Finding truly memorable Italian food often comes down to knowing where locals like to dine. Near Minneapolis and St. Paul homes for sale, there are plenty of Italian restaurants known for authentic flavors, welcoming settings, and loyal neighborhood followings. Here are our favorites.

The Best Italian Cuisine in the Twin Cities

Bar la Grassa - Minneapolis, 

800 N. Washington Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55401

For fine Italian dining that's reasonably priced, Bar la Grassa is the place to go. James Beard Award-winning chef Isaac Becker serves up traditional fare like spaghetti carbonara or fettuccine Alfredo, as well as more unique offerings like fusilli with orange & kalamata olive lamb sausage, or oyster mushroom confit with chimichurri. And be sure to try one of their incredible desserts, including:

• Tiramisu
• Limoncello cherry sorbet
• Chocolate basque cheesecake

They also have a takeout menu available Monday through Thursday, or you can book their private dining room for special events of up to 32 people.

DeGidio's Restaurant & Bar - St. Paul, MN

425 7th St. W., St Paul, MN 55102

In 1933, bootlegger Joe "Kid Bullets" DeGidio opened a bar in St. Paul. Today, DeGidio's Restaurant & Bar is a chance to step back in time while enjoying delicious Italian cuisine. Their Rigatoni alla Vodka is served with burrata, while their Mafaldine Bolognese features spicy Italian sausage and a rich tomato cream sauce. Plus, ask about their gluten-free options! While reservations are recommended, they also take walk-ins and offer takeout and off-site catering.

Martina - Minneapolis, MN

4312 Upton Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55410

For Italian food with an Argentinian spin, head to Martina. Chef Daniel del Prado fuses the two beautifully, for a dining experience you won't forget. Try the empanadas with gorgonzola and chimichurri, or the potato churros with spicy mayo. And be sure to check out their brunch menu, which includes:

• Crab Benedict
• Apple French Toast
• Brussels Sprout Salad

Plus sample an array of delicious wines, by the glass or the bottle. It's an incredible fusion of cuisines you must experience for yourself.

Cosssetta - St. Paul, MN

211 7th St. W., St. Paul, MN 55102

Whether you're looking for pizza, pastries, gelato, a glass of wine, or some deli meats and cheeses, you'll find it all at Cossetta. It's five different places spanning multiple floors in the same building. Eatery & Pizzeria has hot and cold Italian sandwiches, pastas, and build-your-own pizza. Louis Ristorante & Bar has an upscale Italian menu, including Pappardelle Bolognese and Bucatini All'Amatriciana. Pasticceria serves Italian pastries and from-scratch gelatos. Frank's Levee Tavern is a great pub for drinks with friends or for Italian street food. And Market Italian Grocery is the place to go for your own Italian ingredients, from canned tomatoes to fresh produce to imported cheeses to wine bottles, and more.

Ciao Bella - Bloomington, MN

3501 Minnesota Drive, Bloomington, MN 55435

For simple Italian cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients, head to Ciao Bella. Located near Bloomington homes for sale, they pride themselves on quality food and quality service, including the best local ingredients:

• Fresh, in-season produce
• Hormone-free, vegetarian-fed beef and poultry
• Certified organic dairy

Their dining room has an array of local art on the walls, or dine outdoors on the patio. It's an unforgettable experience that tastes like Italy and feels like home.

Becoming a Twin Cities Local

If you're ready to experience more of  Minneapolis and St. Paul, we can help! Call today, and we'll start the search for the Twin Cities home of your dreams.