italian cuisine. The restaurant, a gem in East Austin, delights with a menu that constantly evolves to highlight seasonal ingredients, making every visit a flavorful adventure. Diners rave about their "unbelievable food, service, and ambiance," calling it "a journey of creativity and flavor." Signature dishes like the gnocchi, praised as the best outside of Italy, and the fresh mozzarella antipasti showcase their commitment to quality and authenticity. Whether for brunch or dinner, Poeta provides a memorable dining experience with "fabulous food and service."
A photo of Revue restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(95)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 6 times today
Revue is a journey through distinct culinary worlds. Enjoy a vibrant dining experience that showcases locally sourced ingredients in a welcoming atmosphere. Explore a diverse menu of shareable Italian and Asian favorites, plus craft cocktails. Named one of the 34 Best Italian Restaurants in America by Thrillist, expect delectable house-made dishes that satisfy every palate
A photo of Casa Bianca restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(29)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • East Austin
Booked 32 times today
Named one of Austin Monthly's 2024 Best New Restaurants, Casa Bianca is a full service restaurant and cocktail bar with a focus on high quality seafood, handmade pastas, and local ingredients. Executive Chef/Owner Joseph Zoccoli's maximalist take on contemporary Italian-American cuisine presents a new and exciting addition to the Austin culinary landscape. While the flavors and names of Chef Zoccoli's dishes come from his family’s origin in Italy, the forms and techniques he employs are informed by a decade of experience cooking Japanese cuisine. Sporting Bauhaus and Art Deco influenced interior design and centrally located just east of Downtown Austin, Casa Bianca offers reservations for bar, dining room, and al fresco patio dining. *WE WILL OPEN AT 5PM ON VALENTINE'S DAY*
A photo of L'Oca d'Oro restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1561)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • North Central
Booked 27 times today
L'Oca d'Oro in North Central Austin offers a remarkable journey into the heart of Contemporary Italian cuisine. Known for its commitment to a farm-to-table philosophy, each dish "reflects the season" with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that elevate every meal. Patrons rave about their "phenomenal" handmade pastas and cheeses, which showcase the authenticity and creativity of Italian culinary traditions. The restaurant's ever-evolving menu ensures "there's always a new and interesting flavor" to explore, making each visit a delightful surprise. With a warm, welcoming staff and an inviting atmosphere, L'Oca d'Oro is a "gem" in Austin's dining scene, perfect for any occasion.
A photo of Laurel restaurant
4.0
Excellent(148)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Austin / Westlake
Booked 11 times today
Nestled in the enchanting Texas Hill Country, Laurel in Westlake, Austin, offers a delightful journey through Contemporary Italian cuisine, blending authentic coastal flavors with modern sophistication. Guests rave about the "world-class" dishes, with perfectly cooked halibut and intensely flavored Italian sausage and peppers pasta leaving diners in awe. The restaurant's ambiance perfectly complements its exquisite menu, providing a scenic backdrop for memorable dining experiences. With "top-notch" service from attentive staff like Simo and Luis, every visit is a celebration of culinary excellence. Whether enjoying brunch on the al fresco patio or indulging in dinner, Laurel promises a "delicious" and "unforgettable" Italian experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • casey
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    We really enjoyed It's Italian Cucina. The food was excellent the service was very good. We utilized the prefix menu for Valentine's Dinner and enjoyed every course. Our waitress Katie was quick to help us choose a good wine to go with all our choices. The gluten free options were a nice bonus so my wife could confidently choose her dishes. The service was very well timed, enough so we could enjoy but not so long that we had dirty plates waiting in front of us. Over all an excellent restaurant for a special meal like Valentine's. It was remarkably inexpensive as well. I was surprised the prefix menu with a bottle of wine for two was less than $80 before tip. I would definitely recommend.
    More info
    It's Italian CucinaPrice: Expensive• Italian• South Austin
    4.7
  • Marty
    Austin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Satisfying dining experience. Convenient, easy parking. Friendly, stylish staff. Exceptionally kind, helpful server. Distinctive, comfortable, lovely restaurant interior. Terrific food (and choices). Fair prices. Brought warmth and sunshine to a cold, gloomy Valentine's Day.
    More info
    Juliet Italian Kitchen - Barton SpringsPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
    4.6
  • Erika
    Austin •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We went to North Italia for an early Valentine's Day dinner and it was amazing. From the ambiance to the wait staff to the food and drinks, it was all so good. Our server was Mikey and he was high energy, funny and offered his suggestions of menu items. I have to say Mikey was one of the best servers we have had to date! We ordered the Italian Meatballs and the White Truffle Garlic Bread as appetizers. Both were delicious! The garlic bread is stacked high. It was enough for us to enjoy and then take home. I ordered the Strozzapreti and it was DELICIOUS! I highly recommend it! My hubby ordered the Squid Ink Tonnarelli extra spicy and ate every last bite! For dessert we had the Apple Caramel Bourbon Bread Pudding with Vanilla bean ice cream... Heavenly!
    More info
    North Italia - Austin 2nd StreetPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown
    4.6
  • micky
    Austin •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    was so amazing to be able to celebrate my birthday here. it started with the waiter we had. he was so great, really made the experience smooth and stress free. the food was so great, we can't wait to go back. was so thankful that they could accommodate my party of 5 at the last minute
    More info
    JuniperPrice: Expensive• Italian• East Austin
    4.6
  • Kandy
    Austin •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We went for a Galentine‘s but the service really put a damper on our evening. The restaurant is small and somewhat dark, the noise level is medium so it’s great for conversation amongst friends or an intimate dinner. We had the bucatini, which was excellent. The pizza was very good as well with a crispy crust. We also ordered the shoulder, which I don’t know if I would recommend. Th ricotta whip and the short rib appetizer, both excellent. Small plates, good price point, good for sharing. The service was the only poor part of this experience. The waiter was rushing, kept asking to remove plates while we were still eating. Tossed the dessert menu apparently annoyed. Either bad day for waiter or this is their culture to rush.
    More info
    InteroPrice: Expensive• Italian• East Austin
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in South Austin

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the vibrant heart of South Austin, a district renowned for its eclectic dining scene and cultural flair. This location offers a curated selection of restaurants that exemplify the best of modern Italian cooking, blending traditional techniques with innovative twists. Each establishment features a menu rich with handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and artisanal cheeses, all crafted with a passion that is palpable from the first bite. The ambiance of these eateries ranges from casual to refined, ensuring an environment that complements the exquisite food offerings. Wine enthusiasts will also find themselves at home, as these restaurants boast award-winning wine lists that perfectly pair with their dishes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively venue for a family gathering, South Austin’s contemporary Italian restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience. Come savor the authentic flavors and modern charm of Italy, right in the heart of Austin.

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