Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in West Austin / Westlake

13 restaurants available nearby

1. Laurel

3.8

Excellent(133)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Austin / Westlake

Booked 4 times today

At the heart of West Lake Hills in Austin, Laurel stands out not just for its authentic coastal Italian cuisine but also for its exceptional cocktail bar. Nestled in the scenic Hotel Viata, Laurel offers a cocktail experience that is both innovative and delightful. Guests rave about the handcrafted cocktails, curated by expert mixologists, which perfectly complement the flavors of Italy. One guest exclaimed, "The cocktails were delicious," emphasizing the quality and creativity behind each concoction. Whether it's during the vibrant happy hour or a serene dinner under the stars, Laurel's cocktail bar crafts an atmospheric charm that invites both locals and travelers to indulge in beautifully mixed drinks, making every visit a memorable one.

A photo of North Italia - Austin 2nd Street restaurant

2. North Italia - Austin 2nd Street

4.6

Exceptional(1691)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 45 times today

At North Italia on 2nd Street in Downtown Austin, the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine is celebrated with a flair for culinary invention. Known for its handcrafted pastas and pizzas, North Italia impresses with "tremendous food" and an atmosphere that makes every dining experience special. Guests rave about the "delicious Italian food," particularly highlighting the Bolognese and Funghi pizza as standout dishes. The restaurant's dedication to freshness is evident, using seasonal ingredients that bring "inventive flavors" to every dish. Reviewers consistently mention the welcoming staff and vibrant ambiance, making it a favorite in Austin for those seeking an authentic and innovative Italian meal. Whether it's the hand-crafted cocktails or the praised Italian doughnuts, North Italia delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

3. Poeta

4.6

Exceptional(350)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • East Austin

Booked 25 times today

Nestled in the heart of East Austin, Poeta redefines Contemporary Italian cuisine with its artistic flair and exquisite dishes that make each meal feel like a poetic expression. Patrons are consistently impressed, describing the atmosphere as "charming and very insightful," complementing the "superb" food. With its modern twist on Italian classics, the restaurant boasts a menu that features standout dishes like gluten-free pasta, described as "incredible" by guests with Celiac disease, and a branzino that's rated as one of the best. The service at Poeta matches the quality of its dishes, with staff members receiving high praise for their friendly and knowledgeable approach. Whether it's the "life-changing" avo bruschetta or the creatively presented wafflegato, Poeta promises a memorable dining experience that keeps diners coming back for more.

A photo of Juliet Italian Kitchen - Barton Springs restaurant

4. Juliet Italian Kitchen - Barton Springs

4.7

Exceptional(997)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 38 times today

Juliet Italian Kitchen in Barton Springs, Austin, is a treasure for those craving authentic Italian cuisine in a vibrant, welcoming setting. Established in 2015, Juliet has quickly become renowned for its traditional Italian flavors and homemade dishes. Guests rave about the "excellent scratch Italian pasta" and the "best homemade bread," highlighting the care put into every meal. With glowing reviews, one diner exclaimed, "It was the best Italian food I’ve ever had. It was to die for." Whether it’s a casual brunch or a special dinner, Juliet Italian Kitchen delivers an exceptional dining experience with its "terrific food" and "outstanding service," making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors in Austin.

A photo of It's Italian Cucina restaurant

5. It's Italian Cucina

4.8

Exceptional(851)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • South Austin

Booked 12 times today

Situated in the vibrant South Austin neighborhood, It's Italian Cucina shines as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Praised for its "first-rate delicious" meals and "varied and well-thought-out menu selections," this restaurant captures the essence of Northern Italian flavors with a modern twist. Guests rave about the handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and the exceptional wine list, making every dining experience memorable. The ambiance, described as "cozy, quaint, and classy," complements the exquisite dishes, ensuring a perfect dining atmosphere. Regulars and newcomers alike celebrate the "remarkable" seafood tagliatelle and insist on returning for the "best Espresso Martini's." It's Italian Cucina, with its award-winning patio and heartfelt service, truly embodies "Una Passione Grande" for Contemporary Italian fare.

6. Revue

4.5

Awesome(87)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 5 times today

Journey through distinct culinary worlds for a vibrant dining experience. Revue's unique approach to cuisine is defined by its diversity and includes the timeless cuisines of Italy and Asia.

7. Juniper

4.7

Exceptional(2652)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • East Austin

Booked 19 times today

Juniper in East Austin is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, brilliantly blending Northern Italian culinary traditions with Central Texas flair. Frequently celebrated by the Austin American-Statesman as one of the city's top 10 restaurants, Juniper's menu showcases locally-sourced, hyper-seasonal ingredients prepared with old-world techniques. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one stating it's "just the absolute best restaurant in Austin. Give it a damn Michelin star." The restaurant offers a special 6-course Pre Fixe Menu that epitomizes fine dining, alongside a complementary 5-course wine tasting, making it a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional Italian meal with a unique, local twist.

