10 Highest-Rated Italian Restaurants In Minnesota Right Now According To Locals

Ratings shift constantly, but a handful of Italian spots in Minnesota keep landing at the top no matter how often lists get refreshed.

That consistency doesn’t happen by accident. Sauces simmer from scratch, pasta gets rolled rather than shipped frozen, and portions stay generous enough that leftovers become part of the plan.

Regulars return specifically for dishes they’ve ordered dozens of times already, never once tempted to try something new instead.

Competition among Italian restaurants runs steep across Minnesota, yet these particular spots keep pulling ahead through word of mouth more than advertising.

Minnesota diners take these recommendations seriously, treating a solid rating almost like a personal endorsement passed between friends rather than strangers online.

1. Bar La Grassa, Minneapolis, MN

Bar La Grassa earns its reputation every single night. Tucked into the North Loop of Minneapolis, this place has a buzz about it that you feel the moment you step through the door.

The space is spacious yet intimate, with a long bar and a private dining room that makes it equally great for solo dinners or group celebrations.

The pasta here is genuinely exceptional. From the mushroom and taleggio agnolotti to the short rib maltagliati, every dish shows real craft and attention to detail. The menu is built around shared plates, which means you can try more of what the kitchen does best.

I found myself ordering more than I planned, and I have zero regrets about it.

The staff are knowledgeable and genuinely enthusiastic about the food. Spiced carpaccio bruschetta is a standout starter that regulars swear by. Desserts are just as thoughtful as the savory courses, with the gjetost cheesecake being a surprisingly delightful finish.

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends. Valet parking is available and keeps things easy. This is the kind of restaurant that raises the bar for Italian dining in the entire Twin Cities area.

Address: 800 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401

2. DeGidio’s Restaurant & Bar, St. Paul, St Paul, MN

There is something deeply comforting about a restaurant that has been doing things right for decades. DeGidio’s in St. Paul is exactly that kind of place. It carries the warmth of a family-run kitchen with a casual atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome the moment they sit down.

The tortellini bolognese is a crowd favorite for good reason. Rich, hearty, and full of flavor, it is the kind of dish that reminds you why Italian classics never go out of style. The pesto pasta is another highlight, creamy and balanced without being heavy.

Portions are generous, and the kitchen clearly takes pride in every plate that goes out.

Lunch and dinner are both popular here, and the staff move with an easy efficiency that keeps things running smoothly even on busy evenings. The restaurant also offers takeout, which is a great option if you want a taste of the best Italian in St. Paul from the comfort of home.

There is plenty of parking on-site, which is always a relief. For date nights, family dinners, or a solo lunch, DeGidio’s checks every box. It has built a loyal following in the Twin Cities, and one visit makes it very clear why.

Address: 425 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102

3. Va Bene, Duluth, MN

Duluth is a city that already has stunning scenery, and Va Bene somehow manages to match it with food that is just as impressive. Sitting right along Superior Street with views of Lake Superior, this indoor-outdoor spot turns a great meal into a full sensory experience.

The deck seating fills up fast on warm days, and it is easy to see why.

The pasta is freshly prepared and carries real authenticity. Salsiccia e panna is a rich, satisfying dish that has become a signature here. The Caprese salad is a perfect starter, clean and bright, exactly what you want before a heartier plate. The kitchen uses quality ingredients and it shows in every bite.

Va Bene has been a go-to for visitors passing through Duluth for years, and it holds up beautifully as a destination in its own right. The atmosphere manages to feel both relaxed and special at the same time, which is a hard balance to strike.

The gelato at the end of the meal is a must. Service is attentive without being overbearing. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when the patio tables are highly sought after. This is genuinely one of the best Italian experiences you can have in northern Minnesota.

Address: 734 E Superior St, Duluth, MN 55802

4. Terza, Rochester, MN

Rochester has a lot going for it, and Terza is near the top of the list. The restaurant brings a polished, modern energy to Italian dining without losing any of the warmth that makes the cuisine so appealing. The decor is tasteful and subdued, with lighting that feels genuinely romantic on a weeknight dinner.

