The Hot Boy Summer pizza and Sweet Pepper Arancini (photos courtesy of Loudmouth)
If you love Italian American food, you’re in for a treat at Loudmouth, a new pizza place in Austin. This restaurant is rooted in the traditions of Italian immigrants from the 19th and 20th centuries, much like the meals I enjoyed growing up in Connecticut, where my Italian-American grandmother served hearty dishes like Sunday gravy and pasta fazool.
The moment you step into Loudmouth, you’ll feel transported to a classic Northeastern pizza joint. The warm ambiance features cozy vinyl booths, stained glass behind the bar, and vintage black-and-white photos that set the mood perfectly. If you prefer dining outside, there’s a spacious patio with picnic tables and canopies, perfect for when the weather changes suddenly.
(l-r): Burn-It, Traffic on 35, and Amaro’s Problem
The staff at Loudmouth are friendly and eager to help. They’re quick to address any issues, ensuring you feel welcomed. I experienced a small delay one evening, but the staff was attentive and even comped one of my drinks as an apology. This thoughtful gesture made me feel valued and appreciated.
One drink that caught my eye was the Spaghett, a playful twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. With Miller High Life instead of prosecco, it’s served in a bottle, alongside a shot glass of beer. At first, the presentation puzzled me, but the bartender kindly explained that I could enjoy it however I preferred. The Spaghett was refreshing, with citrusy notes balanced by the light lager, making it an easy drink to enjoy.
Loudmouth takes pride in its bar program, serving cocktails that incorporate Italian liqueurs in creative and tasty ways. One standout is the Whiskey Thistle, combining whiskey, Cynar (an artichoke liqueur), mole bitters, and spiced orange. It offers a delightful mix of flavors in every sip. Even the Limoncello Spritz surprised me with its bright tang and low sugar content, proving that every palate can find something to love here.
Speaking of pizza, the wood-fired pies at Loudmouth are stunning. They have a crunchy crust, strong enough to hold generous toppings without getting soggy. The Hot Boy Summer pizza, loaded with tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, pepperoncini, and hot honey, is especially popular. Its combination of richness and zing from the pepperoncini makes it a standout. For those seeking something lighter, the Emerald City features herbaceous pesto, creamy ricotta salata, and mild red onion for a refreshing option.
The appetizers are also worth trying. I loved the garlic parm chicken wings, which came perfectly crispy and tender. Though I wished for a bit more garlic flavor, the accompanying Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing nicely complemented the wings. The cauliflower caponata served with toasted flatbread was creamy and satisfying. For brunch, don’t miss the Wake & Bake pizza topped with egg, potato, and bacon in a rich cheese sauce, or go for the warm Chocolate Chip “Cookie” dessert with vanilla gelato and a sprinkle of Maldon salt.
Loudmouth aims to be a laid-back neighborhood spot, focusing on comfort and familiarity instead of radical new ideas. While they stick to classic Italian American flavors, there’s a sense of excitement in their approach. Over time, I can see them exploring bolder culinary paths, and I’m eager to see what they come up with.
Loudmouth
1209 Rosewood
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Loudmouth, Paperboy
