Indianapolis Spotlight: Vicino

Vicino: Modern Italian on Mass Ave

What Makes It Unique?

Vicino, which translates to “neighbor” in Italian, positions itself as a modern Italian restaurant that isn’t overly concerned with rigid tradition.

• Modern Approach: It offers an elevated menu with creative, “over-the-top” pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and substantial mains, embracing a 21st-century take on classic Italian fare.

• Atmosphere and Vibe: The restaurant features a polished, inviting interior with stylish touches, including blue crushed velvet seating and gold and green accents, creating a loose, almost “clubby” environment. It’s often praised for its warm and inviting atmosphere.

• Cocktail Focus: The owners, Chris Burton and Gus Vazquez, are also known for their expertise in cocktail culture at their nearby spot, The Oakmont. This is reflected in Vicino’s lengthy and ambitious cocktail list.

• Dog-Friendly Patio: The charming outdoor patio, adorned with lush greenery, is noted as being dog-friendly, adding to its welcoming appeal for local diners.

🏛️ History

Vicino opened in the spring of 2023 on Massachusetts Avenue.

• Location: It occupies the former location of Hedge Row American Bistro, a space that was considered a “turnkey project” and retained a key feature: the existing wood-fired pizza oven.

• Founders: The restaurant was opened by Chris Burton and Gus Vazquez, who also own The Oakmont, a bar and restaurant located nearby. Their prior success and recognition in the local cocktail scene informed their new venture.

• Name Origin: The name Vicino was chosen specifically because of its proximity to their first establishment, The Oakmont—they are literally “neighbors” on the same block.

🍽️ Highlight Menu Items

Vicino’s menu is diverse, featuring homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and substantial entrees. Some of the highly-praised and popular items include:

• Carbonara: Highly recommended by customers, often cited as one of the best in the area. It typically features bucatini pasta, peas, pancetta, black truffle oil, egg yolk, and parmesan.

• Pesto Chicken: This dish is described as “absolute dynamite,” with pan-fried gnocchi, creamy pesto, pulled chicken, and an olive tapenade.

• Osso Buco: A favorite main dish, described as an “absolutely delicious” lamb shank that is tender, moist, and flavorful, served with mushroom pea risotto.

• Wood-Fired Pizzas: The restaurant utilizes its wood-fired oven for a variety of pizzas, including a unique smoked salmon variety.

• Appetizers: The brie appetizer and calamari have received rave reviews.

• Happy Hour: Features a unique addition, a smash burger and fries, alongside drink specials.

⭐ Customer Feedback (Reception)

Vicino has been well-received by diners and critics alike since its opening.

• Critical Acclaim: It has been included in Indianapolis Monthly‘s lists of the 25 Best Restaurants for both 2023 and 2024. Eater has also named it one of the “38 essential” Indianapolis restaurants.

• Praise: Customers frequently praise the exceptional food quality, attentive service, and the overall inviting atmosphere. Standout reviews often highlight the creativity of the menu and the staff’s efforts to make visits memorable, sometimes including special details for occasions like birthdays.

• Areas for Improvement (Minor): Some minor issues mentioned in reviews have included seating arrangements near large groups or minor inconsistencies in certain dishes (like the texture of a cake or a specific salad).

🗓️ Significant Events

As a relatively new restaurant (opening in 2023), the focus on significant historical events is still developing. However, Vicino does host and participate in events:

• Private Events: The restaurant has facilities and options for hosting private events.

• Holiday Features: They have participated in special holiday dining, such as offering their full menu and special holiday features on Thanksgiving (e.g., in 2025).

• Local Recognition: Its inclusion in major local “Best of” lists (like Indianapolis Monthly) are significant milestones in its young history.

📍 Contact Information & Links