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Name: Cossetta Alimentari
Address: 211 7th St W, Saint Paul, MN, 55102
Telephone: (651) 222-3476
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.95

Cossetta Alimentari

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

(651) 222-3476
Store is closed

Cossetta Alimentari Menu

Hors D'oeuvres - Vegetarian

Snack Basket

Vegetable Assortimento

Bruschetta Assortimento
Hors D'oeuvres - Seafood

Smoked Salmon Triangles

Shrimp Cocktail Classico

Shrimp Misto
Salads - Chicken

Chop Chop

Chicken Caesar

Spring Strawberry & Chicken
Salads - Beef & Pork

Steakhouse Special

Cossetta Salad

Italian Chopped
Macaroni - Penne Traditional

Penne Bolognese

Penne Alla Panna

Penne Con Fungi
Macaroni - Penne Fresco (meatless)

Penne Alla Fresco

Penne Arrabbiata
Lasagna - Beef & Pork

Lasagna Al Forno

Lasagna Bolognese

Lasagna Rustica
Lasagna - Meatless

Florentina Lasagna

Spinaci Lasagna
Desserts - Cakes & Tortes

Double Chocolate Cake

Pistachio Torte

Vanilla Cheesecake
Desserts - Pastries

Apple Galette

Mousse Al Cioccolate

French Fruit Fondue

Healthy Meal suggestions for Cossetta Alimentari

Hors D'oeuvres - Vegetarian

Snack Basket [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetable Assortimento [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bruschetta Assortimento [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Hors D'oeuvres - Seafood

Smoked Salmon Triangles [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Cocktail Classico [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Misto [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Salads - Chicken

Chop Chop [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Caesar [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spring Strawberry & Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Salads - Beef & Pork

Steakhouse Special [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cossetta Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Italian Chopped [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Macaroni - Penne Traditional

Penne Bolognese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne Alla Panna [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne Con Fungi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Macaroni - Penne Fresco (meatless)

Penne Alla Fresco [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne Arrabbiata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Lasagna - Beef & Pork

Lasagna Al Forno [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lasagna Bolognese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lasagna Rustica [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Lasagna - Meatless

Florentina Lasagna [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spinaci Lasagna [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Desserts - Cakes & Tortes

Double Chocolate Cake [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pistachio Torte [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vanilla Cheesecake [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Desserts - Pastries

Apple Galette [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mousse Al Cioccolate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

French Fruit Fondue [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Visit below restaurant in Saint Paul for healthy meals suggestion.

Buffalo Wild Wings ( 8340 3rd St N )

Auntie Anne’s ( 1595 Highway 36 W )

Visit below restaurant in Saint Paul for healthy meals suggestion.

Buffalo Wild Wings ( 8340 3rd St N )

Auntie Anne’s ( 1595 Highway 36 W )

Write An Anonymous Review

Annie D.

Cossetta's is one of the end-all-be-all St. Paul places. It has been around for an actual century. My grandma, who grew up in St. Paul, ate here when she was a kid... true story. Like a lot of people, I've pretty much been a lifelong patron. It might have been part of a day at the Science Museum or the Landmark Center. It always involved a monstrous plate of that creamy ricotta-tomato pasta and garlic bread. I would insist on getting the large size. There were never any leftovers. I'm embarrassed to say but until I was 22, I never ordered anything except the mostaccioli. It was too good to risk trying something else! I've finally given in a little. I tried the pizza (good, but I don't go crazy for NY-style pizza) and the veal parmesan (very nice, and came with a big side of mostaccioli so that's a win). I still can't bring myself to order a salad, even though they look tempting while waiting in line. That's another thing I love about Cossetta's: the line. If nobody's waiting and you can walk right up to the counter, you're missing out on part of the experience. I don't think that has ever, ever happened, so just go to the back of line like everyone else and enjoy it. I only knocked one star off for the prices, which are a tad steep if Cossetta's doesn't have the nostalgic value to you that it has to a lot of us. The prices are still reasonable-ish. Although, the huge-ass mostaccioli used to be around $4. I know, I know... that was in like, 1998, but it seems like more than just inflation.
(4)
Amanda K.

A nice change of pace for lunch with a lot of great options!
(4)
Steve P.

If you've been to Cosetta before and are wondering whether the new building has changed things, don't worry. It's like someone inflated the deli -- it's bigger, but has the same arrangement. The food is pretty good for the scale they operate at. I find that I can serve my family of 4 at home with two of the hot line entrees plus some bread as a side. There's a new fancy restaurant on the top floor named Louis. Looking forward to trying it out in the near future.
(4)
Eric D.

This is just a very cool Italian store/ restaurant. One that I always enjoy coming to while in the St Paul area. The pizza slices are huge, yes you can purchase by the slice, and the choices are endless...if you like stick to your ribs Italian food. ***Quick Note: There is a Pizza line and there is a Salad/ Sandwich line...choice wisely newbie! Atmosphere - busy, casual, two levels, old building, cramped, crazy, herd you through the maze like cattle Food - On this visit I decided to try the pizza and a meatball sub. That is not too much food...wrong...portions here are large. It took me a bit of maneuvering and I do not recommend trying, but I managed to order a pizza slice from the Salad/ Sandwich line. The slice was greasy goodness and is not designed for those wanting a thin waist. The sauce had a nice flavor and since it was a pepperoni slice it was slightly spicy. The meatball sub was large, about a 10 inches of Italian roll, which came with some pepperoncinies on the side. This sub, once loaded with about five meatballs, is doused w/ sauce and topped extensively with mozzarella cheese. If you do not want to eat it with a fork and knife ask that they nix the extra sauce. Service - Not much here. It is served cafeteria style with service to match, minus the hairnets. Price - Forget...sorry Overall - Oh ya, this place is always great!
(4)
Numbers D.

Delicious Italian food and family-owned restaurant. I've never been disappointed in my order. I've never tried their pizza and have heard mixed reviews. I'm not really a fan of the cafeteria style ordering and it's a bit crowded inside, but the food is worth 4 stars.
(4)
Sidelaker M.

Great Italian deli, but expensive.
(5)
Lina H.

Its been so long since Ive stepped into this surprisingly amazing place. My friend John had recommended Cossetta's and boy am i a fan. If there's an event going on at the xcel, expect a line outside the door. And if its during winter, make sure you bring a coat. My first time here was quite an experience. I was in a dress and tights with heels (dressed for a concert, not just because) and i was standing in a ridiculous line outside the place. I thought to myself, 'this place must be amazing'... so after nearly freezing to death on a January night, i finally made it in to order the chicken Marsala and a side of Caesar, i was convinced that this was not my last trip here. Only that I'd plan better of course.
(4)
David P.

I pretty much am obsessed with this place. I can't drive through St Paul without making a stop here, even if I have to take home frozen entree's to eat later. The Italian is simply the best. The market has amazing meats and cheeses along with all of the pasta and olive oil you could want. The lines do get very large on busy nights and when something is going on at the Xcel center, so plan ahead to spend some time here.
(5)
Elise A.

Love Cossetta's! A great place to hit on Friday's for some carbs (especially during Lent.. yum!). Always super busy, but the line moves fast! Would for sure recommend the turkey and jack sandwich (tastes like Jimmy Johns but better!). Cossetta's can get pretty busy before Wild games, but it sure is the place to be in downtown St. Paul!
(4)
Robert H.

I have been a fan of Cossetta's for years; however, today I took friends for lunch and was terribly disappointed. My friends have a hard time carrying food and walking up the stairs to the seating area. I directed them to the elevator. We were stopped by a young person wearing a Cossetta's uniform that told us we were NOT ALLOWED TO CARRY FOOD ON THE ELEVATOR... In the end, we all climbed the stairs. Thanks to the STUPID rule and the time WASTED by the ridiculous confrontation, our food was COLD and my friends had a MISERABLE time. I have never minded the cafeteria style before, but I always thought the carrying of food upstairs was bad. The new restaurant is really wonderful, but the rule about not carrying food on the elevator is BEYOND RIDICULOUS!!! Sadly, it will be a very very long time until I return--if ever. I will call before I go to see if the STUPID RULE HAS BEEN CHANGED...or if a dumb waiter or food elevator has been installed. If yes--I go. If not--I will go to Broder's.
(1)
Kelly G.

Dear Cossetta's, Finally, after nearly a year of working practically next to you, after eyeing you as I drove down 7th, after checking you out, top to bottom with your Gothic gold lettering and old-school facade, I worked up the courage to come say hello to you with a friend during lunch. You didn't seem flattered by my interest. Or maybe you were playing hard to get. But you definitely turned a cold shoulder. Deli-style should, in my opinion be fast. Picture a lunch lady slinging mystery meal to bug-eyed and bewildered children and that is how fast a cafeteria line (in my opinion) should go. My friend and I waited fifteen minutes in a three-person line for the candy stripers behind the counter to serve the ready-made September special. Both of us were on a time crunch, and had ten minutes to eat before we had to be back at the office. I ended up being late back at work. But! The delicious creamy, truffle-y, penne with spicy sausage was ALMOST worth it. I wanted one of their Pinot Grigios to sip while enjoying the comforting flavors, but as The Man was watching my time and return, I resisted. Oh Cossetta's, your 20's atmosphere and delightful meals fill my tummy with carb-a-licious guilt and happiness...it turns me into that needy girl that craves your attention and will keep me coming back even if it wreaks havoc on my professional life. But! I will cheat on you with Sakura if you don't start noticing my existence at your counter. Just saying. Love, Kelly P.S. I was told by jaded, but still faithful, coworkers that next time I should order ahead of time.
(4)
Sally S.

Great food. We have been there several times and the food has been great. The only problem is trying to decide what to order.
(5)
Rhonda G.

I haven't eaten in, in awhile. That's about to change since I'm now on a weight loss quest I can live with/stick to. I thought lowering carb intake would mean no more Italian. Not here, sausage calabrese or sausage and peppers does just fine. I gave away the huge bread stick, and not so huge portion of mostaccoli, no problem. I took home a nice, oily giardinara salad. I thought I would need the antipasta salad with dinner since I was giving away so much. That was a mistake, it's huge and I was forcing it down all night long. It was so delicious, loaded with mozz cheese, cubed salami, and greek olives. I obviously can live without it since I gave away one of my three sausages. Can't wait to see the expansion.
(5)
S F.

I have been to Cosetta's several times over the years, and I do not understand the appeal. The ambiance is fine, but the food is no better than Sbarro's. (At least at Sbarro's you get free drink refills.) My husband and I go here only because our children like it.
(1)
Amy S.

Stopped in on a Sunday afternoon, around 1pm. We were with a group of 12. We went in and quickly found 3 tables clustered together for our large group with no problem. We then went downstairs to order. There wasn't a line. However, I needed some time to look over the menu, and I was first in line. As I was looking, the line started to grow beyond our group. So, I felt a bit of pressure to order quickly. They have salads, cold pasta's and cold sandwiches first, then the hot side next. On the hot side you could find hot sandwiches and entrees like Lasagna, Chicken Marsala and Veal Parmigiana. Portions were plentiful and good. One of the best parts of this place is the small grocery attached. Before leaving, I always browse through, selecting a few items specialty items I can't find at my local grocery. High quality items, at great prices. I left with a bag full. Also left with an extra full tummy, as I was offered a chance to taste each item before I bought it. Ample free parking lot in the back and quick, inexpensive great tasting food will make me return again and again!
(4)
Lu E.

My favorite for Italian. Red sauce is wonderful - can't find anything even close to it. Lots of variety - hearty dishes, fresh salads & hoagies/cold sandwiches, great pizza. I've eaten here so many times and still have not tried everything. Top of the list: Lasagna, Caesar Salad, Sandwiches, Pizza. Cafeteria style to keep the long line moving - I'm so glad they're EXPANDING!! If you haven't tried Cossetta's yet, you've been missing out.
(5)
Ulysses A.

St. Paul's best pizza. Large Brooklyn style slices, always fresh and hot. Best Canoli in Minnesota and their gelato is delicious as well. Since the remodel the place is even nicer and offers better seating than ever before and they now have amazingly good coffee as well. The market and non pizza items usually deliver the same quality taste as the pizza.
(5)
Soma N.

I know I'm the only person in the Twin Cities metro area to say this, but: I'm not a huge fan. I know, I know, the selection! The red sauce! etc, etc.... I just prefer authentic, more southern Italian food... I will say, however, that at work Cossetta's is our caterer of choice when clients come for visits...and they do an amazing job with the catering. Always amazing cheese and fruit plates, great grilled vegetables, everything very fresh and beautiful. I'm just never super impressed when I go. Like, last time, I had the minstrone soup....I kinda feel like it tasted just like Olive Garden's. I could be wrong, I haven't been to Olive Garden in probably 7 years....but it left me with a similar impression. Anywho.... everyone else loves it, so I'll probably end up there again simply because the people I'm with always want to go there.
(3)
Evan B.

I've been going to this place my entire life and pretty much always get the Mostaccioli -- it is easily the best pasta in the twin cities. It all comes down to the sauce, and the way the cheese is mixed in. If you are new to the area or here for a limited time, Cossetta is a must.
(5)
Katie L.

YUM! I wish I went out to St. Paul more often, because I would eat here all the time. You really can't go wrong with whatever you decide to order. First timers-- know that this is a traditional style market. Grab a tray and wait your turn in line. You go through the line and tell the man behind the counter what you'd like to order. I'd recommend the sausage calabrese. It's three small sausages, cooked with peppers, onions, and mushrooms topped with a ladle full of more calabrese sauce. You also get a side of mostaccoli covered in yummy marinara. A breadstick comes with the meal, which is perfect for sopping up that calabrese sauce. You'll order your can of soda at the finish line/ register. (My one gripe is that they don't have fountain sodas. Homegirl likes her refills.) Also note that you have to head up the stairs to grab a seat. Which is not the easiest task to do while manuevering a tray full of food and even harder if you're wearing heels. Also my boyfriend loves their Cannolis! He swears they're the best. Next time you go to a Wild game, leave yourself an extra hour and pop over to Cossetta's for some dinner. Totally worth it.
(4)
Courtney J.

Cossetta's is a staple of St. Paul and once you've been there, it's not hard to understand why. Their food is to die for and the ambiance is very unique. If you don't like crowds, make sure you check and see what's going on in downtown St. Paul before you go. This place gets C-R-A-Z-Y busy if there's anything at the X or RiverCenter.
(5)
Kyle L.

Not that impressed. Had the lasagna and it was extremely salty. Service at the counter was pretty rude. I could understand if it was little Italian attitude but my suspicion was they were make believe Italians trying to play the roll. Atmosphere was nice upstairs. I would give it another shot and would stay away from the lasagna.
(2)
Jordan W.

Every time I'm in St. Paul I stop at the best pizza I know of. The ambiance is so delightful and the remodeled builidng really opens up the restuarant.
(5)
Larry M.

Service can be summed up as: "Hurry up and get through the line, pay me cause I really don't care if you like being traeted like dirt" Overpriced-have to pay for the addition without giving customers any value.
(1)
Jim S.

I grew up in Chicago that had an old style Italian delicatessen with barrels of olives, meats and cheese hanging from hooks and wooden floors. It was as authentic as you could get. Well, Cossetta's is a close as I will get outside of a great shop I found in Lucca Italy. They have all the hard to find cheese, olive oils, meats, some fantastic bread, a canned goods with various dry pasta selections. Ask for some samples to see if it's really what you're looking for. Service was very friendly and ask for recommendations on servings. Have not yet tried the restaurant.
(4)
Franco S.

