No. 1
Mercato
This family-owned restaurant/market in Calgary’s Mission neighbourhood has been operating for more than 15 years. The menu is presented in the traditional format of antipasti, pastas, risotto and entrees (secondi), while the market is a source for fresh, handmade pasta, breads, sauces and other items you need for an Italian feast at home.
2224 4 St. S.W., 403-263-5535, mercatogourmet.com, @mercato_mission
Runners-up
Bonterra Trattoria
Located in the Beltline, this restaurant has been serving Calgary with classic, upscale Italian fare like butternut squash risotto and veal Milanese for more than 20 years. Be sure to try any one of the excellent pasta dishes here, as well as some of the many antipasti options ranging from arancini to beef crudo.
1016 8 St. S.W., 403-262-8480, bonterra.ca, @bonterracalgary
Teatro Ristorante
Teatro has been a staple of Calgary’s fine-dining scene for more than a quarter century and is still beloved for its contemporary, seasonal Italian cuisine today. The delicious food is complemented by the restaurant’s massive wine cellar that features more than 10,000 bottles. If you can’t decide what to eat, try the chef’s tasting menu to get the full Teatro experience.
200 8 Ave. S.E., 403-290-1012, teatro.ca, @teatrorestaurant
Cardinale
Cardinale’s menu of handmade pastas, antipasti and entrees are made with a mix of local ingredients and high-quality imported Italian ones. Even the lasagna has been upgraded here, thanks to the use of braised beef shanks. Be sure to check out the drink menu for one of the restaurant’s creative cocktails or a glass of wine.
401 12 Ave. S.E., 403-264-6046, cardinale.ca, @cardinaleyyc
Pulcinella
As one of only a handful of restaurants outside of Italy to be certified by the Associazione Pizzaioli Napolitani (there are only a few thousand around the world), Pulcinella might offer one of the most authentic Napoletana pizza experiences you can have in Calgary. These thin crust, wood-fired pizzas are made in the traditional method using traditional ingredients. The handmade pastas (in lunch and dinner sizes) are also not to be missed.
1147 Kensington Cres. N.W., 403-283-1166, pulcinella.ca, @lovepulcinella