Vespaio

Vespaio Review

This buzzing Italian bistro on South Congress consistently attracts Austin's bold and beautiful. Patrons crowd the narrow, warmly-lit bar while waiting for a table in the small, tawny-hued dining room. Noshing on the gratis white-bean puree doused with a shot of basil-infused olive oil makes perusing the menu of delicate handmade pastas, thin wood-fired pizzas, and robust Northern Italian-inspired entrées an even greater treat. Chef specials change daily, including soul-warming risottos of the day—the last bowl we tried included braised veal cheek and earthy wild mushrooms. Smoky grilled prawns wrapped in crispy prosciutto and served with warm suppli (fried risotto balls) never disappoints, nor does the savory veal scallopine wrapped with sage, prosciutto, and wilted spinach. Desserts change daily, but are worth the indulgence.