Outstanding Italian Cuisine in Austin: Poeta

Nestled within The Frances Modern Inn on historic 11th Street, Poeta is a delightful gem that even locals flock to. Just minutes from downtown, this inviting neighborhood restaurant offers approachable and thoughtfully prepared Italian fare in open and comfortable spaces. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or daily happy hour, Poeta provides an inviting atmosphere for everyone. I have visited this spot four times in the past two years, and every experience was outstanding.

Poeta, a locally operated eatery, was created by award-winning chefs who aim to make every guest feel at home. The restaurant’s charm lies in its ability to draw you back, much like a favorite poet's work, offering a blend of familiar comfort and new experiences. Bring friends, family, or simply yourself to enjoy the welcoming ambiance and delicious cuisine that Poeta has to offer.

The cozy design of Poeta extends from the Frances Modern Inn’s granny chic aesthetic, complemented by modern touches like black fringe on the light fixtures. An upright piano near the dimly lit dining room adds a saloon-like atmosphere, while the bar and front room area buzz with light and activity. Standout dishes include the perfectly al dente spaghetti carbonara and the decadent crab-stuffed cappelletti, which are a testament to the chefs' culinary expertise.

During our visit, the gnocchi with crispy lamb and onion was a savory delight with perfectly balanced seasoning. The grilled octopus, while good, was overshadowed by the expertly crafted roasted beets and the lunch-only chicken piccata, both featuring a deft touch of citrus.

The Wafflegato, a crisp waffle topped with maple gelato and drizzled with espresso butter, is a must-try for breakfast and worth a drive across town. Our meal was highlighted by the standout cappelletti, my personal favorite, with its tender crab-stuffed pasta and perfectly balanced flavors. The brown butter sauce and a hint of lemon added depth and harmony to the dish. Though the Chicken Milanese was less impressive, the overall dining experience was elevated by the fantastic drink options during happy hour and the relaxed, upscale ambiance reminiscent of New Orleans.

The entrées we sampled were incredible and well worth the price. The tagliatelle, rich with mushrooms, and the risotto, featuring crispy prosciutto and hints of apple, were particularly noteworthy. Each dish was a unique concoction of flavors and textures that left a lasting impression. For dessert, the cherry compote on the cheesecake evoked childhood memories, while the olive oil cake with lemon meringue sauce was simply to die for. Poeta is a dining experience not to be missed.

1123 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702

(512) 806-7789

www.poetarestaurant.com