Denver's Best Pasta: Top Italian Restaurants

Craving some delicious pasta in the Mile High City? You've come to the right place! Denver boasts a vibrant food scene, and that includes some seriously amazing Italian restaurants serving up everything from classic spaghetti carbonara to innovative and modern pasta creations. Figuring out where to go can be overwhelming, so let's dive into some of the absolute best pasta spots in Denver that are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to carb-load, folks!

Top Pasta Destinations in Denver

When it comes to finding the best pasta in Denver, several restaurants consistently rise to the top. These aren't your average, run-of-the-mill Italian joints; these are places where the pasta is made with love, the sauces are bursting with flavor, and the atmosphere is perfect for a memorable meal. Let's explore some of these top destinations and what makes them so special. We'll be covering the ambiance, price point, and of course, the must-try dishes. Keep reading to discover your next favorite pasta place!

1. Coperta

If you're looking for an authentic Southern Italian experience, Coperta is your spot. This place is known for its rustic charm and its dedication to showcasing the diverse culinary traditions of Southern Italy. The vibe here is lively and welcoming, perfect for a date night or a gathering with friends. The decor is warm and inviting, making you feel like you've been transported straight to a trattoria in Italy. The price point is moderate to high, but trust me, it's worth every penny. Let's get into the pasta, though – that's what we're all here for, right?

Coperta's pasta dishes are the real deal. They make their pasta in-house, ensuring that each strand is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. A must-try is their Malloreddus, a Sardinian gnocchi served with sausage ragu and pecorino cheese. The texture of the gnocchi is amazing, and the ragu is rich and flavorful. Another favorite is the Spaghetti alle Vongole, a classic dish made with fresh clams, garlic, chili flakes, and white wine. The simplicity of this dish allows the quality of the ingredients to shine through. And don't forget to try their Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage. It’s a flavor explosion in your mouth! Besides pasta, their menu includes a variety of Southern Italian specialties like wood-fired pizzas, seafood dishes, and hearty meat entrees. Be sure to check out their wine list, which features a great selection of Italian wines that pair perfectly with their food. They also have some fantastic desserts, like their Tiramisu and Panna Cotta, to end your meal on a sweet note. Coperta really is a gem in Denver's culinary scene, offering a taste of authentic Southern Italian cuisine that will leave you wanting more.

2. Tavernetta

Tavernetta offers a fine-dining experience with a focus on Northern Italian cuisine. Located in Denver's Union Station, the restaurant has an elegant and sophisticated ambiance, making it ideal for special occasions or a romantic dinner. The interior design is sleek and modern, with large windows offering views of the bustling station. The price point is on the higher side, but the quality of the food and the impeccable service justify the cost. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, featuring a wide selection of Italian wines to complement your meal. Tavernetta isn't just a meal; it's an experience.

Their pasta is incredible. Each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. One standout is the Agnolotti del Plin, small, handmade pasta pockets filled with roasted meat and served in a butter sage sauce. The pasta is incredibly tender, and the filling is rich and savory. Another favorite is the Tagliatelle Bolognese, a classic dish done to perfection. The Bolognese sauce is slow-cooked for hours, resulting in a deep, complex flavor that clings beautifully to the pasta. If you're feeling adventurous, try the Squid Ink Spaghetti with Seafood. The pasta is cooked al dente, and the seafood is fresh and flavorful. Don't let the squid ink scare you; it adds a unique depth of flavor to the dish. Tavernetta also offers a tasting menu, which is a great way to sample a variety of their dishes and get a full sense of their culinary offerings. In addition to pasta, their menu includes a variety of other Northern Italian specialties, such as risotto, grilled meats, and seafood dishes. Their desserts are also worth saving room for, especially the Chocolate Hazelnut Cake and the Lemon Tart. Overall, Tavernetta provides a refined and memorable dining experience that showcases the best of Northern Italian cuisine.

3. Bar Dough

For a more casual but equally delicious experience, head to Bar Dough. This place is all about handcrafted pasta and wood-fired pizzas, served in a lively and unpretentious setting. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual dinner with friends or a laid-back date night. The interior is rustic-chic, with exposed brick walls and communal tables. The price point is moderate, making it accessible for a wider range of diners. Plus, they've got a killer happy hour!

Bar Dough takes pasta seriously, making all their pasta in-house daily. Their menu features a variety of classic and creative pasta dishes, all made with high-quality ingredients. A must-try is their Cacio e Pepe, a simple but incredibly flavorful dish made with just pasta, pecorino cheese, and black pepper. The key is using high-quality ingredients and getting the balance of flavors just right. Another favorite is the Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, a creamy and spicy dish that is sure to satisfy. The rigatoni is cooked al dente, and the vodka sauce has a nice kick. If you're looking for something a little different, try their Mushroom Agnolotti with Truffle Butter. The agnolotti are filled with a savory mushroom mixture, and the truffle butter adds a touch of decadence. In addition to pasta, Bar Dough is also known for their wood-fired pizzas, which are cooked to perfection in a blazing hot oven. They have a variety of toppings to choose from, from classic Margherita to more creative combinations. Don't forget to check out their cocktail menu, which features a variety of creative and well-crafted drinks. Bar Dough is a great spot for anyone looking for delicious pasta and pizza in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.

4. Dio Mio Handmade Pasta

If you're seeking a no-frills, authentic pasta experience, Dio Mio Handmade Pasta is the place to go. This small, counter-service spot focuses on fresh, handmade pasta dishes that are bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. The interior is simple and functional, with a focus on the food. The price point is very reasonable, making it an excellent value for the quality of the food you're getting. This is the kind of place where you can grab a quick bite without breaking the bank.

Dio Mio's menu is simple but effective, featuring a rotating selection of handmade pasta dishes. A must-try is their Carbonara, a classic dish made with egg yolks, guanciale, pecorino cheese, and black pepper. The pasta is perfectly cooked, and the sauce is rich and creamy. Another favorite is their Aglio e Olio, a simple but flavorful dish made with garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and parsley. The key is using high-quality ingredients and cooking the garlic just right. If you're looking for something a little heartier, try their Bolognese, a slow-cooked meat sauce that is rich and flavorful. Dio Mio also offers a selection of sandwiches and salads, but the pasta is the star of the show. Everything is made fresh daily, and you can really taste the difference. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable. Dio Mio is a great spot for anyone looking for a quick, affordable, and delicious pasta meal. It's the kind of place where you can become a regular and always count on a great meal.

Honorable Mentions

While the restaurants listed above are some of the best pasta destinations in Denver, there are many other great options worth exploring. Here are a few honorable mentions:

• Il Posto: A modern Italian restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative pasta dishes.
• Osteria Marco: A bustling spot in Larimer Square serving up delicious pasta, pizza, and other Italian favorites.
• Cart-Driver: A small, intimate restaurant with a focus on wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta.

Conclusion

Denver's pasta scene is thriving, offering a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're looking for a fine-dining experience or a casual, no-frills meal, you're sure to find a pasta restaurant in Denver that will satisfy your cravings. So, go ahead and explore these amazing spots and discover your own favorite pasta dish in the Mile High City! Buon appetito!