Kirkland, a vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest known for its diverse culinary scene, offers a delightful array of Italian Best Italian pasta in Seattle. Whether you crave classic spaghetti carbonara or innovative handmade ravioli, Kirkland has something to satisfy every pasta lover’s palate. This guide explores some of the best Italian pasta spots in Kirkland, highlighting their specialties and ambiance.
Exploring Kirkland’s Italian Pasta Scene
Lucia Italian Kitchen + Bar
Overview
Lucia Italian Kitchen + Bar is a cozy and upscale restaurant located in downtown Kirkland, offering a modern take Best Italian pasta in Kirkland cuisine. Known for its fresh pasta made in-house daily, Lucia’s menu features a variety of pasta dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients and authentic flavors.
Signature Dishes
- Ravioli di Zucca: Handmade ravioli filled with butternut squash, ricotta, and sage butter sauce.
- Tagliatelle Bolognese: Fresh tagliatelle pasta served with a rich meat sauce made from beef, pork, and veal.
- Linguine alle Vongole: Linguine pasta with Manila clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley.
Ambiance
The ambiance at Lucia Italian Kitchen + Bar is warm and inviting, perfect for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner. The open kitchen allows diners to see the pasta being freshly made, enhancing the dining experience.
Café Juanita
Overview
Café Juanita is a renowned Italian restaurant nestled in a charming cottage in nearby Kirkland, offering a rustic and elegant dining atmosphere. Chef Holly Smith’s dedication to Italian cuisine shines through in the restaurant’s handmade pasta dishes, crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Signature Dishes
- Gnocchi: Handmade potato gnocchi with a variety of seasonal sauces, such as brown butter and sage or tomato ragù.
- Pappardelle al Cinghiale: Wide ribbon pasta with wild boar ragù, a hearty and flavorful dish.
- Tortellini: Handmade tortellini filled with cheese or meat, served in a delicate broth.
Ambiance
Café Juanita’s ambiance exudes sophistication and charm, with intimate dining spaces and an extensive wine list that complements its pasta offerings perfectly. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and creativity makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Volterra Kirkland
Overview
Volterra Kirkland offers a unique blend of Italian and Tuscan cuisine, highlighting robust flavors and artisanal pasta dishes. Located in downtown Kirkland, this restaurant combines Old World charm with contemporary elegance.
Signature Dishes
- Pappardelle al Funghi: Wide ribbon pasta with wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Rigatoni alla Norcina: Rigatoni pasta with house-made Italian sausage, porcini mushrooms, and cream sauce.
- Lasagna Bolognese: Layered lasagna with beef, pork, veal Bolognese sauce, and béchamel.
Ambiance
Volterra Kirkland boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with exposed brick walls, cozy seating, and a welcoming bar area. The restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and authentic Italian techniques ensures a memorable dining experience.