You don’t need to leave the country to enjoy traditional Italian fare. From classic spaghetti and meatballs to chicken cacciatore, the perfect place to celebrate the tantalizing flavors of the Mediterranean is right here in Minnesota. Immerse yourself in a fabulous European dining experience while you tempt your taste buds at one of these four Italian restaurants in Bloomington. 
- Ciao Bella
Your first stop in Bloomington for simple, homemade Italian cuisine is Ciao Bella. Everything on the menu is made from local in-season ingredients, including vegetarian-fed, hormone-free beef and poultry and freshly flown-in fish. Even their desserts are handmade, using only the finest certified organic dairy products.
At Ciao Bella, you’re going to get that white table cloth experience you love with a selection of great wines. Sample one of Ciao Bella’s small plates, like the delectable parmesan crusted shrimp, or order the herb grilled organic salmon served with roasted heirloom potatoes.
Visit Ciao Bella at 3501 Minnesota Dr. Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Piada Italian Street Food
If a white tablecloth experience isn’t on your agenda this evening, get your Italian cuisine over-the-counter at Piada Italian Street Food. This beloved chain serves up design-your-own Italian meals, from pasta and wraps to salads.
Order one of their tossed pasta bowls, like the Carbonara that features angel hair topped with grated parmesan and alfredo cheeses, pancetta, and spinach. Why not try their signature piada? This Italian-style street wrap is loaded with sliced Genoa salami, capicola, and mozzarella and is drizzled with basil aioli.
You’ll find Piada’s at 6745 York Ave S. in Edina. It’s open daily from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Campiello Ristorante & Bar
Campiello’s is a rare find. Their head chef blends inventive Tuscan country cooking with modern interpretations of classic dishes. When you’re in the mood for a rustic-contemporary restaurant with an inviting patio and extensive wine list, Campiello is a must-stop.
This Italian eatery offers award-winning cuisine from specialty-roasted meats to fresh pasta and seafood. Order favorites like the savory dry rubbed porcini pork ribeye with mushroom farrotto or the spicy lamb bolognese with cavatelli from the woodfire grill. Head to Campiello Restaurant at 6411 City W. Pkwy in Eden Prairie. It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., weekends from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Fat Lorenzo’s
Nationally recognized and locally owned, Fat Lorenzo’s is a Twin City dining favorite. This Italian restaurant is located inside the Everett McClay VFW Post at 311 W 84th St. and serves up the best pizza by the pie or by the slice. They also serve spaghetti, linguine, penne or rigatoni pasta, all plated with a side of garlic bread. Finish up your meal with a sweet, creamy gelato like traditional chocolate or Jamaican rum. Support your local VFW at Fat Lorenzo’s.
Tantalize your taste buds at one of these four Bloomington Italian restaurants. Which one are you going to sample first?
Image via Flickr by koishikawagirl used under CC By
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