Photo by Peter McCrady

Italian food truck sees more success in new year

For Patrizi's, a family Italian food truck, the culture and development around Manor Road has helped to serve up steady customers.

"Business is going really well," chef and owner Nicholas Patrizi said. "Everyone from the neighborhood is really liking us a lot."

The food truck opened May 20 at 2307 Manor Road, sharing the space with The Vortex theater and Butterfly Bar. Patrizi said he liked the eccentricity of the location—the combination of the events brought in by the bar, the theater and the neighborhood in general.

"This place had this local neighborhood, watering hole sort of vibe," Patrizi said. "Monday through Sunday, something was always happening, so I really valued it in that aspect. But also, I just love the district. The synergy with the theater is super unique. If you've been to The Vortex before, it's one of those last bastions of Austin weirdness."

Some improvements Patrizi has made include the start of an herb garden and a patio to the side of the truck. The deck is lined with chimineas to help ward off chilly weather. One special Patrizi wants to highlight in 2014 is Wednesday Dinner Nights. He said for those meals, the regular menu is suspended in favor of special dishes made from ingredients he has on hand.

Patrizi's, 2307 Manor Road, 512-814-8557, www.patrizis.com, Hours: Mon.–Sun. 5–11 p.m.