Mouthwatering Italian in Minneapolis

Caffè Biaggio

★★★★☆ 4.1 (168) • $$

"What a hidden gem!! I've driven past Caffe Biaggio countless times and I'm mad at myself for not trying it sooner. Be prepared for for fresh, delicious pasta and some of the best marinara sauce I've ever had. I've tried quite a few dishes here and they were all incredible. The potato gnocchi is soft and fluffy, paired perfectly with a creamy sauce. The Cioppino has so much flavor and was a huge portion and enough for two meals for me. They also have a great selection of wine and mixed drinks and a great dessert menu. I've tried the white chocolate bread putting and it was amazing. I've also had some sort of almond ice cream that was also very good. Service is always great and staff are very friendly. They also have a parking lot which is always a plus for me. This isn't your typical boojee Italian joint. It has more of a local feel with classic Italian recipes and I love it. It's one of those meals that you don't forget and constantly crave after trying. They also have some unique ties to Tony Bennet so you can read up on the history while you dine."

Chianti Grill Burnsville

★★★★☆ 4 (328) • $$

"Chianti is always Top Notch! Service, ambiance, variety on the menu, and the drink menu. All out of the park. They mix great drinks, portions are great, and service is as good as any of the very high end restaurants I've been to. Prices are great considering this to me is more like a dining experience. Just sayin."

Barzini’s Italian Depot

★★★★☆ 4.1 (36)

"I met up with my aunt for dinner on main street. I didn't know main street is popular amongst the locals. I was craving Italian food and found this restaurant. It's small but cute. They were busy too. Small menu my aunt ordered the steak with soup, delicious by the way. I went with my usual chicken Alfredo."

Dino's Pizzeria

★★★★☆ 3.7 (92) • $$

"Delicious pizza, friendly staff, and a super cute and cozy atmosphere! We really loved the December special pizza "Italiano.""

Giulia

★★★★☆ 4 (202) • $$

"I was staying at this location for a few days. I ended up eating here three nights. The ambience is perfect, there's a lot of plants, a very green space with soft lighting and the entire lobby/restaurant area. Very pleasant.It's a large space with plenty of seating, to include the bar area.My first impression was awful, due to a very rude bartender. I had to come down to pick up food I had ordered, because there was no one at the host stand for sometime. I made my way to the bar. A very tall male bartender turned to me, and I explained I was here to pick up food, before I could finish my sentence he cut me me off, told me he'd help me in a minute and turn back towards the register to input his tips. I took a seat at the bar, he never returned to help me.I ended up having a friend meet me at the bar and having my food there. Had it not been that the pasta was so good I would not have returned to eat the next couple nights. But honestly, he was so short and rude towards me that it made me wonder if I had offended him in someway. I don't think I did, as my interaction with him was so brief.Everything I had here was good, except for the olive tapenade. It just wasn't to my liking., But that's just my personal taste, perhaps. I also thought the pizza was just OK. Nothing crazy.I definitely stick with the pasta, and recommend the shrimp pasta, which is unfortunately the only one I didn't take a picture of. I would avoid the very tall male bartender. You should not expect faster service if you're sitting at the bar, I'm always patient in the sun, so I'm not taking any stars off for that experience. I just really think that the bartender could do better with interacting with guests."

Dominick's

★★★★★ 4.5 (98) • $

"Dominick's is my go to spot for pizza, Strombolis, and sandwiches in the metro! The food is always amazing and the owners employees are always friendly and engaging. I was nervous, like everyone, when the ownership changed in 2023 but the good news is the food and service is exactly the same still!"

Picnic Linden Hills

★★★★☆ 4.3 (30)

"Adorable spot for a fancy night out. Not a ton of seating, but my friend and I arrived around 5 and had no issue snagging a spot. We shared a charcuterie board and wine. Both were so good, but we saw some plates of sandwiches and salads and...I will definitely want to come back to try those because they looked really good!!!! Definitely on the pricey side but worth it for a fun outing. The staff were so so so friendly, some of the best service I've experienced in MPLS!!"

Josefina

★★★★☆ 4.2 (198)

"Great food and atmosphere. The really good bartender is no longer there. : (Porkchop great Chicken greatCaesar greatPizza great"

Detello's

★★★★☆ 4 (95) • $$

"Probably the best pizza in Chaska. Their pizza boasts loaded toppings, fresh and hot within 20-30min items of ordering ahead for takeout. Staff is laid back and the kitchen team appear to communicate well and enjoy their job. I highly recommend ordering a pepperoni with onion pizza and thank me later!"

JT's Food & Cocktails

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (25)

"The killebrew burger is on point along with the parmesan fries. Service was great and the decor was pleasant."

Sagra Food And Wine

★★★★★ 4.8 (18)

"This place is absolutely amazing! We had an amazing experience and our servicer was amazing. She recommended a delicious bottle of wine. The food was hands down the best pasta we have ever had. It was all so fresh. The calamari and cannolis were also delicious!"

DiMaggio's Pizza & Pasta

★★★★☆ 3.5 (30) • $$

"Hands down the best pizza in St. Cloud. I have not tried any of the pasta or sandwiches, but with pizza this good, why bother?"