Biggest surprise of MN, great everything Italian. Pastries, quick food, or go upstairs for fine dining. Absolutely love it. I go every time I'm in town.
(5)
Dani I.

I came here to get some authentic Italian ingredients for my grandma's recipe, and was pleasantly surprised! I'm 100% Italian and from NY and nothing was sadder for me than a general lack of Italian ingredients in the cities. Someone turned me on to the market at Cossetta's and I've never looked back. I get my fresh ricotta here, as well as all sorts of candies and jarred brands I could only find back home. Often I'll even stop and get a sausage and pepper hero or the really great Minestrone soup! There are few canolis I'll eat outside of NY, but if I'm really craving one, this is my go to place. Honestly, I love eating here. Back home, you can get Italian food at delis and take outs everywhere, but here most Italian joints are fancier sit down places. Not what I want most the time! They have free parking if you're there less than one hour. Great pizzas and a nice rotating menu. Only down side is sometimes the line is long for food. Really? I don't care. If you're a foodie looking for good Italian ingredients or just a family wanting fast, tasty, low pretension Italian food-- here is the place.
(5)
gabriel s.

People, you haven't eaten Italian yet. Always when I go to such places and I get "cat food", as I have to call it, I am angry with me. Yes, I should have known, wonders don't happen, but I am an optimist... These guys simply don't bother what they sell, in the desert section of the prepared foods. The grocery store has some good stuff (therefore the 2 stars), but you pay as if it were gold. Who would bother if it cost 2-3 times the price in Italy's grocery stores? Nobody. But 4 times up...
(2)
Breana L.

This was my first visit to Cossetta's, good food, but I felt a little rushed when I was deciding what to have. I opted to go with a safe choice of pepperoni pizza, but if I had more time to shop around I may have been more adventurous. I will definitely be back.
(4)
Kristin H.

Chike almost fell over in shock when he found out I'd never been to the West 7th landmark, Cossetta's. "Looks great, but we'll have to come back sometime, I'm stuffed." Not on Chike's watch. He quickly ran in and ordered some gelato for the group to share. Note to readers: never turn down free gelato. They were all out of chocolate so he brought us some amaretto to share. Mmmm, it was bold and powerful on the tongue, but softened to a warm almond flavor that melts in your mouth. Definitely worth the drive to St. Paul!!
(4)
Dawn F.

If in DT St. Paul for a concert, hockey game, or in my case - roller derby bout, Cossetta's is the place to go for a quick bite to eat. Even with the usually long lines for pizza or pasta, they move quickly. The food is affordable, the service is great, and I've yet to have a bad food experience with this establishment. I'm very much looking forward to the expansion. :)
(4)
Valerie H.

YUM. It's impossible to leave without feeling like a big mama. I might face some problems now that I work 2 blocks away...
(4)
Ben D.

Something about the old world still finds a way to shine through here... It's like being welcomed into a piece of St. Paul restaurant history and going back in time to a place that honest, other than the open refridgeration units, hasn't changed in over 100 years. The people that work here are friendly which is nice, but the real treat comes when you actually get your food! It's like sinking your teeth into the best damn Italian food you have ever had in your entire life! If you asked me to pick out my favorite thing on the menu I would probably laugh in your face. There isn't ONE thing on the menu that isn't my favorite. I love everything that they serve up, and serve it up they do! I hope you wear elastic banded pants to the restaurant when you go because you will more than likely not be able to comfortably walk out of here for how full you will be! Or at least I am incapable of doing so. Once you have finished gorging yourself on your month supply of carbs that are slathered in rich sauces, and guzzling down your bottle of red wine, make your way over and pick out your rich, alcohol filled Tira Misu. Mmmmmm my mouth is absolutely watering thinking about the joy I get from eating here!
(4)
J D.

OUTSTANDING service. I was there with my 2 year old and the staff helped me carry my tray, get silverware, and held my food before I purchased it while we make a quick break for the potty. Great pizza, best breadstick I've ever had! Pasta was fine.
(4)
Jason N.

Get here 2 hrs before the game...best Italian food around!
(5)
Dan S.

I was taking a stroll through Rice Park, enjoying a nice spring day and thought a slice of New York pizza would provide nice sustenance for the afternoon. A lot of by the slice places don't have that great of pizza, they usually have it sitting out for a while and reheat it up in the oven before you buy a slice. But at Cosetta's the place always has people inside so the pizza is always fresh out of the oven. It's also big enough that you can get a decent fold. A slice of pepperoni will cost about $4, not bad. Their grocery store is over priced.
(4)
Tom K.

St Paul institution never fails to deliver. I always stop here whenever possible for lunch. Meatball sandwich and arugula salad solid.
(4)
Shana W.

The food is so-so but the CANNOLI OMG. I've had the Cossetta salad, antipasti salad, a pasta dish, and a sausage sandwich. All were too heavy-handed. The cheese, salami, and olives on the antipasti were tasty but sank like a rock. The Cossetta salad was tasty at first, then it was just greasy. Their marinara isn't very flavorful. Their italian dressing is right on, as it their garlic bread. But their cannoli makes up for their inadequacies in the savory realm. Creamy mascarpone and melty chocolate. mmmmmmmmm
(4)
Tiffanie S.

If you're going to have plastic forks, you should make sure people can eat the food with them. I ordered an anti pasto salad and the boulder sized croutons and the huge chunks of under ripe tomato were impossible to eat with a fork. The meat and cheese in the salad were flavorless and the salad was not tossed very well -- sometimes the lettuce was dry, other times it was soaked with the dressing and the plastic bowl containing it all was stuffed so full it was impossible to stir it myself without making a mess. I also had a cup of their Pasta Fagioli which was OK. The meat had a good flavor but the soup was overall boring. To add to my list of complaints, the breadstick I ordered was stale and the service was not particularly warm and welcoming but it was busy and I admit I am not a huge fan of cafeteria style service. My husband got pizza. It was fine. I liked the sauce otherwise it was unremarkable. The chocolate covered canolli, though, was phenomenal! Unfortunately, however, I wanted a larger one but was handed a mini and then the guy at the counter ran off. Might have given them 3 stars if I'd had a bigger canolli.
(2)
Jeremy B.

Overhyped. It was not busy when I was there, but I but they can easily keep up with a crowd. Seemed like an efficient operation.
(3)
Kurt S.

The new and larger Cosetta's is great. It's just like an Italian food mini-mall! I've been coming here since I can remember and now that they've doubled in size I can say I'll be showing up more often. Still great food and easy parking makes this a big win for downtown St. Paul. The mostaccioli is as good as ever but the monthly specials are what I look for. Always something new to try! The pizza is fresh and better than most but the salads and deli will distract you. Let them. If you haven't been to the new space I suggest you go and experience it. It's worth braving the streets of St. Paul I can promise you that... while you're at it, pick me up a canolli kthx.
(4)
Kelsey M.

This place was a madhouse when I went for dinner on a Saturday night. I think it was so crowded because it was after a big game or event. Even though the line was really long and the restaurant was beyond packed, service was very quick and every single employee was nice and helpful. I expected the food to be poor quality since it's a cafeteria, but I was wrong. The food was surprisingly good. I liked the minestrone soup a lot, and all of the desserts were good.
(3)
Matt D.

love love love cosseta's!
(5)
Ray B.

Brought my wife and 2 young children. It was fast, good food. We all enjoyed being able to see the choices of food and drinks, and that made ordering for the kids easy (they just pointed at what they wanted). We will be back there if we are in St. Paul.
(5)
Denise D.

I went here for a late lunch on Saturday 2/16/13 with the boyfriend because we haven't been there in years. First of all, it took forever to find a parking spot, but once we were able to get into the Cosetta's lot, the parking attendants were extremely friendly. We immediately got in line for our lunch and we were pleased wtih all the options they had, even for a late lunch. We decided to split the chicken parmesan and get a slice of pizza each. The chicken parmesan was delicious. I hate to use these words, but it was nice and crusty. I don't like the chicken when it's all soggy and smushy. It had a really nice texture to it and tasted like it was clearly unhealthy. We got one slice of pepperoni pizza and one slice of sausage pizza. The sausage looked amazing and both slices were HUGE! The sausage pizza was more delicious, looked like it had more cheese, and I appreciated that it had large sausage chunks on it. The pepperoni was good, but not anything special. I would order the sausage pizza again. My only complaints are: 1. The soda only comes in cans. I would've loved to have had a huge glass of fountain pop, but I instead paid like $1.90 for a can of pop. 2. The upstairs could really fit more people for seating if it wasn't just open around the edges. It was so busy there and took a few minutes to find a place to sit. If they added a layer of tables and closed up just 1/3 of the open first floor, there'd be more room to sit and enjoy your lunch. 3. If I was a dishonest person which I am not, I could easily just walk away with a free meal. There's no rhyme or reason to the lines. You could take your plate of food and walk away, totally bypassing the line. I will gladly pay $4 for a slice of their pizza, but not everyone is honest. Not sure how much they lose on stolen food. Overall, a delicious place to eat, cute setting, and great concept.
(3)
Dean P.

Cosetta is a wonderful place to have pretty authentic Italian cooking. You may a little more but the portions are adequate and often you cannot eat it all and doggie bags are common. The staff is friendly and competent. I have never had a bad meal there and it helps that if you are going to the Xcel Center, it is just down the street. You may have to wait in line but the wait is well worth it....
(5)
Rich R.

Food was ok. Had the special September dish which had an underwhelming cream sauce. While eating, watched employee wiping up some kind of spill on the dining room floor, who then used the same wet rag to clean tables. Gross.
(1)
BK J.

Cosetta's has earned their reputation in St. Paul. They know Italian fare and they don't mess with what works. In spite of their construction which will more than double their size, after you maneuver through the alternate entrance you have to reorient yourself as to where you are in Cosetta's. Once you find your way you can head over to the market or to the food and/or pizza lines. Today I was off to the market and I have to give a shout out to Kelsey, who did a great job of helping me fill up my basket. Nancy, this one is a keeper! Got the usual lasagne, meatball mix and salads, as well as the mushroom focaccia. In case I need one more reason to draw me back to Cosetta's, I now have the mushroom focaccia. Heavenly bliss, no other words to describe it. I may be ruined for life, thanks to Kelsey and mushroom focaccia!
(5)
Laura G.

The new Cossetta's is immaculate. I can find everything I need in the new market. My Italian family is from Philadelphia and I have no problem getting all my ingredients. Cossetta's now rivals Eataly - and it's our own, home grown, St. Paul, non franchised-version. A successful family-owned Minnesota business. We should be so proud. Minnesota Italian-Americans - we should be SO excited about this place and continue to support their business!
(5)
Kate R.

First off, I live in St Paul and am a frequent visitor and supporter this restaurant and grocery. I am basing my rating on some recent customer service. It has dramatically decline here. On my last visit I have to say I was appalled and actually pretty embarrassed of the service we received. First, our waitress did not pay attention to our table and it took about 20 minutes to get our first drink. When we ordered food my friend thought her bruschetta seemed cold, almost frozen. We asked if they could heat it up and we got a brush off and told its supposed to be served this way. I know this isn't true, as I've said I come here often and have had almost everything on the menu, the toast should not be cold in the middle. Despite the above, we were still having a good time. I love the atmosphere of the rooftop. The real problem came when we tried to get our bills. I was disrespected by many levels of the staff. After we finished our food and hadn't gotten service for a half an hour we decided we wanted to leave. Tracking down our waitress was nearly impossible. When we finally did, we didn't get an apology, just an excuse she was having a bad day. A manager then came to our table, whom I assumed would take care of us quickly. But this was not the case. She gave us our bill and never returned. We had to walk our bill over to them . We were then stranded for another 20 minutes, no waitress or manager in sight. . When the waitress finally did return with our bills, it wasn't split by seat as we requested. This caused another long wait. During this time, I was getting frustrated and complained to one of the people filling waters. My complaints were only answered with sarcastic remarks. Finally, another manager came over and decided to comp our bills. This was much appreciated for our troubles, but we were still left with sarcastic remarks from him as well. I was so upset by this experience that I took the time to email them, describing in detail my visit. I asked that they remind their staff to treat customers with respect. It really goes a long way. I never heard back from them, I assume they ignored my concerns like they did that night, which is very frustrating. I was left with a bad taste for the restaurant, which is very sad for me, as I love going there so much.
(1)
Alex M.

Do you want rich, flavorful, Italian comfort food... for a good price? Search no further! Cossetta's provides. I'm a fan of Cossetta's. A classic establishment off of West 7th in St. Paul, they do Italian-American the right way. With lots to choose from and good prices, the food makes the grade. It's pretty standard deli/market style ordering - get in line and order what you want as you move down through the stations. Cold/hot/desserts/drinks... they've got it all. I recommend any of the hot dishes (I don't have a favorite because they are all delicious), and I think the pizza is phenomenal. Also... get a cannoli. Just do it. You won't regret this decision. It's a good stop to get your somewhat harder to find Italian supplies. Definitely check this place out!
(4)
Linnea C.

Vegetarians beware! The marinara sauce is pork based. I thought it tasted a little funny the first time I had it, but thought nothing of it until I looked at the ingredients on the to-go container. Personally, I feel it's not the greatest food (without considering the porky sauce), a little bland and lacking in freshness. They seem to use tons of salt, but little other seasonings. The grocery store is nice, but there is little that I can't get at another store (Delmonico's!!).
(2)
Debra S.

I love Cosetta's. I crave the mostacolli and garlic bread, it's that good. I wish that they had a better system for the different lines for the different counters. I wish they had made seperate lines for the salads, the sandwiches and the pasta. It's hard to wait in line when they are busy for 5-10 minutes back by the door because people don't know that if you want pasta you go to the pasta counter. Managment is pretty good about keeping a eye out for a back up and calling out a announcement to get the line moving. I'm a life long fan.
(5)
Johnny S.

DISAPPOINTED!!!! Should be 1.5 stars I had been hearing about Cossetta's for years. Finally, I was working a few blocks away n Saint Paul and went there for lunch. First, am not a fan of the cafeteria line style restaurant. I made it through that part and ordered a veal parmigiana hero. My second issue was the sticker shock at the register $1.63 for a 12oz can of Diet Coke. Come on. They would be making money at 75 cents. Why gouge people unless it is just because you can. Lastly, there was the food. I have not had any veal in nearly 30 years. I was really looking forward to it. The veal was like the toughest piece of leather which I have ever encountered. It was dry and hard. Even the sauce could not soften it. The breading was so coarse that it left abrasions on the roof of my mouth. Had it not been so busy and had I not been with coworkers I would have asked for my money back. Completely overpriced and overrated. Perfect for Minnesota.
(2)
raygine c.

I am a fan of this place. the price is reasonable for all the pasta. They have a pretty simple menu on their pasta. They have so many other choices, including, salad bar, sandwiches bar, and also pizza bar! which is awesome Dessert bar next door also quite good. i tried their tiramisu, baba, and also the napoleon. All are excellent. The best italian restaurant in MSP I would say!
(4)
Karen H.

Wow, the newly renovated location looks amazing! Had a slice of sausage pizza and shared some pasta with the kids. Food was greasy and tasty. I always enjoy their market and it's been moved into the basement temporarily, while they finish up their construction. I always encourage friends and family to try Cosetta's and they are usually impressed by the food and reasonable prices.
(4)
Paula D.

D-I-S-S-A-P-O-I-N-T-E-D. The salads looked great but they were drenched with dressing. Everything was very salty. Not very impressed.
(2)
Dan B.