The housemade pasta is the thing to order here. Pappardelle with grilled chicken and the tagliatelle wild mushroom are both outstanding, with the kind of depth that only comes from real technique.

Meatballs are tender and full of flavor. The crispy calamari makes a great shared starter. The tiramisu is a proper version, not too sweet, with just the right texture.

Terza also carries an impressive wine list that spans the globe, which pairs beautifully with the Italian-forward menu. The kitchen takes traditional dishes seriously while still leaving room for creativity. Staff are happy to guide you through the menu, especially if you are unsure which pasta to choose.

Reservations are a good idea, particularly Thursday through Saturday when the dining room fills up quickly. There is plenty of parking nearby, making it easy to plan your evening around a meal here. Terza earns its title as the best Italian in Rochester without any argument.

Address: 30 3rd St SE, Rochester, MN 55904

5. Olio, Bayport, MN

Bayport is a quiet little town along the St. Croix Valley, and Olio fits right into its unhurried character. But do not let the small-town setting fool you. The cooking here is seriously elevated, with a menu that shows real ambition and a kitchen that delivers on every promise it makes.

The sourdough focaccia is the perfect way to start, warm and pillowy with just the right amount of salt. Squid ink pasta is a showstopper, bold in color and rich in flavor. The rigatoni is another favorite, hearty and deeply satisfying.

Panna cotta for dessert is a light, elegant finish that rounds out the meal beautifully. Every dish feels intentional.

The space itself is cozy and inviting, with a romantic feel that makes it ideal for date nights or a relaxed dinner with close friends. The cocktail menu is creative and well-balanced, which adds another reason to arrive a little early and settle in at the bar.

Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, which is a nice touch for anyone traveling with a furry companion. Olio has built a quietly loyal following in the area, and its near-perfect reputation among locals speaks volumes. Getting a reservation ahead of time is a smart move here.

Address: 338 5th Ave N, Bayport, MN 55003

6. Maucieri’s Italian Bistro, Crosslake, MN

Crosslake sits right in the heart of Minnesota lake country, and Maucieri’s has become as much a part of the landscape as the water itself.

This is a place that has been feeding locals and lake visitors for years, and it has earned every bit of its loyal following through consistency and genuine care for the food it puts out.

The marinara sauce, or gravy as it is traditionally called, is housemade and deeply flavorful. It is the kind of sauce that makes you want to mop the plate clean with bread. The lasagna and manicotti are both highly recommended by regulars.

Homemade pasta and big parmesan flakes are touches that show real Italian cooking sensibility.

The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, with a fireplace that makes it especially inviting in the cooler months. Live music adds to the fun on select evenings. The patio is pet-friendly, which is perfect for summer visits when the lake crowd is in full swing.

Kids are welcome, and the menu has options that keep the whole family happy. Catering services are also available for events in the area. Maucieri’s is the kind of place you come back to every time you are up north, without question.

Address: 34650 Co Rd 3, Crosslake, MN 56442

7. Ciao Bella, Bloomington, MN

Ciao Bella in Bloomington brings a level of polish and creativity to Italian dining that keeps a full dining room night after night. The art-filled interior gives the space a lively, cultured energy, and the terrace adds a wonderful option when the weather cooperates.

It feels like a restaurant that genuinely enjoys what it does.

Seafood is where this kitchen really shines. Pesto crusted sea bass and red pepper linguini with scallops are both exceptional, showing a refined touch with ingredients that could easily be overdone. The linguini di mare is a standout for anyone who loves a proper seafood pasta.

Braised short ribs offer a rich, comforting alternative for those who prefer something heartier. The bread that arrives at the table is already worth the visit on its own.

The dessert list is thoughtful, and the tiramisu is a proper, classic version done with care. The wine list is long and well-curated, making it easy to find a pairing that elevates whatever you order. Service here is consistently praised for being attentive and knowledgeable without feeling stiff.