Estelle

★★★★★ 4.7 (208)

"I love Estelle's. If you want great tasting consistent food this is your place. On street parking."

Eau Claire Ale House

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (56) • $

"DEEP. FRIED. BACON.Need I say more? No, I could stop here and be content with my review.However, just to round this out. The burgers are cooked pretty close to your liking, even if you ask for rare...which I find to be rare in the Midwest, so mos def a plus. There is also a pretty solid assortment of brews to choose from, as one would expect at an ale house.Also, even on a random weekday night, the day or so before Thanksgiving to be precise, we received decent service.Definitely worth checking out... if not just for the glorious DFB."

Gruzys Italian Beef House & Pub

★★★★☆ 4.3 (32) • $

"Pizza would be a 9, IF their oven weren't so fucking dirty the crust/edges didn't taste like straight cancer. Service was awesome, atmosphere clean, prices beyond fair. Rosas pizza puff tasted like Pillsbury dough deep fried in chunks basted in garlic butter. Tasty af but missing mozz & pepp like menu read."

Due Focacceria

★★★★☆ 4.2 (107) • $$

"This may be my favorite summer food spot, and thats pretty much exclusively because of the vibes and outdoor space. Don't get me wrong, the sandwiches are beautifully crafted and use high quality ingredients, and the service is great, but what really elevates it for me is the outdoor seating combined with the walk up window. After a long bike ride, not having to lock my bike up, and just recovering with a nice cold beer and a deliciously light sandwich on a sunny patio just feels RIGHT."

Tally Ho Supper Club

★★★★☆ 4.2 (68) • $$$

"We have enjoyed dining here in the past. Unfortunately, the last two times we tried to eat there, we had reservations which didn't seem to mean much. First time, we waited, and were seated an hour after our reservation time. Today, we gave up after waiting 30 minutes. I hope they can improve their reservation system, as we have liked their food in the past."

Pompeii Pizzeria

★★★★☆ 3.9 (179) • $$

"Our family loves this place. The pizza is amazing. The salads are too. The variety means everyone is happy and I personally think the seasonal menu is creative and always delicious. The dining area is small but works. You order and pay at the counter. They will bring your food out when prepared. This family of 5 highly recommends you stop and give it a try."

Mexitalian Pizzeria

★★★★★ 4.6 (11)

"Had the pasta with shrimp and a large supreme pizza.The pasta exceeded expectations, highly recommend.The pizza was good, definitely better than any other mall pizza I've had.Give this place a try!It's in the Burnsville Center food court, I DoorDash from here."

The Italian Pie Shoppe - St. Paul

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (160) • $$

"Got a pepperoni slice on thin crust after being told they have great pizza by a couple people and I was not disappointed. The crunchy crust was a nice texture contrast to the gooey melty cheese. Toppings were not skimped on that is for sure. Staff are very friendly and the place has a great vibe with old newspaper clippings for decoration on the tables. It wasn't crowded at all when I went at around 3:30 on a Friday."

Sorellina's

★★★★☆ 3.8 (53)

"I've eaten at Sorellina's twice now and really like the food. Convenient location. Nice interior. It's not too loud, which I appreciate."

Primo Pizza

★★★★☆ 3.8 (33) • $$

"This place is so much better under new management now no more smoking in the kitchen and rudeness to patrons. really enjoy going here now where before it was kind of not the best place because the attitude of the staff. That has changed dramatically. the pizza is just plain good old fashion pizza, With a nice welcoming atmosphere."

Ciao Thyme

★★★★☆ 3.6 (18)

"This is a great place for Little Falls! I've enjoyed every meal we've had there and the service has always been spot on."

Salute Wine Bar and More

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (39) • $$

"Stayed at the Marriott & ate here a few times. Reservations are not necessary (no wait usually) but available on OpenTable (for those point collectors). Staff is nice and friendly. Food comes out pretty quick. Quality of food is hit or miss. Things I liked:- Wings- Meatballs- Build your own pastaThings I didn't like:- Salad (not fresh)Things I was indifferent about (but probably won't order again):- Steak- Quesadillas If you're looking for a quick meal with decent prices, come here during their happy hour (3-6PM daily). They're part of the hotel so opened on holidays (which many restaurants around here aren't)."

Libertys Restaurant and Lounge

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (120) • $$

"Yum, I had the baked cod scrumptious!! Cheesy potatoes and wild rice soup. Totally recommend."

Punch Neapolitan Pizza - Eden Prarie

★★★★☆ 4.1 (211) • $$

"Hands down, The best pizza in MN. Everything else is just a copycat of the original."

Pizza Lucé

★★★★☆ 3.7 (329) • $$

"Consistently great! The menu truly has something for everyone. Almost always friendly service - especially the delivery drivers. The inside ambiance doesn't compare well to the downtown Minneapolis location, but the nice patio makes up for it during the warmer months. Feels like a nice neighborhood restaurant despite being part of a local chain. Highly recommended for a classic pie, tofu bowl, or salad. Pizza recommendation: Vegan Ruby Rae!"

