Uncle Nicky's Italian Specialties — Restaurant in Austin

We stopped by Uncle Nicky’s during their special $2 ice cream day (normally $7), so most people were just popping in for a quick soft serve. But we were actually hungry, so we decided to sit down and try some food while we were there. It was around 9 PM, and the place was almost empty. The service was pretty slow. When we walked in, the person at the counter seemed to be wrapping up for the night and chatting with a coworker. We had to awkwardly wait for that to finish before we could order. After that, it looked like just one employee was handling everything—taking orders, running food, and keeping things moving. Not ideal, but we tried to keep expectations low. We ordered the Pepperoni Piadina, which is basically like a warm, cheesy pizza pocket with marinara on the side. Nothing fancy, but honestly, it totally hit the spot. Super cheesy, stuffed with pepperoni, and just comforting in the best way. Even if it was microwaved (some reviews mention that), we didn’t care—it tasted good and was exactly what we wanted in that moment. We also got the meatballs, which were a solid choice. The sauce was a little more liquidy than I expected, but it had good flavor—kind of creamy with a bit of tang. The toasted sourdough it came with wasn’t anything special on its own, but it was perfect for soaking up the sauce. To feel like I was being slightly healthy, I ordered a Caesar salad. It was exactly what you’d expect—nothing new or exciting—but the portion was big, and I was actually happy to be full of lettuce. Of course, we had to try the ice cream, since it was the main event. (we happened to order the last 2 cups of the day) I added the espresso syrup for $1 more, which tasted like it might’ve been house-made. It was rich and had a strong coffee flavor, which I liked. At the promo price, it was great. But at the regular $7 + $1 syrup price? Not sure I’d go out of my way for it. The portion is pretty small—think mini McFlurry size. Overall, we left pleasantly surprised. The food was better than we expected. I’d be down to come back and try more—especially when I’m in the mood for something casual...

We got excited to try what appeared to be an authentic Italian eatery but we were disappointed overall. Both of our ears popped as the door closed behind us and we realized the room was basically pressurized when the back patio and front doors were both closed. Then we noticed was a loud, deep hum coming from the HVAC unit in the ceiling. We really couldn't find a spot inside that we could get away from under it. We looked for a seat out back but the music was comically loud and two bright televisions illuminated the otherwise pitch black patio seating. You order food at the front and get the classic high percentage tip options to choose from. We also noticed a 3% health and wellness charge or something like that which was funny because they then point you to a big water chug and tell you it's self-serve and then don't check on you once they bring your food out. Food came out with an apology for the wait. I noticed a burning smell and thought I was going crazy until I found a burnt napkin that they'd placed under the cast iron bowl that they cooked the lasagna in. Gotta give them credit...the lasagna wasn't terrible but it could have used some fresh herbs to bring some brightness and balance to it and make it feel a bit more authentic. The cheese was the best part. Wine came in a cup instead of a wine glass so you don't get to experience the legs of the wine but that might not matter to most people. Finally, we ordered a tiramisu. Came in a plastic cup lol Lady fingers (the bread portion of the dessert) is usually soaked in espresso but these were bone dry. Might have been dipped for a moment but it made the dessert disappointing. If you're expecting an Italian restaurant with thoughtfully crafted drinks and meals where you'll be comfortable and tended to, you'll be disappointed. If you go in expecting mid-level food, decent prices, and a do-it-yourself dining experience, you...

Honestly they seem to have trouble with training their staff. I’ve witnessed when new hires were in training and it seemed chaotic, like there’s not a training program actually written out. Everyone is always super nice when I go there and the food usually tastes very good! But I’ve lived in the neighborhood a few years and there’s almost always someone new working when I go there. I crave consistency so I honestly don’t go that often, maybe once a month. More than once I’ve left without checking my order and realized it was wrong or an item was missing when I got home. I’ve gotten to the point where I really don’t trust them if I order a coffee drink and don’t actually see them make it, too. I’m writing to tell y’all you really need to cut your kale. It seems like a small issue probably to whoever is reading this but it’s just the last straw! I was given the wrong salad last night but didn’t notice until I got home. I was really too tired to go back it had been such a long day and I really can’t catch a break lately. I called, and they said they’ll refund my card. I’ve been avoiding this salad for 24hrs because I really really don’t want it. I have disordered eating and I’m autistic and everything about this salad is a big NOPE for me. But I’m broke and hungry. So I’m trying to eat it! I ordered a Caesar salad and they gave me some kale monstrosity. Idk who would even order this on purpose it’s just kale and pine nuts and a sad amount of grated cheese. The dressing is nice though. But this kale. The pieces are HUGE. Why isn’t it part of the salad prep to actually cut the kale into manageable pieces??? You know a plastic fork and knife cannot handle this. It’s beautiful and fresh though. Would be cool if I could fit any of it in my mouth. Also would be nice if there were at least one other...