In my travelings around Saint Paul I have come to realize that there are many establishments that survive on reputation alone. They have been established for so long that customers continue to show up, not because the product is great but because they always have. Or their friends (with poor taste) have told them they have to try it. One establishment that survives on reputation is Cossetta's. I can hear the collective gasp that just took place. But alas, it's true: Cossetta's is very overrated. Cossetta's has been around forever, feeding the masses on West 7th. This cafeteria style deli and Italian market is a vital part of the community in Saint Paul, and has been a favorite for event- goers since the days of the Civic Center. Cossetta's serves hot and cold sandwiches, salads, pasta, Italian entrees, and pizza. All of which are good, none of which are great. And that my friends is why I believe Cossetta's is overrated. I have two complaints with the food at Cossetta's: it's mass produced and it's bland, especially by Italian standards. A large part of Cossetta's business is catering and that comes through in the quality of the food. I don't care who you are, if you are producing mass quantities of food the quality will decrease. There is a reason we are asked to choose between quality and quantity in several aspect of our lives: it's very difficult to do both. The other issue is that the food is bland. I have always been told that an Italian staple is a good red sauce, and I'm always disappointed with the sauce at Cossetta's. If you are from North Branch and eat Ragu all month long, I am sure their sauce is a revelation of taste. But for those of us who know what a green pepper tastes like, it's sub-par. When I crave some pasta in a red sauce several places nearby pop into my head before Cossetta's such as DeGidio's, Trattoria da Vinci, and the Dari-ette. The same is true for their pizza sauce. No kick whatsoever. Does it beat Domino's sauce? Yes. Does it compare to The Italian Pie Shoppe or Black Sheep? Not even close. It drives me nuts when I hear someone say "Dude, you gotta try Cossetta's. Their (insert bland food here) is the best!" That's like saying the best Mexican food is at Chipotle, or Culvers has the best cheeseburger in town. One thing that Cossetta's has on its side is convenience. They are right there on West 7th about a block from the Xcel, so they are easy to access before a game. Although that place gets packed before games, so be prepared to stand in line. They also have a very solid Italian market. All the Italian staples you need for your kitchen at home can be found on the shelves of the Cosetta's market. Although I do have to admit that I prefer to trek across the river to Buon Giorno when I am in need of some Italian sausage. Back to my original point. Cossetta's is good, not great. If you disagree, buy me dinner and I will show you better food in the same price range. All I am really saying, is expect a little more and go out of your way to find it. Saint Paul has tons of great establishments, and it saddens me that so many of us eat at places because we always have, or because we take the recommendation of a rube whose idea of fine dinning is a steak at Chili's.
(2)
A A.

We are totally surprised that this place wasn't amazing - the menu is relatively small for such a "big" place - and offers LOTS of seafood options, which sucks for someone who doesn't eat seafood. Wah. I'll start by saying the greeters (all four of them!) were super nice and friendly and bubbly - so we had high hopes for the rest of the night. A lot of little things added up to an only-okay experience... we told the server right away that we were starving, and upon bringing our beers, we asked him if they bring bread to the table - he said, very under his breath, "Only if people request it". SO, two check-ins later, he still hadn't brought our bread... I asked again, and he said again "only if people request it" - so I said "okay, so we're starving, so we request it!" - and he said he'd see if they had any. TABLE bread? Just, ugh. He brought it with a weird attitude - I didn't understand what went down, but he seemed annoyed. We ate on the rooftop, thought it would have some cool summertime evening rooftop ambiance... the people at the table in front of us AND the people at the table behind us were both smoking - while we (and they!) were eating. Gross. At home on the couch 5 hours later, I still smell like smoke. Grosser. Our food took a long time to come, when it came, the pasta was awesome - just like any authentic Italian restaurant - but the chicken breasts were totally rubbery, there's no way they were grilled recently. They had "grill marks" on them, but were solid and chewy and were hard to cut with my dull butter knife - looked and tasted microwaved. We were totally disappointed in everything except for the actual pasta itself. It felt like a regular old bar and grill rooftop place with good pasta and a random Italian story. Definitely won't go back, too bad!
(2)
Kate P.

what a place---- huge remodel investment pays off (I hope!). we got back from a month in Italy and found reminders of our trip in Cossetas, in set up, design, and flavors-everywhere, just what we were looking for. Now that the market is added, we are planning to make a monthly trip in to downtown just for shopping (outside of our normal gelato fix), to get great ingredients. kudos for investing in DT st. Paul! I love the street-food deli classics and am looking forward to trying dinner on the patio this summer.
(5)
Rachel C.

Really Good Salads!!!!! The pasta is ok, The salads are Great!!!!!
(4)
Whitney F.

After visiting Cossetta's on Wednesday night, I quickly discovered Thursday that my new favorite food is day old, cold, mostaccioli. Not. Kidding. Amazing! My advice would be not to go during an event at the Xcel unless you truly enjoy the 50+ person line. Head over on a weeknight, preferably around Christmas. Enjoy the still bustling atmosphere, traditional Christmas decor, and enjoy every morsel of an overly indulgent meal of pizza, pasta, meatballs and of course a glass of red. If I knew how to cook I may have taken advantage of the Italian Market on the way out. They had a wide variety of tomatoes, pasta, and meat that you won't find at your local Lunds or Rainbow! To top it off, Cosetta's prices are super reasonable, and if you love leftovers as much as I do, you'll have a delightful next day brown bag!
(4)
Noah F.

So, okay...the pizza is pretty good. The other entrees aren't bad, but not worth getting twice. The thing that will keep me from going back to Cossetta's, though, was my interaction with one of the lot attendants. After finishing my meal and leaving I mentioned to him, out of courtesy more that anything, that I needed to stop by one of the apartments next door and that it would only take me about 5 minutes. I also mentioned that I was a contractor and that this was a short business-related call. He was polite and informed me that they were getting busy and that he couldn't allow me do it. Long story short, I ended up parking illegally in the street with my hazard lights on and the whole process took less than two minutes. I understand that Cossetta's doesn't want people abusing their lot, but I felt that as a paying customer there should be a small amount of leeway for a very short stop just a few feet from their door. (After giving this a one star review, mostly out of spite last night, I've upped it to two. Hey, the pizza ain't bad, but I still won't be going back.)
(2)
Mike O.

Lived in the area 25 years ago and cossetta's was always one of my favorites either to stop for authentic Italian cuisine or to shop at the import grocer attached. Recently moved back to the area and this place remains unchanged. Still awesome.
(5)
Michael O.

Every town needs a place like this! Wonderful Italian deli with a cafeteria format. The prices were reasonable, and the food was outstanding. We had a tortellini salad, chicken marsala, and tiramisu. One of the best Marsalas I have ever had.
(5)
Pamela H.

The parking lot attendants were great. The people in the market were extremely nice and helpful. The cafeteria employees were none of this. After waiting in line for 10 minutes in the sandwich line (1 person was ahead of me...no one was behind me and there was PLENTY of staff) while the employees discussed evening plans and nonchalantly moped around literally not doing a thing as I gave them the death stare, I caught the attention on the manager, who immediately rectified the situation and made the sandwich maker spit out the toothpick that had been dangling from his lip for the past 15 min. One star for the market, one star for the parking lot guys. The sandwich (Italian Hero) was good but if you are in need of any dental work, don't try to bite the bread...use a (plastic) knife.
(2)
Katie T.

Oh boy.. it doesn't get better than Cossetta's! I tend to stay with the red sauces - this time I ordered the lasagna and oh man yum yum yum! The breadstick, the buttery flavorful breadstick that comes with ugh I can't even describe it. I wish I had the guts to ask for a second one, maybe next time? But that breadstick dipped in the marinara sauce is heaven. My boss ordered a chicken pasta with white sauce - looked tasty and she enjoyed it as well, didn't reheat very well (too bad for her!) Always look forward to my trip to Cossetta's! P.S. New renovation is done and was AWESOME - We didn't bump into anyone while moving around upstairs..also excited to go in the summer and sit outside!
(5)
Joe H.

Good, not great food. Confusing cafeteria style check out which only got worse with their remodel. Bring your own soda- they shamelessly price gouge. Pluses: other than the checkout they did a fairly good job on the remodel and they now have outside seating, nice place to bring kids-close to the Excel Center,
(3)
Joel R.

Cossetta's is an enormous Twin Cities institution serving traditional Italian-American food. This restaurant (with attached marketplace) manages huge crowds by employing a parking attendant, four pizza ovens, several cashiers, and countless line cooks. Food service is basic cafeteria style, with the line cooks refreshing the hot dishes every few minutes or so. I arrived here on a busy day, looking for an early dinner. After arriving, I found many meal options. One option was pizza; the slices looked hearty (a necessity for a slice that will set you back about four bucks) but fairly generic, with gobs of cheese and uniform crust. Moreover, the raw-looking onions on the daily special did not look especially appetizing. The other options could be had in the cafeteria line: pasta, entrees, or salad. I took my place in the line and surveyed my choices. First on the list was salad, but these heaping bowls of overdressed greens weren't looking so good to me. That left the hot dishes. I considered a few entrees before settling on the daily special, a ravioli with bolognese. They threw in a stick of garlic bread, how about that? I tacked on a limonata and tucked in for some chow. Despite the crowds, my party was able to secure a nice round table for ourselves. I was hungry and went to town on my pasta. It was tangy, maybe a little too tangy. There was a little too much parmesean-romano mixture in the dish. I scraped some off and tried again. My ravioli were pretty good, a little overcooked, but tasty. The garlic bread wasn't anything to write home about. Evaluating the whole package, Cossetta's is a pretty good place. It's not my favorite but I wouldn't turn down a meal here. The market sells some nice Italian imports which is a nice bonus.
(3)
Taylor H.

I stopped in recently for a quick meal on my way to roller derby. Even with massive-scale construction going on, the place hasn't lost an ounce of charm. I got pizza, as usual, and am never disappointed by the large, delicious slices. It was my first time trying the cannoli, however (I'm late to the party, I know), and it was fantastic. I've had pasta here in the past and it was nothing special, but a slice pf pizza, cannoli, or a walk through the market area is always a treat.
(4)
Sam M.

So many people come here now that I love to come here at off times when it is not so crowded. The pizza is still great. The pasta is still delicious. And Cosetta's spicy italian dressing is one of a kind. Today I got mostaccioli with a meatball (my current favorite). Very good. That cheese they add makes it so nice. Haven't been here? What are you waiting for?
(5)
Flapjacks M.

I've heard about how great this place was from many people for many years. So when I so happened to be in St. Paul with a friend, which rarely happens, I made it a point to finally stop in and check it out. Even though I was in St. Paul for a for show with tons of free food. When I entered the place I decided to check out the market place first before I decided to get some food. They had a great selection of items but nothing too impressive. I was second in line for the hot food items with no one behind me. The gentlemen in front of me was chit chatting with the worker which was fine because I hadn't really decided on what i wanted to get yet. In that time about 3 other people got behind me. When it came for my time to order the guy behind the counter walked passed me and asked the last 2 people in line if they needed help. They both nodded towards me and noted that I was there before them. I had decided to settle on the special which was a penne with white sauce, sausage and black truffle. The guy rushed me and was a bit rude, I was so flustered by it all I didn't notice a second worker shoving a piece of garlic bread in my face. They both seemed annoyed by me so just hurried up and took my food and paid for it. Despite my experience at the counter I was still very excited to try my food. met my friend at a table upstairs and she had gotten a slice of peperoni pizza. My food was so BLAND, I didn't taste any black truffle at all and the garlic toast was rock hard stale. All of this cost me over 10$ I was very disappointed. Once we both had tried our food, she was the first to open up and mention how rude the staff and how dirty the dining area was. We were both disappointed with the food. Neither of us finished our items and left
(1)
Kirsten L.

There's something so heartwarming about this place. Makes me wish I was italian! We didn't have the patience to wait in the line that serves all the various other italian food so we grabbed slices of fresh pizza and then popped up to the top level to sit and eat. Places like this are why I find downtown St. Paul to be so endearing!
(4)
Carol B.

My husband and I went to the newly remodeled Cossetta's last night for dinner. What a disappointment! Long waits at each station standing in line with your plastic tray , the unenthusiastic service, balancing your food and drinks up the two flights of stairs, trying to find a clean table instead of one with grease and parmesan all over it. Then sitting down to realize oh! Need an extra plate to share our salad, maybe some more napkins, maybe an actual glass for our beers... Let me run down the two flights of stairs to stand in line to ask for those. My chicken parm was a small, dry, dark brown , deep fried hockey puck with a decent red sauce. My husband' s sausage calabrese was sweet ,rubbery, with no spice, covered in same sauce. We split a lovely antipasti salad . This, my friends was over $50 !!!! Two entrees, a shared salad,a glass of wine, 2 beers! To wait in that line , juggle my disappointing food up two flights , and eat with plastic utensils. Never again!! We were asked how our meal was by an employee and we told him we were disappointed. He said ...oh sorry! Go for a slice when you are in a rush , go to the deli, go to the beautiful upstairs restaurant but don't bother otherwise.
(2)
Mia K.

The food was okay - but I'm guessing that it would have tasted better if we had gotten it to-go. I didn't have a problem with the line or cafeteria style, but the upstairs eating area was a total nightmare. The tables in decent spots were all dirty. Our table was wobbly, we wanted water with our meal and had to get it ourselves in little plastic cups. There weren't that many people up there, but it still felt cramped and loud. If you close your eyes (so you can't see all the 'authentic' touches on the wall) I felt like I was eating at a Target food court area. I guess I was expecting a restaurant, but it was much more like a grocery store deli. I'd go back for the food, but I'd leave immediately after paying. (and you would think for the prices, they would put more effort into the dining experience.)
(2)
Dan A.

The bakery space is beautiful and the baked goods are excellent. The restaurant is pretty much the same as it has always been mediocre and over priced. Last time I was there I had a salad it was drowned in oily dressing and they were stingy on all the ingredients except lettuce.
(3)
Wil G.

This is home for me! The food, the aroma's, the flavors, nothing ever will compare!
(5)
Timothy K.

Italian fast food. Cheesy music with decent cafeteria style food. The big selling point is the market on site. You can go in for a pizza or some really great pasta and go home with roasted red peppers and sausage.
(4)
JoeNLauren P.

Pizzas are amazing. You won't be disappointed with the selection of slices up front, and I'm sure they're all good but the cheese is about as ridiculously good as it gets. I remember being in heaven at my buddies place when I was in elementary school when his parent's would bring home a couple pies from cossettas (all the way to the northern burbs of MPLS)... oh the memories! NYC and Chicago have got nothing on this institution! They've got some tasty tiramisu and cannolis on the dessert side of things. There market has a great selection of meats, cheeses, etc. Seating upstairs is almost always crazy, so be ready.
(4)
Raphael P.

Not fancy but really good food fast at a good price. Try the cossetta salad!
(5)
kawan b.

Good service nice looking place. The food was a little salty and meat in the lasagnas tasted funny the garlic bread was hard. Locals love it I thought it was a nightmare
(2)
Jessica H.

AMAZING! A lot of people go right past the deli counter, so they're missing out - their cold heroes are the best! It can get pretty loud and crazy in there sometimes, but it's definitely worth it.
(5)
Matt V.

Some of the best restaurant-bought Italian food ever. It's delicious, and the environment is vibrant and fun! I could eat here daily.
(5)
Nadine Y.

