Austin Food Bytes - Now That's Italian!

There's a new player in town for authentic Italian food: Mandola's Italian Market. Located where Guadalupe and Lamar intersect, just past 45th, it looks like a cute corner store from the outside, but inside it's a whole other story.

Mandola's is a market and restaurant. The walls are stuffed with imported goodies, including extra-virgin olive oil, wine, pasta, meats and cheeses. Ensconced within are several small dining areas, a gelaterie, bakery, and espresso bar.

I got to sample a few menu items last Saturday and they were all delicious. I had the Tuscan Tomato Salad - ripe cherry tomatoes topped with basil, olives, and ricotta salata - sort of a tangy cousin of feta. It was light and lovely, and left room to sample several other dishes. I also tried the Aranchini - rice croquettes filled with prosciutto, peas, mushrooms and mozzarella. They were unusual, rich and delicious - crispy on the outside, soft but complexly flavored on the inside. The Cannelloni was also lovely, as was the Italian Cream Cake and Chocolate Torte (it helps to have several friends with you when trying an new restaurant). My only regret was not having the capacity to try more dishes. I guess that means I'll have to go back!

MANDOLA'S ITALIAN MARKET
Open 7 days a week, 6:30am to 10pm
4700 W. Guadalupe #12
419-9700
Austin 78751