Shells and Sauce

Open

Closed

$

$$

🍝 Italian

β€’

Central Park

β€’

casual-dining

4.5
Shells and Sauce is a lively trattoria offering classic and creative Italian dishes, plus brunch and rooftop happy hour.

$

$$

β€’

Heading

β€’

casual-dining

Reservations
Now

πŸ“

Shells and Sauce

Central Park

$

Enjoy classic and creative Italian cuisine with rooftop happy hour and brunch at Shells and Sauce, a beloved neighborhood trattoria in Denver.

Reservations

Menu

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About
4.5
(
1620
)

Shells and Sauce is a jazzy little trattoria known for its blend of classic and inventive Italian fare, including standout pasta dishes and a vibrant rooftop happy hour. The casual yet cozy atmosphere combined with attentive service makes it a neighborhood favorite for lunch, dinner, and brunch.

What's Included:

    🍝 Classic and creative Italian dishes
    πŸ₯‚ Rooftop happy hour with cocktails
    β˜• Great coffee and desserts
    🌿 Vegan and gluten-free options available

Important Information:

  • Reservations recommended especially for brunch and dinner
  • Outdoor rooftop seating available
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating
  • Parking can be tricky, but free lot and street parking available
  • 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
    πŸ”Š
    πŸ”Š
    πŸ”Š

    πŸ“ Local Insights

    🍹 Happy Hour Haven: Visit between 3–6 PM Tuesday to Saturday for excellent happy hour deals on drinks and food.

    🌞 Rooftop Seating: Ask for a rooftop table to enjoy views and a lively atmosphere, especially on warm days.

    πŸ“… Reservations Recommended: Book ahead for brunch and weekend dinners to avoid waiting, as the place fills quickly.

    πŸš— Parking Tips: Free parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant, but street parking can be limited; plan accordingly.

    ⏰ Hours

    Monday: Closed

    Tuesday: 3:30 PM–8:30 PM

    Wednesday: 3:30 PM–8:30 PM

    Thursday: 3:30 PM–8:30 PM

    Friday: 3:30 PM–9:00 PM

    Saturday: 3:30 PM–9:00 PM

    Sunday: Closed

    πŸ‘‰ Best For

    Families, couples, brunch lovers, happy hour enthusiasts

    πŸ“

    Shells and Sauce

    2600 E 12th Ave

    ,

    Denver

    ,

    CO

    80206

    Public Review Sentiment

    Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews

    Shells and Sauce enjoys high praise for its delicious, fresh Italian dishes, attentive and friendly service, and pleasant atmosphere. Guests love the rooftop happy hour and family-friendly vibe. While parking can be challenging and seating a bit tight, the quality and consistency keep patrons returning.

    Last updated on

    July 7, 2025

    🍽️ Standout Dishes

    Lasagna, Diavolo Pasta, Chicken Parmesan, Lobster Ravioli, Bruschetta, Wild Mushroom Saccheti, Chicken Piccata, Orange Cake, Flourless Chocolate Cake, Tiramisu, Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée, Calamari

    πŸ“† Best Times to Visit

    Visit during weekday happy hours from 3 to 6 PM for best deals and rooftop seating; weekends fill quickly, so reservations are wise.

    ♿️ Accessibility

    Shells and Sauce offers wheelchair accessible entrance, restrooms, parking, and seating. The venue provides a comfortable experience for guests with mobility needs.

    πŸ§‘β€πŸ³ Reservation Policy

    Reservations recommended; Brunch reservations recommended; Lunch reservations recommended; Dinner reservations recommended

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