I stepped into this restaurant and was hit with the warm, comforting aroma of freshly made pasta. It’s the kind of place where you can tell they take their food seriously, especially their pasta, which is crafted with love and skill. Every dish feels like a little piece of Italy, served with a smile that makes you feel right at home.
People flock here for the pasta—it’s the star of the show. Whether you’re after something rich and hearty or light and zesty, the menu has it all. Diners rave about the flavors, the perfect al dente bite, and the way each dish tells a story of Italian tradition. It’s no wonder this spot is a favorite for anyone craving a plate of pure comfort.
Welcome to Tavernetta, located at 1889 16th St in Denver, Colorado. Since opening in 2017, the Frasca Hospitality Group has poured their passion for authentic Italian cuisine into this place. Their motto, “Authentic Italian, Genuine Hospitality,” shines through in every handmade pasta dish. Inspired by Italy’s regional recipes, they use top-quality ingredients to create plates that feel like a trip across the ocean.
Let’s start with the rigatoni with lamb ragu. This dish is a hug in pasta form—rich, meaty, and packed with flavor. Reviewers love the “deliciously complex” ragu, with its deep, savory notes that cling to the perfectly cooked rigatoni. It’s hearty without being heavy, and every bite makes you want another. It’s a must for meat lovers.
Next up, the triangola, a four-cheese stuffed pasta with a hint of lemon. This dish is like sunshine on a plate—bright, creamy, and just the right amount of cheesy. Diners call it “refreshingly bright,” and the lemon cuts through the richness for a balanced bite. It’s a pasta that feels fancy but comforting, perfect for a special night.
Don’t miss the lobster tagliatelle. This pasta is a showstopper with its delicate, house-made noodles and sweet lobster bits. Reviewers say it “melts in your mouth,” and even though some wish for more lobster flavor, the texture and care in the preparation make it a standout. It’s a luxurious dish that feels like a treat.
Tavernetta’s magic lies in its pasta-making. They craft their noodles in-house, ensuring every bite is fresh and perfectly textured. The menu changes with the seasons, so you’re always getting the freshest ingredients. Their pasta flight—a tasting of different pastas—is a genius way to try a bit of everything, and reviewers love it for sharing. Plus, their Michelin Bib Gourmand nod proves they’re doing pasta right without breaking the bank.
The atmosphere here is warm and inviting, with dim lights and leather seats that make you feel pampered. The staff is top-notch—friendly, quick, and full of great pasta recommendations. I watched couples sharing plates, friends laughing over wine, and solo diners savoring every forkful. It’s a lively yet cozy spot, perfect for soaking in the Italian vibe.
You need to visit Tavernetta if you love pasta. It’s a place where every dish feels like a love letter to Italy. Grab a friend, order a plate (or three) of pasta, and let the flavors sweep you away. This is a dining experience you’ll want to repeat.
Visit Tavernetta
Address: 1889 16th St, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (720) 605-1889
Hours: Monday–Friday 11:30 am–10:00 pm, Saturday–Sunday 3:00 pm–10:00 pm