Denver Spotlight: Tavernetta

Tavernetta in Denver, Colorado, is a celebrated Italian restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine, world-class hospitality, and stunning design inspired by the Italian concept of “la dolce vita.”

Here is a detailed breakdown of what makes it unique, its history, menu highlights, customer feedback, and essential contact information.

What Makes Tavernetta Unique

Tavernetta, which translates to “little tavern,” is the Denver concept from the Frasca Hospitality Group, led by founders Chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson and Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey, along with partner Peter Hoglund. This team is also behind the renowned Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder.

• Location and Ambiance: Tavernetta is an “absolute stunner,” according to the MICHELIN Guide, located adjacent to Union Station and the Kimpton Hotel Born. Its unique design creates a warm, beautiful, and relaxing space that encourages lingering. The restaurant is split into distinct sections—including a bar/lounge for casual walk-ins and a main dining room (dubbed “the Grotto”)—to accommodate various dining experiences.
• Pan-Italian Cuisine: Unlike its sibling, Frasca, which focuses on the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, Tavernetta’s menu draws inspiration from the diverse food, wine, and culture across all regions of Italy. The classics are prepared with care and the plates are “refreshingly uncluttered.”
• World-Class Hospitality: The restaurant is steeped in the tradition of authentic hospitality, with a high caliber of service that is the hallmark of the Frasca Hospitality Group, which has won multiple James Beard Awards for its service and wine programs.

History and Significant Events

Tavernetta was a highly anticipated project from the celebrated Frasca team, opening its doors in September 2017 in the bustling Union Station neighborhood.

• Founding: The idea for Tavernetta was born after more than three years of planning, partly driven by the owners’ desire to provide new opportunities for employees who had excelled within the Frasca system. General Manager Justin Williams and Wine Director Carlin Karr are key team members who came up through the group’s training program.
• Early Challenge: Just eight days after its grand opening, a fire in the kitchen forced the restaurant to temporarily close. It was successfully re-opened for business about two months later.
• Industry Recognition: Tavernetta has garnered significant praise, including the prestigious MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmand designation, which recognizes restaurants offering distinctive flavors and excellent value. It also won Hotel Restaurant of the Year shortly after opening.
• Off-Site Events: The Tavernetta team has represented Denver’s food scene at major events like the Jackson Hole Food and Wine, showcasing their culinary chops to a wider audience.

Customer Feedback Highlights

Tavernetta is consistently praised for its food, service, and atmosphere:

• Pasta is a Highlight: Customers frequently call out the fresh, handmade pasta dishes as a must-try. One reviewer mentioned, “Tavernetta is one of my favorite spots in Denver and the pasta is always a highlight. The doppio ravioli was fresh and so beautiful…”
• Great Service: The staff is often described as attentive and professional, with one guest noting, “The service here was great, the waiter and all staff was very attentive and followed up with us often.”
• Ambiance and Design: The beautiful, trendy interior design is a major draw, with feedback such as, “If you’re looking for a trendy Italian restaurant with good vibes, look no further. Tavernetta is beautiful from the moment you step in.”

Highlight Menu Items

The menu features regional Italian classics, fresh handmade pastas, and elevated main courses, with seasonal variations.

Essential Information