8. Intero

4.8

Exceptional(1650)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • East Austin

Booked 35 times today

Intero in East Austin stands as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence, capturing the heart of Italian cuisine with a local Texan twist. Celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and fresh, local ingredients, Intero offers a menu that evolves with the seasons, showcasing the region's best produce and livestock. Diners rave about dishes like the "best duck breast I’ve ever had" and the "amazing pizza," affirming the quality and innovation behind each meal. The restaurant's dedication to authenticity is further highlighted by their house-made artisan chocolates and desserts, earning it glowing reviews as "one of the few truly exceptional food and service experiences in Austin." Whether it's the "magical" fried cabbage or the "spectacular" bucatini, Intero provides a culinary journey that's both delightfully familiar and excitingly innovative.

9. L'Oca d'Oro

4.6

Exceptional(1538)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • North Central

Booked 12 times today

L'Oca d'Oro, nestled in North Central Austin, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a delightful tasting menu that showcases Chef Fiore's innovative seasonal dishes. This gem is renowned for its commitment to farm-to-table ingredients, crafting its dishes with locally sourced produce and meats. Not only do diners rave about the freshness and creativity of the meals, but also the "incredible food at a great price point" and the "amazing experience" provided by the accommodating staff. Highlighted dishes like the handmade pastas and artisan cheeses illustrate the authentic, yet modern Italian flair. L'Oca d'Oro truly stands out as a culinary treasure, where each visit promises new flavors to explore, making it a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional Italian fare in a vibrant atmosphere.

A photo of North Italia – Austin restaurant

10. North Italia – Austin

4.6

Exceptional(3051)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Northwest

Booked 41 times today

At North Italia in Austin, diners are treated to an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that consistently impresses. Known for its handcrafted pastas and pizzas, North Italia utilizes only the freshest seasonal ingredients, ensuring each dish bursts with authentic, innovative flavors. Reviewers rave about the "excellent food and service" and the restaurant's ability to "exceed expectations" with their modern takes on Italian classics. The restaurant's vibrant setting in Northwest Austin complements its dynamic menu, creating a perfect backdrop for any occasion. As one reviewer puts it, it's "one of the best Italian spots I have ever been to" because of its noticeable difference with house-made pasta. Whether it's the perfectly balanced seasonal cocktails or the warm, knowledgeable service, North Italia is a must-visit for those seeking the best in Contemporary Italian cuisine.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
Jim
Nashville •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Another lovely family dinner with It’s. Everything was great and friendly.
More info
It's Italian CucinaPrice: Expensive• Italian• South Austin
•
4.8
B
Ben
Austin •12 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Delicious pasta and salads and truffle garlic bread.
More info
North Italia - Austin 2nd StreetPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown
•
4.6
M
Mollyvip
San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We loved Poeta! First time here, and everything we got was fantastic!
More info
PoetaPrice: Expensive• Italian• East Austin
•
4.6
M
Mary
Austin •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 15, 2024
A friend of mine treated me to lunch at Juliet Italian Kitchen for my birthday. I had been there before, but it was some time ago and it was my friend’s first visit. The service was excellent. The food was very delicious and the portions are generous. The drinks were yummy!
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Juliet Italian Kitchen - Barton SpringsPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.7
A
Annaleevip
Houston •28 reviews
5.0
Dined on Oct 26, 2024
If you are staying at the hotel, definitely eat at Laurel. The outside setting is beautiful the cocktails are delicious and we really enjoyed the charcuterie board. We also had octopus that was really good, salmon, shrimp scampi, and the duck. I thought everything was a little too expensive but that’s just me. A $25 glass of wine that was yummy but was still $25.
More info
LaurelPrice: Expensive• Italian• West Austin / Westlake
•
3.8

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in West Austin / Westlake

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the scenic area of West Austin / Westlake, Austin. This locale is renowned for its sophisticated dining scene, featuring a selection of restaurants that masterfully blend traditional Italian techniques with modern culinary innovations. Each venue boasts a unique ambiance, from intimate and cozy settings to vibrant, modern spaces, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience for every preference. The menus, carefully curated with local and seasonal ingredients, highlight the authenticity and richness of Italian flavors, complemented by an impressive selection of wines. Patrons consistently praise the attentive service and the high-quality dishes that create a memorable gastronomic journey. Whether you're a local or a visitor, dining in West Austin / Westlake offers a slice of Italy with a contemporary twist, perfect for any occasion.

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in West Austin / Westlake

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13 restaurants available nearby

1. Laurel

2. North Italia - Austin 2nd Street

3. Poeta

4. Juliet Italian Kitchen - Barton Springs

5. It's Italian Cucina

6. Revue

7. Juniper

8. Intero

9. L'Oca d'Oro

10. North Italia – Austin

See what locals rave about

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in West Austin / Westlake

Explore OpenTable