The Backspace Anderson Lane - Austin

We began our meal with garlic bread and calamari, along with a bottle of Montepulciano. The calamari was cooked to perfection—tender and not overdone. The garlic bread reminded me of my childhood, just like my dad used to make for Sunday pasta dinners. It was neither too oily nor too dry; I’d say it was just right. For our main courses, we opted for the Gemelli pasta with fennel sausage and the Margherita pizza, both of which were outstanding. The pasta featured simple yet flavorful ingredients: fennel sausage, mozzarella, roasted pepper, arugula, and garlic. The flavors came together beautifully, the pasta was perfectly al dente, and the sauce was just enough to enhance the dish without overpowering it. The Margherita pizza was beautifully baked, showcasing simplicity at its finest. It consisted of high-quality mozzarella, basil leaves, olive oil, and a straightforward tomato sauce—one of the most honest and delicious tomato sauces I’ve encountered anywhere. In summary, if you’re looking for an exceptional meal that offers genuinely authentic Italian cuisine at a reasonable price, this is the place to go! As a side note, we enjoyed it so much that we shared our experience with our daughter, who then joined us as we wrapped up our main courses. She ordered the Blue Crab fusilli, which was also delightful—generous in portion size and, like the other dishes, wonderfully simple and flavorful.

These folks aren't traditionalists, but I love having radicchio in my Caesar salad—it's hands down my favorite version! I'm also completely hooked on their arancini, which I didn't even know I would enjoy! It's like discovering a savory Cadbury egg! Imagine cracking open a perfectly indulgent cheese-filled sphere, with creamy rice wrapped in the crispiest shell you can imagine. It’s akin to breaking into a crème brûlée! I will truly miss you, Backspace! Especially that lovely blue-haired staff member who always manages to brighten my day when I need a strong martini and a smile after a tough week. Thanks for all the wonderful memories! And to everyone else—definitely check this place out!

I came here with my mom for happy hour and we >thoroughly< enjoyed ourselves. Starting with a warm greeting, the service and ambiance was lovely and the food was FANTASTIC! Yes get the arancini and yes ask the wait staff for their wine recommendations. I will definitely go back!

Not too many places you can get arancini in Austin. And theirs is SO ooey gooey delicious. Good, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza is rarity is most towns. Add in great pasta, super friendly and courteous service and a cute, cozy atmosphere make the Backspace a real find.

I would have driven by this place and never noticed it if it weren't for G Maps. What a hidden gem it turned out to be! The food is over the top fresh, creative and designed by a chef, not just a production line. The service was very good as well. Could use some help in the atmosphere department. Recommend going during happy hour for half off their five star appetizers. Def order the bruschetta!!