Over the last little while, I’ve ventured to try some “new-to-me” Italian restaurants so I thought I’d share where you can go to satisfy your next pasta craving. If you’re a pasta lover and looking to try something different, here are 3 spots to check out!
Basil Pasta Bar ($)
Basil Pasta Bar is a newer business that comes from Vancouver. It’s located in south-central Edmonton in an industrial area off 63rd Ave (taking over what used to be Won Jung Gak). The space is casual and it’s one of those order/pay first spots. Their menu offers a wide variety of their own pasta creations or you can build your own. My favourite thing about Basil Pasta Bar is that the prices are super affordable but the portions are large and the pasta tastes great. With most pastas starting at $10.95-$12.45, you can’t go wrong. I really enjoyed the Spaghetti Carbonara ($10.95), Four-Cheese Ravioli ($12.95) and Spaghetti and Meatballs ($12.45)! Their family meal is also notably a steal-of-a-deal with 4 pastas, 4 garlic breads, 1 side, and 4 drinks at roughly $55. Definitely keep them in mind for a quick pasta meal.
Ragazzi ($$)
I had plans to visit Ragazzi after it was recommended to me from a fellow reader. Situated in the Bonnie Doon area, it is a locally-owned and family operated business that’s been around for some time now. Although well known for their New York/Italian style pizzas, they serve up quite the selection of Italian eats – pasta included. The service here was friendly and attentive and I saw the owner coming out to make conversation with regulars. It definitely has a home-y and welcoming feel. There are many dishes to choose from; generous portions with many shareable/family-style options. Truly something for everyone who enjoys Italian. The Gnocchi in Salsa Rosa ($20) and pizza were enjoyable and I hope to come back again sometime to try more on the menu.
Dalla ($$$)
Along Rice Howard Way, you’ll find Dalla Tavola Zenari. They opened in the heart of downtown at the start of the pandemic, by the same family who ran Zenari’s! Dalla offers a classy, warm and inviting atmosphere with a menu full of authentic Italian food. It’s a great spot for a nice dinner or special occasion and the menu offers tasteful dishes at moderate prices. We ordered a few tasty options but from their pasta offerings, the Lasagna Bianca ($19) was easily my favourite. This is Dalla’s take on a white sauce lasagna that’s made with their house cream sauce, which was heavy but so delectable and amazing. I also recommend their Cipolle ($13; crostini topped with salami, fried shallots, and honey) to start and for dessert, the Panna Cotta ($6).
There’s many pasta spots to enjoy in Edmonton but hopefully you get a chance to check out these 3, if you have not already! Though they all serve up pasta dishes, they are unique and great in their own ways.
Eat with Sharon 