La Trattoria Cafe - Alpine, TX

New Hours and OPEN SUNDAY!

2008-02-29T12:00:00.002-06:00

We have been trying to post new hours but have had trouble with our blog. We are now open for dinner TUESDAY thru SUNDAY! New menu items, New wine on the list... and we are also open for Sunday Brunch and stay open until 9PM serving food ALL DAY!

We are still doing Pizza on Tuesday and Friday night and dinner is now starting at 5PM so you can call in and pick up pizza early in our drive thru if you like!!

Sunday hours are 10 AM to 9PM. Dinner is served Tuesday thru Sunday starting at 5PM, we close at 9PM Tuesday thru Wednesday and at 10 PM on Friday and Saturday, 9 on Sunday. The kitchen will take the last orders however at 9:30 on Friday and Saturday.....

More changes are coming!!!!!!

New Hours & Valentine's Day

2008-02-04T16:41:00.000-06:00

We are now open for dinner Tuesday thru Sunday starting at 5 PM! Pizza is still served Tuesday and Friday and you can call your order in and pick up at drive thru on your way home!!

Sunday Feb. 10th is our first Sunday Brunch and supper - hours will be 10 AM to 9PM on Sunday with last seating at 8PM. Monday we open at 7 AM til 6PM, Tues - Friday 7AM to 10PM and Saturday 8AM to 10PM

Make your Valentine's Day reservations NOW we have already started taking them with first seatings at 5 PM.. We will have an Italian Style Dinner for Two including appetizer, pasta, main and dessert plus....... or order a la carte from the menu!

New Hours in February and Valentine's Day

2008-01-29T12:54:00.000-06:00

We have had to postpone opening for dinner 6 nights due to illness so we WILL be opening for dinner Tuesday thru Sunday beginning February 5th - a regular "pizza night" and we will open for SUNDAY BRUNCH the following Sunday, February 10th as well as supper. Watch for exact hours.

Make reservations NOW for our VALENTINE'S DAY Italian Style Dinner for Two. We will start seating at 5PM. (We will be opening for dinner at 5 or 5:30 when we start our new hours)
The dinner will include an appetizer, pasta, main and dessert plus coffee or tea and more......

Year End Hours

2007-12-30T21:08:00.001-06:00

We will be open New Year's Eve day - Monday - from 7:30 A.M. until 4 P.M. We won't be open for dinner this year - maybe next...

We WILL be open NEW YEAR'S DAY at 10 AM and will close at 3 PM (or so..) Stop by for good coffee, breakfast and lunch - we will serve breakfast items LATE this day since we understand that most of us will be just getting up at noon! So brunch is the order of the day.. We WON'T be open Tuesday night though for dinner so we can get a little rest too. Join us Friday night for Pizza, pasta, seafood and more..

See you then!

P.S. Plans are now in the works to open Tuesday thru Saturday for dinner - and SUNDAY for brunch and supper!! We are also redesigning the menu to add some new items - take off some that aren't really that "Italian" and focus on what we know (and DO) best - Authentic Italian Food, Great Pasta dishes, Seafood (and LOTS of it is coming , who else does clams like we do!?), Salads, and more beef dishes -

Changes

2007-12-10T18:23:00.000-06:00

There are changes to our lunch buffet - we are now only having the buffet on Monday, possibly Wednesday and Friday's for sure.... We are now serving full pasta menu and other items from our dinner menu like salmon and tilapia, shrimp scampi etc.....We will continue to update the site on changes.. and we are currently watching to see what is more effective. Lately there has been a greater interest in regular menu items and service turn around is improved.

Watch for more changes to dinner hours - we're going to be starting earlier - and possibly Sunday's.

We are adding a new musician to our Friday evening line up - Kevin Dean plays accoustic guitar and harmonica - very nice sound! Check him out this Friday, December 14th!

And watch the website for any changes to hours over the upcoming holiday's. We WILL be open Christmas Eve - 'til 5. And New Years Eve til 4.. We ARE OPEN NEW YEAR'S DAY - but not til 10AM. and we will close at 3 or 4... depends on demand...

Gallery Night Week-End!

2007-11-12T15:21:00.000-06:00

Tera Peters plays Friday night and we are serving specials all week-end! Stop by for a Pumpkin Spice Latte, a Peppermint Mocha or a slice Pumpkin Praline Cheesecake!!

Lunch Buffet Friday and Pizza Friday night among other specials for the week-end. We have just received a new shipment of wine and have changed our wine list and prices... These include a lovely merlot from California... an Italian Primitivo, and new individual serving bottles, a .187ml and a two glass .375ml Carpene Malvolti Prosecco di Conegliano.

