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Central Minneapolis' best

Italian food dinner spots

A long dinner over plates of pasta is the standard for a slow evening.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated April 2026
01
Star Bar & Bistro image 1
Star Bar & Bistro image 2
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Space combines mid-century modern design with twinkling starburst ceiling and neon-lit walls creating a retro, artsy vibe. Live music fills the room, sometimes loud, adding energy to the atmosphere. Comfortable seating and cocktail tables encourage relaxed conversation and socializing.

Lobster spaghetti features small lobster pieces with plenty of vegetables and comes in a large portion. Green goddess pasta and brussel sprouts also stand out, with panna cotta serving as a sweet finish.

People are saying

"The smashburger at this Lunch Spot is a must-try."

"The chicken sandwich at this dinner spot was crispy, salty, and slightly sweet."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the lobster pasta."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for happy hour to secure a table.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport.

02
EaTo image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and patio seating create a lively and engaging setting with cool atmosphere and great vibes. Space balances high and low top tables spaced to avoid crowding, supporting comfortable conversations. Artistic touches like live dog drawings add unique charm to the experience.

Chicken Parmesan stands out with its rich flavor and hearty portions. Pasta options like Bolognese and Penne Vodka feature homemade sauces that draw repeat visits. The pistachio cannoli offers a unique, memorable dessert experience.

Dinner features a three-course menu option and attentive service from staff like James and Chloe. The atmosphere suits both solo diners at the bar and large groups, with helpful planning support for big dinners.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and authentic Italian."

"Their Bolognese was a no-brainer for our wedding catering."

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with great deals on drinks and bites.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events in the designated room.

3

The menu includes personal pizzas called pizzetes during happy hour.

03
Stock & Bond MN image 1
Restaurant

Art deco design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere with elegant, modern decor reminiscent of the Great Gatsby era. The space feels carefully curated and visually stunning, offering a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. Valet parking and coat check add to the hassle-free, comfortable experience.

Short rib shines in the pasta dishes, especially the ravioli and tagliatelle, drawing strong praise for its rich flavor. The menu also features an 8oz wagyu steak served with whipped potatoes and mac and cheese.

Dinner here offers a fully available main menu with dishes that suit special occasions like birthdays and Thanksgiving. The meals consistently deliver an extraordinary and excellent experience.

People are saying

"The Wagyu Bavette steak was flavorful and cooked perfectly."

"The food at these dinner spots is fantastic and full of flavor."

"The short rib ravioli's sauce is rich and decadent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially for special events.

2

Valet service is not recommended due to past negative experiences.

3

The restaurant offers a private room for events like wedding receptions.

04
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1

Underground setting with eclectic decor featuring old photos and celebrity memorabilia creates a cozy, intimate vibe. Guests gather around large round tables with lazy Susans, enjoying classic Italian tunes and a lively atmosphere. The place blends homey charm with a memorable, authentic feel.

Lasagna stands out with its huge size and amazing texture and taste. Portions like the Alfredo Fettuccine with chicken come in large servings that easily allow for leftovers.

Hosts large groups easily with space for about 24 to 30 people. Offers affordable prices for dinner and drinks. Suitable for special occasions like rehearsal dinners and birthday celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The family-style dinner portions are massive and perfect for sharing."

"The Italian food portions here are massive, perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 11 PM.

2

Everything at Buca di Beppo is served family style.

3

Guests should come hungry because the portions are large.

05
Borough image 1
New American restaurant

Cozy space with warm lighting and rustic features creates a relaxing atmosphere that feels upscale without pretension. Staff contribute to a welcoming, lively vibe suited for romantic dinners or corporate meetings. Open kitchen view adds a dynamic touch to the beautiful, spacious decor.

Dishes highlight spicy lobster spaghetti with chili tomato sauce and bottarga, adding unique saltiness. The menu features flat iron steak, mushroom risotto, and beef tartar alongside classic pasta like lamb and gnocchi.

