Pacini

About Pacini

Pacini does Italian comfort food better than most places in the Bow Valley. You get solid pasta, risotto, and meat dishes executed without pretension. It's housed in the Moose Hotel, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's generic hotel dining. The kitchen takes care here.

Order the handmade pasta if they have it available. The risotto rotates seasonally, and you should ask your server what's current. Portions are substantial, so pace yourself if you're hitting another spot afterward. The wine list skews Italian, which makes sense, and the bartender knows their craft drinks.

The trade-off is that it sits on the main drag of Banff Avenue, so expect tourist crowds during peak season. Go early in the evening or on shoulder months like May or September if you want actual conversation at your table. It's best suited for travelers who want reliable Italian without leaving town, not for those hunting for haute cuisine. Make a reservation in summer.