After closing his South Austin food truck Il Saporis in May, Tony DeStefano opened brick-and-mortar restaurant Sapori Italian Roots in August, boasting an Italian menu served with Texan hospitality.

"My father is my mentor and was born and raised in Italy, and I was raised here in Texas," DeStefano said. "I have really tried to build our culture here at Sapori Italian Roots around my Italian family vibes mixed with Southern hospitality. I feel as if it's a perfect blend because both Italians and Texans traditionally are so family-oriented, and we want our guests to feel as if they are dining with family."

The fast-casual downtown restaurant features an expanded menu, including more pasta dishes, burrata, cicchetti, salads and desserts than were offered at the food truck.