Stiano — Restaurant in La Veta

This place calls itself a trattoria (cafe) but the menu is better than that. Expertly prepared food, a lot of it from scratch. We ordered Italian style, having a full suite of courses from apertivo through dolce. We recommend that you order it that way - bring a group or family, order a variety of dishes and pass them around. The arancini fell apart in the hand but otherwise were pretty good. We shared an antipasto plate with a variety of veggies/spreads. The cacio e pepe was creamy and the lamb with juniper demiglace - tender. We enjoyed a red blend wine from Italy with it. The polenta was just the right consistency and flavor. Next was cuocco salad, which, if you eat it after the main meal (Italian style) is too rich for the palate but is excellent as a salad entree. Finally, a tiramisu with strong coffee for dessert - pretty good. The restaurant could add some home made bread and more dessert choices.

We are locals and former restaurant owners - don't think you will find better restaurant food within 100 miles in any direction. It is prepared with care and attention to detail. These people have done it right- quality food first.

The service was a bit slow, but if you are in a group having a nice time you will not notice it so much. We were one of six parties being served on a Friday night.

The front dining area is stylish if a little cheap feeling. There is also a separate small dining room with a large table for a group. In the rear there is a courtyard/patio that during warmer weather would provide a nice fine dining experience.

Including apertivo drinks, wine with the meal and coffee with dessert, our six-course dinner for two was $150. We ordered more food than normal so we could try it. Make the trip and drop the money for a good meal at this place. You...

I have to say that this is the absolute best Italian Food we have ever had. Period. There’s no comparison. And it’s 10x better knowing how small of a town this is. We tried 5 or 6 things on the menu, including the raw steak appetizer (not sure what it’s called, but please try it), Caesar salad, lemon mussels, masala pasta, bison bolognese, Brussels sprouts, and some dessert that was served in a champagne glass. I’m not joking, EVERY SINGLE THING ON THE TABLE, including the water, was just amazing. The customer service was better than our experiences with Ruth’s Chris and Del Frisco’s, who pride themselves on quality ingredients and great service. I would choose this place over any other restaurant, hands down. We live 2 hours from this place and will be returning at least once per month. I have never been so pleased with a dining experience like I was with Stiano’s. We asked the manager to come to our table so we could sing our praises, but they instead sent the owner. Instead of him being smug and knowing how good everything was, he was so thankful and taken back by how impressed we were. Everyone, please go out of your way if you have to and give this wonderful place a try. I can promise you won’t be disappointed! Ask for Jillian, who was our server. She knew everything about the menu and was just the best server you could ask for. I can’t speak any more highly of this restaurant. Please make a reservation and come here with your family as soon as you can. You will be...

Stiano Italian Trattoria in La Veta, Colorado, is an absolute gem! Nestled in the historic La Veta Inn, this restaurant delivers an unforgettable dining experience. The food is nothing short of spectacular—authentic Italian dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The walnut pesto, chicken piccata and chicken parm were standouts, bursting with flavor and showcasing the chef’s creativity and passion for traditional recipes with a modern twist. Every bite was a delight, from the perfectly cooked pasta to the tender, flavorful ribeye. The service is impeccable, with a warm and attentive staff that makes you feel like family. Our server, Jillian, was a highlight, offering spot-on recommendations and genuine hospitality that elevated our evening. The atmosphere is equally inviting, blending cozy, rustic charm with a lively vibe, complete with a fireplace and occasional live music that adds to the ambiance without overwhelming conversation. What truly sets Stiano apart is the wonderful people behind it. You can feel the heart and soul poured into every detail, from the carefully curated menu to the welcoming energy of the team. It’s clear they’re dedicated to making every visit special, and it’s no surprise locals and visitors alike rave about this place. Whether you’re in La Veta for a weekend or just passing through, Stiano is a must-visit for incredible Italian cuisine and an experience that leaves you smiling. We’ll...