Never have I seen so many empty bottles of Nesquick chocolate milk in the trashcan as I have at Cossetta's! And thank goodness that I'm not the only childish adult that still drinks chocolate milk with my pasta... or any meal at that. I'm a pretty social being, but I was so nervous about my first visit to Cossetta's. I was just like a little kid who needed mom's hand (or a friend who's been there before) to lead me through the process and even how to pronounce "mostaccioli." I shyly pointed to the delicious dish filled with pasta, red sauce, and ricotta cheese. Note, you pay before you eat. Along with the mostaccioli, I couldn't resist chocolate milk (YUM!) and a shared tiramisu dessert. My hands trembled walking up those stairs to the dining area. And every step up, I got more and more nervous - what if I spill my tray? What if I lose my milk? What if I slip and fall? All questions a five year old would ponder and be aware of. And at the end of dinner, I was full and as giddy as a five year old. The pasta? Good! The chocolate milk? Good. The dessert? Good!... and a definite must have! Here's another note - don't be an idiot like me. When you pull in to the lot to park, stop at the attendant first. He'll give you a ticket for your window. Yeah... don't do what I did - just drove in to the lot and parked. I felt like a child getting chased down....
(5)
Angela L.

You have to go to Cossetta's. This place is a 7th Street Staple. Lines are long, people watching is great! The parking lot is all messed up right now, but I'm sure they'll fix that up eventually... I hope. I would go here every week if I could handle it. Get one of their baked pastas - I recommend getting the masticcioli, it's delicious!
(4)
Brian A.

It can be dingey and seem a bit dirty...blah blah blah! If you know what you're looking for in taste...ignore the naysayers and take from my review the one word that sums up Cossettas...Authentic.
(5)
Katheryn A.

The Cossetta salad and mostaccioli are amazing. You can also purchase extra virgin olive oil imported from Italy for much cheaper than at your local grocery store.
(5)
Katie O.

Possibly some of the best pizza I've ever had, plus going there is a great St. Paul experience. It's always super busy, especially on Xcel event nights - but that's one of the funnest times to go! Great people watching, nice employees - awesome good.
(5)
P D.

A better deli than restaurant but very, very good. Sausage great - peppers and onions a little over seasoned. Bread was good but they just don't make good bread in Minnesota. Avoid the cannoli. You cant put anisette in crappy filling and call it a canolli. Should be filled a la minut to be worth what they charge. Still better than most of the placed around though.
(3)
Morgan A.

I went here today and split both a slice of pepperoni pizza and the Giardiniera salad and both were very good. The pizza was a little beneath places such as Andrea's pizza or Mama's pizza on the Minneapolis skyway system but not too far beneath and it *did* appear larger. The real gem though was the Giardiniera salad (hard to write and i feel like i'm spelling it wrong every time! XD). Despite not liking olives and this salad being very heavy in olives, I couldn't help but like it and would gladly get that salad again. My grievance with the place though was the "no outside drinks" policy and high prices on cans of soda. Really, I haven't seen much worse abuse to maul people on the price. I was surprised when it came out to 6.01 for both a can of coca-cola and a slice of pizza.....the slice of pizza wasn't bad (i'm assuming 4.44) but the price of a can of coca-cola o.O.......I would most likely get takeout from here though but never would I buy soda from here again.
(4)
Chuck F.

Great for the price, the staff is often rude, so don't expect great service.
(4)
Jessie D.

I went in this weekend after a quick trip the antique shop across the street. The line was wicked long... The pizza was good and my salad was out of this world. I just don't know how long they can stay in business with that line.
(3)
Enrique E.

I've been in the Twin Cities twice. Both times had to stop here. First time I had the Pasta with Marinara, Second time I had the Turkey and Jack Sandwich. I basically will be making it a routine stop now. To me it just feels like a home cooked meal in a comfortable environment. See you Soon Cossetta's!
(4)
Katherine Z.

Delicious, comforting Italian-American food and pizza. Grab a tray and get in line. There's one for salads and food and the other just for pizza. Beer and wine are available. Cafeteria style seating upstairs and down with plenty of two and four tops along with several larger tables. Careful walking up those stairs with your tray; I nearly drop my tray every time. Maybe I should stop wearing heels everywhere (I probably won't). Outdoor tables in the summer months. There's a shop full of pastas, meats, cheese, bread, chocolates, etc. They offer twelve different sauces (served cold, you heat them up later, of course) which I've purchased when I don't feel like making my own. I've also had them cater events. Delivery (for a fee) on time and food was fantastic. Lots of options a la carte and they offer prix fixe menus, as well.
(4)
Irene D.

Rarely does a slice of sausage pizza make me count my blessings. This pizza is divine. For less than 4 dollars, I got the perfect slice of pizza. Perfect crust that was crispy from the tippy top of the slice to the crust. Perfect sauce. Perfect amount of cheese. Delicious house made Italian sausage. To top it off, the Parmesan cheese in the shakers is actually real grated Parmesan, not the crappy stuff you usually find in shakers, and it just sits on your table for your pleasure! I think I ate about 8 dollars worth of cheese that day... My friend and I also shared a lemon Italian ice which was like tangy fresh fallen snow. Excellent! Next time I go to the Science Museum, I'm gonna hit this place up.
(5)
Mithun K.

The regular saturday night pizza craving kicked in. We wanted to find an Italian place close to home and were not in the mood to hit an upscale Italian restaurant. This place just fit the bill right. You can call it an upscale Italian fast food (considering the quality of food & taste). The Pizza craving turned into a regular Italian food craving when the aroma of this place hit the nose. We tried the Lasagna Al Frono, Chicken Cacciatore and a slice of a sausage pizza. Everything was just awesome including the side of garlic bread. The sauce on the Lasagna was just great and the slice of pizza completed the saturday night craving. The portion size was perfect. Will surely be back here more often.
(5)
Lily K.

I absolutely dislike going out to eat for Italian food, but Cossetta's impressed me with their ravioli. Prices are very decent. You hop in a line and you are served cafeteria style. If you are new to Cossetta's, the first experience can be very intimidating if it is busy. Parking during busy hours is time, but free. You have a ticket that they give you and there were parking attendants to lead you to open spots. The lines can be long when busy and you are definitely packed inside the place. It's also hard to get a feel for where to go unless you have been there before as you cannot see the menu until you're close to having to place an order. Even with all of that, the food is very good and it's the place to go for Italian.
(4)
John M.

Admittedly I am not a huge pizza fan.. and I am even less of an Italian food fan. But I had been urged by a friend for awhile now to hit Cossetta's the next time I was in town. And I reluctantly seeked this place out and I am happy I did. I am not sure if I can say anything unique that the other 80+ reviewers have not mentioned but here goes: "Squiggly pants" There were so many options I had no idea what to choose and since there are 2 lines I had to decide quick. I jumped in the pizza line and choose a couple of slices that flirted back (mostly PG stuff but I swear that piece of sausage pizza showed a little leg and maybe even made the unique hand gesture when timed perfectly with it's tongue and cheek that depicts a simulation of the greatest sign of true love and the best birthday present ever). after my first bite I when harry met sallyed that EMM-EFFER and did not look back. I only regret that I had but one meal to give to Cossetta's. and because movie trivia and charades are fun.. the next time I am in town I am sure "I'll be back" after I kill John Connor.
(4)
Tim P.

I have been coming here since I was a young child and it has always been good. Go for the Pizza and antipasta salads. The italian specialties are good, but not great. The Pizza is the reason for going and to be more specific the Sausage pizza. If I have the time and the people I think they are way better when you order your own pizza. They take about 20-25 minutes, but it is worth it. Also when you leave stop at the meat counter and get some fresh bulk sausage to take home. It is great in meatballs and other homeade italian dishes. Sausage!
(4)
Sunil S.

The anecdote behind this story, was that I was a 3rd year medical student rotating at nearby United Hospital in Pediatric Urology, one of those electives that came highly recommended by fellow classmates at my medical school. My attending was a fantastic former army surgeon, great personality who retired a year or two after I had him. His skills in the operating room were amazing to me as a third year student...but this isn't a review on Dr. Pergament. It's a review of his highly recommended Italian restaurant just around the corner from the X: Cossetta's. I finally decided to go here one day when I had finished one of my calls. I went in and had a slice of pizza with a Peroni. The pizza (and beer too) were delicious. I went back multiple times there too, trying the spaghetti and meatballs as well as their ice cream that they have there as well. They also have a great selection of wines and cheeses in an adjacent market to the restaurant, which was also great. Overall, while the quality is great, it's not overly pricey too. I have to say pretty affordable all-around. Also seemingly discordant from the quality of the restaurant, is the notion of free parking this deep into a major metropolitan area. Yes, it's only one hour free parking. That would be a pipe dream in cities such as Chicago, DC or NYC. Outdoor seating is fantastic on Grand Avenue. It's one of several places that would be great to go before going to a Minnesota Wild game, though the only times I've gone here have been for lunch. Regardless of the profession, young men learn a lot from the older, well-traveled and experienced. Nothing could be truer than this instance. It was indeed an education in great taste by a classy, well-respected mentor.
(4)
Kelly S.

Can't beat Cossetta's for fast, casual, and inexpensive Italian food -Order food cafeteria style -There's a number of cold pasta salads, heros/sandwiches, salads, pastas, and pizza -Pizza sold by the slice, if you're ordering a whole pizza expect a little bit of a wait...especially if it's busy -Wine sold by the glass & beer by the bottle -If you dine-in there's tables and chairs on both levels -if you take-out, call ahead and skip the line altogether -Italian market sells variety of pastas, deli meat, sauce, cooked meatballs, cheeses, olives, olive oil, and Italian sweets -Parking in the lot is free for 1 hour
(4)
Marie G.

I keep going back to Cossetta's in the hope I will find something I like. Every entree I try is always loaded with too much salt. the last entree I had was the chicken marsala--way too salty. I think Cossetta's is over rated and very expensive. Oh how I miss the Italian food in Chicago!
(1)
David P.

Another St Paul mainstay. Great pizza, good red sauce and pasta. The Italian atmosphere is fun and energetic. The market is a great place for legit authentic supplies for your next italian meal. They also provide great catering services.
(4)
Teresa B.

The Pizza at Cossetta's is OK. I think the crust is too salty. I love the other food and I really like the market. I think they have the best bread in town. The same with the cheeses and olives . . fresh garlic and more. Go there to eat but be sure to check out the market. I go to Cosetta's about once a week.
(4)
Ashley B.

My boyfriend and I visited Cossetta's before heading to a concert in St. Paul one Saturday evening. We heard from friends the NY Style pizza they made was delicious. There was a bit of a wait when we got there, but that didn't stop us! The wait line allowed us to loop around the old Italian-style home, starting with the Italian market where you could purchase fresh breads, meats, cheeses, as well as all of the Italian ingredients you could imagine! I love Italian and I would come back to shop to make my next pasta dinner! You can also purchase freshly made salads, deli meat, and frozen/refrigerated pasta meals to take home with you! We ordered a glass of wine while we waited in line. This restaurant was unique from other Italian places in that you waited in line until you are ready to order your food (vs. being seated and having a server wait on you). It's similar to a buffet, but the food is all fresh! The chefs were constantly bringing out more. There were so many options to choose from! You have the option of choosing a salad and then selecting your main entree, served with a breadstick. We originaly came for pizza, however, after seeing the meals ahead of us, we couldn't pass up good Italian :) We both decided to order the special, which was Lasagna served with a side of baked penne. We split a salad (which was freshly prepared right in front of us) I was surprised how reasonable everything was, especially for Italian! After we got our food, we paid, and then took our trays and seated ourselves on the top level. Even though the place was bustling with visitors, we were still able to find a seat right away. The meal was amazing, and I look forward to dining with Cossetts soon!
(4)
L M.

There is a reason Cossetta's has a great reputation in St Paul. Their food is great. I love their red sauce! The employees are always welcoming and extremely nice. It's my go-to spot in St Paul.
(4)
John E.

The real deal for an Italian cafeteria and grocery. I love supporting these kinds of places. Locally owned, doing their own products at affordable prices. You won't be wowed by the food, but you will appreciate the place.
(4)
Troy S.

40 y/o, Austin TX resident, MN native, lived in downtown St. Paul for 2 years where I discovered Cossetta's. This is definitely my #1 favorite pizza in the US. Always order a custom pie with Sausage, Pepperoni, Mushrooms, Canadian Bacon. This is usually the first place I stop after landing at MSP. (2nd place is hole in the wall place in New Orleans...Sadly Austin doesn't have a top 5 pizza place, but the Tex-Mex is heavenly.)
(5)
Jon P.

Awesome! Great Itailin food, one of the best Italian beef and sausage combos I have had. Can't wait to go back to St. Paul so I can eat there again.
(5)
John A.

The ambience here is great, especially now that it has expanded and remodeled. The food, especially the PIZZA is sub par and over priced. You go here for the old style, NYC Italian market experience - don't have high expectations about good, quality food.
(2)
Jeff R.

I find this place to be entirely overrated - I just don't get the fascination. The building is cozy and the upstairs seating is nice and out of the whirlwind going on below, but the food just isn't that good. The sauce is no great shakes, and the pizza is uneven - fair at its best and awful at its worst. They do make a couple of great salads though. The gorgonzola salad is the best thing I've had there, actually. The salads are tossed to order, which means you can customize them to your liking. The adjoining shop is way overpriced. Please, please don't buy your Italian foodstuffs there. It's a joke. Also, it does get busy, particularly when there are events going on at the X. I'd definitely avoid this place for a few days on either side of the RNC invasion.
(2)
Hannes E.

Worst service in St Paul. This place has history and location working in its favor. The mgmt is rude and arrogant which trickles down to front line employees.
(1)
Michael N.

The pizza is good here. Pasta was ok. I like the little market as well but haven't really bought anything here. Nice place to eat in St. Paul for a good price.
(4)
Joel M.

Yes its cafeteria style ordering but the food is amazing. All of the cossetta family works here and it shows. The gelato is good but I love the Take home frozen stuff and fresh pastas and italian grocery shop next door
(4)
Justmari B.

Had our menu catered for a meeting yesterday and I swear those little sesame wafers are to die for! I am so looking forward to finding them in the deli got my fingers crossed!
(5)
Trish P.

I have been here so many times over the past eighteen years. We are fans, but the employees no longer seem happy to be there and we're not sure that they are family like they used to be. The food is consistently good and the prices are pretty fair. We found on this trip that the place was almost empty. It used to be that you could stand in line for 30 minutes and then literally have to wait for a table! We went on a Tuesday nigth as we were remodeling our kitchen and it was about 5:30. Yeah, it wasn't busy at all. We each ordered a deli salad and then pizza.....the pizza was excellent. My husband was happy with his salad. Mine was just ok. All in all, this is a pretty solid place for good food but we would love to know why they're not very busy anymore.
(4)
Annette L.

Fantastic Italian food here with a deli/cafeteria setting. There's plenty of seating, great prices, and it's right by a lot of the downtown activities. Great place!
(4)
Chandler P.

This place is very nostalgic to me from my days in high school. Over 10 years later and I still enjoy the food and ambiance of Cossetta's. Never change!
(4)
Jen J.

I love this place. The mostaccioli is my favorite. If I knew I was going to kick the bucket tomorrow, this would be my choice for my last meal :)
(4)
Norton L.

The other reviews pretty much covered Cossetta's, so I don't have much to add. Their parking lot can be a bit tight and their food is good. I'd hesitate to call it fantastic. But the thing I love about Cossetta's is their market, specifically their meat department. I come here a few times a year and I always make sure I walk out with some spicy Italian Sausage and meatball mix. Those are both very good and very tasty. Their Artesian-type breads also look good, but I've never bought one. I'm going to have to one of these days.
(4)
Jessica S.