Lunch and dinner are both served, and reservations are strongly recommended for dinner. The restaurant also has a private dining room, making it a popular choice for business dinners and special celebrations alike.

Address: 3501 Minnesota Dr, Bloomington, MN 55435

8. Valentini’s | Italian – American, Hermantown, MN

Just outside Duluth in Hermantown, Valentini’s has carved out a well-deserved reputation as one of the best Italian kitchens in the region. The setting is casual and comfortable, but the food carries a level of quality that feels anything but ordinary.

It is the kind of place where you come in expecting a good meal and leave genuinely impressed.

The lasagna is legendary among regulars. Layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and perfectly baked pasta come together in a way that is hard to beat anywhere. The fettuccine alfredo is silky and indulgent, a classic done exactly right.

Chicken marsala brings tender, well-seasoned protein in a sauce that is both rich and balanced. The meatballs have earned serious praise and deserve a spot on your order every single time.

Breakfast and brunch are also served, which is fairly rare for an Italian-focused restaurant and adds real versatility to the experience. The fireplace creates a cozy atmosphere that feels especially welcoming during Minnesota winters.

The staff are warm and efficient, keeping things running smoothly across a full day of service. There is plenty of free parking, and the restaurant is easy to reach from Duluth. A private dining room is available for groups.

Address: 4960 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown, MN 55811

9. Cafe Sapori di Sicilia, Winona, MN

Winona is a beautiful river town tucked beneath limestone bluffs along the Mississippi, and Cafe Sapori di Sicilia feels like it belongs in a Sicilian side street rather than small-town Minnesota. That is a genuine compliment.

The housemade breads, pastries, and pastas bring a level of authenticity that is rare to find this far from the coasts.

The carbonara here is a proper version, made with technique and respect for the original. It is the kind of dish that reminds you how good simple ingredients can be when handled with care. The ciabattini con olive is another regular order, and the cannoli are fresh and well-executed.

Gelato rounds out the experience beautifully, especially after a rich pasta lunch.

Coffee is taken seriously here. The cappuccino is well-pulled and satisfying, making this a great morning stop as well as a full lunch or dinner destination. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, with a quiet energy that makes it easy to settle in with a laptop or linger over a second coffee.

Free parking is available nearby, and the cafe is open most days of the week. The outdoor seating is a lovely option in warmer months. For anyone passing through Winona on a Mississippi River road trip, this spot is an absolute must-stop. It is genuinely one of a kind in Minnesota.

Address: 211 Main St, Winona, MN 55987

10. Broders’ Pasta Bar, Minneapolis, MN

South Minneapolis has a lot of beloved neighborhood restaurants, and Broders’ Pasta Bar sits comfortably at the top of the list for Italian. The concept is simple and focused: cooked-to-order pasta, quality ingredients, and daily specials that keep regulars coming back to see what is new.

Simple ideas done brilliantly tend to last, and this place has proven that.

The bolognese is frequently called the best pasta in all of Minnesota by people who have eaten widely and know the difference. Linguine con granchio and paccheri con stracotto are personal favorites for those who love deeply flavored, slow-cooked sauces.

Butternut squash ravioli is a seasonal highlight that showcases the kitchen’s range. The risotto gorgonzola is rich and satisfying, perfect for a cool evening. Tiramisu finishes the meal on a high note.

The space is cozy and unpretentious, with a neighborhood feel that makes you want to become a regular. Dogs are welcome, which adds to the relaxed, community-driven character of the place. Free wi-fi and a warm atmosphere make it a comfortable spot for a solo lunch or a leisurely dinner.

The wine list leans Italian and pairs well with everything on the menu. Reservations are accepted and worth making, especially on weekend evenings when the dining room fills up. Broders’ is a Minneapolis institution that earns its reputation every single service.

Address: 5000 Penn Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55419