A Slice of Naples
A Charming Neighborhood Italian Joint
Words Meher Qazilbash | Photos Baptiste Despois
Bufalina’s wonderfully tight layout adds a feeling of camaraderie to the space. While sitting at packed tables or the bar, happy chatter fills the airy establishment. Anyone can feel at home in their comforting and unassuming atmosphere.
In 2021, Austinites lamented the closing of the eight-year-old pizzeria, one of the best spots to enjoy a pie in the city. What had felt like another devastating loss due to the pandemic turned out to be a logistics issue; the lease was up, and they needed to move. In November 2022, the eatery re-opened on East Cesar Chavez, returning a staple and satisfying the cravings of Austinites.
“We wanted to keep it as true to the original as possible and still capture that cozy neighborhood vibe,” shares Rania Zayyat, Bufalina’s Managing Partner and Wine Director.
Like every good staple, the space is simple, allowing the quality of the food and service to take center stage. Rania speaks to the space’s authenticity: “We would rather have a no-frills vibe and put our money into the food, wine, and service.”
Founder Steven Dilly opened the establishment with no culinary background, just a passion for Italian food as a self-proclaimed “pizza nerd.” Coming up with the concept, he knew he wanted a compact menu that emphasized Neapolitan pizzas, while also offering pasta and small bites.
Characterized by a thin, crisp crust and a middle that’s slightly dampened by tomato sauce, Bufalina’s Neapolitan pizzas require a labor-intensive process to perfect the layer of flavors. Ingredients are crafted in-house, including fermented dough, tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella.
The pies are baked for just over a minute in their chic white-tiled wood-fired oven that’s set to 1000 degrees. “Bufalina offers traditional dishes, but we do it with some Austin flair,” Rania shares.
Head Chef Brooks Wilson subtly experiments with different flavors. Menu items are always changing and rotating as the establishment strives for seasonality, sourcing locally, and allowing the chefs the freedom to try new things.
The minimalistic space and diverse flavor profiles are complimented by their notably large and worldly wine menu. Curated by Rania herself, a seasoned expert in the industry, the diverse program emphasizes natural wines that prioritize flavor as well as economic and social awareness. In addition to a notable wine menu, Rania heads up Bufalina Wine Club where members can receive new bottles every month to gain exposure to their partnerships with socially-conscious makers.
It’s no secret now that Bufalina has brought delight to the community through their quality and creative pies paired with exceptional wine. “We get to see people when they’re at the best part of their day,” Rania delights. “There’s something really special about being able to put a smile on people’s face with good food and wine.”
Contact:
(512) 394-5337
2215 E Cesar Chavez St.
bufalinapizza.com
@bufalinapizza
