RARE Italian Fort Collins: An Unforgettable Authentic Italian Culinary Journey

Stepping into RARE Italian in Fort Collins is akin to being transported directly to the heart of Italy. Recently, I had the immense pleasure of experiencing their exquisite culinary offerings firsthand, accompanied by a dear friend. This wasn’t just a meal; it was a meticulously crafted journey through authentic Italian flavors, guided by the passionate expertise of General Manager Daniel and Head Chef Alex. From the moment we arrived, their dedication to creating a memorable dining experience was palpable, ensuring every detail contributed to an evening we wouldn’t soon forget. RARE Italian has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking true Italian gastronomy in Northern Colorado.

Chef Alex brings a wealth of experience, having honed his craft in some of the country’s most esteemed kitchens alongside renowned chefs. His commitment to authenticity led him to Italy, where he immersed himself in regional cooking traditions for several years, learning the nuanced art of real Italian food before bringing his incredible talent to Colorado. Similarly, Daniel, a former chef himself, spent years living and cooking in Italy, gaining an intimate understanding of genuine Italian dining culture and the perfect pairings of food and wine. Their combined knowledge, shared vision, and deep respect for tradition are the foundation of RARE Italian’s exceptional philosophy, making it a true culinary gem in the vibrant Fort Collins restaurant scene. Their shared mission is to deliver an unparalleled dining adventure that celebrates the rich heritage of Italian cuisine.

A Refined Start: Specialty Cocktails and Artisanal Antipasti

Our culinary adventure at RARE Italian began with a specialty cocktail that perfectly set the tone for the evening: the Cellothyme. This unique concoction features house-made Limoncello, a delightful ginger shrub, effervescent prosecco, and a delicate hint of fresh thyme. It was an absolute revelation – perfectly balanced, wonderfully light, and incredibly refreshing. The initial citrus burst from the Limoncello was beautifully complemented by the subtle warmth of ginger, while the prosecco added a lively effervescence. The aromatic thyme finished each sip, leaving a clean, sophisticated impression. Its effervescent quality and subtle botanical notes made it an ideal aperitif, and I could easily envision savoring this exquisite drink throughout the warmer months. It exemplified RARE Italian’s commitment to crafting unique, high-quality experiences right from the start of the meal, showcasing their attention to detail in every aspect.

One of RARE Italian’s core philosophies is its unwavering commitment to making almost everything on the menu in-house, coupled with a diligent effort to source ingredients as locally as possible. This dedication truly shines through in their antipasti selection. Despite my personal aversion to most cheeses, I was utterly captivated by their house-made Mozzarella. Its ethereal creaminess, delicate flavor, and incredible freshness were unlike anything I had tasted before. The mozzarella possessed a pristine, milky quality that spoke volumes about the freshness of its ingredients and the skill of its preparation. If a self-professed non-cheese lover like myself can be converted, you know it has to be truly exceptional.

The Antipasti Platter offers a magnificent opportunity to sample a curated selection of their artisanal cheeses and meticulously prepared cured meats. This customizable platter allows guests to tailor their experience, choosing from an array of delectable options, each reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition. Imagine savory cured prosciutto, spicy salami, briny olives, and marinated vegetables all presented beautifully, providing a delightful mosaic of flavors and textures. It’s not just an appetizer; it’s an introduction to the rich tapestry of flavors that defines authentic Italian cuisine, preparing the palate for the courses to follow and underscoring RARE Italian’s dedication to providing a holistic culinary journey.

Pasta and Risotto Perfection: A Testament to Culinary Mastery

Following our delightful antipasti, we moved onto the pasta and risotto courses, where RARE Italian truly showcases its culinary prowess. As an ardent admirer of risotto, I admit I am exceptionally particular about it. Finding a truly exemplary risotto can be a challenge, but RARE Italian not only met but far exceeded every expectation. Their risotto, served with incredibly tender braised beef, an intriguing sprinkle of crispy garlic bread crumbs, and finished with a vibrant gremolata, was nothing short of a masterpiece. The richness and creaminess of the risotto were perfectly balanced, each grain cooked to an ideal al dente, absorbing the savory broth without being mushy. The braised beef melted in the mouth, delivering a profound depth of savory flavor, while the garlic bread crumbs provided an unexpected textural contrast and a delightful aromatic kick. The fresh gremolata – a traditional Italian condiment of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley – added a bright, zesty counterpoint, cutting through the richness and elevating the dish to celestial heights. Honestly, this risotto might very well be one of the best dishes I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. It’s a dish I would return for alone, without hesitation, a testament to its unforgettable quality and the chef’s expertise.

Beyond the risotto, RARE Italian’s dedication to freshness extends to their pasta. We were fortunate enough to observe their team diligently crafting fresh pasta later in the evening in their open kitchen, a vivid testament to their commitment to traditional methods and quality. The pasta dishes, featuring house-made sausage infused with fragrant rosemary – one of my absolute favorite herbs – offered another layer of authentic Italian flavor. The fresh pasta, with its perfect chewiness, combined with the perfectly seasoned, savory sausage, created a symphony of tastes and textures that solidified RARE Italian’s reputation for exceptional Italian fare. This unwavering commitment to fresh, hand-made ingredients truly elevates their offerings above the ordinary, ensuring every dish is a genuine expression of Italian culinary artistry.

