Recently we’ve been craving some Italian food, which means that it’s only fair that we share the journey with you. And, it’s hard to pick a favourite among the best places to get pasta in Edmonton, so forgive us in advance if we get a little riled up about the options. We think it’s a good problem to have, of course, but dang if it isn’t a hard one to overcome.
So, without further ado, here are 10 of the best places to get pasta in Edmonton.
Tasty Tomato
We’re starting this list with what we’ll call the old guard of the city. And, we think Tasty Tomato is a great pick to kick off on. This unpretentious spot in Grovenor offers amazing homemade dishes, and pasta is the shining star. For us, this is one of those once-a-month spots, where we alternate between an old favourite (gnocchi al forno) and something new to try. We suggest that you try it as well!
Where: 14233 Stony Plain Road
Pasta Brioni
Next up in the old guard section is Pasta Brioni, which has been more than satisfying diners in southeast Edmonton for over two decades. They’ve got delicious options across the pasta board, from hearty homemade lasagna to ravioli florentine. For your next meal, we say grab a pasta that strikes your fancy, and don’t miss out on the delicious Chicken Gigi, which is a fan favourite.
Where: 7623 Argyll Road NW
Bucas and Pastas
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Somewhat of a hidden gem in west Edmonton, Bucas and Pastas have been offering cafeteria-style pasta dishes since 1996. To us, it’s an insane niche to fill, which is why we’re so impressed by it. We can think of two reasons why it works so well- the prices are second to none in the city, but all the pasta and the sauces are made in-house, guaranteeing quality. Future ‘grab and go’ concepts in Edmonton, take notes, because this is how it’s done.
Where: 16516 100 Ave NW
Chianti Cafe
Even though it’s originally from Calgary, does Chianti Cafe deserve to be a part of Edmonton’s old guard? We’re leaning towards yes since the Old Strathcona location has been a go-to for tasty pasta at very reasonable prices for almost three decades. That hasn’t changed, either- even still, a full plate of their classic pasta dishes will only run you $11.99 on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Where: 10501 82nd Avenue
Sorrentino’s
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We happily recognize that Sorrentino’s is a shining example of what it means to love food and love Edmonton. Around for over 35 years, what started as a small family business has grown into a major restaurant group with multiple concepts, food classes, and even major charity work (the Sorrentino’s Compassion House). Even still, you don’t need to know the history to appreciate the quality of the dishes, especially when you’re about to dive into a delicious bowl of carbonara.
Where: Multiple locations
Cafe Amore Bistro
Cafe Amore Bistro is half old guard and half new wave, and we love both sides of it. Although it only opened in 2012, the family originally started in Edmonton in the 80s before spending a few years in Penticton. Well, they returned, and they’ve been making amazing Italian cuisine, with a special focus on seafood dishes, which we’re recommending.
Where: 10807 106 Avenue NW
Uccellino
“Traditional in its structure, modern in its execution” is a pretty perfect way to describe this member of the Corso32 family. It’s hard to pick a favourite dish here, as the best experience is definitely sitting down with a few friends and hammering your way through the menu until you can’t move. If a single dish is more up your alley, it’s hard to go wrong with the indulgent and addictive Ricotta Gnocchi, made with spicy ‘Nduja sausage sugo, mint & ricotta salata.
Where: 10349 Jasper Avenue
Vaticano Cucina
Vaticano Cucina means ‘Vatican’s Kitchen’, so that should be enough to tell you this traditional spot is going to have some delicious pasta. Its menu is filled with both traditional and inventive Italian dishes, and the ambiance and decor will have you feeling like you’re dining in the holy city itself.
Where: 10310 45th Avenue NW
Tiramisu Bistro
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If you’re looking for delicious fresh pasta for hard-to-beat prices, Tiramisu Bistro is a very solid pick. They’ve introduced ‘Igloo Dining’ as a way for people to enjoy their streetside spot during the pandemic, but no matter how or where you’re eating it, the food from here will delight.
Where: 10750 124 Street
Violino Ristorante
Sitting inside a High Street, Glenora 1913 mansion, this classical Italian spot takes elegance and intimacy to new heights. Its signature pasta dish, the Fettuccine Tavolino, comes with a chicken breast and alfredo sauce, all flambéd in an asiago cheese wheel beforehand. You can order whatever you like, but that’s our top pick.
Where: 10133 125 Street NW
There you have it, folks! Our picks for some of the best pasta Edmonton has to offer. Did we miss someone? Let us know! And as always, happy eating!
