As soon as you step inside Voghera Ristorante & Apericena, you are instantly transported into the culture and warmth of Italy. With its European eloquence and energy reminiscent of the small town that its named after just 40 miles outside of Milan—Voghera offers a glimpse of what it feels like to be immersed in Italian lifestyle. Co-owner and General Manager Marco Albertin along with his partner Tony Hopson, both natives of Italy, have done an excellent job at bringing the traditional Voghera feeling to Denver with influences of the Milanese culture. What stood out were the elements of the cultivated countryside surrounding Albertin’s home town.
With its elegant décor, created by the owners’ wives, the restaurant is an obvious family affair. “It’s like you walk into my elegant living room, not my restaurant. Friends become family and strangers become friends,” explains Albertin. “I opened Voghera with my friend Tony, and everybody in the Albertin and Hopson families helped open the restaurant, including our amazing wives Nicole and Diane, mothersin- law Shirley and Kathy, just to name a few, plus many friends who jumped in when help was needed. I even received logistic support from my family back in Voghera when importing our sexy menu covers and handmade espresso machine.”
Voghera is set up as two restaurants in one: the front area is an Apericena, an informal setting which attracts a younger crowd—and the back is the Ristorante, a traditional Italian fine dining space with white tablecloths. The term “Apericena” centers around the idea that small plates and wine are to be enjoyed with friends. Albertin is proud to be the first and only Apericena in the U.S. And, we agree, this place couldn’t be more intriguing with two vibes for the price of one.
On the food front, some standouts include the Linguine ai Frutti di Mare and Spaghetti Al Sugo Mediterraneo, Bruschetta Classica and Branzino Alla Puttanesca; as well as the delicious Tagliere della Casa (charcuterie board), which is a year-round staple. Guests can also look forward to the Gorgonzola and Sausage Risotto and Bolognese this Winter. To finish in style, try the Tiramisu and Tartufini Misti, a trio of seasonal chocolate truffles. Yum!
