Taverna (downtown)

Had a lovely sit down experience here. The server was very friendly and helpful with our party and their drink and food selection. The food came out quickly, the atmosphere and decorations were up to par, and I loved the open kitchen in the back where you could see the food being prepared. The appetizers were great, truffle fries and zucchini chips hit the spot. The main course was also lovely, veal parmigiana with a nice side of pasta. Overall great experience and I'd come again next time I'm in Austin.

Parking is terrible. The service was a joke. Plenty of staff members, small amount of customers, small amount of attention. Found that strange. The food presentation is amazing, however for me the food was bland. We had a 6 member party, 4 thought the food was bland, 1 liked it, 1 really liked it. All agree next time we go somewhere else to eat. Decent wine and beer selection and they serve coffee in the evening.

Stopped here for a drink and snack before afternoon shopping, and that Blood Orange Margarita (sub mezcal) was phenomenal. The blood orange purée made an impact, and the sweetness was well-balanced. The brunch bellini, on the other hand, was inexpensive for a reason. No peach purée, and tasted like an underwhelming peachy rosè. The Tagliatelle Alla Bolognese was good, but nothing to write home about. Down the street, Red Ash’s bolognese puts it to shame. I would love to come back for dinner, because some of the menu items look fantastic, and I believe their cocktails are worth a return visit.

Enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Taverna Saturday night. Thankfully we had reservations because the place was packed (SXSW). We realized half-way through dinner that we were sat closer to the “back room” section of the restaurant which was a little more clubby than the restaurant. It didn’t really bother us, just different music and lighting. I ordered the Caico Y Pepe and it was AMAZING. Our server brought a giant wheel of cheese and made the pasta right at our table. The focaccia, dessert (tiramisu) and cocktails (espresso martini and mandarine mule) were very good as well. Parking was surprisingly easy for a downtown location - we parked for free in the city hall building across the street. Can’t wait to try their Dallas location!

Can’t say enough good things about this place. The atmosphere is upbeat and lively which makes it such a fun spot to enjoy brunch and the staff are all so kind and accommodating. My eggs Benedict was delicious and man do they have some good breakfast potatoes. Special shout-out to Jake and Alex for taking such good care of our group. 10/10 will be coming back!!

I give this place a 5 of 5 due to the price point. Neighboring restaurants have higher prices for less menue choices or choices that may not appeal to a picky eater. I had the Bianca pizza which was perfect size for me and thin crust. The restaurant also had what I think are clear boundaries just like people. My wife and I didn't have reservations, so, on a busy night if we wanted to eat inside we had to sit in small tables made for two between the bar and the patio wall. We didn't mind being tourists but I thought that was a good policy and guarantees having a good night in the main pit area if you do reserve a table. Thank you for being reasonable with your pricing!