Are you craving Italian food but don’t know the best place to get them? Overwhelmed with all the options and reviews you find online?
We’re here to keep things simple and give you 5 of the best Italian restaurants in Denver. The cream of the crop with a variety of offerings to satisfy whatever you’re looking for.
Barolo Grill
Indulge in timeless Italian cuisine at this Italian staple in Denver. Let’s start with a little treat for you and your friends with an elegant and sophisticated vibe often found in Italian restaurants.
Barolo Grill is a cut above the rest with a specialty in Northern Italian cuisine. Their dishes are sourced locally and are constantly changing with the seasons.
High praise is given to their Fritto Misto, pork tenderloin, and Torta Di Formaggio. Barolo has some of the best Italian in Denver, get over there soon!
Menu: Barolo Menu
Top Review: “New favorite place! I was craving some fresh made pasta and their Agnolotti was seriously the best thing I have ever eaten! Melts in your mouth, it was a seasonal flavor and the chef’s version of street corn, but as a pasta! I am still dreaming about it. I sat at the bar and had the most incredible service! Wish I could remember her name.. I also love how they do 4 course meals and let you choose your 4 courses!” – Eve L.
3030 E 6th Ave Denver, CO 80206, (303) 393-1040
Angelo’s Taverna
As one of the best Italian restaurants in Denver, you can’t miss a visit to Angelo’s Taverna.
Its changed ownership over the years, but its recipes have been handed down true to the traditions of delicious Italian food. They’re known for their excellent pizzas and classic dishes like Arancini, Calamari, and pasta.
They now also have seafood and delectable char-grilled oysters. You definitely have to try their legendary oysters (seriously, click the link to see what we’re talking about), sliders, or something classic like lobster gnocchi.
Menu: Angelo’s Dinner Menu
Top Review: “I love Angelo’s. I love their food, love the atmosphere and love the staff. I have never had any issues with anyone or any thing that I have ordered. The balsamic ribs are one of my favorite items to get after watching the kitchen make a ton of them at the bar one day. I finally tried their pizza for the first time on this specific dining experience and it was really good too. Very cheesy. The happy hour is amazing and it is daily, so you can also go on the weekends. $1 oysters are worth it alone. Thomas was our server this time and he was great! Great, fun attitude and constantly checking on us to see if we needed new drinks, more food, etc. Overall fantastic experience as usual.” –Denise T.
620 E 6th Ave Denver, CO 80203, (303) 744-3366
Tavernetta
At Tavernetta, the motto “Authentic Italian, Genuine Hospitality” serves as a guiding principle.
This premier regional Italian restaurant celebrates Italy’s rich culinary traditions with a menu showcasing regional classics. There’s a great ambiance and friendly service that keeps people coming back time and time again.
Their highly recommended dishes include lamb ragu, lobster tagliatelle, and cacio e pepe.
Menu: Tavernetta Menu
Top Review: “Great service, ambiance, and quality food. Would recommend for anyone looking for an upscale Italian restaurant in Denver. Also super cool to walk around the union station area.” – Athena B.
1889 16th St Denver, CO 80202, (720) 605-1889
Cattivella
Cattivella, meaning “naughty girl” in Italian, is the brainchild of former Panzano executive chef Elise Wiggins.
This wood-fired Italian restaurant promises an indulgent dining experience that will make you feel like you’re part of the family. It’s got a different take from the typical Italian dishes you’d find in other places, which is why it’s one of the best Italian restaurants in Denver.
Go for any of their pizza or pasta and pair it with their Naughty Girl Gimlet.
Menu: Cattivella Menu
Top Review: “My husband and I have been huge fans of the work of Chef Wiggins for years now, so of course we were excited when she opened her own place. We drive quite a ways for special occasions and we always leave happy. I just celebrated my birthday there on Monday and everything was delicious. Even on a cold winter Monday night, the restaurant was full and energetic–Cativella has legions of fans. We might even arrange for a lesson with the Chef herself! I know it will be incredible, as she obviously cares very much about her food and patrons. Thanks for another great meal, Cativella!” – Terry S.
10195 E 29th Dr Ste 110 Denver, CO 80238, (303) 645-3779
Parisi
Parisi is considered to have the best Italian food in Denver, and visitors have an overall positive experience every time they go there.
This Italian stop is much more casual than the others on the list, with affordable prices. They have an extensive menu with daily specials and wood-fired pizzas.
Everything is packed full of flavor, and their quality is consistent. Try their pizza salad, lasagna, margherita pizza, or spaghetti carbonara.
Menu: Parisi Menu
Top Review: “Went in for lunch and it was so tasty! Honestly the best Italian I’ve had in awhile for a decent price! They came out with our food super fast and everything was delicious. We ordered the mozzarella tasting board and the penne vodka. There was no wait for the lunch hour and the staff was very friendly and efficient. Their menu was huge so looking forward to coming back and trying something new every time!” – Alex S.
4401 Tennyson St Denver, CO 80212, (303) 561-0234
There are a lot of varieties and options when it comes to Italian cuisine in the city. It’s just a matter of finding the best one for you.
Whether that’s timeless classics like Barolo’s, contemporary flavors like Cattivella, or quick-casual dining like Parisi, there’s something for everyone. We’ll leave it to you to decide which is the absolute best Italian restaurant in Denver!
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