Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Highlands

Price: Moderate (5)Price: Expensive (5)Price: Very Expensive (2)

12 restaurants available nearby

1. Bar Dough

4.6

Exceptional(1308)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Highlands

Booked 20 times today

Bar Dough in Denver's vibrant Highlands neighborhood has quickly become a beacon for those seeking exceptional Pizzeria cuisine. With Chef Stefy DeVita at the helm, this local gem crafts wood-fired pizzas that truly stand out, thanks to the high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients from Colorado's rich agricultural scene. Diners rave about the Salsiccia pizza, highlighting its perfect blend of flavors and authentic Italian touch. Reviews consistently praise not only the food but the atmosphere and service, describing it as "absolutely fantastic" and noting that the dishes, especially the pizza, are "worth the wait." Bar Dough's commitment to providing a top-tier dining experience is reflected in its thoughtful service and creatively curated menu, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine, delicious pizza in Denver.

2. Tavernetta

4.7

Exceptional(74)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / LoDo

Booked 90 times today

Nestled in the heart of Denver's vibrant Union Station neighborhood, Tavernetta offers a slice of Italy with its authentic cuisine that has garnered accolades from the James Beard Foundation and the Michelin Guide. Guests rave about the "truly delicious" homemade focaccia and the "innovative and uniquely presented" dishes like mushroom lasagna and tagliatelle lobster pasta. Praised for its "phenomenal dining experience," Tavernetta delights with its extensive wine list and exceptional service, making every visit memorable. As one patron put it, "Everything was perfect," capturing the essence of Tavernetta's commitment to bringing the best of Italian dining to Denver.

A photo of Venice Ristorante & Wine Bar restaurant

3. Venice Ristorante & Wine Bar

4.8

Exceptional(4376)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / LoDo

Booked 37 times today

Venice Ristorante & Wine Bar in Downtown Denver is a true gem for wine lovers and enthusiasts of authentic Italian cuisine. With an impressive selection featuring over 800 wines from around the globe, including 500 Italian varieties, this venue stands out as a premier Wine Bar. Patrons rave about the "outstanding wine list" and the knowledgeable staff who help navigate the extensive options. Whether you're enjoying a casual happy hour or a special dinner, the expert pairing of exquisite wines with flavorful Italian dishes ensures a memorable experience. Reviews consistently praise the venue, noting it as "the only authentic Italian restaurant in Denver" with a wine program that is "very nice" and a bar area that is "lively and fun!" This makes Venice Ristorante & Wine Bar a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier wine and dining experience.

A photo of Odyssey Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar restaurant

4. Odyssey Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar

4.7

Exceptional(3223)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Central

Booked 74 times today

Nestled in the heart of Central Denver, Odyssey Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar offers a unique dining experience that blends Sicilian and Classic Italian flavors with a contemporary twist. Housed in a historic Victorian Mansion, Odyssey is renowned for its vibrant ambiance and exceptional service. Patrons rave about their culinary experiences, highlighting dishes like the "lobster ravioli" and "bone-in lamb shank on flat pasta" as nothing short of spectacular. With glowing reviews like "the best Italian restaurant in Denver," and comments praising the unbeatable Monday pasta deal, Odyssey ensures every meal is memorable. Whether it's the attentive service, the exquisite flavors, or the cozy, family-operated atmosphere, Odyssey Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar stands out as a top destination for Contemporary Italian cuisine.

A photo of North Italia – Denver restaurant

5. North Italia – Denver

4.7

Exceptional(4269)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Cherry Creek

Booked 93 times today

At North Italia in Denver's Cherry Creek neighborhood, the art of authentic Italian cuisine is celebrated with exceptional flair. Specializing in Pizzeria, North Italia's menu features pizzas that are a true testament to traditional Italian cooking, beautifully blended with modern touches. Guests rave about the "Funghi Pizza," described as "one of the best pizzas tasted anywhere," with its perfect crust and a hint of truffle oil that elevates it above the ordinary. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, as everything is made from scratch using seasonal ingredients, ensuring each dish bursts with flavor. North Italia's vibrant atmosphere and outstanding service make it a standout destination for anyone craving genuine Italian pizza in Denver.

