Executive chef Marco Monnanni prepares an order at Caprese Trattoria in Longmont.
Courtesy Marco Monnanni

Bucatini is a thick spaghetti-like pasta with a hole running through the center. It is a specialty throughout Lazio, particularly Rome. And now, in Old Town Lafayette.

Marco Monnanni, Executive Chef of Bucatino Trattoria Romana, is bringing authentic Roman cuisine to the neighborhood. Marco moved to the United States from Italy when he was 22 and has since opened several Italian restaurants in the Boulder County area.

“We wanted to bring a cozy, authentic Roman Trattoria to Old Town Lafayette that welcomes everyone,” Monnanni said. “The city of Lafayette is doing so much to create a strong sense of community. More young professionals and families are moving in. My wife is from Old Town Lafayette. We just really wanted to be a part of it all.”

Bucatino Trattoria Romana will make you feel like you have stepped out of Colorado and into Italy from the moment you walk in. The ambiance is casual with a large, beautiful image of Rome and Italian artwork welcoming you. The space is family-friendly (including a kids menu). And the affordable pricing invites you in, no matter the occasion.

Given the name, you can expect the menu to feature a variety of bucatini dishes, including the classic amatriciana. There will also be a section of the menu called “La Settimana Rom” (The Roma Week), which will have rotating dishes direct from Rome and every week will have something new and different to discover. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and has a happy hour menu.

“We are excited to bring a true taste of Italy to Old Town Lafayette and welcome you in like family,” said Monnanni. Bucatino Trattoria Romana is now open for lunch, dinner and happy hour.

Bucatino opens Monday, March 4, 2024, at 3 p.m. for happy hour and dinner and will transition to operating during lunch hours as well later this spring.