It’s the end of an era for two restaurants nestled along South Congress Avenue in Austin as the duo prepares to permanently close after almost 30 years.
Vespaio Ristorante, an Italian eatery operating on South Congress since 1998, announced in early January it would be closing for good after a final day of service on February 28. Within the same message, owners confirmed their other restaurant, Chapulin Cantina — Vespaio’s next door neighbor that previously housed the Enoteca Vespaio space — would also cease operations. Owners Daniel Brooks and Ryan Samson did note their new Italian restaurant concept, Vespa Rossa, opened in Dripping Springs last year, carrying on some of Vespaio’s legacy with it.
“Founded in 1998 by three restaurateurs who believed in South Congress long before it became one of Austin’s most recognized streets, Vespaio quickly became a cornerstone of the neighborhood,” the announcement read in part. “Known for its scratch-made pastas, warm atmosphere and loyal following, Vespaio helped shape SoCo’s identity as both a culinary and cultural destination.”…