Moderna Bar & Pizzeria Named One of Austin's Best New Restaurants

The West Sixth restaurant is a finalist for the 2026 CultureMap Tastemakers Awards.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:49am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Just 90 days after opening in December 2025, Moderna Bar & Pizzeria has been named one of the 10 Best New Restaurants in Austin as part of the 2026 CultureMap Tastemakers Awards. The nomination places the restaurant among Austin's most notable new dining destinations and recognizes its early impact on the city's culinary scene.

Why it matters

The CultureMap Tastemakers Awards are a prestigious honor that highlight the most exciting new restaurants in Austin, a city known for its vibrant food scene. Moderna's recognition as a finalist showcases the restaurant's commitment to elevated Italian cuisine and its potential to become a local dining destination.

The details

Led by internationally respected pizzaiolo Chef Leo Spizzirri, Moderna features a menu focused on Heritage Post-Neapolitan pizza alongside classic Italian dishes made from scratch daily, such as the famous 20-layer Lasagna Moderna and the signature Tagliatelle alla Ruota prepared tableside. The restaurant also offers a curated cocktail and wine program.

  • Moderna Bar & Pizzeria opened on December 13, 2025.
  • The 2026 CultureMap Tastemakers Awards event will take place on April 9, 2026.

The players

Moderna Bar & Pizzeria

An elevated Italian dining destination located in Austin's Hartland Plaza on West Sixth Street.

Chef Leo Spizzirri

An internationally respected pizzaiolo and culinary educator known for his work advancing fermentation-driven pizza craftsmanship in the United States. He leads Moderna's culinary program and mentors the kitchen team.

Mike Pottorff

A legendary Austin restaurateur and co-owner of Moderna Bar & Pizzeria.

Chris Ruhling

A legendary Austin restaurateur and co-owner of Moderna Bar & Pizzeria.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Moderna Bar & Pizzeria will participate in the CultureMap Tastemakers Awards event on April 9, where the restaurant will present its signature Meatballs della Nonna dish to more than 700 attendees.

The takeaway

Moderna Bar & Pizzeria's recognition as a finalist for the prestigious CultureMap Tastemakers Awards highlights the restaurant's commitment to elevated Italian cuisine and its potential to become a standout dining destination in Austin's vibrant food scene.