Mandola's Italian, Bee Cave

###Four Things to Know About Mandola’s Italian A grocery store and restaurant combo, Mandola’s Italian strives to evoke the Italian trattorias of right in the heart of Texas. Keep reading to discover more about the this charming homage to the Old Country: * **The owner knows what he’s doing.** Damian Mandola started his first restaurant when he was a senior in college in 1975. Since then, he’s opened numerous Texas eateries, including nationwide chain Carraba’s, which he created with his nephew, Johnny Carraba. * **It’s all about family.** Family is very important to the husband-and-wife team who founded Mandola’s, so you’ll see child-sized tables alongside the regular ones, where little ones can enjoy pint-sized meals and free gelato. * **It’s a restaurant, grocery store, bakery, deli, and coffee bar.** No matter whether you’re looking for authentic fettuccini noodles or just a strong espresso, you’ll find it here at this neighborhood epicenter for all things Italian. They also have a huge selection of imported Italian meats, cheese, wine, and delicacies that can be hard to find at the regular grocery store. * **Gelato is better than ice cream.** According to Mandola’s, the creamy Italian dessert is more dense and flavorful than the American version. And because there’s less cream in gelato, it’s also a touch healthier.