Punch Neapolitan Pizza - Woodbury

★★★★☆ 4 (136) • $$

"It's not often that I talk up a pizza place, but when I do, I'm now going to mention Punch Pizza!These wood-fired pizzas are truly the bomb! I got a simple Margherita pizza (mozzarella, tomatoes and basil) and added mushrooms and gave it's a chef's kiss.The crust was thick and doughy and delicious, and the pizza just melted in your mouth. The regular size was perfect for one hungry and prepared person to eat. I do think if you get a specialty pizza it's a bit expensive- my friend got one and it was $17 for the same amount of toppings I got on mine, and mine was around $11.But I'd rather pay more here for a pizza you know will be good than a crappy fast food pizza or from an overrated pizza place. I think Punch earns their appreciation. They certainly do pack a flavor punch!"

Latuff's Pizzeria

★★★★☆ 3.5 (135) • $$

"I was in the area and thought this would be good to take home. I enjoy different pizzas and never get from chains. Nice big pieces of sausage and a good sauce. However this thin crust style should be eaten right away in the restaurant preferred. We didn't eat it at home right away either. We nuked it hours later. I like that the bathroom is in the front of house."

Broders Cucina Italiana

★★★★☆ 4.1 (215) • $$

"I love this place! Whether stopping in for a meal or buying items to go book club or another gathering I've always had a great experience here. The quality of everything is superb whether fresh, frozen, on location or to go you can't miss.Definitely has the feel of an old school Italian joint from the East coast. So legit. You definitely need to try them out ! Make a special trip! It's worth it!"

Victoriano's Pizza

★★★★☆ 3.8 (113) • $

"Great NY style crust! Ordered a large which was cut into large slices to make it easy to fold and eat."

Primo Plates & Pours

★★★★☆ 4.2 (122) • $$

"This restaurant is a "over achiever" OH MY WORD... I am still dreaming about the Alfredo! It was still amazing the next day!!! Ok, I got ahead of myself. The restaurant is small but quaint. The service was spectacular! Order the lemoncello/ lemon drop martini it's delicious. We also had a gin and dirty martini which were excellent. We then moved on to wine, followed by great food. The red sauce was robust and flavorful... but I can't get over the Alfredo! I won't lie it's priced on the high side but I'm still going back."

Gary's Pizza

★★★★☆ 3.7 (22) • $$

"Gary's does the job. When it came to feeding my student staff, Gary's was the obvious choice for price. We got cheese, cream cheese + cheese, and a vegetable pizza (because of Lent), and the food was delicious. Yes, it's greasy, but that's pizza. I was surprised by the cream cheese + cheese pizza, and the vegetable pizza was awesome (loaded with veggies). Pick-up was easy, but a couple of the people behind the counter ignored me...so I had to wait until I caught someone's attention before I could ask after my pizzas.Hot pizza, easy pick-up, and reasonably priced."

Louis Ristorante & Bar

★★★★☆ 3.6 (259) • $$

"Great restaurant in the heart of St. Paul! We stopped here before an event and had great service and the food was delicious! I had the FILLETTO ALLA GRIGLIA and it was cooked to perfection!If your looking for a fancy dinner or a good date night meal, Louis is the place to go!"

Marinos Deli

★★★★☆ 4 (81) • $

"SUPER SANDWICHI love searching for hidden gems and Mariano's deli delivered. When I arrived at the icy parking lot I met a sweet old lady who asked me to help her through the snow. She told me how she was buying her son a gift card for Mariano's Deli. All I could think about was that her son is a lucky guy. As we walked in the store, I told her I was going to order my food and then I would walk her back to her car, after she bought the gift card. Finally, all of my years as a Boy Scout were finally paying off. Mariano's Deli opened in 1985 but the recipes were born in Italy in 1896 with Ralph Marino. He is the one who taught Mary Marino about cooking. Mary Marino known as "Nana" established her reputation cooking from the 40's through the 70's in various Minneapolis area restaurants. The best part...her recipes live on here at the restaurant every single day. The Meatballs are amazing and I'd highly recommend them. They even put sliced meatballs on their Italian sub sandwich. That's a first for me and it was really delicious. This sub sandwich was actually created by a customer who loved their daily Meatball sandwiches but wanted to eat something new on the menu. All I can think is that this customer was a culinary genius. They literally mixed two sandwiches and created something new. I learned that I could order the sub "Old School". Which means they will actually smash the whole Meatball on the sandwich. That is how they first made it for the customer who created it. I didn't learn this great tip from the owner Ralph, until I was leaving. I'm totally ordering it that way the next time I dine here. The bread is baked fresh daily using a family recipe. The sandwich is the best here and I'd totally get it again. I had the lasagna too but I wouldn't recommend it. I ordered it with a side of meatballs and that was the highlight. The lasagna is very simple with noodles, sauce and cheese. It lacked any complexity or depth. I guess I was hoping for more from the lasagna. You definitely do not want to miss this five table grocery store gem. You might even catch Ralph doing his paper work on two of the tables. No really. When I walked in it looked like he was doing his taxes. Ha! I simply love family businesses because they have all of the charm in the world. I can't wait to come back for that fantastic sub sandwich again. Every deli should add fresh meatballs to their Italian sub sandwiches."