It's been many years since I've lived in Minneapolis, and Cosetta's is one of those places I make sure to visit when I'm back in town. I've never had a better red sauce, their pizza is amazing, their lasagna can bring tears to my eyes. My only regret is that they don't ship from their store ... I'd be so happy to have a fridge full of their red sauce, pizza sauce, bulk sausage and pizza dough! (hint hint Cosetta's, you need to put your store online!)
(5)
Sarah C.

I dunno, I'll try this place again for something else. The pizza wasn't anything to write home about. I threw it in the trash after taking two bites. Who knows, maybe there is something else worth eating here.
(2)
Stacie K.

Another favorite from our recent trip to MN. This place is an assault on the senses - in the very best way. Lots of people, noise, choices, and good smells... The portions are large; the lasagna was delicious. It was hard to pick just one dish! There was a great bustling energy to the crowd, the staff was friendly, and the casual atmosphere made it great for our large group (there is a lot of seating!). Another excellent place for a carb extravaganza...
(4)
Zsanine G.

Food was tasty. It was confusing to figure where exactly to order what. We figured out quickly but still. It definitely would have made the experience better. We ordered and it was ready really quick. We ended up sitting upstairs. There is also seating outside, but there's only a few seats out there. They do have a really cool Italian meat and food market inside too.
(3)
Beth F.

One of these days I'll try something from Cosetta's that isn't pizza. Probably not anytime soon, but someday. The reasons I love coming here aren't just because the food is good, but it's because of the character and atmosphere. It's surprising to me, but I actually like the thought of standing in line and deciding what looks or sounds good (and it helps that the line usually moves pretty quickly). And I love all the different nooks and crannies for tables. There is a ton of seating but I've never felt like I was too crowded into any one space that I felt distracted by the conversation happening at the table next to me. But one of my favorite things about coming here is the Italian market. I love specialty grocery stores that sell specific types of ethnic foods that you can bring home and try to make on your own (try definitely being the operative word for me because I've only been cooking for about 2 years). Every time I've been here has been a real treat!
(4)
Anne C.

I've been going to Cossetta's for years, and love their pizza and pasta. Great mostaccioli, comfortable atmosphere, and tasty food. 3 stars is for their lack of healthy options - they would benefit from adding some to their menu (perhaps more variety of vegetables in their salads, healthy dressings). If you must eat healthy, I would suggest skipping Cossetta's. If you're willing to throw caution to the wind, get some pasta or pizza and plan to head to the gym later. Cossetta's is a great St. Paul experience, and worth a go.
(3)
Joey W.

We went for lunch on Father's Day after visiting the Science Museum. You could tell a lot of people did the same thing. Cossetta's is an excellent restaurant. The food is always delicious - pizza or pasta. I usually get the pasta. Depending on how busy they are seating is sometimes an issue and walking up those stairs with the full tray isn't alway easy but WORTH IT! That garlic bread alone is worth the stairs, the wait in line and sometimes the wait for a seat. You should go here!
(4)
Sandi W.

Great place for a slice! Love the daily special, you never know what combo they're gonna come up with! Decent wine and beer selection along with nice pasta choices or try a large sub!
(5)
Andy B.

A must-visit if you're in Saint Paul. If pizza by the slice isn't your thing, jump in the pasta/salad line; the Cosetta's salad is amazing and not at all healthy. Even if you're stuffed, swing by the dessert counter for a few cannolis to go...you'll find room for them.
(5)
kiki d.

One of my favorite pizza places. I only get the pizza, so this review is for pizza and ambiance only. The decor is cute, old-world Italian. There's two lines - one for the humongous pizza slices, one for the pastas / salads / etc., plus a little Italian market. It definitely gets crowded when there's an event at the arena (last time I went, the line was out the door due to High School Musical on ice, I believe). There is a small parking lot with an attendant, but there can be a wait during peak hours. Walking distance from United / Children's / Nasseff hospital, if you're spending time at the hospital and sick of the cafe or want a tasty treat after a procedure.
(5)
Robert M.

I see a lot of posts about their pizza, but I think Cossetta's has the best lasagna in the Twin Cities!
(5)
Dailyn G.

Yesterday was my first time in Cossetta's and will definitely go back. I ordered the lasagna which comes with garlic bread and a side of pasta, plenty of food for under $10.00. Its great to go in a group and you don't have to wait for food as everything is already cooked. I loved their italian market, i bought ingredients to make pizza at home and it turn out as the best homemade pizza my husband and me have ever made.
(4)
Danyelle D.

Cossetta's is always busy and it's for a good reason. It's delicious and inexpensive. You can get such a good potion and quality for the price. I always get the baked mostacholi, but everything looks amazing. The pasta salads never disappoint! The line sometimes can be out the door, but it moves quickly. If I lived in the Twin Cities area I would defiantly get my lunch-meat and cheese from Cossetta's as well. Their deli might have the best Italian selection outside of Chicago. You cannot find this stuff anywhere else.
(4)
Jessica D.

What can I say about Cossetta's that hasn't already been said?! Delicious pizza, awesome downtown setting, and it's an institution. Their gorgonzola salad is awesome as well. One slice of their massive pizza can fill you up for ours. This place has history and you can tell that they pride themselves on quality food.
(4)
Dustin N.

Everyone seems to absolutely love this place, don't' get your hopes up. The market offers a decent selection of high-priced Italian grocery that you can't get at Cub foods, but Whole Foods has a comparable selection. Louis (the upstairs restaurant) is pretty good; the rooftop bar/patio was a really nice addition and is probably the best part about Cossetta's. Plan to pass on the downstairs eatery; the food is not that great. Try Eataly in Chicago...you views of Cossetta's will never be the same.
(2)
Janie W.

This is a full throated endorsement of my new favorite COFFEE spot... Cossetta's PASTICCERIA PASTRIES & GELATO. It's housed in the middle of the main floor of their newly remodeled Emporium of Italian foods, prepared and otherwise. This is a letter perfect classic Italian Coffee House including the little hats. The pastries are as succulent as they are numerous. The atmosphere is old school EuroChic, impeccably rendered in marble and dark wood. I write because I want this wonderful place to be discovered as a destination coffee house. I've only been here twice and I already can't live without it. I fear if it remains undiscovered, it will be eliminated. Did I mention everything is made in house including the gelato? 2 small improvements would be to add a couple more savory items. I also prefer quiche warmed in a regular oven rather than a microwave.
(5)
Jim N.

Best pizza in MN in my opinion. I find ways to go to Cossetta's that sometimes border on the absurd. I do it to have the best pizza with great crust! When I'm done, I go shopping in the deli and cart home great stuff!
(4)
Anna M.

RESTAURANT REVIEW: I was craving Italian on Saturday. So my boyfriend and I were all for it when our friend suggested one of her fav spots- Cossetta's. We had been warned about the line, but I not against waiting when the food makes it worthwhile. Unfortunately, that was not the case. I was excited that my line (pasta/salad/sandwiches) was about to swerve around the freezer case. I could see it had pasta in it and was hoping to bring home some fresh made pasta. But no--I was disappointed to see that none of it is actually made at Cossetta's. Once we got to the front of the line- the pre-made pasta salads looked decent. The hot dishes looked like they were from a school cafeteria. But I ordered the mostaccioli anyway since I read it was to-die-for. Not sure if this is typical or if they had run out- but they gave me penne.(Penne has ridges. Mostaccioli doesn't.) Either way--the sauce tasted only the slightest bit better than what you'd get at Sabarro's. And the pasta was not memorable or fresh. My bf was also disappointed with his chicken. The upstairs dining room was ridiculous on Saturday evening. The tables and people are so packed together & the ceiling so low- they must be breaking fire code. The good: my friend liked the pizza, beer is reasonably priced ($4) and the parking lot. While I didn't try to the raved about pizza- overall these reviews make me sad. The fact that Cossetta's has such good reviews is truly a testament to the lack of good, affordable Italian restaurants in the area.
(2)
Dani H.

The food was so good. I have been here in the past and was not a fan, thankfully I gave it another chance. My boyfriend and I split a hoagie and a pizza slice and a small order of pasta salad. The ravioli with gorganzola and pancetta was delish. We hit a little construction for the great patio they are building, but it looks like it will be pretty fantastic!
(4)
Jessica P.

Love everything about this place!
(5)
Annie P.

We've previously only sat on the rooftop patio for beers but last night we were hungry and decided to order some apps before our meal. We picked a couple of what we thought would be "meaty items". POLPETTE AL SUGO (Meatballs) and CARPACCIO ALLA CIPRIANI (Beef tenderloin salad) Both very disappointing - 2 super tiny meatballs for $8.00 and the beef tenderloin salad was mostly arugula with paper thin shaved beef on the bottom of the plate you had to scrape with your fork. It was seriously a joke. Yes, the menu did describe it as "thinly sliced beef tenderloin" but it seriously looked like part of the design in the plate. After such disappointing apps and poor service from our non existent waitress we hi tailed it out of there. They probably figure if you're going to enjoy our rooftop patio you're gonna have to "PAY" for the food. Too many other better Italian joints in the city and we won't be back.
(3)
Eva Y.

Love, love, love their market and cafe. I have been going to this place ever since I was introduce to it during college years. The last time I was there was back in 2009 and the place is still just as busy as when I first went there in 1998. They not only have yummy salads, pizza, and pasta... you can also take it home with you at the market section of this place. They have frozen family portions that you can take home with you. Overall, just yummy!!!
(4)
Whitney G.

I think I was overwhelmed by too much of a good thing. Typically, if you get a pasta, you get a side of pasta if you choose their combination meal. I did not think to inquire to switch out the side of pasta for a salad, but I will definitely have to ask the next time I go. Of course, I have a love affair with Italian food, it just felt very heavy. I will update my review the next time around.
(3)
Sammy L.

Really tasty pizza, plenty of seating, fun atmosphere for families
(4)
Peter M.

This place is worth taking in, just for the way that they remodeled! There is valet parking and a roof top bar with tables for dining. In this sort of an economy they didn't expand because they're second rate.
(5)
Emily L.

ammmmazing!!!!!!!!!
(5)
Sarah U.

Decent pizza and always buzzin before and after a game or concert I wouldn't be mad if someone brought me home a slice but I wouldn't make a special trip just to get it.
(3)
Alexander M.

Cossettas is an institution for good reason, the remodel is amazing and the food didn't lose its amazingness. The pizza is some of the best out there and the prices are great, it isn't always easy to park, but you can't hold that against them, just show up early!
(5)
Carl B.

This was the first time I've ever been here and I'm definitely coming back! The place is basically ran cafeteria style. I ended up getting the lasagna which came with garlic bread and a pasta side. Both dishes tasted great. My friend had a cheese tortellini that was was very good as well. After the meal we grabbed some desserts. I chose cheesecake, cannoli, biscotti, and a vanilla cream filled desseet. All made on site and very delicious. I also checked out the market area. Tons of fresh pastas, meat, and cheeses amongst other things. I wish I could live in the building. I'm definitely going back!
(5)
Joelle P.

I don't even know how to properly rate Cosetta... On one hand, my food tasted like my little brother tried to make pasta in the microwave (including those meatballs in the freezer section of the grocery store). On the other hand, the macarons I had after my meal were life changing. I mean, for real. I love macarons and have been obsessed with them since my visit to Paris and Italy where I had the most heavenly macarons of my life. Anyhow, I had given up hope that anywhere in MN had macarons that could even compete with those I had in Europe, but I was wrong. These macarons are PERFECT. I had the lemon and the pistachio, but in retrospect, I should have gotten one of each flavor. Actually I think I saw they sell them by the pound... This now makes sense to me. They are nice and crisp on the outside but he minute you bite in they are gooey, slightly chewy, and melt right in your mouth. My mouth is watering as I type. They also have a whole case full of delicious beautiful desserts, I need to try a cannoli, another favorite of mine, and a Gelato freezer which was also tempting. In conclusion, I won't probably ever eat the food again, but I would make the trip to St Paul for the bakery for sure. So the bakery for me is really 5 stars and the restaurant is like, 2.... So I went with 4? I don't know, I feel wrong for not giving those cookies at least a 4.
(4)
Ty T.

Best Italian food I have ever found. Everything from pastas, salads, deli meats and the main attraction.....pizza. Since I've moved away from the twin cities area years ago, I have yet to find an authentic joint for Italian. The pizza is made with the freshest ingredients prepared daily. No substitutions. Plus if you're a die hard hockey fan such as myself, its a five minute walk from the Minnesota Wild arena.
(5)
Jennifer L.

Wow! Best Italian food outside Chicago. The Alfredo is divine. It's a cafe and a specialty Italian grocery.
(5)
Susannah H.

Yeahhhh, I'm glad Cossetta's exists. As an Italian grocer, it's the best I've been to in the Twin Cities hands down. The staff has always been really friendly as well, so no complaints there... But the food is just insanely mediocre and usually way too salty (especially the pasta sauces). They're a St. Paul Institution, I get it; and they're considered a Twin Cities staple even outside of the metro, but seriously - the food is just lackluster. The pizza's pretty "meh": the sauce is forgettable, the crust is just not crisp enough (big fan of the NY slice). However, their pre-made raw dough is great - just a bit too salty....maybe that's just some weird MN thing? The pasta and sauce: like I said before, way too salty. Would be decent if it weren't for that Soups: like the sauces, too salty (which is too bad because they have potential to be awesome) And the cost: definitely not cheap...and no offense, but since the food's flavor (not quality, I assume the quality is why it's so expensive?) is maybe only a few steps better than what I can get for a fraction of the cost at a mall Sbarro's, that's kinda ridiculous. I feel like I might get a lot of flack for giving Cossetta's only two-stars - it practically has a cult-like following...but honestly, "meh" is basically the perfect way to describe it. Sorry.
(2)
Neal C.

Really good quality Italian food served quickly-cafeteria style. There is a salad area, hot sandwich area, cold sandwiches, hot pasta, and pizza as well. The portion sizes are very generous. Prices are reasonable- $8 to $11 per item (except pizza which is $4.5 and salads are $5-7). My favorite items are the Chicken Parmesan, veal parmesan, and cannoli. The red sauce they use is very flavorful, smooth, and has plenty of garlic (a plus for me!) The pizza slices are gigantic. Easily a lunch for $4.50-- good NY style crisp crust with plenty of toppings too. If you want a quick, delicious Italian lunch in St. Paul, this is a must.
(4)
Joe L.

What a great spot. The pastas and meatball subs are great. Also maybe the best cannolis in the upper Midwest.
(5)
Jim L.

Cosettas is an OLD family owned business that I have been going to for years! It was a "must stop" whenever I am in St Paul around lunch time. I have had their pizza which is good, they hand toss the dough. A lot of places have pizza so I usually get the Lasagna when I go there. Sometimes they make a couple variations of the lasagna to try. With the lasagna, you get a bread stick and Baked Ziti with a bunch of delicious sauce poured all over the top. How can you go wrong? The dining area upstairs was dated and very close quarters. They just expanded in the last couple years (which made the tiny parking lot smaller) that made the restaurant larger. They improved the flow of the ordering, you take 1 line if you are doing pizza and a different line if you are doing anything else. the lines come together at the central check-out area. This place is very busy during prime time eating hours and before events at the Xcel. They are pretty good at getting you through the line quickly but it gets like a zoo in there sometimes! They also have a store attached where I have also bought fresh dough, sauce and other ingredients to make their pizza at home and call it mine! Today I even went in the store and got some dessert. The Tiramisu was awesome. The influx of traffic and people are a turn off at high eating times.
(4)
Jim R.

