Italian Restaurants in Boulder (2025)
Frasca Food and Wine
Fine dining restaurant · Whittier
Boulder’s benchmark for Italian dining celebrates Friuli-Venezia Giulia through impeccable service and a deep cellar. Michelin-starred and recently honored by the James Beard Foundation, it remains the city’s essential special-occasion table.
Pizzeria Alberico
Pizza restaurant · Whittier
From the Frasca team, this downtown favorite leans Southern Italian: fritti, pastas, and balanced Napoletana pies. Frequently recommended by Eater Denver and local critics for casual dates, family lunches, and aperitivo hour.
Basta
Italian restaurant · East Campus
Chef Kelly Whitaker’s wood-fired hub turns out soulful pizzas, piada bread, and Italian-leaning plates with Colorado sourcing. Recognized by the Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand and praised by 5280 for bold flavors.
Stella's Cucina
Restaurant · Central Boulder
A glamorous, Art Deco dining room sets the stage for modern Italian cooking, late-night music, and strong cocktails. Michelin Recommended and covered by Westword and 5280 for its pastas and nightlife vibe.
II Pastaio Ristorante
Italian restaurant · Twenty Ninth Street
A tiny pasta factory turned weekday restaurant where owners Marta and Giuseppe serve fresh, hand-cut shapes with classic sauces. Celebrated by Boulder Weekly readers in 2025 and beloved by locals for unfussy, flavorful plates.
Carelli's
Italian restaurant · Martin Acres
A Boulder staple since 1991, known for white-tablecloth comfort, a deep wine list, and Northern–Southern Italian classics. Frequently cited in local awards and guides, it’s a go-to for family celebrations and date nights.
Bacco | Trattoria & Mozzarella Bar
Italian restaurant · North Boulder
In North Boulder’s NoBo Art District, this neighborhood spot serves antipasti, house mozzarella, pastas, and pizza in a relaxed setting. A husband-and-wife–run original that locals rely on for weeknight Italian comfort.
Pizza Colore
Pizza restaurant · Pearl Street Mall
A Pearl Street slice institution for over two decades, turning out New York–style pies, calzones, and cannoli. Fast, friendly, and locally owned, it’s the dependable downtown option before a show or after a hike.
Audrey Jane's Pizza Garage
Pizza restaurant · Newlands
Family-run and proudly Boulder, this shop delivers big-flavor New York–style pies and Sicilian slabs. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and covered by Westword after wins at an Italian pizza competition.