Paige Blakemore is selling her embossed unique leather cuffs - (she is also an employee here!) and will be taking custom orders for leather goods!!

Look forward to seeing you!

Hours of Operation - And other News

2007-09-09T14:04:00.000-05:00

We are finally somewhat settled into our new home. It is a wonderful space - more than double the size of our last location and the kitchen is larger than our whole restaurant used to be!!

We are now opening the drive thru at 7AM rather than 6 - please note!! It makes more sense for us now as we hire and train new staff. Once the demand increases we will consider opening earlier. Breakfast is served in the dining room at 7:30 A.M. until 10:30 A.M.

Lunch Buffet is Monday - Friday and starts at about 11:45 - until 1:30 or even 2. We serve regular lunch from 11 - 2 and simple items from our drive thru menu in-between.

Our lunch buffet is very popular! In true Trattoria style we build our daily menu each day so that it varies based on what we find to be best that day.We serve one or two pastas including lasagna, manicotti, penne, spaghetti & meatballs, fettucine alfredo with chicken etc. changing each day, a meat or meat sauce including bolognese meat sauce, roasted chicken, or other meat entree, sometimes fish or seafood, perhaps roasted or grilled vegetables, and always have salad, freshly baked bread and dessert. The buffet price is usually $9.99 unless it's a special occasion or includes a special entree in which case it might be a little more - but well worth it!! Everything is authentic and homemade! Nothing is canned or pre-cooked frozen! It's fast and easy to serve and - yes - you can take it to go! You can even order and pick up in our drive thru - we will fix you a take out of a little of each item! How easy is that?

Dinner and pizza is served currently Tuesday, Friday and Saturday until further notice. We have to hire and train new people and cooking the way we do means we will overwork if we start dinner every night so soon, so watch for changes here. We would also like to do a Sunday brunch and supper......

September 18th, Tuesday is Doyle Bramhall day at La Trattoria - in honor of his new CD, Is It News? we are playing all his cd's all day - (just like Starbucks did for Sir Paul) and they will be available for sale! That is Pizza Night so watch for special announcements regarding that day!!!

Trattoria Has Moved!!!

2007-07-30T08:33:00.000-05:00

We have moved to 901 E. Holland, Alpine - next to Alltel on Holland, across from the Beall's shopping center and Gunville Realty - behind McDonald's. We will be in the process of cleaning the old location and setting up in the new this week, so we will open in stages... We will open for coffee only hopefully by Tuesday, July 31... if all goes well we may be able to serve espresso by Wednesday or Thursday... And we would like to be open for breakfast and lunch by the following week with our first pizza night on that Friday, but that remains to be seen..... Watch for more details We have a drive thru at the new location so we will be opening for coffee service at the drive thru much earlier and will serve some breakfast items as well there - we will open for regular service for breakfast also earlier and NOW THERE IS SEATING!!!

We appreciate your patience while we work out the "kinks" and become accustomed to having such a large space with all the logistics that and a drive thru entails... It is more than twice our original space - the kitchen alone is larger than our WHOLE restaurant, including bathrooms, was! And we also have INDOOR washrooms.... finally...

It is unfortunate that we couldn't mediate the issues at the other location - the landlord was not interested in trying to come to a solution - but the reality is that this is a much better location for us.. The space will allow us to actually seat customers.. the kitchen area is approximately 670 sq feet including the drive thru space - we were working in 187 sq ft kitchen! And made pizza in about 10 sq ft! So this should improve EVERYTHING drastically.. The rent is actually lower per square foot than we were paying and much lower than the increased rent would have been - actually we would have had to pay almost the same amount for the old space as the new... So although everyone seems attached to having that location - and so were we for awhile - everything happens for a reason and we might not have moved and continued to try to make things work in space that was really not adequate or suited to our needs.. We wish them the best with that space. It is a nice location and we did improve it with new floors, and other things but it is just too small. We celebrate 8 years in business the 15th of August - that has been a feat in and of itself - we wouldn't have lasted if we hadn't been doing something right so now we'll see what the future brings..

News

2007-04-03T11:40:00.000-05:00

We are still doing Pizza on Tuesday and Friday plus our other pasta dishes and dinner items.. Linguine Con Le Vongole (clams) is still a big favorite and we plan to add it as a permanent menu item. We are also open on Saturday for dinner. There are some changes in the works though so please confirm all times etc. for dinner and other hours. It may be necessary due to staffing issues to change some hours - we appreciate our customer's understanding during this time. Also, we have not increased prices in two years yet our food costs have risen dramatically and fuel costs (electric etc) have gone up 66% in the last year alone. Unfortunately, if we are going to remain in business, pay our employees a living wage and realize a profit we must raise prices.