So at height of lunch hour, 10 min wait for slice of pizza of the day? But I could get 20 some-odd slices of pepperoni...Passed and moved on...disappointing experience
(2)
Kaitlyn F.

If this review would have been written a year ago, it would have only received four stars because of the long lines. However, because of the remodel/expansion, the joys of Cosetta's has been enhanced! Now, I can receive the crisp salads, delectable soups, enticing entrees, and warm chewy garlic bread in less than ten minutes. All the makings for a perfect afternoon savoring the comforts of Italian cooking like Mama G makes. I loved Cossetta's before, and that love has only grown. I also highly recommend the store attached to the restaurant! Being able to take home Cossetta's may be the reason why I had to buy a larger wardrobe. I'm not disappointed.
(5)
Fryem T.

Go here and order anything! There is nothing bad on the menu. This is also the perfect place to hit before a event at Excel. Parking is hellish but if you brave that you will have a great Italian meal.
(5)
Tina Y.

Cossetta has a bakery, market, and restaurants all focused on Italian cuisine. If you're craving sweets or you have a sweet tooth in general, their bakery is perfect for that! They have a lot on display and can be overwhelming to pick from but I decided to get their popular peanut butter chocolate and the chocolate covered cheesecake for $4.31. These two desserts were rich and sweet. It's probably best to just get one because of how rich it is and save the one for later. Would I come back here again for dessert? If I was craving that rich sweet flavor and willing to spend a few more bucks than usual on dessert then I would. The dessert is more on the high end so it's a little overpriced for me.
(3)
JJ W.

I love this place! Granted I've only been here twice but I so wish I lived closer to the location! Awesome food that I cannot say enough about. Good salad, sandwich, and most importantly, the pasta!! Oh and the attached bakery- my eyes light up like a kid in a candy store! If only I can consume it all without gaining 20 pounds! Btw, there is limited free parking behind the store but I can imagine it filling up during peak hours. Such good food, it's worth waiting in line and even parking away and walking for!
(5)
Sharon B.

UGGGHHH!!! I thought my veal parmigana was going to have a small side of pasta. I was so disappointed with my takeout order and the breadstick was freezing. I will go back BUT be way more careful about what I order.
(2)
Brian T.

Can I live here, until I die of old age and carb overloads? This place is straight up awesome! All the food is great. Expect long lines because this restaurant is super popular
(5)
Leah M.

My family has been going to Cossetta's since I was 3 years old. I love this place and it's even cooler now that they've renovated everything! I know their pizza is the best known thing on the menu, but my personal favorite is the mostacoli and the cossetta house salad! The Caesar salad comes in at a close second for sure. I now live in DC and miss this place a ton. It will alway remind me of home and is on Mu list of places that I must visit when I come home each time.
(5)
Pat L.

Best food before a WILD game. We come here for every game. 8 x per year. Italian beef rocks. Mostacolli is the bomb. Bread crushes it! Can't go wrong here. Lines may look long but they go fast.
(4)
Alexander V.

This place gets rave reviews from a lot of my friends, and I can understand why to an extent. The presentation, the name recognition, the easy setup (cafeteria style). My review is based on the numerous food items I've tried here. I find most of Cosetta's hot pasta offerings to be bland. They taste fresh for the most part, but it lacks the bold flavors that I really enjoy in Italian food. Some people enjoy the subtlety of the food here, which is fine for them, but I can't remember mainstream Italian food being known for its subtlety. I do enjoy the cold pastas and the salads, so I gave them an extra star for that. Stop by if you want to buy something cold or keep driving and pass up this place
(3)
Ben S.

We're here for lunch or dinner once a week...sometimes twice. Take it from an original NJ Boy and Girl: "Now, that's Italian!" The ambiance, the aromas, the music, the service, the employees, the Cossetta family, the market, the bakery AND the FOOD...my goodness, what FOOD for such a busy restaurant! The sausage & peppers selection is unbeatable anywhere in the Twin Cities. Cossetta's has it all...including pictures on the walls of "the old neighborhood." Buon appetito!
(5)
Marguerite A.

THE BEST ITALIAN CARBOHYDRATES E V E R !!!!!! Walking in here is like entering Italy. The walls are filled with photos both of celebrities and non celebrities. Definitely a trip through St Paul history. This is a true treasure for downtown St Paul. The renovations are superb. We arrived after the lunch rush, and the only problem was deciding what to order. We got a huge slice of pepperoni pizza and a HUGE chicken parmigina sandwich. Wow, what a delightful lunch! The 2nd floor was spacious and sparkling clean. All the staff we encountered were eager to help. The chocolate dipped cannoli made with marscapone was, as they say, to die for. What a way to go. Then there is the grocery store. It looks like authentic sausages, cheese, and a whole lot of other items are available. I bought a few goodies, and plan on returning when I prepare my lasagna with 5 cheeses. Authentically made ricotta is the secret ingredient. Shh don't tell anyone. There is a loaf of bread with the procuitto baked INTO the bread. I Love it. It is all about the food here, and any family owned and run restaurant that lasts for decades is doing something RIGHT. And yes, it is a little pricey for some things, but Y O U G E T W H A T Y O U P A Y F O R !!!!!!!!!!!
(5)
Mike R.

I love Cossetta, and have been there many times. It's not that often that I crave pasta, but when I do they are my first choice for lunch. My favorite is the lasagna with an extra meatball - it's fantastic and enough food for two meals, though I never seem to leave with any in a "to go" box. I highly recommend this place, particularly for informal lunches. My one complaint is that they use disposable plastic containers to serve everything. The level of waste really irritates me. I realize that it'd be a bit of an extra cost to use real plates and silverware, but I'd be willing to pay a bit extra for it if necessary. It's the one damper on my experience, and every time I leave I can't help but think "shame on them". Overall, I highly recommend.
(4)
Jennifer S.

In their Pasticceria, the Pistachio gelato is superb. Not too sweet like other places where I've had it (Cow Bella) and really tastes like roasted pistachios. After a pasta dinner upstairs at Louis, a single serving of gelato was plenty for me.
(4)
Michelle K.

I've had pasta here once and only once.. Yuck! Anyone who says they have the best Italian food in my opinion has never had great Italian food! It must be one of those place where you either like it or hate it... Not. For. Me! I much prefer my husbands homemade pastas and sauces!
(2)
John G.

This is a great authentic Italian Cafeteria! Good food, great desserts, and a nice atmosphere. Only down side is the drink prices. Better stick to the free water upstairs.
(4)
Kate S.

My husband favorite place but to me it is a so-so place. One of the horrible thing of this place is NEVER EVER bring YOUR DRINK into this place. If they see it, you will be kicked out by the manager and HAVE TO SIT OUTSIDE.
(3)
Uche M.

The food is fresh and wonderful! I always bring my friends from out of town to eat here. I love the ice cream too but would give a pass to the macarons as they're a joke. Not very good if you have had the real stuff. The food is top notch and parking although you have to queue isn't terrible. A few minutes wait isn't such a bad thing. I have been here severally and I've enjoyed it each time.
(5)
Theresa R.

Expensive, confusing, not great food. My hubby and I wanted a nice place to go for our last night in town. Our hotel front desk suggested Cossetta. When we walked in we were not expecting a deli. We had wanted a restaurant and were about to walk out when I found someone and said "first time here - help?". We were directed to the third floor and were quickly seated. I was really surprised for a Wednesday night that the place was packed. I was also surprised at how loud it was. We were seated at table right next to the in/out door for the patio. I asked to be moved to a booth diagonally from us and we were told "no" and were moved to booth directly across from us instead (which was barely any better). I was a little ticked when another party was seated at the table we had moved from 10 minutes earlier and when they asked to be moved to the booth I wanted they were allowed to. Come on now hostess they were the same sized booths? Had we been moved there we may have lingered more, bought some appetizers and enjoyed ourselves. Instead I found myself wanted to order and get the heck out of dodge! However our waitress made up for some my unhappiness by being super friendly. She kept our bread basket and iced teas full. We both had the Spaghetti Al Pomodor. It was really dry, lacking basil to balance the garlic and seemed to have no seasoning at all. Honestly it tasted like "to go spaghetti" at a cheap deli. The meal came with two small piece of bruschetta, no side salad. A bright spot was the meatballs that my husband had with his. He said that they were good, not overly spicy and perfectly cooked. The best part of the meal for me was the creme brulee - not overly eggy, just right. After all was said and done I would not go back to the sit down restaurant. The food wasn't all that great and the the price we paid was certainly not for "ambiance" - even upstairs in the restaurant it felt like we were in a college "HUB" - complete with frat boys hollering behind us. I might however take a crack at the deli below next time we are in town.
(2)
LB L.

The food here always hits the spot and their catering is beyond compare! Last time we visited, hubby got the pizza- delicious with a perfect sauce topping ratio and the most excellent crust. I had a tapas like experience with meatball, rice balls and Cosettas salad- how do they make the pancetta so crunchy and fine? Cannoli and gelato to finish it right? yes please! As for the catering- it was the best decision we ever made! They delivered everything we needed hot and ready to serve up. The price was uber reasonable and the food quality was the best I've had for casual catering.
(5)
Joseph A.

What more do you want? Of course they have extremely long lines on busy days, game days and times you would expect a fantastic business to be busy, just become savvy about their slower times and enjoy the excellence of Cossetta. Even with ridiculous business they do quite well with the long lines. The new dessert area is out of this world good and the workers are all super friendly and helpful. I have eaten here so many times I have lost count. If you are looking for super healthy fare, this might not be the place for you. Tons of carbs, tons of cheese, tons of sugar and fat ... but you do not go to Cossetta's to lose weight. You go because it is comfort food, because you are with family, because you just baptized your son and want to celebrate, because you love pizza, because you want to make your own italian food at home (they have a killer market), because you love Saint Paul traditions. People belly ache that Cossetta received funds to improve their spot ... well so do oil companies and places I despise. I love Cossetta's and I am happy that they are bigger and better. I cannot wait to see my son's face light up the first time he tries their pizza or their endless dessert selection or their wide selection of delicacies in their store. We will go there for years to come and pick out fun Italian ingredients we have never tried and give them a go in our kitchen. Can I afford everything in the place? Not really, it could be priced a little lower (especially the non-pizza items), but the kick I get of just being downtown and enjoying their efforts is enough for me to give this place the full five stars.
(5)
Ben J.

Phenomenal pizza by the slice. They have their own private parking lot which is super convenient.
(5)
David V.

My daughter and I stopped by for a quick dinner while we were on St. Paul. Cossettas does not disappoint. I got a Cossetta salad and a slice of pizza my daughter got a pene pasta dish with red sauce. Both meals were excellent.
(4)
Andrea B.

I've been coming here for years and I've never had a bad experience. Grab a slice of pizza or a sub or salad and sit where you want upstairs. The pizza is really amazing. As for it being traditional italian or not, I don't know, I'm not italian, but it's better than delivery, that's for sure.
(5)
Steve T.

So I'm one of these St. Paulian's that has "donated" much to this grand expansion and I have to say it looks good. I think it will be good for the city like MOA is good for Bloomington. But as a resident, my visits are going to be reduced. The Pros: You can still get in and out no problem. They have great, free parking available and if you are getting takeout, there are two spots right by the door waiting for you. And you really can't go wrong with a slice of their sausage (even though it is over $4). The Cons: The prices have gone up. They were always a little higher in prices because of location, but now you go into the grocery side of things they've actually gone up. The sauces, which are good, are ridiculously high. Same with their meats, tortellini salad, etc. From now on I'll drive another 5 m's and go to Morelli's on the East side. I won't get my slice of pizza and parking like I used to but I will be able to get all my fixings to make my own at crazy low prices.
(3)
Jennifer Y.

This place takes "cafeteria style" to a whole new level - wow! I'm going to assume that when I walked in I stood out like a sore thumb since I was literally walking around in circles with my jaw dropped & drool hanging from my mouth... No seriously I was... Picture the most friendly & helpful employees standing around waiting to serve you the most delicious food you have ever seen! Pizza, pasta, salads, sandwiches. The list goes on & the decisions get harder. Since I was a little crunched for time, and short on cash, I chose quickly, which turned out to be a great thing because it was frickin' DELICIOUS! A snuck a bite of the super buttery, warm garlic breadsticks as we were pulling out of the parking lot, and let me tell you that I was seriously considering turning the car around to get more. They were that good! By the time we got home the cheese tortellini in cream sauce was a bit cold, and I was very hesitant to re-heat it, but I did anyway and it was still beyond phenomenal! It was hands down the best cream sauce I have ever had - creamy, but not too thick, buttery, but not too greasy... It almost melted in my mouth. No joke.. And thank goodness my son convinced me to get a "treat!" The cannoli's (both regular & chocolate dipped) were excellent! My mouth is already watering as I think about my next trip to Cossetta's!
(5)
Jenny D.

They did a remodel here from the last time I stepped in this spot. The place is expanded and really nice actually. I was telling Baboy about the pizza at this joint. We both order a slice of cheese. I remember the first time I ever came here with my mom when I was a lot younger. I couldn't believe how ENORMOUS the slice of pizza was! It's still just as big and good! The only thing I am unclear about it when we are done eating, do we dump all of our stuff in the trash or do we leave it on the table for the peeps to clear along with a tip?? I see people walking around but I'm just not sure what their duty is. Anyway we ended up leaving a tip and getting on with our day.
(4)
Jason Y.

This place is just amazing. If you're in downtown Saint Paul, you have to make plans to stop here. Great market store, dessert counter, deli line, and the restaurant upstairs is awesome. There are good views of the city from the upstairs areas and plenty of places to eat or sit all over the place. Kinda busy at times during the day and parking can be difficult-but it's worth it. I live nearby so Cossetta is a staple in my diet! Check 'em out! You'll love it!
(5)
Garrett Z.

Decent place to grab a large slice of pizza, albeit a bit pricey. Their Italian dishes are the best too. Also swing by the Italian market and bakery, there is so much to see and I really love the new updates they have done to their building. Awesome place to come to before going to a Wild's Game or doing something at the Xcel center.
(4)
Joe I.

Cossetta's is an experience - it isn't just lunch or dinner. And its sort of THE place to go if you have a family and are in downtown St. Paul. The new digs are amazing. I know lots of people who die for the pizza here. I think its very good, and I love how big the slices are, but I don't think it is the best pizza in town. However, I know a lot of people would punch me in the face if I said that to them in person. They really like it. I don't like pasta in general, but again, I hear nothing but praise from friends about how good it is. The service can be mixed, but generally for the number of people they serve here daily, its efficient and friendly. Prices are fair. And the gelato/dessert place? OMFG. I love the gelato. Love. Its really quite delicious, and I can't wait to have more. It is so so so good. Yum. I work in downtown, so returning to Cossetta's isn't an "if" but a "when" - and I'm looking forward to it.
(5)
Tim S.

I finally was able to make it over to Cossetta's to check out the remodel for myself. The parking lot is bigger and the food, as always, was pretty good, and I love what they've done to the deli. Anything would be an improvement over what it used to be. I'm going to agree with Adam W. The line is still a bit of a cluster. Fortunately it was slow night, but during busy times, it would be confusing and a mess to pay for your food. And I was hoping for a soda fountain instead of canned drinks, but oh well. I still don't like having to climb the stairway to heaven with my tray full of food (Yes, I know there's an elevator), but they've really opened up the area upstairs. The outdoor patio will be hopping in the summer. Tonight, we noticed they had two parking attendants standing around (They don't have much choice), but upstairs, they had three bussers standing around just talking and checking out people, occasionally stopping to bus a table. Seems like that they could get more for their money.
(3)
Jay Y.

