Handmade pasta, whole-animal butchery, classic Italian-American dishes

























1610 S Congress Ave S, Austin, TX 78704 Get directions
$50–100
"Vespaio gives the feel of an old-school Italian restaurant without being too stuffy, with lots of dark wood, a wine wall, and fresh handmade pasta, plus a couple of tables outside. The menu is classically Italian-American, with dishes like cioppino, cacio e pepe, and pizza. Though the restaurant is more romantic, order to-go for an at-home date night." - Darcie Duttweiler

"A South Congress landmark for over 25 years, Vespaio has developed a reputation as one of the best spots in the area for both a romantic dinner and a classic Italian meal. The dining room is romantic and dimly lit, but our favorite spot remains the cozy bar, where we’ll happily order a few of the fresh pastas that come in half sizes. But no matter where you eat, you’ll have access to the full menu of housemade pastas, seasonal salads, pizzas, and an excellent list of Italian-leaning wines." - nicolai mccrary, raphael brion
"An Austin staple, Vespaio Ristorante has been around since 1998. People have been coming to this Italian spot for a long time, for everything from anniversaries and birthdays to work dinners. It’s especially nice when your boss is paying. The menu changes pretty frequently, but you’ll find a few pizzas and large format dishes like lasagna bolognese, cioppino, and a risotto of the day. The dining room is romantic and dimly lit, but our favorite spot remains the cozy bar, where we’ll happily order a few of the fresh pastas that come in half sizes." - nicolai mccrary, raphael brion, matthew jacobs
"This Bouldin Creek Italian restaurant has been a staple on South Congress for more than 20 years and exudes big old-school vibes with its large booths, wine wall, and homemade pastas. The wagyu beef carpaccio with crispy capers is a classic order; the creamy gelato makes for a satisfying end to the meal. Lucky diners can grab a table outside to people-watch. Order takeout online." - Erin Russell

"A South Congress landmark for over 25 years, Vespaio has developed a reputation as one of the best spots in the area for both a romantic dinner and a classic Italian meal. The dining room is soothing and dimly lit, but our favorite spot remains the cozy bar, where we’ll happily order a few of the fresh pastas that come in half sizes. But no matter where you eat, you’ll have access to the full menu of housemade pastas, seasonal salads, pizzas, and an excellent list of Italian-leaning wines." - nicolai mccrary, raphael brion