The 11 Best Italian Food Spots In Denver

For some reason, there has been a lot of chatter about Denver's food scene online - or rather, the perceived lack thereof. As a Colorado native, I will admit that there are pockets of Denver that lack in options and there are a lot of breweries clouding the restaurant scene, but you can find good food in Denver. I've traveled around the United States quite a bit and honestly I think Denver has some great options. You just need to know where to look - especially when it comes to Italian food.

I am a pretty big foodie and although Italian food isn't my favorite, I go through phases where I want some good Italian. While most people consider places like Olive Garden or Maggiano's good enough, the Denver metro area has a lot to offer when it comes to Italian cuisine. While the Mile High City doesn't offer as much variety as places like New York or New Jersey, there are solid places around here that are worth recognizing. Just like with my article about ramen and Thai spots, my advice when it comes to eating anywhere in Denver is to not pigeonhole yourself to Denver proper. Look at the entire metro area and don't be afraid to venture outside the go-to tourist spots.

Romano's Italian Restaurant

Location: Littleton

One of the few family-run restaurants on the list, Romano's has been an Italian staple in Littleton since 1967. Founders John and Sue Romano say the best asset they have is their community, and they couldn't be more right. Complete with classic red-sauce offerings like eggplant parmesan, lasagna, and tons of pizza, be prepared for a sea of plastic grapes, vinyl booths, and old-style lamps. Romano's isn't a place to sleep on as you're often going to be waiting for a table - even during the week.

Bar Dough

Location: Denver (LoHi)

Opening in 2017, executive chef Stefy Devita has elevated this Italian restaurant from The Culinary Creative Group to the go-to spot for pasta, pizza, and an impressive selection of spritzes. Bar Dough utilizes fresh, local Colorado ingredients with a revolving menu of seasonal offerings complete with handmade pasta and wood fired pizza. You can even get an Italian-inspired brunch at this spot.

Viàle Pizza & Kitchen

Location: Denver (Virginia Village)

More of a friendly neighborhood spot, Viàle Pizza & Kitchen offers classic Italian dishes alongside an impressive pizza menu. There is also a decent bar for such a small space. Also if you want to participate in the Dining Out Denver Passbook, Viàle is a participant and will happily give you a stamp.

Florence Supper Club

Location: Denver (Wash Park West)

With a more intimate vibe, Florence Supper Club transforms you from the Mile High City to somewhere in Manhattan or New Jersey. Along with classic decor, the old-school Italian menu offers retro dishes like steak Diane along with being brave enough to serve veal. Opening in 2025, the supper club named for Paul Lysek's grandmother has been a rising hit in Denver.

Dio Mio

Location: Denver (RiNo)

Opening in 2016, Dio Mio in the River North Art District (RiNo) is purely a pasta spot and nothing more. With a revolving seasonal menu, this spot is somewhat of an Italian-fusion concept, but if you're a lover of pasta this is a great spot for you. Complete with house-made focaccia bread and an extensive drink menu, don't be afraid to check out one of the smaller joints.

Barolo Grill

Location: Denver (Cherry Creek)

Barolo Grill has been a staple in the Cherry Creek neighborhood for 30-years, and the dedication to classic Northern Italian flavors shows why it has lasted this long. Whether you want to enjoy the à la carte menu or the tasting menu, you are sure to find something at Barolo. From antipasti to pasta to salads, this spot also offers pairings with an extensive wine selection.

Johnny Bechamel's

Location: Denver (Speer)

Operated by the same ownership group of Dio Mio and local pizza spot Redeemer Pizza, Johnny Bechamel's offers a more retro feel of pizza-pasta Italian restaurants complete with house-made pizza crust, pasta, and and made-to-order lasagna. Not to mention the old school Pizza Hut buffet light fixture in the corner.

Trattoria Stella

Location: Denver (Highlands Square, City Park)

Serving Denver since 1999, Trattoria Stella offers classic Italian dishes complete with homemade pastas, sauces, and breads. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a night out with family, Stella is a great place to go. You can even get pasta-less pasta with skipza - a spaghetti squash "pasta."

Carmine's on Penn

Location: Denver (Wash Park West)

Carmine's has offered Italian family-style dining since the mid-90s. While family-style pasta and salad platters are their specialty, Carmine's has also adapted to a more modern take with to-go sandwiches and smaller portions. The motto of this longtime spot is to be a good neighbor and give back to local organizations with their Carmine's Community Partners Program including Project Angel Heart - a local organization that provides nutritious meals to Denver residents with health challenges.

Restaurant Olivia

Location: Denver (Wash Park)

Opening in 2020, Restaurant Olivia offers warm hospitality complete with a classic Italian menu - complete with recognition from the MICHELIN guide. Often considered the perfect date night spot in Denver, the romantic ambiance combined with homemade pasta is sure to be a hit. Olivia offers an extensive wine list along with a five-course tasting menu often including local, seasonal ingredients.

Tavernetta

Location: Denver (LoDo)

Literally right next to Denver Union Station, Tavernetta offers more of a upscale Italian experience with a formal vibe - complete with a recommendation from the MICHELIN Guide. After all, it is a restaurant from James Beard-award winning group Frasca Hospitality Group. On the plus side, this La Dolce Vita-style fine dining concept doesn't come with crazy small portions or huge prices. If you want a less family-style Italian vibe, and are curious enough to try rabbit and lavender-spiced almonds, Tavernetta is perfect. You can even go to Tavernetta if you find yourself in Vail.

Honorable Mentions:

• Jovavina's Broken Italian (Denver)
• Dear Emilia (Denver)
• Gaetano's (Denver)
• DiCicco's Italian Restaurant (Denver)
• Il Forno di Tutti (Aurora)
• Boombots Pasta Shop (Denver)
• Na Favola (Greenwood Village)
• Spuntino (Denver)
• Il Pastaio Ristorante (Boulder)
• Coperta (Denver)
• Basta (Boulder)
• Maiz y Fuego (Aurora)