The Star of the Show: Wood-Grilled Meats and Certified Angus Beef

RARE Italian has rightfully earned a stellar reputation for its expertly prepared wood-grilled meats, a focal point of their menu. We eagerly sampled the House-aged Bistecca Alla Fiorentina. This magnificent cut, the Italian equivalent of a Porterhouse steak, arrived cooked to an absolute perfect medium-rare, showcasing the chef’s precision and understanding of fine beef. The char from the wood-grill imparted a beautiful smoky flavor to the crust, while the interior remained juicy and tender. The steak was served with a selection of four exquisite dipping sauces, each designed to complement and enhance the meat’s rich flavors. While all were delicious and thoughtfully crafted, the aged balsamic vinegar stood out as my personal favorite, offering a complex, sweet, and tangy counterpoint that harmonized beautifully with the steak. The truffle butter followed closely, adding an indulgent, earthy aroma and a luxurious, creamy finish. The meat itself was incredibly tender, succulent, and bursting with flavor – a true testament to both its exceptional quality and the masterful cooking technique employed by the culinary team.

My excitement was amplified when I learned that RARE Italian proudly uses Certified Angus Beef (CAB). I had previously had the privilege of visiting with Certified Angus Beef in Ohio, gaining a deep appreciation for their rigorous standards and the superior quality of their product, known for its exceptional marbling and tenderness. Discovering a local restaurant in Fort Collins that champions CAB was a significant highlight for me, reinforcing RARE Italian’s dedication to sourcing only the finest ingredients for their patrons. This commitment to premium quality is evident in every bite of their wood-grilled selections, ensuring a superior steak experience that truly sets them apart from other establishments in the region.

A Sweet Symphony: Desserts and the Art of Italian Wine

No authentic Italian feast is complete without a memorable dolce, and RARE Italian delivered with two exceptional offerings: the Flourless Chocolate Torta and the Rosemary-Olive Oil Cake. As a self-proclaimed “chocolate girl” through and through, my initial inclination was towards the rich chocolate torta. It was, as expected, wonderfully decadent, intensely chocolatey, and satisfyingly dense, providing a luxurious end to a savory meal. However, I found myself unexpectedly enchanted by the Rosemary-Olive Oil Cake. Its unique flavor profile, combining the fragrant earthiness of fresh rosemary with the subtle, fruity richness of high-quality olive oil, was a revelation. The cake itself was dense yet incredibly moist, with a sophisticated sweetness that wasn’t overpowering. It was a delightful surprise and a testament to RARE Italian’s innovative yet traditional approach to desserts, proving that sometimes, the unexpected choice yields the most memorable and pleasing experience. This unexpected delight perfectly encapsulated the spirit of discovery that permeated our entire evening.

Beyond the incredible food, the true highlight of our evening was the unparalleled hospitality and expertise provided by Daniel and the entire staff. Daniel, with his encyclopedic knowledge of Italian wines and regions, transformed our meal into an educational journey. He personally curates every single bottle on their extensive wine list, ensuring a diverse selection that perfectly complements their menu, from robust reds to crisp whites. His passion is infectious, and he takes great pride in educating his staff, making every team member a knowledgeable guide through their carefully chosen wine offerings. We enjoyed several meticulously selected white and red wines, each expertly paired with our different courses, enhancing the flavors of the food in remarkable and insightful ways. It was clear that RARE Italian understands the symbiotic relationship between food and wine, presenting them as an inseparable duo designed to elevate the entire dining experience. To conclude our extraordinary experience, Daniel enthusiastically encouraged me to try Vermouth. I must confess, it was an incredibly pleasant surprise – far superior to Port, in my opinion, offering a complex, herbaceous sweetness, and a truly sophisticated and satisfying way to bring our unforgettable meal to a close, a perfect digestivo.

Beyond Dinner: Brunch, Lunch, and the Authentic Italian Experience in Fort Collins

My experience at RARE Italian has left an indelible mark, and I eagerly anticipate my next visit. Beyond their exquisite dinner service, RARE Italian also offers a delightful brunch on weekends, which I am particularly excited to explore. The prospect of trying Rachel’s Blueberry Cornmeal Pancakes, among other tempting options like frittatas, pastries, and savory brunch dishes, sounds absolutely irresistible. It presents another opportunity to experience their commitment to fresh, quality ingredients in a different setting. Additionally, for those seeking a taste of Italy during the day, RARE is open for lunch, serving up delicious paninis and pizzettes – perfect for a casual yet authentic Italian meal if you find yourself wandering through Old Town Fort Collins. Their lunch menu offers a wonderful way to enjoy their culinary expertise in a more relaxed atmosphere, making authentic Italian flavors accessible throughout the day.

Daniel and Alex, with their genuine passion and unwavering commitment to authentic Italian cuisine, are not just running a restaurant; they are curating a true cultural experience, a slice of Italy transported to Colorado. They have succeeded magnificently in bringing the authentic Italian feel and flavors to Fort Collins, offering a culinary destination that truly stands out. Their dedication to quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and exceptional hospitality makes RARE Italian a must-visit for anyone seeking an unparalleled Italian dining adventure. It’s a place where every dish tells a story, and every guest feels like family.

A heartfelt thank you to Daniel and Alex for a truly magnificent evening. I am already counting down the days until I can return to RARE Italian and indulge in another unforgettable meal, eager to explore more of their masterful creations and soak in their warm hospitality once again.