Italian Date Night in Austin on West 6th
A marble bar, a gold oven for a view, and a two-course dinner for two — how to plan a date night at Moderna on West 6th.
A good date night in Austin needs three things: somewhere to sit that feels like an occasion, food worth talking about, and no stress about parking. Here is how to plan an Italian date night at Moderna, at 1717 West 6th Street in Hartland Plaza.
Start at the bar
Bar Moderna is a black marble cocktail bar with gold trim, and it is the best place to begin the evening. A few names from the cocktail list to know before you sit down:
- Negroni Classico — Malfy gin, Campari and sweet vermouth.
- Sophia Loren — Voga vodka, amaretto, citrus and grenadine.
- Blue Amalfi — blueberry vodka, limoncello and lemon.
- Espresso 'Tini — vodka, espresso liqueur and fresh espresso.
- Aperol Spritz — the easy, bright opener.
Arrive early and you can catch Social Hour, served at the bar only. The full list is on the drinks menu.
The gold oven is the view
In the dining room, the gold-tiled Marra Forni oven sits at the center of the open kitchen. Ask for a table with a line of sight to it: watching the pizzas go in and come out is the kind of thing that fills a quiet moment on a first date, and keeps a long-married couple entertained too.
A two-course dinner for two
Our suggestion, using the current menu and prices:
- To share: Burrata Caprese ($20) — imported burrata, heirloom tomatoes, pesto Genovese and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Main: Tagliatelle alla Ruota ($36) — hand-cut tagliatelle finished tableside in the Grana Padano wheel, with crema di parmigiano, brandy and lemon zest. Order one and an 1889 Margherita ($19) to split.
- If there is room: Tiramisu ($12) — soaked ladyfingers, fresh espresso and mascarpone cream, with two spoons.
For a more casual or affordable night, the Margherita and a Cacio e Pepe ($25) make a satisfying dinner for two. Browse everything on the full menu.
Parking
Free validated parking is available in the attached garage — bring your ticket to the host stand. Complimentary valet runs Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 10 PM.
Hours
- LunchFri–Sun 11:30a–3p
- DinnerMon–Sat 5–10p · Sun 5–9p
- Social Hour4–6p Daily · Bar only
- To-GoMon–Sat 11:30a–10p · Sun 11:30a–9p
Reservations
Book a table for two on our reservations page, or call (512) 646-8076. Thursday through Saturday evenings are our busiest, so book ahead.
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