“We want to set the table for guests to break bread with someone they want to share an experience with.” That’s the heart of Saverina’s Third Thursday Chef Dinner, according to Chef Christian Graves. Each month, 12 lucky guests gather at the chef’s counter for an intimate, three-course meal crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s part dinner, part culinary adventure—and March’s menu promises to be something special.
For $65 per person, guests will enjoy a pasta-centric meal curated by Chef Graves himself. As you dine, he walks you through each dish, sharing the inspiration behind the flavors and seasonal ingredients. Wine pairings are available to complement the meal, and Saverina’s full cocktail and wine list is on hand for those looking to sip something extra special.
The Third Thursday Chef Dinner was born from a desire to create something unique—an intimate gathering with handcrafted pasta made from locally sourced flours. “We wanted to keep it small and personal,” Chef Graves said. “Each dinner highlights hyper-seasonal ingredients, so no two menus are ever quite the same.”
This month’s menu features lobster stuffed tortellini with steamed baby cabbage, baby root vegetables and brodo – a red wine rigatoni with slow-braised oxtail, parsnip, baby carrot and gremolata. For dessert – a decadent hazelnut torte with candied hazelnuts, chocolate ganache, and stracciatella gelato. This month’s menu is designed to bid winter farewell and welcome spring with open arms.
As the seasons change, so does the menu at Saverina. Chef Graves is passionate about keeping things fresh, green and full of flavor. “Spring, to me, means fresh house-made ricotta, peas, beans and young shoots,” he said. “We will be smothered in spring onions and garlic!” Saverina’s menu is constantly evolving, with dishes shifting based on what’s fresh and local. Stuffed pasta options rotate often, moving from corn ravioli to oxtail tortellini to koginut agnolotti and soon – English pea ravioli will debut.
Beyond just an exceptional meal, these dinners provide a rare opportunity for guests to connect with the chef in a way that’s not always possible in a bustling restaurant setting. With limited seating, guests can engage in genuine conversation, gain insight into the cooking process, and develop a deeper appreciation for the art of Italian cuisine. It’s an evening where food and storytelling blend seamlessly to create an unforgettable experience.
Saverina’s dedication to the community goes beyond its intimate chef dinners. “Come grab a cup of amazing Ozo coffee and a pastry for a business meeting in the morning, or meet your Mom for lunch or grab our express lunch to go back to the office, or come grab a cocktail and hang out with your buddies for dinner, or simply have a traditional dinner or come and share a few pastas and salads,” Chef Graves said. The restaurant fosters an inviting atmosphere where guests can gather, celebrate and savor truly exceptional food.
Exciting things are in store at Saverina, including the launch of a Pasta of the Week Club in May. Members will get a fresh pound of pasta each Monday, along with a suggested sauce, wine pairing and fun pasta facts to bring the restaurant experience home. It’s a concept designed for those who love to cook but want the convenience of expertly crafted pasta and guidance from a chef.
With its cozy atmosphere, ever-changing menu and warm hospitality, Saverina’s Third Thursday Chef Dinners are a must for pasta lovers and foodies alike. These dinners are more than just a meal – they offer a moment to slow down and experience the taste and inspiration of hand-crafted Italian-inspired cuisine. Grab a seat at the chef’s counter tomorrow, March 20 – this one’s going to be special!
Reservations for Third Thursday Chef Dinners can be made here.
Saverina is located at 6985 E Chenango Ave., Denver. Its hours are Monday – Friday 7 a.m. -10:30 a.m., Saturday – Sunday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. for breakfast, Monday- Friday 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. for lunch, Sunday – Thursday 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Friday – Saturday 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. for dinner, Bar open daily 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.