Bucatino Trattoria Romana: A Taste of Authentic Italian Cuisine in Lafayette, CO

I really think the food here is some of the best italian I’ve ever had. I read some of the other reviews, I am truly confused about what type of experience they had. The drinks are always done well. A ton of their food is literally hand-made. A lot of their pasta, sauces, etc. Either way, we love this place and gladly return every time we are feeling italian and we should probably return more for their amazing happy hour too.

We tried this place after two separate sets of friends recommended we do so. I made reservations since we were told they get busy and it was hopping at 5:30 when we came. Our server was really nice. He was attentive and gave us good recommendations and explained the specials to us. The food was OK. My wife had the Bucatini Bolognase, which was a bit bland. I had the Chicken Parmasean. The chicken was cooked really well, but the marinara like the Bolognase left something to be desired. We also had the chocolate tort for dessert and it too was just OK.

The place was packed and had a lively atmosphere. It was quite busy so we could forego the inconsistent service. However, the food just didn't live up to it. My gnocchi was a bit mushy and the sauces weren't very good. It's a bit questionable when the food comes out so fast after ordering and there is a pool of pasta water at the bottom of the plate. I was hoping this place would be good since we all can use some decent Italian restaurants in the area. Sadly the search continues.

Started off with the bread which was not as fresh as we would have liked, a bit stale on the edges - but good overall especially with the garlicky olive oil dip. The past was very good as our mains. We tried simple penne with Alfredo sauce for our 17 month old which was not his favorite, he ended up eating a lot more of mommas gluten free dish. There is a $5 up charge for GF pasta FYI, not very clear from the waitress or on the menu (at least we didn’t see it initially). I got the cannelloni which was solid for sure. Then we tried the spumoni for dessert; now I’m from Brooklyn without sounding too snobby about the type of spumoni I am used to… I was expecting something very different but it kind of just tasted like strawberry, choc, and a little pistachio ice cream, a bit disappointing. They did just open and the pasta was solid so I am sure we will be back and it’s just nice to have a solid Italian option in the neighborhood.

Had dinner here on a Sunday night as it's been highly recommended on Nextdoor and is conveniently located. Made reservations but there was plenty of seating available when we arrived at 6:30pm. Nice decor as it used to be a Chinese restaurant and it's bright and nice. Our server came by with bread and water but didn't ask if wanted anything to drink or explain the menu or specials. The food was decent and my husband actually really enjoyed how much seafood was actually in the paella though the presentation looked like it was iisy slopped on the plate. My Spaghetti Corsara was ok but not spicy and had only a few bits of salmon. My mom had the Bolognese sauce with spaghetti and it was ok but not great, more just like a standard meat sauce and my hubby's actually has more flavor than this one did. We were in and out of there in an hour so the food came quickly. The place was at least half full sp that was nice to see a local business supported. Service was ok, waiter didn't check in on us during our meal not ask about drinks or dessert so service was ok but not great and he was friendly. Would we return? There's other Italian that we actually prefer though we might be willing to try other things on their menu.

Truly a nice experience for Italian restaurants. Food and service was excellent. Appetizer Frito Misto had fresh seafood and was cooked well. Red sauce with spaghetti and very meaty meatballs. I added sausage to it, and even more tasty it was. I'm always skeptical w Italian places at first. This one was left me wondering what else on the menu is delicious. Not one in our group had anything to complain about. All great comments and reviews by the group. Definitely can come back here with family or groups. Bucatino, you Wowed me with my first meal at your restaurant. Keep on doing what you are doing.