A la carte eating.... for a hefty price.... I don't like paying for no service and my bill costs more than if I had gone to a fine dining establishment. My bill was close to fifty dollars for a small slice lasagna, one slice of pizza, one bread stick, two sodas, and a cup of soup.... $40! Ummmmm Olive garden is better for the price. The food was ok. It didn't stand out in flavor... You had to order in certain places like a cafeteria and then go upstairs to find a seat. There is a small convenience store connected to the cafeteria line.... The construction adds to the confusion. I say you can just grab a frozen lasagna from their freezer if you want for $14.00 (size of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich) and go home.... Yes they freeze their meals so you can take it home... I wouldn't make an effort to stop here again but if I didn't have other options, I may be back for a to go order or just to watch the people from upstairs while I tried not to feel bad about overspending to people watch.
(2)
Amy R.

I really like the new layout. It's so much easier to move around, less close quarters. Love the store part. They have a really nice variety of everything. Of course, they still carry the one thing I love; Porketta and Turketta. I looked around they have cannolis to go, bread,salads and so much more. Love the size and layout of the new store. The anti-pasta salad I ordered was way too salty, but the line moved pretty fast even over the lunch hour. The next time I went back, my husband ordered a sandwich and I wanted to order one too, but the guy walked away. We had to wait a few minutes for him to come back, not a biggie. Sandwiches are huge, but good. More than enough to take home. Parking is still such a headache- I wish they would have added even more parking. Upstairs is roomier. I agree with other reviewers about the range of service, but for the most part all of the staff have always been pretty helpful and friendly.
(4)
Sarah S.

Great desert items.I just love it's vibe the food is great but not extraordinary i have had better.Just regular pizza and pasta.Cold salads are v good.
(4)
Mike B.

Not a fan! I went to Cossettas today to see how their renovations with my tax dollars have improved their business. Obviously not much! First off parking is a disaster! Not sure if anything can improve this based on the mass of people going there, but with their service I'd assume parking will eventually get easier. Second, who charges 2 bucks for a can of coke? Are you kidding? I felt like running back to my car and getting a pop out of my car based on their outrageous prices! Also who doesn't have fountain pop? Third , after consuming a few slices of their pizza I had to make a mad dash to the bathroom. The massive amount of fat and grease did a number to my digestive tract! Unfortunately they a one stall in their entire restaurant. Are you kidding me! There was probably 200 people there and you have one stall! I don't see how that meets City Code! Clearly there were others in the same predicament and the toilet was being used. The only thing that save me was that I was able to sneak upstairs to the other restaurant which wasn't open but was able to use the bathroom before exploding. Don't think I'll be back!
(1)
Jonathan T.

I really wanted to love this place. It's absolutely gorgeous inside and has an awesome buzz. Unfortunately, the food was mediocre. For hot food, I have eaten the moscatolli, lasagna, tortellini with white sauce, and several different kinds of pizzas. I have to say, if I was eating these dishes in another setting, I wouldn't think it was from a restaurant. It sucked, because I really tried to like the food. I would dare to even say that the food tasted microwaved or reheated in a different way. Damn, I hate to say that. A highlight of Cossetta though is the canolis. It has made up for a couple sub-par dinners. I would consider returning to sink my teeth in a couple more decadent canolis. The service is uh, interesting. Some staff members are very friendly, while others refuse to speak to you. For example, the first time I went there, the cashier did not speak to me. He refused to say how much I owed for my meal. Rather, he just held out his hand waiting for my credit card or cash. Odd. Another time, I went there and a staff member saw I finished my meal and quickly came to take it away. So, I guess it's a mixed bag. Would I return? If it was convenient, I would return for the canolis. Otherwise, I would not recommend this place for someone to have a great meal.
(3)
Leo B.

Checked this place out for dinner and was a bit disappointed. First off, having it served cafeteria style just threw me off but really it was the food that was disappointing. I ordered the chicken parmesan and the flavor was just lacking. The red sauce was typical and the chicken was so so.. Unfortunately I can't say too many good things about this place.
(2)
Ruth D.

I wanted to love Cossetta's. I love the ambiance, the new rooftop is extremely cool, and it came with such glowing recommendations. And I had high expectations--I am an Italian-American former New Yorker, and one of the things I miss most about the East Coast is authentic Italian food. Here's the thing. You know how every type of cuisine has its sort of hallmark item that, if made correctly, is a bellwether for the rest of the food? In Mexican cuisine it might be refried beans--really expertly prepared, velvety, buttery smooth refried beans are a good sign that you've found a damn good Mexican restaurant. For Italian food I would argue that culinary bellwether is meatballs. And I was really, really disappointed by Cossetta's meatballs. We ordered the appetizer with meatballs, and they came out like thirty seconds later (not a good sign--means they were probably sitting pre-prepared under a heat lamp) and they were just awful. Dry, too salty, not the delicious authentic Italian meatball I was craving. I do love their homemade mozzarella. And I love that they have an on-site Italian grocery. But bad meatballs are an unforgivable sin in Italian cuisine.
(3)
Jack B.

One of my favorite spots in town. Great food and service! Unless you are getting a salad there is no need to wait in the long line. Move on through!
(5)
Tammy V.

My husband and I stumbled across this place on one of our " date days" . Walking in we immediately were curious . The deli was amazing , they have imported meats and cheeses from all over Italy. The cold pasta salads we tried we outstanding. They have a wide variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegars as well as dried pastas! Do not leave the deli without buying a baguette !!! It is by far the best we have ever had.. A hour after we left my husband was already saying he couldn't wait to go back there. Now we didn't eat at the restaurant so that's why I only gave 3 stars!! However all the cheeses, salami, prosciutto,mortadella , pasta and bread was perfect!!! We will be back for more.
(3)
William C.

Plenty of people have raved to me about this place! I happen to be in St Paul for something and hadn't eaten lunch yet. It just so happened that I parked a block from Cossetta's...why not!!! This place is HUGE. The main floor is a cafeteria style ordering spot (salad, sandwiches, pasta, then pizza at the far end). The opposite side of the building is the pastry/gelato shop, and seating is upstairs (we sat outside since it was HOT inside). Being my first time, I wasn't sure what to order! There was so much to choose from, I didn't know what I wanted. So, I landed on classic lasagna. Not only was it just the lasagna, it came with a side of baked ziti with tomato sauce and a giant garlic bread stick (all for $10). i thought I was getting a lunch portion...NOT. When it came to drinks, you have endless options (it seemed like it), but I landed on plain old water. I made my way upstairs (found the self-serve water there) and found a table outside (it was blaz'in hot inside and cool/breezy outside). Now I've been smelling the amazing lasagna for the past 5 minutes and literally dove right in. This was one of those moments where you just keep taking bites and don't think about anything else. The lasagna was a meat pie, each bite you tasted an incredible blend of spices/herbs; then dunk the bread stick in the tomato sauce and you've got yourself a food moment. Words of advice: Don't be afraid to jump the line right when you get in. The first stop is the salad bar (why would you get salad at an Italian joint?!). Park in the ramp BEHIND the building, cheaper and less #dumbassdrivers to deal with.
(4)
Kent M.

My first time here. Fab food selection. Wow good. One MUST go here. Thanks folks. Well done.
(5)
Blair H.

Have been coming to Cosettas for over 15 years now. Consistency and quality have been great through the years. Everything I have had is good. The Pizza-by the slice is delicious. All the pastas are made fresh and the garlic bread is to die for. They have added onto the restaurant over the past two years. They now have a room dedicated to desserts. Amazing!! Had a cannoli and all I can say is Wow! My wife got an eclair which was also awesome. There must have been over 100 desserts. They also now have a room dedicated to meats, frozen dinners, and bread, among other freshly prepared items. This is a staple in St Paul for me and a must eat restaurant when in the area. 5 stars.
(5)
Sydney S.

Cossetta's has been here forever and, for me, it's always been a favorite place for eats before/after a happening in St. Paul. For what it is (which is casual, counter service, sometimes crowded for those that don't know), it's perfect. I brought relatives here before the JT concert earlier this year and, despite the craziness that comes before a big event, they loved the food & the environment. They asked to come back another time so they could explore the grocery & bakery areas more too. Then, I took my nephew here on Friday night after the science museum and he was SO excited. He got a slice of pizza that was "bigger than his head" and asked me to take his picture & send it to his mom. He ate the whole thing too...a pretty impressive feat for a skinny little 11-year old. I ordered a special pasta dish which was pretty fantastic too. All in all, when your nephew says, "thank you for taking me here, auntie" - that deserves a 5.
(5)
Ron F.

I've been going to Cossetta since the early 80's when they were in the little sliver of a store next to Fort Road liquor. Their pizza has always been amazing and the wildly expanded menu and store is awesome. It's a great place for a quick snack, or a full on meal and a glass of wine. Cheers!
(4)
James L.

OMG! The Lasagna is too die for! This is defiantly going to be one of my favorites! Once again I have pleased my belly and my taste buds are cheering! This place is awesome! This was a great pick for people just moving to the twin cities.
(5)
Ken C.

If you're looking for good Italian food (somewhere in between sbarro and Paza Luna) then Cossetta's is the right place for you. They're a dine-in or take out place that processes people efficiently like a prison cafeteria. I love their penne so I usually get a large order of that which comes with a slice of garlic bread. They also serve salads made to order, large pizza slices, and several desserts. I love cossettas and their new remodel is beautiful. In addition to their great food, I also like the fact that they have an authentic italian grocery attached so you can try to make Italian dishes at home. They also have premade meals in their freezers in case you want to take the experience home with you. The only thing I don't like about Cosetta's is that since they're in a busy spot near the Xcel Center it can get super busy but it's worth the wait. One of, if not my favorite Italian place in St. Paul because the foods great, great experience and great value. Enjoy!
(5)
Mali K.

Got the veal parmigiana. Good quick meal. The female staff taking our order at the pastry area was rude and very sloppy putting our dessert in the box - touched our desserts with her bare hands. After reading other reviews - Cossetta should follow Punch Pizza's workers compensation policy of providing live able wages and other benefits to staff. This in turn may help improve staff retention and attitudes.
(3)
Vincent T.

Their slice pizza, Alfredo pasta, artichoke salad, and own chips were delicious. And the weather aligned perfectly. What a wonderful lunch experienced.
(5)
Jason K.

My wife and I go out every Saturday to a new restaurant in the Twin Cities and she wanted to try out the new Cosesetta after a $10 million rebuild. ($2 million from the people of St. Paul) The remodel is expansive, multiple floors of seating, a large market and a restaurant open at night, as well the the old cafeteria style food. I ordered the hot Italian beef with spicy pepper sauce, kind of like an oily/vinegar pickled pepper concoction. The pepper mixture was fantastic, but the beef was rather bland, but the long loaf of bread was crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Very tasty. My wife ordered the minestrone. It looked fantastic and she really enjoyed it. She also bought some ciabatta bread at the market was also amazing looking. My wife bought some gelato after lunch, strawberry and vanilla. I had a few bites of it, and it was fantastic. The strawberry was better than the vanilla, my wife stated. We sat on the balcony outside and it was a great view of life happening on St. Paul's 7th Street. They had heater outside as well to cut through the crisp fall air. On our way at, we looked through the market and I got two chicken meatballs the size of baseballs and some very expensive Italian anchovies. I thought it said $2.75 on the label. It turns out it was $12.50! Ouch! They better be good. :-) Also, I didn't see any free water, so I had an Italian beer and my wife got a bottle of Dasani. They also had glasses of wine available it you wanted some vino. Overall, we would probably go back for the gelato and market, but I don't need to eat the the cafeteria area again.
(3)
Jerri P.

Bring back the old Cossetta's! I like my pizza cut into triangular slices and cooked in a traditional oven, so Cossetta's is the place for me, but the "improvements" are a major pain. The parking lot requires a tricky hairpin turn, that is if you can even get in. For the third time in as many months, my husband and I decided not to join the line of cars waiting to park. There used to be table space on the main floor. Now there are two or three very small tables, not big enough for 2 trays. You have to go upstairs,but if you have bad knees and must use the elevator, a guard/staff person takes your tray because no food is allowed on the elevator. It used to be possible to get a cup of water with your order, but now you have to go to a crowded dirty alcove to get H20. I really don't care if they now have a fancy bakery. All I want is a reasonable parking space, a slice of pizza, a cup of water, a piece of baklava (which is as good as any I've ever eaten), and a first floor table.
(3)
Ramon L.

Severely overrated. Cafeteria food on the first floor and restaurant on the third floor. Food is good but not great. Patio seems like a cool place to hangout but they only serve appetizers and offer a burger on the menu. Inside is nice but crowded and the food is just not worth the wait. Will not miss this place at all.
(3)
Barclay W.

Cossetta's has become a tradition for me and my friends post tubing. After a long hard day in the sun and booze we stagger here to soak it all up. The food here is not the greatest thing in the world, but it is simple, you have lot of options, and it is fast. For the unexperienced be ready to make lightning fast choices about what you are going to want to eat. They expect speed here, and with the volume of people they get that is a good thing. I wouldn't come out of my way to go here on a regular basis, but as a post tubing tradition I can't help but love it.
(4)
Matt M.

I've been going to Cossetta's for years... since, like, the first grade. I'm pretty sure any kid that grew up in St. Paul or the suburb area has. Food-wise, nothing has changed, and that's a good thing. Everything is deliciously Southern Italian. The moscatolli (sp?) is a mainstay for a reason- it's simple (ricotta cheese, red sauce, penne noodles) but is always pleasing. The pizza slices are large and greasy and perfection on the crust- doughy and chewy. Specials always taste like they came out of your Italian grandmother's kitchen (er, if you had an Italian grandmother...). Tiramisu is probably some of the best you'll find in the Twin Cities, despite it being served in a plastic cup. The gelato is bomb, but when isn't gelato good? Recently, they did a huge, multi-million dollar expansion project. The new space definitely retains the old charm of it's former dwellings, but it does look more... new. The area probably grew by 3 times. Seating is no longer a huge hassle. Lots of the decorations are still up- I love looking at the old photographs of the Cossetta family- as a kid I loved when their grandmother would give us samples and talk to us. The gelateria/pasticceria shop is beautifully done, too- even to the uniforms the employees wear, everything reminds me of being abroad in Italy. So why four stars? There are two minor things that irk me about the new renovation. First of all, parking. Cossetta's increased the size of their restaurant three fold (don't forget about Louis Ristorante upstairs) but still offer the same parking area which in the past months has always been frustrating. This would not be such a problem if parking wasn't such a pricey hassle in the area, but... My parents think this will deter people from coming back- I hope not, but am hoping that they figure out a way to deal with it. My other issue? Since their renovation in September or October, they have had panzerotti listed as "coming soon," continuously changing the dates. Abroad in Milan, I basically lived off panzerotti, which is basically a delicious calzone inside a donut (my arteries are clogging just thinking about it) from a famous place called Luini's. So when I heard the news- PANZEROTTI!- I freaked. Every time I go back though, it's still "Coming Soon". If you can't perfect the recipe- just take down the sign already! Overall- Cossetta's is a St. Paul institution that means a lot to the city. It has a special place in my heart for Italian comfort food, and I plan on being a customer for a very long time.
(4)
Karen F.

Very good "classic" Italina specialties - and a great place to have a filling lunch. They cater, they sell all sorts of Italian goodies, Long lines and a casual dining atmosphere.
(4)
John W.

