Experts' Choice Award Vespaio
What the experts agree on
A South Congress institution for nearly two decades, beloved for homemade pasta and reliable Italian classics. Expect noisy, packed rooms and long waits, but loyal fans say it's worth it.
“Homemade pasta, excellent vino, best dessert on SoCo.”
– Not For Tourists
Fodor's "Sink your fork into a bowl of plump gnocchi bathed in garlicky tomato-arrabiata sauce, or nibble on a slice of classic Margherita pizza studded with garden-fresh basil." Full review
Frommer's "Austin isn't really known for its Italian food, but when Austinites want Italian, this is their preferred destination." Full review
Zagat ""Long waits" are par for the course at this midpriced SoCo Italian, "hands down one of the best in Austin" thanks to its "superb" cooking, "wonderful wines" and a warm setting." Full review
BlackBook "This swear-by-it Italian dining room still buzzes like it’s brand new. Golf clap for the high-quality seafood and melt-in-your-mouth pasta."
Gayot15.0
"Vespaio buzzes like a beehive. Prepare to wait for a table, because it's usually packed; wedge into the noisy bar for a splash of vino." Full review
Austin Chronicle "Vespaio is one of the few restaurants in town that can claim fifteen years of success with no sign, no advertising budget, and no publicist, just customer loyalty and good word of mouth." Full review
Travel + Leisure "Stroll down South Congress Avenue after dinner at this warm and reliable Italian restaurant." Full review
Time Out "This Austin institution has called South Congress home for 18 years, serving refined Italian entrees—like vitello saltimbocca and pollo alla valdostana—in an upscale atmosphere." Full review
The Infatuation8.0
"People have been coming here for everything from anniversaries and birthdays to work dinners for a long time...they’re expensive, but very worth it, from linguine with clams." Full review
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Come with a few people to split appetizers as well as a pizza or two, and order a few of the pastas that come in half sizes.
Fodor's "Known for its authentic trattoria feel, complete with an aromatic waft of homemade Italian classics upon entering, this is a great dinner destination after a long day spent strolling up..." Full review
