World Pasta Day, Canadian Style
When people think of comfort foods, one of the first things that comes to mind is a bowl of pasta. Maybe it’s mac and cheese, simple buttered noodles, or a fresh vodka sauce. Pasta is a staple on dinner tables and takeout menus across Canada.
But the age-old debate remains: when it comes to shape, which ones win?
While preferences vary across Canada, Italy, the birthplace of beloved pasta, offers some insight into the country’s favourite shapes.
Let’s dig in to see the top picks in celebration of World Pasta Day!
Spaghetti – 70%
It’s no surprise that spaghetti takes the top spot as Italy’s most consumed pasta shape, and it’s just as loved in Canada. It pairs perfectly with nearly any sauce, from a rich Bolognese to a simple aglio e olio. For takeout lovers, spaghetti is a go-to because it holds its shape well and reheats well for next-day leftovers.
Penne – 65%
This versatile tube earns its spot in second place. The hollow center, outer ridges, and angled ends make penne perfect for capturing sauce, whether it’s a creamy vodka sauce or a smooth pesto. Visit any Italian restaurant or check out any takeout menu, and you’re almost guaranteed to find penne featured somewhere.
Fusilli – 48%
The fun spiral, sometimes called rotini, brings texture to any plate. Like penne, fusilli’s tight coils are perfect for trapping sauce, herbs, and spices. Its dense structure makes it hard to overcook. It’s ideal for takeout, reheating, or even serving cold. It’s flexible, delicious, and a perfect choice for celebrating World Pasta Day.
Rigatoni – 40%
Rigatoni is a hearty pasta best suited to thick sauces, meats, and vegetables. Its large, hollow tubes capture all the best bits of a meaty ragù or chunky tomato sauce. In Canada, rigatoni is a restaurant favourite for those bold, rich flavours that fill you up.
Farfalle – 33%
Also known as bow-tie or butterfly pasta, farfalle rounds out the top five. Its unique shape adds visual appeal and holds lighter sauces like lemon cream or garlic butter perfectly. It’s quick, easy, and ideal for lunch takeout!
Whether you twirl, scoop, or stab your noodles, pasta is loved around the world. And for those craving takeout instead of time in the kitchen, one Quebec favourite takes pasta to the next level.
Celebrate World Pasta Day Quebec Style
If you’re celebrating World Pasta Day in Quebec, skip the cooking and treat yourself to takeout from Lulu’s Pasta Bar. 
Lulu’s Pasta Bar brings hospitality and quality back to the table and takeout, two things the world needs now more than ever. From the start, Lulu hasn’t just served food, but has created an experience that moves people. Every guest feels loved from the warmth of the welcome to the atmosphere, and of course, the fresh pasta they serve.
The spot on Maisonneuve Blvd. in Montreal uses the finest ingredients, including semolina flour, authentic Parmigiano Reggiano, and high-grade olive oil, taking every detail into account.
“It’s about giving people a sense of care, connection, and comfort that stays with them long after they leave,” says the team at Lulu’s, who are committed to delivering quality in every bite.
Data courtesy of YouGov.