As most of our customers know we have made extensive improvements to our present location including, floors, electric service upgrade, complete plumbing upgrades to code, lighting, etc. a major investment, nevertheless our current landlord has taken the position that the current lease - with 7 years remaining - that reflects these improvements in our rent arrangement is now void since Club Holland is no longer in the space and toward the end paid their portion of the rent late, though never seriously. Although we were never late and made up the difference for them and continued to pay the full rent without them, the landlord is now aware that they can rent this space for more money since we improved it and would like US to pay for it (again). Although I approached them willing to discuss the issue, they flatly refused to even talk with me so we are now speaking through attorney's and we all know where this can go.... It is our intention to remain open - somehow. The space we had been interested in is still not finished, nothing has really been done there to ready it and we have attempted to get our plumber in to get an estimate, but the owner is very busy with another project and we have not heard anything recently. We will keep everyone posted..

On another note - the benefit for Matt Hardison was a great success!! Thanks to everyone who came out, contributed and spent their time to make sure it went well! Thanks to Trans-Pecos Guitars and Mark for the donation of a guitar to raffle - (value $600.) we are continuing the raffle for a few more weeks. Thanks also to Texas Treasures and Ilana for the donation of a Talvera mask - (value $40.00). We are all praying for Matt to make a full recovery. He is a gifted young man and our thoughts are with him and his family. Contact us for info re: the bank account set up for his medical expenses or to purchase a raffle ticket - $5.00

New Dinner Hours Starting Week of Feb. 19

2007-02-19T23:39:00.000-06:00

We will be open for dinner Tuesday's (which includes Pizza), Friday's (Pizza again) and Saturday's..... we will no longer be open for dinner on Wednesday and Thursday for the time being. In order to plan and implement our move it is best to focus our energy on making that happen. In such a small space and with the unpredicability of weather, it isn't really in the best interest of the business to remain open for dinner every evening. We highly recommend reservations for dining in. Reservations allow us to manage tables and ensure the best service as well as staff properly. Without reservations we cannot promise indoor seating ....

Watch for news and events....

Week of Jan. 29

2007-01-29T21:49:00.000-06:00

Tuesday and Friday are Pizza Nights... We are open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Birra Moretti (Italian Beer) on sale $2.50 on Pizza Night.. Lone Star $1.50 all week.

Clams in red sauce or butter wine sauce, slightly spicy, Shrimp Diavolo and Shrimp Scampi, and other specials.... Great Italian Food and new wines including Antinori Sangiovese, and Donnata' Nero D'Avola di Sicilia... Special on Italo Cescon 375L (1/2 bottle) only $11.75 - Merlot or Pinot Grigio. Reservations recommended, especially on Pizza Night.. also call in to order Pizza's early for faster service.

New Web Store

2007-01-02T18:23:00.000-06:00

Check out our new web store!!! You can buy great coffee - including coffee we don't sell at our store like "flavored coffee", also ISI cream whippers like those we use for whipped cream and even Vita Mix blenders! You can get Mexican Spiced Cocoa, Ghirardelli chocolate for hot chocolate and mocha's, Torani and Monin syrups and a variety of other gourmet products. ALSO we can host fundraisers so local organisations can talk to us about setting up a fundraiser.. just call or e-mail us.

News

2006-10-23T09:39:00.000-05:00

ALSO - news, news, news...... we have decided to move, after much deliberation... although not everything is in place, the negotiations are being made and the word is out! Although we love our little spot - we've been here 7 years - it is time to make a change. The outdoor patio, though lovely, does not allow us to do the kind of volume necessary to keep up with rising costs of utilities, rent and payroll. People continually tell us they didn't know we were here, or couldn't find us!!! This will all change...........We can't tell all, but rest assured the concept and space will be exceptional. And service will be easier, faster and MUCH more efficient. Watch for updates!!
P.S. The new location is still in downtown Alpine.. very close to our current location and VISIBLE!

Pizza Tuesday & Friday - Pasta, Seafood, and more Tues - Thurs and Sat.

2006-10-03T10:12:00.000-05:00

We are open Tuesday AND Friday for PIZZA- get your orders in early...
New wines are arriving! Be sure to try the Norton Malbec... a great wine at a great price.. Also we are featuring a Bordeaux Merlot - Chateau Cadillac 2003... very nice....

We are still serving Linguine con le vongole..with clams in a white wine, butter sauce.. and Shrimp Diavolo...dinner only.

