Taverna Austin (Downtown) | The Baci Room

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!

Taverna is the best place in austin for brunch! The music is always a vibe and the food is amazing. Not to mention the servers are exceptional. My server, Jeff, was fun, professional, elegant, and all around amazing! Anyone who needs a great fun place to eat definitely recommend Taverna!

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.