The Best Italian Restaurants in Denver: Buon appetito!
Discover Denver’s top Italian dining spots with this carefully curated guide featuring only the best and currently open restaurants. From classic trattorias to modern Italian steakhouses, these restaurants offer authentic flavors, exceptional service, and inviting atmospheres. Plus, explore Quality Italian in Cherry Creek North for a contemporary Italian-American steakhouse experience. Also included are Locanda Del Borgo, Lechuga’s, and Tavernetta, beloved neighborhood gems.
What Makes Angelo’s Taverna a Must-Visit Italian Restaurant in Denver?
Located at 620 E 6th Ave in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, Angelo’s Taverna is a beloved Italian and seafood restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional dishes. With a 4.5-star rating from over 900 reviews, it’s a local favorite for both classic and creative Italian fare.
Angelo’s Taverna offers a diverse menu featuring standout items like chargrilled oysters, lobster gnocchi, gorgonzola steak fettuccine, and toasted ravioli. The restaurant is praised for its fresh ingredients, quick and friendly service, and a lively happy hour that includes $1 oysters. The casual yet energetic vibe makes it perfect for family dinners, date nights, or group gatherings.
Key Highlights:
- Famous for chargrilled oysters and fresh seafood
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available
- Spacious seating with outdoor dining and dog-friendly patio
- Happy hour specials and a well-curated wine list
Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM (extended to 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays)
Website: angelostaverna.com
Why Should You Try Café Mercato in Denver’s Lowry Neighborhood?
Café Mercato, located at 7561 E Academy Blvd, is a modern Italian restaurant specializing in Southern Italian cuisine with a lighter, fresh approach. It boasts a 4.0-star rating and is known for its homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and house-made gelato.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is bright and inviting, with attentive service that makes every visit enjoyable. Popular dishes include the pappardelle pasta with meat sauce, chicken parmigiana sandwich, and crispy Brussels sprouts. Café Mercato also offers a rotating wine list and vegetarian-friendly options.
Key Highlights:
- Focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and house-made pastas
- Wood-fired pizzas and a variety of Italian classics
- Friendly and attentive staff with a cozy dining environment
- Takeout and delivery available
Hours: Lunch and dinner service with varying hours; typically 11:30 AM–2 PM and 5 PM–9 PM
Website: cafemercato.com
What Makes Coperta a Standout Southern Italian Restaurant in Denver?
Coperta, situated at 400 E 20th Ave in Denver’s Uptown neighborhood, offers an authentic Southern Italian dining experience reminiscent of a Roman trattoria. Chef and owner Paul C. Reilly, a 2025 James Beard semifinalist, crafts a menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes.
With a 4.3-star rating, Coperta is celebrated for dishes like cavatelli ragú, spaghetti cacio e pepe, goat cheese and chive ravioli, and lamb shoulder. The restaurant features a warm, stylish interior with a full bar and an inviting atmosphere. Weekend brunch includes Italian-inspired specialties such as suppli al telefono and creamy polenta with mushroom ragu.
Key Highlights:
- Authentic Southern Italian cuisine with seasonal menus
- Gluten-free options and a curated wine and cocktail list
- Warm, stylish ambiance with attentive service
- Private dining and event spaces available
Hours: Dinner service daily from 5 PM to 9 PM; Sunday brunch from 4:30 PM to 8 PM
Website: copertadenver.com
Why Is Luca a Top Choice for Italian Fine Dining in Denver?
Luca, located at 711 Grant St in Denver’s Capitol Hill, is an upscale Italian restaurant known for its fresh handmade pastas and regional Italian flavors. It has a 4.4-star rating and is praised for its cozy, rustic vibe and attentive service.
The menu features standout dishes such as burrata, wild mushroom fusilli, braised short rib with polenta, and chicken parmesan. Luca offers a sophisticated wine list and a warm fireplace ambiance, making it ideal for special occasions and intimate dinners. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
Key Highlights:
- Fresh handmade pastas and regional Italian specialties
- Cozy, rustic atmosphere with fireplace seating
- Extensive wine and cocktail selections
- Women-owned business with outdoor seating and wheelchair accessibility
Hours: Dinner service from 5 PM to 9 PM (10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays)
Website: lucadenver.com
What to Expect at Quality Italian in Cherry Creek North?