6. Panzano

4.6

Exceptional(5722)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / LoDo

Booked 13 times today

Panzano, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Denver, is celebrated for its exquisite Northern Italian cuisine, which shines with its commitment to local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. The restaurant's authentic dishes, such as the hand-made Frutti de Mare with squid ink buccatini, are a testament to its quality, drawing comparisons to meals in Italy itself. The ambiance, inspired by Renaissance Florence, complements the culinary experience, making every visit memorable. With glowing reviews like "the most incredible service I’ve experienced" and "the food here is top notch," Panzano proves to be a gem for Italian cuisine aficionados. Whether it's the chef’s tasting menu paired with an award-winning wine list or the praised calamari and All'Amatriciana, Panzano delivers an exceptional Italian dining experience that locals and visitors to Denver cherish.

A photo of Voghera Ristorante & Apericena restaurant

7. Voghera Ristorante & Apericena

4.8

Exceptional(649)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Wheat Ridge

Booked 2 times today

Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Wheat Ridge, Denver, Voghera Ristorante & Apericena brings the charm and culinary innovation of Milanese dining to the heart of the U.S. Celebrated as Denver’s go-to spot for Contemporary Italian cuisine, Voghera sets itself apart with its unique Apericena concept – a delightful blend of APERITIVO and CENA that encourages communal dining and exploration of diverse flavors. Patrons are enamored, describing it as “like eating in Italy but right here on Tennyson” and praising its “authentic, delicious and affordable” offerings. From the saffron-infused Risotto alla Milanese to the perfectly curated charcuterie boards, every dish is crafted to transport diners straight to Northern Italy, making every meal not just a feast, but a memorable Italian escapade.

8. Barolo Grill

4.8

Exceptional(3762)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Cherry Creek

Booked 24 times today

Barolo Grill in Cherry Creek, Denver, stands out as a beacon of authentic Northern Italian cuisine. This award-winning restaurant prides itself on a menu that changes seasonally, featuring hand-crafted dishes from the Northern Italian provinces of Piedmont and Tuscany, using locally sourced ingredients. Reviewers rave about their experiences, mentioning "the best appetizer of my entire life" and "unbelievable cheesecake" among their culinary highlights. The attention to detail extends to their Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning wine cellar, with an extensive selection of Barolo wines, enhancing the dining experience. The knowledgeable staff, including praised servers like Gage and Tyler, offer personalized wine pairings, making each meal at Barolo Grill not just a dinner, but an authentic Italian celebration.

A photo of Marco’s Coal Fired restaurant

9. Marco’s Coal Fired

4.8

Exceptional(1223)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / LoDo

Booked 10 times today

Marco's Coal Fired in Downtown Denver is a beacon of authenticity in the world of Pizzeria cuisine. Celebrated for its adherence to traditional Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN) standards, Marco's uses only the finest ingredients like 00 flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and all-natural mozzarella, which are essential for crafting the perfect Neapolitan pizza. Patrons rave about the "best pizza I've ever had in the United States" and the unique offerings like the "Limoncello Wings" that are a must-try. Marco’s commitment to quality and its vibrant atmosphere make it a standout destination for anyone craving a slice of Italy in the heart of Denver.

10. Gattara

3.9

Excellent(163)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Uptown

Booked 7 times today

At Gattara in Uptown, Denver, diners are treated to a masterful blend of traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Mimmo Faid. This culinary haven is celebrated for its locally sourced ingredients and scratch-made Neapolitan pizzas, which emerge perfectly baked from a copper-clad brick oven. Reviewers rave about the "flavorful and fresh" beet salad and the "perfectly cooked" pesto gnocchi, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality. The bustling yet warm atmosphere is complemented by an "amazing" staff and "top-notch" service, making Gattara a must-visit for anyone seeking a slice of contemporary Italian excellence in Denver.

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Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Highlands

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the vibrant Highlands neighborhood of Denver, Colorado. This area is celebrated for its unique blend of urban sophistication and local charm, creating an ideal backdrop for dining adventures. The restaurants featured on this page offer a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes, emphasizing innovative techniques and the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Each establishment is committed to providing an exceptional culinary experience, with menus that cater to both classic tastes and modern palates. The dining scene in Highlands, Denver is dynamic and diverse, offering something for every enthusiast of Italian cuisine. Visitors can expect top-notch service, elegant atmospheres, and a focus on quality that ensures every meal is memorable. This curated selection of restaurants not only highlights the best of contemporary Italian dining but also embodies the neighborhood's reputation for culinary excellence and innovation.

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