Featured Wines

2006-09-15T14:21:00.000-05:00

We are adding a new featured wine to last weeks 7 Deadly Zins.
This week is :
Norton's Malbec Mendoza Reserve 2003
Rated 90 by Wine Spectator it is a great bargain for such a good wine. Try it!
Wine: Malbec Mendoza Reserve 2003
Smart Buys
Our (Restaurant) Price: $29 Bottle $8 glass
Country: Argentina
Region: Mendoza
Issue: Oct 15, 2005
Juicy and plush, with layers of blackberry and boysenberry fruit augmented with mocha, graphite and floral notes. Solid, juicy finish. Drink now through 2007. 16,000 cases

Tuesday AND Friday Pizza Nights...

2006-09-08T13:24:00.000-05:00

Our beer and wine license is now active and we have several new beers, an international line-up that includes: Italy - Birra Moretti, Jamaica - Red Stripe, Ireland - Guiness, England - Newcastle Brown Ale, Mexico - Corona Extra, and Domestics, Fat Tire, Blue Moon (Belgian White Wheat Ale), great with a slice of orange!, Miller Lite, and on tap: Dos XX, Bud Light, and Amber Bock. Happy Hour 4:30 - 6:30, special prices. Birra Moretti Special on Pizza Nights $2.25 - Italian Beer, Italian Pizza!

We also plan to have great wines and are continuing to expand the wine list. Our goal is to create a true wine bar with an opportunity to try different wines from all over the world and make them available to everyone, not just a few, by keeping the prices as low as possible.. We're going to have fun with wine.. The one to try this coming week: Seven Deadly Zins.. a great red that we found out about through Chef Paul Petersen at the Gage, we can't take credit for discovering it but it is really good... bottled by Michael and David Phillips Vineyard, California. And, by the way, if you're visiting West Texas make it a point to eat at the Gage (as well as at La Trattoria) you don't want to miss his food!!!

We are making Pizza TWICE a week now, Tuesday and Friday.. and some great plans are in the works so keep checking our website for some very exciting NEWS!

Introducing: Lavazza Espresso

2006-03-26T13:08:00.000-06:00

We are now serving Lavazza Espresso - Italy's No. 1 Coffee ! Once you have tried a real Italian espresso nothing else comes close! Lavazza's commitment to social responsibility (read about it at their website www.lavazza.com ) makes us comfortable serving their product together with our other Fair Trade coffees.. Remember we are now open at 7:30 and have free wi-fi and internet access for our customers!

Internet Access & Free Wi-Fi

2006-02-27T19:57:00.000-06:00

We have internet access for those looking to check e-mail and free wireless access if you have a laptop with a wireless card! Remember we open at 7:30 A.M. and Breakfast at 8:30!! The Best Espresso in West Texas!

New Stuff

2006-01-02T23:22:00.000-06:00

Well, the holidays have passed and we've gotten back to work on site maintenance. Our full menu is now up and available for perusal. Check the "menu" link for more info.

And don't forget our to check our Event Calendar for at-a-glance happenings here at La Trattoria!

Hope everyone had a peaceful, relaxing, and enjoyable holiday.

Classical Guitar Friday Nights

2005-11-02T16:40:00.000-06:00

Pizza Night is going strong and we are enjoying classical guitar with"Pep" - George Pepper every Friday. The patio is heated so don't hesitate to stop by!

We are available for catering... call for more info.

Thursday Nights

2005-09-19T13:03:00.000-05:00

In the planning stages: Thursday night will be "Sul Ross Night" - university students will receive a 10% discount on ALL food and drinks - including Club Holland in addition to a menu special and drink special at reduced prices!!! (not applicable to the 10% discount due to already low price) Draft Bud Light will be at Happy Hour prices all night with other special drink prices and free items..... Check the website from time to time for our first night and other news.....

We are also planning to focus on special entertainment for the Thursday night slot including music and improv/comedy. Anyone with an interest in participating please see Christy or Christine Tues - Sat. evening...

More to Love

2005-07-20T11:10:00.000-05:00

New photos have been added to the "Store Tour" gallery. Click on PHOTOS to peruse the new images.
We have also added a couple of new Italian songs to our "jukebox".
Enjoy!

Working

2005-04-01T02:18:00.000-06:00

Everything is functional!
We are, of course, continuing to add photos and such.
Make sure you have the necessary requirements to view the site properly (they are listed at the bottom of the page).

Enjoy your visit!

-webmaster

Welcome

2005-03-19T04:43:00.000-06:00

Hi. Welcome to the new site. Things should be up and running shortly, so be sure to check back soon.

For now, enjoy some Italian music.
(if you can't see the song list update your version of FlashPlayer here.)

xox
-webmaster