Brought to you by Food Dispatch
If you’re in Austin, Texas—specifically MLK Blvd in the heart of East Austin—and suddenly feel a deep, emotional yearning for pasta that hugs you tighter than your last situationship, allow me to point you toward Ristorante Titti & Vince. This gem is what happens when you take a cozy Italian kitchen, give it a Texas zip code, and let it marinate in charm.
Walking in feels less like entering a restaurant and more like stepping into your Italian aunt's home—if your Italian aunt also had an excellent Chianti plug and a flair for ambiance. The lighting is warm, the décor whispers “I’ve got stories,” and there's a lingering sense that someone’s grandma is watching over the sauce with a wooden spoon and divine authority.
I ordered the Penne alla Vodka, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it could legally be declared a controlled substance. The sauce was creamy, slightly tangy, rich without being heavy, and clung to each piece of penne like it was afraid to be left behind. One bite and I audibly said “mamma mia” like a cartoon character—but with sincerity. This dish doesn’t just feed you; it seduces you.
Then came the gelato-stuffed brioche, which honestly felt a bit unfair. Just when I thought I couldn’t love this place more, they hit me with a dessert that’s essentially Italy’s answer to the ice cream sandwich—only softer, silkier, and more likely to make you question your life choices up to this point. It’s sweet, it’s pillowy, and it’s the kind of thing that makes you close your eyes after every bite so your brain can fully appreciate what your mouth is experiencing.
And that colorful melon, mozzarella, and prosciutto salad? Refreshing, savory, perfectly balanced, and drizzled with just the right amount of balsamic. It’s like summer went to culinary school.
Yes, the bathroom. Spotless. Like, makes-you-want-to-wash-your-hands-for-fun spotless. You can always tell how much a place cares by the state of their restroom—and Titti & Vince clearly cares a lot.
Ristorante Titti & Vince is a delightful mashup of Italian warmth and Austin cool. The food hits harder than your Nonna’s slipper, the staff treats you like family (the kind you actually like), and the price won’t leave you weeping into your empty wallet. If you're craving comfort, carbs, and charisma, you know where to go.
⭐ Final Verdict: 5/5 meatballs. Would smuggle Tupperware for leftovers.