*Listed in alphabetical order.
Bread and Circus Trattoria Romana
Entering this trattoria tucked behind the Una Takeaway counter is like stumbling upon a hidden gem on some Roman back street. Come hungry to ensure there’s room for antipasti.
616 17 Ave. S.W., 403-476-3615, breadandcircusyyc.com
Cotto Italian Comfort Food
Giuseppe Di Gennaro is a chef synonymous with impeccable Italian dishes. At Cotto, he takes a comfort-food approach with fresh pastas, the chef’s signature arancini and a Milanese pork chop worth returning for.
314D 10 St. N.W., 587-356-4088, cottoyyc.com
Mercato
Jam-packed with diners at meal times, Mercato is a lively spot where you will be well fed on salads, risottos, pasta and meats while you get to watch the action in the open kitchen. Grab Italian staples, produce and deli items from the market for an Italian feast at home.
2224 4 St. S.W., 403-263-5535, mercatogourmet.com
Tavernetta
It’s the casual charm combined with hearty Italian eats that keep us coming back to Tavernetta. With co-owner Chris McKinnon warmly chatting with guests as plates of seasonal pastas and salads come out of the small, central kitchen, it’s like going for dinner at a friend’s house.
1002 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-250-8894, tavernettayyc.ca
Teatro
Teatro’s longevity and reputation for being a top restaurant in the city is a testament to both the classic Italian food coming from the kitchen and impeccable service on the floor.
200 8 Ave. S.E., 403-290-1012, teatro.ca
Back to Calgary’s Best Restaurants 2019
Update: This article has been changed from its originally published form to reflect that Tony Migliarese is not longer the co-owner of Tavernetta.