When Postino opens a new location, the goal isn't to create another cookie-cutter restaurant. Instead, the neighborhood gathering place prioritizes spaces with personality, history and character, often breathing new life into existing buildings while preserving what makes the surrounding community unique.
At its newest Austin-area location in Westlake, that philosophy has transformed a former bank into a restaurant and wine bar, complete with a repurposed drive-through patio, vintage decor and architectural details that honor the building's past.
But for Postino, the connection between architecture and dining goes beyond aesthetics. Through thoughtful design and a focus on local character, the restaurant aims to create inviting spaces where guests feel comfortable gathering and connecting.
Why does Postino prioritize existing buildings?
Postino's appreciation for older buildings dates back to its beginnings in a converted Phoenix post office, which inspired its name, meaning "postman" in Italian.
When Lauren Bailey, CEO and co-founder of Postino's parent company, Upward Projects, launched the concept with fellow co-founder Craig DeMarco, they wanted to recreate the relaxed wine bar culture they had experienced in Italy, where people could gather over food and wine without feeling rushed.
That appreciation for distinctive spaces became central to Postino's identity. Rather than starting with a blank slate, the company often seeks existing structures, allowing their history and architectural features to influence each restaurant's design.
"These spaces sort of vibrate on their own at a different frequency," Bailey said. "They have a story to tell, and oftentimes they have architectural details that you couldn't replicate."
Today, that philosophy extends across Postino's locations, where original artwork, vintage lighting and custom design elements help preserve each building's character while encouraging guests to linger and connect.
How did Postino transform a former Westlake bank?
When Postino began exploring Westlake, the neighborhood was already drawing attention. Bailey said guests were traveling from the area to visit other Austin locations, while local restaurant professionals encouraged the company to expand there.
The team found a former bank building that offered an opportunity to create something distinctive. Rather than erase its history, Postino incorporated elements of the original structure into the restaurant's design.
The transformation includes several features that reflect the building's past and surrounding community:
Repurposed drive-through: The former bank drive-through now serves as a covered outdoor patio, creating space for guests to gather.
Vintage piggy bank wall: A collection of nostalgic piggy banks pays tribute to the building's former use, with pieces recognizable across generations.
Locally sourced decor: Vintage finds from Austin shops, including Roadrunner Relics, bring local character into the restaurant.
Custom lighting: A statement fixture created by a local artist from repurposed antique lighting components adds a distinctive touch.
Through these details, Postino gives the former bank a new purpose while allowing its history to remain part of the guest experience.
How does Postino serve as a neighborhood third space?
Beyond preserving architectural character, Postino aims to create a third space — a welcoming gathering place outside home and work where people can connect.
As traditional gathering places become harder to find, Postino designs its spaces for lingering, whether guests are working remotely over coffee or unwinding with friends after work.
"I think more than ever, it's very important to people to be able to connect with one another and doing that in a space that feels really inspired is more special than ever," Bailey said.
Postino's menu complements its relaxed atmosphere, offering guests ways to gather over food and drinks. From signature bruschetta boards with toppings such as brie, apple and fig spread to paninis, meatballs and charcuterie, the shareable dishes pair with a curated selection of wines, cocktails and craft beers.
By removing rigid dining expectations, Postino adapts to different occasions, creating a welcoming backdrop for everyday connections, such as date night, family dinner or a girls' night out.
Where can you experience Postino in Austin?
Each of Postino's three Austin-area locations has its own personality, with distinctive architecture, artwork and design elements that reflect the surrounding neighborhood. Whether visiting a repurposed bank or a restaurant along a bustling dining corridor, guests can experience something different at each restaurant.
Postino Westlake: 701 S. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite J, West Lake Hills
A former bank transformed into a neighborhood gathering place, featuring a repurposed drive-through patio and nostalgic piggy bank wall.Postino Bryker Woods: 1615 W. 35th St., Austin
A once-vacant Burger King reimagined as a wine cafe, bringing new life to an established Austin neighborhood.Postino South Lamar: 1301 S. Lamar Blvd., Suite 102, Austin
A contemporary space along one of Austin's popular dining corridors, surrounded by restaurants and neighborhood attractions.
With no two locations designed exactly alike, Postino encourages guests to explore all three and discover each space's distinct character.
Visit Postino
Postino offers daily specials designed to bring people together:
Daily happy hour: $6 glasses of wine and $6 pitchers of beer daily until 5 p.m.
Board & Bottle: A bottle of wine and a signature bruschetta board for $25 after 8 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays.
To view menus, hours or learn more, visit postino.com.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Postino repurpose historic buildings?
Postino prioritizes existing buildings to preserve architectural character, celebrate local history and create distinctive dining experiences. Rather than using identical designs, the wine cafe incorporates original features, vintage decor and custom artwork that reflect each neighborhood.
What was Postino Westlake before it became a restaurant?
Postino Westlake occupies a former bank building in West Lake Hills, Texas. The restaurant repurposed the bank's drive-through into a covered patio and incorporated a vintage piggy bank wall to honor the building's history.
What makes Postino Westlake's design unique?
Postino Westlake features a repurposed bank drive-through patio, vintage piggy bank wall, locally sourced decor and custom lighting made from antique components. These elements connect the restaurant's design to its original purpose and the Austin community.
Where are Postino's Austin-area locations?
Postino operates three Austin-area restaurants: Postino Westlake, Postino Bryker Woods and Postino South Lamar. Each features distinctive architecture and design, including a former bank in Westlake, a converted Burger King in Bryker Woods and a contemporary restaurant space on South Lamar.
What food and drinks does Postino offer?
Postino serves signature bruschetta boards, paninis, charcuterie and other shareable dishes alongside curated wines and craft beers. Guests can enjoy daily happy hour specials, including $6 glasses of wine and $6 pitchers of beer, or Board & Bottle specials on Monday and Tuesday evenings.