Shocking shutters
West Austin Italian eatery suddenly throws in the towel
After a five-year run, West Austin Italian joint Winflo Osteria has decided to call it a day. Following a rocky start involving permit delays and a forced name change, Winflo opened at 1315 W. Sixth St. in a renovated 1920s bungalow in 2013.
Since then, it has served as a neighborhood restaurant and a popular place to see intimate live music shows. The last service will be March 30.
The restaurant was a family affair run by Michael Dickson (Native Hostel, Eberly, Brew Exchange, Kung Fu Saloon); his sister Megan Dickson-Pennington; and brother-in-law and chef John Pennington. It quickly became popular for its large patio and hip atmosphere from Chioco Design.
Below the main dining room was a cozy listening room, which partnered with Live Vibe to deliver dinner and music experiences from favorite local acts.
The menu featured traditional Italian favorites like lasagna bolognese, shrimp pomodoro, and osso buco, but the restaurant was best known for Neapolitan pizzas with creative toppings like Brussels sprouts, crab, and carbonara.
In a statement provided to press, the owners did not give a reason for the closing but did hint at the next chapter for the space. “We are transitioning to a new operator from New Orleans with strong restaurant experience who has great plans for our little bungalow and we are very supportive of the next chapter of this special place.”