Is there anything more comforting than a plate of pasta higher than your standards? The answer is no, absolutely not. Italian food is one of those things that is universally loved, like Tom Hanks or fresh air – and that’s simply because it’s accommodating (here’s to you gluten-free options), can be paired with anything, and is just dang delicious. In celebration of one of everyone’s favourite foods, here are 16 of the best pasta places in Calgary.
BONTERRA TRATTORIA
Bonterra Trattoria is a highly underrated spot in Calgary’s inner-city. With a menu and patio designed with Italy in mind, this carb-friendly haven is absolutely delicious and is one of the cutest restaurants around. Some of the best pasta in the city, great wine, and a European escape on the patio? Who in the heck could ask for more?
Where: 1016 8 Street SW, Calgary
Instagram: @BonterraCalgary
CARINO
One of Calgary’s best-kept cuisine secrets is the Japanese-Italian gem Carino, tucked into a cozy spot in Mission on 4th Street SW. If you’re checking this spot out for pasta, then you absolutely can’t go wrong with unique but delectable dishes like the Bucatini with Wagyu Meat Sauce or the Ricotta Gnocchi with Prawns and Pesto Sauce. It’s something a little out of the ordinary, but trust us when we say one try will make you a fan for life.
Where: 2210 4 St SW
Instagram: @eatcarino
FRANCA’S
View this post on Instagram
Located on Edmonton Trail in Calgary, this adorable family-owned business has not only done some incredible charity work, but they’ve amassed quite the local fan base. Here, everything is authentically Italian, made with love and served covered in sauce.
Where: 100-3811 Edmonton Trail
Instagram: @francasyyc
YYC PASTA BAR
Considered the first of its kind in Calgary, YYC Pasta Bar is an adorable little spot on 17th Avenue. Here you can literally build your own dish by choosing your noodles, sauce, toppings, mixins and more! Who doesn’t love to feel in control?
Where: 1322A 17 Ave SW, Calgary
Instagram: @yycpastabar
BUON GIORNO
Buon Giorno’s is one we’d go to bat for. From an authentic menu to a wine list that’s out of this world, we honestly could not recommend that everyone check out Buon Giorno’s enough. The food is amazing, the people are lovely and the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming.
Where: 823 17 Ave SW, Calgary
Instagram: @buongiornoyyc
SAUCE ITALIAN MARKET
View this post on Instagram
Located on 17th Avenue, this incredible Italian market and bakery have a little something for everyone. From coffee to cheese, salad dressing and bread Sauce is beloved by practically everyone who walks through the door. Of course, this isn’t only because they’ve got groceries and caffeine, it’s also because they’ve got an unreal menu and incredible pasta! Fresh is best, after all, and it really doesn’t get much fresher than grocery shelf to plate.
Where: 3326 17 Ave SW
Instagram: @sauceitalianmarket
VILLA FIRENZE
This family-owned spot is filled with old-world Italian charm and rustic vibes, but don’t let that fool you! The food, service, and attention to detail here are top-notch, and the upscale appeal of Villa Firenze pairs beautifully with its impressive menu.
Where: 610 1 Ave NE
Instagram: @villafirenze
CARDINALE
View this post on Instagram
If you know, then you know. Cardinale is one of Calgary’s favourite Italian restaurants! Located in the inner city, not far from the Cowboy’s Casino, this intimate spot serves tasty cocktails, fantastic pannacotta and some of the best pasta in the entire city.
Where: 401 12 Ave SE, Calgary
Instagram: @cardinaleyyc
LA BREZZA
Looking for something intimate, authentic and just damn right delish? Check out La Brezza! Located in Calgary’s Bridgeland, this adorable little resto was once the owner’s actual home. Despite having been opened in 1987, hardly anything has changed and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Serving true Italian food, as if it was cooked right in someone’s grandma’s kitchen, this charming spot is not one to miss.
Where: 990 1st Ave NE, Calgary
Instagram: @labrezza_yyc
SS106 APERTIVO BAR
View this post on Instagram
Since opening in 2016, SS106 has maintained that its goal was to bring authentic Italian flavours to the modern market. With a menu consisting of old-school faves made with a contemporary twist, we think that it’s fair to say that they’ve done exactly that. The result? Incredible pasta made with fresh ingredients that will make you practically forget you’re still in Calgary.
Where: 824D Edmonton Trail
Instagram: @ss106aperitivobar
MERCATO
With two locations and a whole lot of history, Mercato knows pasta inside and out. For 30 years they’ve brought smiles to people’s faces and incredible, traditional Italian food into some of Calgary’s most popular neighbourhoods. This is a must-visit.
Where: 2224 4 St SW & 873 85 St SW #5000
Instagram: @mercato_mission & @mercatowest
TEATRO
Last but certainly not least, is Calgary’s granddaddy of upscale Italian cuisine. Teatro has been around for decades and still has a reputation for being the perfect spot for a classy night out, no matter the occasion. Yes, you may have to spend a little extra, but Teatro is worth it for the whole experience.
Where: 200 – 8th Avenue SE
Instagram: @teatrorestaurant
There you have it, friends. 16 of the best places for pasta in Calgary. Let us know which one is your favourite!
