Austin Italian Restaurant Rocco’s Opens Roccito’s, a New Backyard Wine Bar

Roccito’s, the new al fresco extension of Rocco’s, invites guests into its back garden for a more relaxed take on the neighborhood restaurant. Inspired by summers spent in Tuscany and Paris, owner Nicholas Ford envisioned the space as a laid-back extension of Rocco’s, with European influences, a distinctly Texas spirit, local art and specialty cocktails. The result is an inviting garden setting designed for lingering over mozzarella, orange wine and good conversation.

An al fresco extension

Ford said the idea began after spending time in Tuscany and Paris a few summers ago, where he was drawn to the easygoing rhythm of outdoor dining. “I’ve always wanted more of an al fresco experience at Rocco’s,” he said. “I wanted to try and recreate some of those moments I experienced in a space of my own.”

The menu is intentionally pared back for now, featuring antipasti and salads from the current Rocco’s menu, along with the restaurant’s full wine list, specialty wine-based “Garden Pounder” cocktails, beer and nonalcoholic options. Pasta is not yet available in the garden, though Ford hinted that could change.

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Guests at Roccito’s can choose from the restaurant’s full wine list, specialty wine-focused cocktails, beer and nonalcoholic drinks. (Photo courtesy of Rocco’s)

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Roccito’s serves antipasti and salads from the current Rocco’s menu in its outdoor garden. (Photo courtesy of Rocco’s)

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The garden at Roccito’s offers a more casual setting for drinks, small plates and conversation. (Photo courtesy of Rocco’s)

A garden with its own story

Ford described the design of the space as “a little Tuscany, a touch of the 12th arrondissement but mainly Texas,” with an evolving collection of local art and murals. He had long envisioned a mural wall, noting that the timing aligned with his meeting artist Matthew Trujillo around the time he began developing the garden.

“Eventually more artists will come and contribute a piece of their story to the space,” Ford said. “I’m letting it all happen organically.”

That same sense of ease extends to the experience Ford hopes to create. Rather than feeling like a formal dining room, Roccito’s is meant to be “more laid back, a bit casual service and overall just a good hang where you will probably run into someone you know or have the chance to meet someone new over some mozzarella and an orange wine,” he said.

The garden currently offers about 30 seats and operates on a walk-in basis. It is open Thursdays from 5–10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 5–11 p.m. and Sundays from 5–9 p.m. Ford said additional hours will be added once the Texas heat begins to cool, allowing for comfortable dining throughout the day.

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