The Shocking Rebrand: 5 Things You Must Know About Casa D'Angelo Aspen’s Transformation To Angelo’s Ristorante (2025 Update)

Contents
The world of Aspen's elite fine dining has undergone a major transformation, and the former Casa D'Angelo is at the center of the change. As of the most current updates in late 2024 and early 2025, the beloved Italian institution, which had taken over the iconic Pinons space, has been acquired and rebranded by the Aspen Hospitality Group (AHG) into a new, upscale concept: Angelo’s Ristorante. This pivot marks a significant evolution in the town's culinary landscape, promising a refreshed atmosphere and an even more exquisite Northern Italian experience, while still paying homage to the culinary legacy of its founder, celebrity Chef Angelo Elia. This deep dive is essential reading for anyone planning a visit to the Rocky Mountains, as the restaurant you knew as Casa D'Angelo no longer exists under that name. The new entity, Angelo's, is the must-visit Italian destination for the Winter 2024-2025 season, boasting a renovated space at 105 S Mill St and a menu that blends classic Italian luxury with a distinct Aspen flair. We explore the full story, from the chef’s roots to the signature dishes that are already defining the new era of fine dining in the heart of Colorado.

The Culinary Mastermind: Chef Angelo Elia Biography and Empire

The transition from Casa D'Angelo to Angelo's Ristorante is fundamentally tied to the vision of its founder, Chef Angelo Elia, whose name remains synonymous with authentic, high-end Italian cuisine. The new concept is a continuation of his lifelong dedication to the flavors of his homeland.

  • Full Name: Angelo Elia
  • Born: Salerno, Italy (Southern Italy)
  • Culinary Experience: Over 30 years in the industry, focusing on Old World Italian traditions.
  • U.S. Start: Moved to South Florida with his wife, Denise Elia.
  • First Restaurant: Opened the original Casa D'Angelo in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1998.
  • Restaurant Group: Oversees The Angelo Elia Group, a culinary empire.
  • Group Holdings: Includes multiple fine dining establishments (like Duemani and Acquolina) and several casual dining spots under the name Angelo Elia Pizza, Bar and Tapas.
  • Culinary Style: Known for traditional Tuscan-inspired menus, homemade pasta, and a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
  • Aspen Legacy: Brought his signature fine dining concept to Aspen, taking over the prestigious location formerly held by Pinons at 105 S Mill St.

The Casa D'Angelo Rebrand: Why It Changed to Angelo's Ristorante

The biggest news surrounding the 105 S Mill St location is its recent acquisition and subsequent rebrand. The establishment, which had been operating as Casa D'Angelo, was purchased by the Aspen Hospitality Group (AHG). This strategic move was designed to refresh the concept and solidify its place among Aspen's ultra-luxury dining scene.

A New Name, A Refined Concept

The name change to Angelo's Ristorante is more than just a simplification; it signals an updated and refined concept. While the spirit of Chef Elia’s authentic Italian cuisine remains the core of the experience, the new brand represents the Aspen Hospitality Group’s vision for a modern, upscale Northern Italian restaurant. This transition was a key highlight of the Winter 2024-2025 season openings, drawing significant attention from both locals and seasonal visitors.

  • Acquisition: Purchased by Aspen Hospitality Group (AHG) from the previous owners.
  • Goal: To renovate and rebrand the establishment into a new, exquisite Italian dining concept.
  • Location: Remains at the highly sought-after 105 S Mill St, offering stunning views of Aspen Mountain.
  • Atmosphere: The renovation included an upgraded bar and dining area, focusing on welcoming warmth with sophisticated and clean details, moving away from the more traditional feel of the original Casa D'Angelo.

The Menu: Signature Dishes and Aspen Exclusives

Despite the name change, the heart of the menu—the commitment to authentic, high-quality Italian ingredients—is preserved. Angelo's Ristorante continues the tradition of fine dining Italian, with a specific focus on fresh, homemade pasta and seasonal offerings. This is a place where every dish is prepared according to Old World traditions, straight from the heart of Italy.

Must-Try Signature Dishes

The menu at Angelo's is designed to be a memorable dining experience, featuring classic Italian dishes alongside unique creations tailored for the Aspen clientele. The restaurant proudly maintains a focus on its extensive Wine Cellar, which perfectly complements the rich flavors of the cuisine.

  • Homemade Pasta: The cornerstone of the menu; all pasta is made fresh daily, a hallmark of the Angelo Elia Group.
  • Pasta with Lobster: Consistently cited as a must-try pasta dish, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to premium seafood.
  • Angelo Salad: A highly recommended appetizer, often described as a well-served portion perfect for sharing.
  • Northern Italian Cuisine: The overall concept leans into the rich, sophisticated flavors of Northern Italy.
  • Aspen Exclusives: The menu features approximately 10 items that are unique and specific to the Aspen location, ensuring a distinct dining experience not found at the Fort Lauderdale or Boca Raton locations.

The Aspen Dining Scene: Price Point and Luxury Experience

Angelo's Ristorante, formerly Casa D'Angelo, is firmly positioned in the ultra-luxury tier of the Aspen dining scene. This is a high-end experience, and the price points reflect the quality of the ingredients, the prime location, and the sophisticated service.

Expectations for Fine Dining

Diners should anticipate a fine dining experience where the average price for entrees can easily exceed $50. The restaurant caters to those seeking an elegant night out, offering a sophisticated setting with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The experience is often compared to other top-tier Italian spots in the region, such as Acquolina, reinforcing its status as a premier destination for upscale Italian cuisine in Colorado.

  • Price Range: High-end/Luxury (Expect premium pricing to match the quality and location).
  • Cuisine Focus: Authentic Italian, Seasonal Ingredients, Fresh Seafood.
  • Key Entities: Aspen Hospitality Group (AHG), Angelo Elia Group, 105 S Mill St, Pinons, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Salerno, Wine Cellar, Homemade Pasta, Pasta with Lobster, Angelo Salad, Duemani, Acquolina.
The Shocking Rebrand: 5 Things You Must Know About Casa D'Angelo Aspen’s Transformation to Angelo’s Ristorante (2025 Update)
casa d angelo aspen
casa d angelo aspen

Detail Author:

  • Name : Berry McCullough
  • Username : ortiz.dortha
  • Email : rschmidt@bayer.com
  • Birthdate : 1972-08-01
  • Address : 278 Olaf Lane East Melba, OR 41643-3961
  • Phone : 402-719-4257
  • Company : Wintheiser PLC
  • Job : Molding Machine Operator
  • Bio : Ut voluptatem excepturi enim et consequatur error qui. Veritatis saepe enim minus quibusdam. Et hic illo labore laborum qui vel. Voluptatibus ipsa at adipisci maxime eos sed aut animi.

Socials

instagram:

  • url : https://instagram.com/erin_official
  • username : erin_official
  • bio : Autem ut facere eveniet et. In qui corporis culpa beatae consectetur amet accusamus.
  • followers : 5446
  • following : 2558

tiktok:

  • url : https://tiktok.com/@o'conner2025
  • username : o'conner2025
  • bio : Minus quis omnis impedit voluptas velit aspernatur nesciunt.
  • followers : 1050
  • following : 2610

twitter:

  • url : https://twitter.com/eo'conner
  • username : eo'conner
  • bio : Suscipit iusto hic eos dolore ut ab rem. Necessitatibus ea assumenda reiciendis architecto modi. Ad inventore nemo corrupti eius.
  • followers : 6419
  • following : 2109

linkedin:

facebook: