This is what a wine bar should be. Vino Vino’s 100% old-school Austin class, with a refurbished wood floor salvaged from an extinct Hill Country dance hall, and an endless pine bar (salvaged also, from downtown’s shuttered Bitter End) studded with warm glowing lamps. Most importantly, its unrelenting commitment to excellent Old-World-style wines turns on neophytes and professionals alike. The crowd’s diverse: from solo writers at the bar to canoodling dates to raucous tables, all sipping Refosco, Gaglioppo, and Schioppetino. Those wanting to stick with the familiar will do just fine here, but with one of the city’s best grower-producer Champagne selections, a spring/summertime wall of rosés, and a supportive and helpful staff, why not explore?

The kitchen’s climbed its way up to the top of Austin’s modern-comfort genre, with its small, ever-changing menu of expertly cooked and paired seasonal ingredients. House-made charcuterie and bison sliders are our favorite orders, as well as any of the outstanding, seasonally inspired salads. Brilliantly attired cheese plates work even more mojo out of your glass. Even the few beers on draft are great, and the espresso pull’s one of the best around. Thanks to the additional liquor license, you can now have a little postprandial grappa, Port, or amaro with your live jazz.