Treaty Oak's Daniel Barnes Says Andiamo is Austin's Best Italian

Austin is a food-obsessed town, but there are plenty of hidden gems that most Austinites have yet to discover. Eater is enlisting the help of the city's many food professionals to track down some of Austin's most under-the-radar destinations. Welcome to Dining Confidential.

Founder & President of Treaty Oak Distilling Co. Daniel Barnes has a lot to look forward to in 2014. In addition to getting ready to open his new distillery and tasting room in Dripping Springs this spring, he just completed the successful launch of several new products in his expanding portfolio of Texas spirits – with the debut of Waterloo Antique, an aged gin; Red Handed, a bourbon-style whiskey; and Barrel Reserve Rum, a three-year barrel-aged rum.

Barnes is "excited" for the new space, which will also offer a menu of food pairings. The one thing he'll miss the most about the old place though? Andiamo Ristorante – what he calls the best Italian in Austin and a hidden gem tucked in a neighboring shopping center near their current distillery. Check out why and what to order below.

"It's really badass. They do a great job with simple salads. It's extremely simple food, but it's done so well. Most people don't believe me when I tell them our favorite Italian restaurant in town is over here on Rutland behind a Jack in the Box. The quality of the food definitely makes up for the location.

I normally have their fish special. Whatever they're running each day. They either get their seafood flown in or they get it fresh on a daily basis from one of the suppliers here. Great fresh vegetables and a very true authentic Italian style."

· All Treaty Oak Distilling Coverage [EATX]
· All Andiamo Coverage [EATX]