In a town full of trendy restaurant concepts, this sleek East Austin spot succeeds by keeping it simple and nailing the basics. Order a cacio e pepe (all the pasta is handmade), margherita pizza, and Negronis for a perfect date. Or treat yourself to Monday’s limoncello and lasagna night. Little-brother restaurant La Matta, also blessed with native Italian chef Erind Halilaj, takes the same approach for a casual Italian lunch of paninis and insalate with a Peroni or an espresso. There’s nothing “ugly” about it.
This article appears in June 14 • 2019.