"It might feel more like you’re dining on a movie set about an Italian-American family than in the dining room of one of Austin’s many Mandola locations, but that doesn’t stop the food here from being consistent and affordable. This is the type of place that feels like a “no-frills” Italian restaurant you’d find in the suburbs—complete with daily specials, pizzas, paninis, and large portions of pasta. Count on leftovers. It’s also a bit of a one-stop-shop for all things Italian, complete with a bar selling wines by the glass or bottle, a gelateria, a bakery, and a small marketplace in another corner where you can pick up some olive oil and dried pasta. " - nicolai mccrary