Davanti traces back to a friendship formed over regular meals at Fresco Cafe Italiano, where Oliver and Paco Calza became close with Chef Roberto Crescini through his house-made pasta and hospitality. When Fresco closed in 2022 and Crescini returned to Italy, the Calzas convinced him to come back and open a restaurant together — Davanti, on Weslayan in the Greenway/Upper Kirby area.
The kitchen runs on fresh pasta made daily, including bronze-die shapes, alongside long-fermented Roman-style pinsa. Dishes that have drawn attention include handmade tagliatelle with lamb sauce, grilled octopus, and a pistachio torta, with cannoli topped in ricotta and candied citrus for dessert.
Regulars point to strong service and a patio that draws people in for celebrations and date nights, alongside consistently fresh, well-prepared cooking. The Infatuation gave Davanti an 8/10.
The kitchen runs on fresh pasta made daily, including bronze-die shapes, alongside long-fermented Roman-style pinsa. Dishes that have drawn attention include handmade tagliatelle with lamb sauce, grilled octopus, and a pistachio torta, with cannoli topped in ricotta and candied citrus for dessert.
Regulars point to strong service and a patio that draws people in for celebrations and date nights, alongside consistently fresh, well-prepared cooking. The Infatuation gave Davanti an 8/10.