Italian Restaurants in Denver (2025)

Frasca Hospitality Group’s Union Station anchor delivers region-hopping Italian, impeccable service, and one of the city’s smartest wine programs. Recognized as a Bib Gourmand in the Michelin Guide and frequently praised by Eater Denver, it’s a consistent Denver essential.

Ty Leon, Austin Carson, and Heather Morrison’s pasta-focused standout pairs craft cocktails with house-made shapes and seasonal sauces. Featured in the Michelin Guide and celebrated by 5280; Food & Wine recently highlighted Olivia’s forward-thinking sustainability efforts.

Cherry Creek’s northern Italian institution marries refined service with a legendary cellar, honored with Wine Spectator’s Grand Award. Regular staff trips to Italy inform thoughtful tasting menus; listed by Eater Denver and recommended by the Michelin Guide.

A husband-and-wife team channels Italian technique with Colorado produce and subtle Indian accents, plus house-made gelati and amari. Lauded by 5280’s Best Restaurants and praised by local critics including The Denver Post for soulful, inventive plates.

Counter-service pasta done by fine-dining vets has become a RiNo ritual: handmade noodles, smart wines, and great value. Michelin-recommended, spotlighted by 5280 for its 2024 refresh, and celebrated by Westword for standout classics like spaghetti and meatballs.

Frank Bonanno’s ode to rustic Italian leans on a wood-fired hearth, hand-cranked pastas, and house-cured salumi. A Denver stalwart cited by Eater Denver’s Italian coverage, Luca remains a go-to for intimate, ingredient-driven dinners and a 100% Italian wine list.

Chef-owner Elise Wiggins fuels an open kitchen with a wood grill and pizza oven, turning out charbroiled oysters, gnocchi, and bistecca. Recognized by local media and beloved for hands-on cooking classes that weave guests deeper into Denver’s Italian community.

A neighborhood favorite for Neapolitan-style pies, seasonal pastas, oysters, and amaro. After a much-watched 2025 reopening, Westword and Eater Denver have continued to cheer its wood-fired flair and daily happy hour.

Larimer Square’s longtime Italian hub from Bonanno Concepts showcases house-made burrata, charcuterie, and pizzas alongside approachable wines. Frequently recommended by national and local outlets, it’s a lively downtown option before shows or a night out.

An offshoot of a Portofino family restaurant dating to the 1800s, Lo Stella brings Ligurian flavors to the Golden Triangle. Eater Denver spotlights its seafood pastas and traditional sauces; locals love its steadfast, old-world approach.

A tiny, heartfelt spot in the Golden Triangle turning out fresh pastas, salads, and Italian-American favorites with local ingredients. Praised by 5280 and supported by loyal regulars, it’s a casual, quality-driven counterpoint to the city’s fine-dining scene.

A North Denver classic with a lore-filled past, Gaetano’s remains a spirited stop for martinis, chicken Parm, clams with garlic and white wine, and Sunday brunch. 5280 highlights its staying power and comforting red-sauce repertoire.