Quality Italian, located at 241 Columbine St in Denver’s Cherry Creek North, offers a modern take on the Italian-American steakhouse tradition. It combines classic flavors with unique design elements and tableside flair, creating a lively and upscale dining experience.
The restaurant features a large central bar with a dynamic cocktail program and extensive wine offerings. The warm, industrial interior includes reclaimed wood doors and unique art pieces. Quality Italian offers private and semi-private dining options, perfect for special occasions and group events. In warmer months, the garage doors open for an indoor/outdoor dining experience.
Key Highlights:
- Contemporary Italian-American steakhouse with Italian flair
- Large bar with creative cocktails and extensive wine list
- Private dining rooms for events and special occasions
- Valet parking available at nearby Halcyon Hotel
Website: qualityitaliandenver.com
Why Add Locanda Del Borgo to Your Denver Italian Dining List?
Locanda Del Borgo is a traditional Italian restaurant in Denver, offering genuine recipes crafted by Chef Giancarlo Macchiarella, who brings over 35 years of culinary experience. The restaurant emphasizes free-range and naturally raised farm products, supporting local farmers.
The warm and friendly atmosphere complements the authentic Italian dishes, paired with an Italian-based wine list featuring international selections. Locanda Del Borgo is perfect for those seeking a true taste of Italy in a welcoming setting.
Key Highlights:
- Traditional Italian recipes with a personal touch
- Focus on local, free-range, and naturally raised ingredients
- Extensive Italian and international wine list
- Cozy, inviting atmosphere ideal for family and friends
What Makes Lechuga’s a Beloved Italian Spot in North Denver?
Lechuga’s, family-owned since 1961, is a fast and fresh Italian restaurant in North Denver. Known for its classic Italian dishes served in a casual setting, Lechuga’s has become a neighborhood favorite.
The restaurant offers a variety of Italian staples, including pasta, sandwiches, and daily specials. Its long-standing presence and consistent quality make it a go-to for locals craving authentic Italian comfort food.
Key Highlights:
- Family-owned and operated since 1961
- Classic Italian dishes served fast and fresh
- Casual, friendly neighborhood atmosphere
- Popular for pasta, sandwiches, and daily specials
Why Include Tavernetta in Your Denver Italian Dining Experience?
Tavernetta is an upscale Italian restaurant located in Denver’s Central neighborhood, known for its open kitchen, cozy fireplace lounge, and expertly crafted dishes. It offers a refined dining experience with a focus on traditional Italian flavors presented with modern elegance.
The restaurant boasts a 4.7-star rating and is praised for its warm ambiance, attentive service, and a menu that features seasonal ingredients and classic Italian preparations. Tavernetta is ideal for special occasions, romantic dinners, or a sophisticated night out with friends.
Key Highlights:
- Upscale Italian cuisine with seasonal and traditional dishes
- Open kitchen and cozy fireplace lounge
- Attentive and knowledgeable service
- Perfect for special occasions and intimate dinners
Conclusion
Denver’s Italian dining scene is rich and diverse, featuring everything from the lively and oyster-famous Angelo’s Taverna to the refined, rustic elegance of Luca. Coperta offers a warm Southern Italian experience, while Café Mercato delights with fresh, seasonal dishes in Lowry. Quality Italian in Cherry Creek North brings a modern steakhouse twist to Italian cuisine. Don’t miss the traditional flavors and local focus of Locanda Del Borgo, the beloved neighborhood charm of Lechuga’s in North Denver, or the sophisticated dining at Tavernetta.
Explore these top Italian restaurants for an authentic taste of Italy right in the heart of Denver. If you’re considering making Denver your home, or looking to sell your current property, our team at Usaj Realty is here to help you navigate the vibrant real estate market. Discover more about Denver neighborhoods and find your dream home with us.
