About
4.4
(
698
)
Jovanina's Broken Italian offers a cozy and romantic Italian dining experience in Denver’s Central neighborhood, featuring wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and craft cocktails. Guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere including a speakeasy-style basement, great wine, and attentive service, perfect for dinner and special occasions.
What's Included:
🍕 Wood-fired pizza selections
🍸 Craft cocktails and extensive wine list
🎶 Trendy, cozy, and romantic ambiance
Important Information:
Closed on Mondays and SundaysOpen 5 PM to 9 PM Tue–Thu, 5 PM to 10 PM Fri–SatWheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seatingPaid parking nearby, can be somewhat difficult to find
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🍷 Sommelier's Touch: The sommelier often provides personalized wine recommendations and explanations, enhancing the dining experience—ask for their guidance.
🍽️ Request Basement Seating: The downstairs area offers a unique intimate speakeasy vibe and is quieter than the main floor; mention this preference when booking.
⏰ Plan for Peak Times: Dinner hours can get loud and busy; arrive early in the evening Tuesday to Thursday for a calmer atmosphere and prompt service.
🚗 Parking Tips: Paid parking is available but can be tough to find; consider ride-share options for convenience.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 5 to 9 PM
Wednesday: 5 to 9 PM
Thursday: 5 to 9 PM
Friday: 5 to 10 PM
Saturday: 5 to 10 PM
Sunday: Closed
👉 Best For
Couples, groups, special occasions, Italian cuisine lovers
📍
Jovanina’s Broken Italian
1520 Blake St
,
Denver
,
CO
80202
Public Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Jovanina's Broken Italian is praised for its exceptional food quality, especially the wood-fired pizzas, lobster diavolo, and pasta dishes, alongside great cocktails and a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the speakeasy vibe of the basement dining area and attentive, knowledgeable service, particularly mentioning individual servers by name. Some guests note the restaurant can be loud and the pricing is on the higher side, with a few mentions of occasional service slowdowns and added kitchen/service fees that caught diners off guard. Parking is sometimes challenging. Overall, the experience is highly recommended for special occasions and date nights.
Last updated on
November 4, 2025
🍽️ Standout Dishes
Wood-Fired Pizza, Housemade Pasta, Octopus, Lobster Diavolo, Elk Bolognese, Bone Marrow, Focaccia, Squash Blossom Special, Tiramisu, Olive Oil Cake, Various Craft Cocktails
📆 Best Times to Visit
Early dinner on Tuesday to Thursday offers a quieter experience and easy seating; Fridays and Saturdays get lively for groups and special celebrations.
♿️ Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating are available, ensuring comfort for guests with mobility needs. The space is thoughtfully maintained and includes accessible restrooms.
🧑🍳 Reservation Policy
Reservations recommended
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✅ Cancellation Policy
None specified
