CARUSO Pastabar

The story

CARUSO Pastabar in Cologne: Handmade Italian Pasta with Global Flair

Handmade Pasta Since 2013

Marcello Caruso opened CARUSO Pastabar on Barbarossaplatz in Cologne in 2013, dedicated to crafting fresh pasta by hand with heart and soul. In 2022, managing directors Emanuele Barbaro and Marcello Caruso reshaped the restaurant into a place where creativity, passion, and personality take center stage. Since then, every strand of pasta has been made with high-quality durum wheat semolina and the latest production techniques, a process the team describes as the result of meticulous preparation and dedication to craftsmanship.

Italian Roots, Global Inspiration

The kitchen combines Italian cuisine with culinary influences from around the world, creating new taste experiences while staying true to deep-rooted Italian traditions. Classic dishes get a modern twist. Only carefully selected ingredients are used, and the team works closely with small wine producers to find bottles that perfectly complement the food. The warmth and expertise of the kitchen and service team are essential to the restaurant's success.

The Menu

A set menu is offered in three courses (€52) or four courses (€64), with each additional course €12. The meal takes about two hours. Starters include grilled artichoke with capricciosa salad, frisée, candied lemon, and quinoa; or grilled beetroot with ajitama egg, garlic sauce, chicory, and smoked almonds. Pasta options change seasonally—recent dishes include paccheri with Jerusalem artichoke, black olive soil, and orange zest; pappardelle with vegetable jus, shiitake, and Brussels sprouts; and spaghetti with fish ragout, bagna cauda, and crispy almond-lemon-parsley. For dessert, a deconstructed cannolo with ricotta cream and pistachio sorbet, or a pumpkin-zabaglione torta with coffee ice cream.

Michelin Recommended

CARUSO Pastabar earned a Michelin Recommended distinction for 2026, recognizing the kitchen's skill and the warm, expert service of the team. The restaurant is located in the historic Dreikönigenviertel (Three Kings quarter), a fitting address for an Italian restaurant in the city sometimes called the northernmost city of Italy.

Atmosphere

The dining room is relaxed and welcoming, with outdoor seating available in warmer months. Vegetarian options are clearly marked on the menu, and the team is happy to accommodate allergies and intolerances. The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday from 18:00, with the kitchen serving until 22:00.