Business catalogMinneapolisRanking 2026

Italian restaurant Minneapolis

Finding the Best Italian Dining in Minneapolis

Minneapolis has developed a vibrant culinary scene, and finding an authentic Italian restaurant in Minneapolis is a treat for any food lover. Whether you are searching for handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, or traditional osso buco, the city offers a diverse array of options. When choosing where to dine, consider the atmosphere—some spots are perfect for intimate date nights, while others cater to lively family gatherings. Look for establishments that prioritize fresh, seasonal ingredients, as this is often the hallmark of a high-quality kitchen.

How to Evaluate Reviews and Ratings

Navigating online feedback can be overwhelming, but it is a vital step in finding the best Italian restaurant in Minneapolis. When reading reviews, look beyond the star rating. Pay attention to comments regarding service consistency, the authenticity of the menu, and the overall dining environment. A high volume of recent, detailed feedback often provides a more accurate picture of what to expect than a simple numerical score. By focusing on recurring themes in customer experiences, you can better gauge whether a restaurant aligns with your personal preferences and expectations for a quality meal.

Our 2026 Selection Process

To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled an Italian restaurant Minneapolis ranking featuring 13 standout establishments. This list is based entirely on public Google reviews. Our methodology focuses on the aggregate ratings, the total number of reviews, and the qualitative content provided by diners. By analyzing these public metrics, we aim to highlight businesses that have consistently earned the trust and appreciation of the local community. We encourage you to use this guide as a starting point for your next culinary adventure in the city, keeping in mind that personal taste remains the ultimate judge of a great dining experience.

Companies ranked
13 Companies
Average rating
4,5 Avg. rating
Edition year
2026 Edition

Updated June 20, 2026

Company ranking

13 places
  1. 01
    4,7(730 reviews)Portal score 8,4
    Sanjusan
    33 N 1st Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401(612) 354-7763Website

    Sanjusan is a highly regarded restaurant in Minneapolis known for its unique fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisines. While most guests praise the expertly crafted dishes and attentive service, some diners have experienced issues with reservation seating and inconsistent food temperatures.

    • Innovative Japanese-Italian fusion
    • High-quality, flavorful pasta dishes
    • Excellent cocktail and drink menu
    View business profile
  2. 02
    4,7(2,630 reviews)Portal score 8,4
    Bar La Grassa
    800 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401(612) 333-3837Website

    Bar La Grassa is widely regarded as a top-tier Italian destination in Minneapolis, frequently praised for its high-quality, fresh pasta and vibrant atmosphere. While most guests report exceptional experiences, some diners encounter issues with long wait times despite having reservations and inconsistent service quality.

    • High quality fresh pasta
    • Exceptional service staff
    • Vibrant and cozy atmosphere
    View business profile
  3. 03
    4,7(1,834 reviews)Portal score 8,4
    Broders' Pasta Bar
    5000 Penn Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55419(612) 925-9202Website

    Broders' Pasta Bar is a highly regarded neighborhood spot in Minneapolis known for its authentic, handmade pasta and attentive service. While the dining experience is generally praised, the restaurant's no-reservation policy and potential for long wait times are common points of frustration for guests.

    • High quality handmade pasta
    • Attentive and welcoming service
    • Cozy and comfortable atmosphere
    View business profile
  4. 04
    4,7(1,988 reviews)Portal score 8,4
    ie - Italian Eatery
    4724 Cedar Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55407(612) 200-8397Website

    IE Italian Eatery is widely praised for its flavorful, high-quality pasta dishes and exceptional service under new ownership. While guests frequently highlight the excellent dining experience, some note that the restaurant can be loud and that securing a reservation is often difficult.

    • High-quality pasta dishes
    • Attentive and accommodating service
    • Excellent dessert menu
    View business profile
  5. 05
    4,7(1,857 reviews)Portal score 8,4
    Zelo
    831 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55402(612) 333-7000Website

    Zelo is a highly regarded Italian restaurant in Minneapolis known for its exceptional service and elegant atmosphere. While most diners praise the high-quality food and generous portions, experiences with specific menu items can be inconsistent.

    • Attentive and friendly service
    • High-quality Italian cuisine
    • Generous portion sizes
    View business profile
  6. 06
    4,7(648 reviews)Portal score 8,4
    Prima
    5325 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55419(612) 827-7376Website

    Prima is a highly regarded, family-owned Italian trattoria in Minneapolis known for its intimate, cozy atmosphere and authentic, fresh cuisine. While most diners praise the attentive service and high-quality dishes, some guests find the menu selection limited or the dining experience rushed.