Dinner offers a romantic candle lit setting with attentive service. The experience feels lovely and consistently well taken care of.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the spicy lobster spaghetti."

"The dinner spots here have delicious steak and halibut mains."

"The Italian food here is wonderful, especially the lamb pasta."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for special occasions like Valentine's Day.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Portions are on the smaller side, so consider ordering multiple items.

06
Maison Margaux image 1
Restaurant

Historical building hosts a spacious restaurant with dark themed underground lounge and outdoor terrace featuring Paris and Monet imagery. Atmosphere blends high energy with classy, interactive vibes. Known for an exceptional Cognac and Armagnac selection and standout cocktails.

Linguine stands out with a lovely texture and flavor. The seafood platter and seared tuna add variety, while some pasta dishes come with minimal vegetables, mostly tomatoes.

Dinner here offers an incredible experience with memorable meals shared among family. The atmosphere supports a special evening out.

People are saying

"The French Food, especially the short ribs and bouillabaisse, was perfectly cooked and flavorful."

"The dinner spots here are incredible, especially the scallops."

"The Italian food here was amazing and everyone loved their dish."

Good to know

1

Social hour menu is available until 5:45pm, with drink specials until 6:00pm.

2

Dessert orders should be placed early as the kitchen gets busy around 10pm.

3

Upstairs is a great space for small weddings and events.

07
Salt & Flour Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and open concept design create a lively setting with DJ music enhancing the mood during brunch and dinner. Seating is tightly packed, making the space feel busy and energetic. Decor mixes expensive elements with casual touches, resulting in a unique but sometimes confusing atmosphere.

Fresh, house-made pasta pairs well with marinara sauce and meatballs, adding protein to the dish. Appetizers like focaccia and burnt burrata complement the Italian flavors nicely.

Patio dining offers a nice setting for dinner. Staff like Matthew and Gabe contribute to a great experience with friendly service.

People are saying

"The game liver mousse at these dinner spots was out of this world."

"The peanut butter tart dessert is like a gourmet Reese's, but way better."

"Zach made sure we felt informed about every Italian food menu item."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from Sunday to Thursday, which is rare on Sundays.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

Parking is available in a nearby ramp for $10.

08
Union Rooftop image 1
Bar & grill

Rooftop bar and grill offers lively atmosphere with a DJ and live performances creating high energy and loud noise levels. Guests enjoy great city views and bottomless mimosas during brunch. The space suits groups looking for a vibrant social setting with music and entertainment.

Large portions stand out, with one pasta and salad often enough for two. The menu features chicken Cajun Alfredo, butternut squash ravioli, and gnocchi, with pastas and desserts noted for their flavor.

Dinner here suits celebrations well, with several birthday dinners held. The atmosphere supports special occasions comfortably.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and well-seasoned."

"The dinner spots here are delicious, especially the chicken."

"You have to try their amazing pasta dishes, like the ravioli or gnocchi."

Good to know

1

The drag brunch requires a $25 cover charge on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for the drag brunch due to high demand.

3

The venue has no guest parking available; consider public transport.

09
Tavola image 1
Restaurant

Open concept space with modern light fixtures and dark walls creates a moody, relaxed atmosphere. The setting feels like a hotel restaurant with a quiet, laid-back vibe during lunch and dinner hours. Copper bar accents add a distinctive touch to the decor.

Pasta features homemade ingredients and comes in varieties like fresh rigatoni with veal ragu and thin, flavorful pappardelle. Burrata appetizer pairs with buttered focaccia, and Italian flatbread complements the meal well.

Dinner features Italian flatbread, burrata, and hearty options like tomahawk porkchop and short rib. The menu includes unique items like vegetarian French fries similar to truffle fries, all served in a laid-back setting.

People are saying

"The pasta and short rib at these dinner spots were delicious."

"I highly recommend the delicious arancini."

"The fresh pasta here is cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The holiday pop-up event 'forged' runs through December with special menu items.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for an entrรฉe and $12 for a side.

3

The menu has limited non-pork options, which may not suit all diners.

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