    • Intimate and cozy atmosphere
    • Attentive and friendly service
    • High-quality fresh ingredients
    View business profile
  7. 07
    4,7(1,518 reviews)Portal score 8,4
    112 Eatery
    112 N 3rd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401(612) 343-7696Website

    112 Eatery is widely praised for its high-quality, flavorful New American cuisine and attentive, knowledgeable service. While most diners have exceptional experiences, some note that the restaurant can be loud and physically cramped.

    • Knowledgeable and attentive staff
    • High-quality, flavorful dishes
    • Excellent steak tartare and octopus
    View business profile
  8. 08
    4,7(505 reviews)Portal score 8,4
    The Bungalow Club
    4300 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406(612) 866-3334Website

    The Bungalow Club is widely praised for its creative, high-quality cuisine and attentive, knowledgeable staff. While most guests have excellent experiences, some diners have reported issues with inconsistent pacing, restrictive table time limits, and occasional dissatisfaction with specific menu items.

    • High-quality homemade pasta
    • Knowledgeable and attentive service
    • Creative and inventive menu
    View business profile
  9. 09
    4,5(2,367 reviews)Portal score 8,3
    Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant
    1204 Harmon Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403(612) 288-0138Website

    This restaurant is highly regarded for its authentic, family-style Italian dining experience and welcoming, attentive service. Guests frequently praise the nostalgic atmosphere and massive portion sizes, making it a popular destination for groups and celebrations.

    • Large family-style portions
    • Friendly and attentive service
    • Cozy and nostalgic atmosphere
    View business profile
  10. 10
    4,6(3,229 reviews)Portal score 8,3
    Red Rabbit Minneapolis
    201 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401(612) 767-8855Website

    Red Rabbit is widely praised for its delicious pasta, pizza, and cocktail menu, often highlighted by a welcoming and retro-inspired atmosphere. While most guests report excellent and attentive service, a minority of diners experienced inconsistent staff interactions and specific food quality issues.

    • High quality pasta and pizza
    • Friendly and attentive service
    • Inviting atmosphere and decor
    View business profile
  11. 11
    4,6(599 reviews)Portal score 8,3
    Rinata Restaurant
    2451 Hennepin Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55405(612) 374-8998Website

    Rinata is a highly regarded Italian restaurant in Uptown known for its authentic, high-quality food and welcoming, intimate atmosphere. While most diners praise the consistent service and value, some note that the menu is limited and parking can be challenging.

    • High quality authentic Italian food
    • Attentive and friendly service
    • Cozy and intimate atmosphere
    View business profile
  12. 12
    4,6(970 reviews)Portal score 8,3
    Lumi Restaurant
    921 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55402(612) 315-5249Website

    Lumi is a popular downtown Minneapolis restaurant offering a diverse menu that blends Mediterranean, Turkish, and other international cuisines. While most diners praise the high-quality food and welcoming atmosphere, some note that service can be slow during busy periods.

    • High quality food
    • Excellent mezze platters
    • Welcoming staff
    View business profile
  13. 13
    4,5(826 reviews)Portal score 8,3
    Broders' Cucina Italiana
    2308 W 50th St, Minneapolis, MN 55410(612) 925-3113Website

    Broders' Cucina Italiana is a long-standing establishment widely praised for its authentic, high-quality Italian food and grocery market. While many patrons enjoy the consistent flavors and deli offerings, recent feedback highlights concerns regarding small portion sizes and inconsistent service experiences.

    • High quality authentic Italian food
    • Excellent grocery and deli selection
    • Friendly and helpful staff
    View business profile

Company comparison

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose the best Italian restaurants in Minneapolis?
To find the best spot, start by reviewing our curated list of 13 Italian restaurants in Minneapolis for 2026. Comparing the top-rated options, such as Salt & Flour Kitchen with its 4.4/5 rating, can help you narrow down your choices based on community feedback.
What should I look for when dining at an Italian restaurant?
Look for establishments that prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic preparation methods. You can expect a variety of dining experiences across our 13 featured locations, so consider checking their specific menus to see if they specialize in handmade pasta or traditional wood-fired pizzas.
How should I interpret ratings and reviews for Italian restaurants?
When reading reviews, focus on consistent feedback regarding food quality and service standards rather than just the numerical score. While Salt & Flour Kitchen currently holds a 4.4/5 rating, keep in mind that individual preferences vary, and reading recent comments can provide better context for your visit.
What is a practical tip for visiting Italian restaurants in Minneapolis?
A great tip is to check if the restaurant requires reservations, especially for popular spots like Salt & Flour Kitchen. Since we have identified 13 top businesses in the city, calling ahead or checking their website can ensure you secure a table during peak dining hours.
What can I expect regarding pricing at these Italian restaurants?
Prices at these Italian restaurants vary depending on the specific dishes ordered, the complexity of the menu, and the type of dining experience offered. We recommend reviewing the menus of the 13 businesses in our ranking to find an option that fits your budget and preferences.

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