A longtime St. Paul standby. Nothing fancy but solid Italian food served cafeteria style. A great spot for familes before an event at the Xcel Energy Center. It does get EXTREMELY crowded before events, however. Get pizza or one of the Italian specialties, all of which come with a side dish of pasta. Stop by the grocery or dessert shop before you leave.
(4)
Pat C.

Manicotti special had overcooked pasta or it had been sitting in sauce too long but good for cafeteria food
(3)
Dan G.

This is as good as it gets for me. I miss working in Saint Paul for this very reason. The pizza is fantastic along with the many pasta dishes that they serve. The sausage pizza is my favorite, no need to load on more ingredients that detract from the sausages expertly blended spices. The sauce is fresh and vibrant. One thing you need to check out is the market that is attached to the restaurant., they have imported pasta, real prosciutto and great homemade Italian treats. Everything that I have purchased from there has made absolutely wonderful meals at home. It does get busy and you order in a cafeteria style line some some a little before or after the lunch and dinner rush to avoid a wait. They are currently going through a large renovation so parking can be a bot tricky right now.
(5)
Luisa C.

I lost count of the number of Justin Bieber look-a-likes I saw. I lost count of the number of barely pubecent girls in yoga/butt crack pants. If you're a creep you'll like that aspect. If you're not a creep just ignore them and stuff your face. Cossetta= Carbolicious baked yumness and quick Italian food It's a food court/family/teenage vibe contrasted by a pretty and ornate setting. Prices are a bit much but whatever. I like that they have their own little parking lot on the back and that it's walking distance from the Roy/Excel. Perfect place to hit up after an event. The food was fresh. I would def. crave take out from this place on those days I'm too lazy to cook if I lived here. If I could it would get 3.5 stars.
(4)
Aj G.

Love this place for their pasta and pizza. Lines can be lines during peek lunch and dinner time but if you go right at 11am when they open you can get in and out. Or before dinner about 430. Food is fantastic! I have been going here for over 20 years. You can eat in or take it to go. Must try it!
(5)
Derek S.

Despite the cafeteria-style service, this is top-quality Italian food for a reasonable price. The restaurant itself is busy, loud, and crowded, so I tend to get take-out and enjoy pizza/pasta at home rather than sit next to a busy walkway. The attached market and bakery is a huge plus. There's not a lot of variety in the menu (at least, not that I have seen), but I've enjoyed everything I've tried.
(4)
Mike N.

usually not my type of cuisine but the girl friend really likes this place. So i went with her after work. Ireally do no like the parking here on 7th street but thats not the restaurants fault. since this is my 2nd time here i ordered the spaghetti and meat balls. to start off the service is very good food I can not complain about its pretty good like i said its really not my type of cuisine; but i did enjoy it..
(4)
Rodney S.

The Owner is a really nice person, and donates food to the clients of Dorothy Day Center in St. Paul MN.. I love the food, and the cooks know what they are doing!
(5)
Richard R.

They have the best red sauce ive ever had in my life.David thanks for the best red sauce in the world. Richard Bones Roeser
(5)
Michelle J.

First time eating here. The restaurant was clean and nicely decorated, but as a new comer it wasn't clear how things worked. Staff were slow and somewhat impatient; almost seemed irritated that we had questions. We had the pasta and it was ok. The shear amount of salt in the food was at the basis of my lower rating; I couldn't finish my meal because the salt was overwhelming.
(3)
Jenni B.

This place is a pre-hockey staple. I love the salads here, although the amount of dressing is ridiculous. Ive tried the soups before (minestrone and pasta fagioli) and i wouldnt suggest them unfortunately. The lasagna is also very good, and the perfect size to fill me up for a game. Final note- dont let the line deter you, its always long and always moves fast
(3)
Kim N.

Excellent place! Delicious food, wonderful staff, great seating choices. I have nothing bad to say! This is a St. Paul staple that everyone must experience.
(5)
Shawn S.

Thank God for Cossetta's. I'm half Italian and I would blow my brains out if I couldn't get decent Italian food somewhere in the city in a fun casual atmosphere. Now granted there are Italian restaurants in the city, but the Italian food store is what makes it. They have a full deli, butcher, meat/cheese counter, real burrata from Burrata, Italy, a few dozen brands of Olive Oil...and some food brands I haven't seen since my Nana was around (miss you) Get something from the food line and make sure it has a good pour of the homemade sauce, and then get some treats from the market. They also serve beer and wine...and while the renovation does make this space somewhat of a cavern at least now you can get a seat more easily. Soon we will try to top floor restaurant...more to come on that!
(4)
Andrew B.

I have fond memories of this place going back to childhood, and I still go back for that slice of pizza. Post-renovation, this place has only gotten better. It has everything I need to survive: inexpensive eatery stocked with Italian American comfort foods, a very nice pasticceria, a delicatessen, and a acceptable restaurant. The Italian Hero sandwich is one of the best sandwiches in town. The pizza is vaguely reminiscent of the New York-style. Lots of red sauce everywhere. There is one thing I dislike: the TVs over the bar at Louis. It's distracting if you want to have a good discussion in a nice place. It's easy enough to just go across the street if you want to watch the sports game.
(5)
Christina G.

yum i love this place. it's amazing- they have kept the same consistent taste for years and years. the recents transformation is glorious and the bakery is spectacular without the high price tag. love love love it.
(5)
Hannah B.

Cossetta has always been a classic and will remain so. I'm cheap and barely get anything except for the mostaccioli con ricotta. Maybe add a meatball... pretty good. The remodel looks really nice, and the pasticceria is especially beautiful. (and tasty) The most important improvement is the CANNOLI! Used the be way too sweet, and the shell didn't taste fresh. Now finally I can rest assured that there is at least -one- decent cannoli in the Twin Cities. Four stars because I do think there is still room for improvement in parts of their menu, and the prices have definitely gone up. I knew prices would go up with the remodel...but still it burns a little.
(4)
Chrissy M.

This restaurant has been around for over a hundred years. In that time, it has moved to bigger locations because of it's growing popularity, but it has always stayed in the same neighborhood in St. Paul. What's amazing about all this growth, is that they've never compromised their product in the process. When it comes to italian food, it would be easy to make those compromises. Mediocre pizza is still enjoyable for most people. However, this isn't one of those restaurants that just pretends to care about delivering a quality product more than making extra profit. Cossetta's has always served authentic italian food for a great price, which is why my family has been going there for years. The tradition started with my grandparents. A few years ago, it warmed my heart when I discovered that my late grandfather, like me, could never choose only one dessert here! The problem is that the tiramisu is a must but the gelato and cannolis are also heavenly! I grew up eating Cossetta's tiramisu. It turned me into a tiramisu snob. I've never had one that has equaled this one; the mascarpone cheese is whipped up like whipped cream and is in perfect proportion with the espresso soaked lady fingers then topped with delicious shaved chocolate. My friend has recommended a restaurant in Rome, where she said the best tiramisu resides. I am going to Italy for the first time in May. I'll let you know if it stacks up! If you come here and there is a line, you should know it is worth the wait! While you wait in line, enjoy the mouthwatering aroma and the warm atmosphere. They offer a beautiful array of salads made with fresh ingredients here. My dad always get's the caesar. If I have room, I get the flavorful, creamy pollo arrosto pasta salad. The entrees are big, so you may want to take home some leftovers. The best advice I can give to you is save room for dessert! The mostaccioli is my favorite entree. The pasta is tossed with a ricotta cheese sauce then topped with a red sauce and comes with garlic bread. It is always scrumptious, but if I am fortunate enough to get my pasta from one of the fresh hot pans, it makes my day! Most of the other entrees come with a side of mostaccioli. Although, the large satisfying slices of pizza come on their own. Sometimes, you can watch as the cooks hand toss the crust while you're waiting in line. In addition to regular drinks, they offer some imported options as well as beer and wine. I must admit that part of what makes this place special to me is it's history with my family. My dad has been going here since he was a kid. Even though I grew up a an hour outside the twin cities, we still made many visits growing up. My first memories of coming here were with my dad and sister on take your daughter to work day. On my last visit here, I noticed many of the tables were filled with young families eating here. I can't be certain, but I like to think that visiting Cossetta's will become a tradition for them too.
(5)
Adam W.

The remodel added a ton of upstairs dining space but did nothing to alleviate the diseased process of getting through the food line. Salads are big but dressings and toppings lack flavor and zip. Pastas are mostly meh, but the Cosetta's sandwich featuring house made Italian sausage is worth a try. Pizza by the slice--like out East--is always a good bet. Service ranges from spot on to pretty vacant. You will wait longer than you think for your food on a normal day. As far as visiting here when the state tournaments or other events are at the Excel...let's just say that I wouldn't. The market next door now offers an expanded range of meats along with an extensive selection of dry goods, oils, cheese, bread and so forth. You can find some fun, quality stuff to take home, all at top shelf prices. There's a parking lot out back, which remains interesting at high traffic times despite the remodel. Good, not great.
(3)
Nanokraft1 ..

This landmark used to ooze authenticity, was very affordable, and full of charm. I just ate there the other day (after the expansion/fast-food-walmartification) and was beyond mortified. My wife is from Rome and Cosetta used to be her favorite quick bite in the cities. Not any more. She almost lost it when repeating herself 4 times (with zero accent) that she wanted the tortellini but the fast food worker behind the counter merely got frustrated with her so I had to help him understand the correct way to pronounce the word. I was beside myself and wanted to leave at that moment but we pressed on only to eat our 3 main dishes with utter dissatisfaction. I have had better food on commercial airlines... Almost consistently. And the prices must have almost doubled in the last few years just to pay for their Costco-esque expansion. If you haven't eaten here in a while, please just wipe a tear in remembrance, but don't waste your time going back to partake. The magic is gone.
(2)
Christina G.

Yesterday was my first time there and everything was amazing! I will most definitely go back! Joe from the bakery was very friendly, loved him!
(5)
Fae S.

Have been coming here for 25 years, and am so disappointed with the remodel, obviously they didn't listen to the architect/designers! From the moment you try to park to the glorious moment of carrying your tray up 2 flights of stairs. What genius thought this was a great design. All that space given to the retail side! Ridiculous ! The Cosettas salad is still awesome, but if you ask for 1/2 the dressing it's still great! The pizza was still pretty good but unfortunately there is better just down the street. Hint: Baaabaaa
(4)
Kristina F.

This place is always fun! Great food, great deli/marketplace, great Pasticceria! You gotta try the sfogliatella from the pastry shop! Yuuuuuuuummmmm!!!!!!!
(5)
Dina N.

Food is great! Very decent prices. If the weather is nice then sit on the patio outside. It's really lovely. They also have a great dessert selection. Three stars because the service was ridiculous and disorganized. I usually don't mind or notice the service, but they were so unprofessional it was awkward. My friends and I laughed about it but honestly it was pretty bad. Maybe we came on a bad day.
(3)
Angela R.

I really enjoyed the chicken Parmesan sandwich and the sausage pizza. I didn't care for their red sauce. The bakery goods were excellent.
(5)
Rick S.

When I rolled my Mark IV through that manure field earlier this year, I ended up picking up a 1973 Cadillac Fleetwood Seventy-Five. This is known as the longest car ever made amongst real men who drive real cars. I've rolled eleven cars in my days, and one motorcycle, and the great lesson I've learned is that the long ones are tough to get into the air. Long story short, I took my wife to a real nice Motel 6 a few states behind, turned the TV up loud, snuck out and had been gassing it towards the Cathedral of St. Paul ever since. I was hoping to refill the 55 gallon drum of holy water I keep in my trunk when I'm not able to get into my water shed at home, and time being of the essence when it comes to my movements, I had to lighten up the car a bit. My intestines have a terrible tendency to roil about when I get upset, and the cursed woman'd been blabbering on an on about their Holy Spigot such that she'd had me fixed to drill a ten foot hole though a cheap Minnesota guardrail with a gyser settin' off all over my purple velvet upholstery. I'd been on the road for a fort-night, and hadn't seen a proper water chair since I passed through the latrine just East of the Jungle Room in Graceland and parted ways with a baker's dozen of day-old tamales (you aren't supposed to eat the wrapper, they say) and I wasn't fit to hear another drop about His spigot until I see I see the back end of my car sittin' on the axles with it. Not 10 miles from His vaulted domes I had to put the Seventy-Five into a wicked drift down 7th Street. Coming of the back end of about 8 hours of sustained hallucinations and a steady cold sweat, I keeled-the-wheel last minute into the parking lot of Cossetta. I was in terrible need of a bathroom, sanctified plumbing or not, and hobbled in like a toddler in need of a change. It looked like the type of joint where you need to buy something 'fore posting up on the chairs and working out the spooks. I struggled down the manicotti, but it was the half-loaf of garlic bread that put the fear in me. With a tumultuous retching, I saw their strongest chair through its darkest hours. An American Standard Cadet 3, a stout and solid flusher, was merely put through its paces, well within the proper design load, I surmise. I doubt I could say the same about His latrine up on the hill. It is for this reason, and also the garlic bread, that I have rated four stars to Cosseta, with just enough oils to hasten along the entire dining experience.
(4)
Mike W.

I ate this on my last day in Minn~E~sOtah and it was a great way to end a memorable trip to the twin cities. The pizza is thick and cheesy pizza with a large crust (sorta between NY and Chicago) with ample amount of toppings - ya know it's gonna be a good pizza when you're peeling the pepperoni from one another The large pizza is more than enough to feed 3 people and their blue cheese topped walnut salad is pretty good too. I say if you're in the neighborhood you owe yourself to check out this place.
(5)
Mindy T.

Overall: Not a big fan of the deli side where you can order main entry but I am a great fan of the bakery "pasticceria". I like to stop here for a sweet snack or gelato, just wonderful treats. Upstair eating area has a nice view of the street.
(4)
Kristi C.

I'm sensing a third update on the horizon when the pastry/gelato/coffee shop opens at the end of February! Unfortunately, didn't get a chance to check out the new Louis restaurant, that'll be a review for a future day~ The remodel gives some much needed extra elbow room both downstairs and in the upstairs seating area. Both spaces have an open feel compared to pre-renovation and let in more sunlight than before. The cafeteria style line to get your food is unchanged, I just chalk it up to being part of the Cossetta's experience. A slice of pizza is my usual and it's still consistently satisfying. My small Caesar salad had ample parmesan cheese & dressing. The market is more than twice the size of the previous and is a new favorite place to browse the aisles and admire all of the copper & new-ness of the space!
(4)
Danielle S.

One of my favorite places in St Paul! Now that the massive renovation project is complete, I really have a hard time going anywhere else to fulfill all my Italian cravings! The cafeteria style downstairs has always been a great place for lunches or grabbing a quick dinner. I agree with a few other reviewers- the lines can be chaotic and tricky to navigate, so listen to the workers and don't feel bad about cutting in line past the salad people (must be a Minnesota nice thing?). Louis is the new sit down restaurant and rooftop bar. I've been several times and the service is always great, the food is excellent and the prices are reasonable. The HH specials aren't the best on 7th, but you really can't beat the atmosphere. The arancini (basically fried rice balls) are some of the best I've ever had but I have yet to order anything from the dinner or bar menu that I wouldn't get again. BE PREPARED- if you're coming up top before an event at the Xcel Center (Wild games especially) it will be busy right up until event time and you might not get your food before you have to leave. The bartenders behind the bar are sometimes good about letting you know this ahead of time. The market downstairs has become almost a tourist attraction with the vast options of italian items they now stock. My favorites are still their homemade pasta sauces (could eat them straight from the containers they are that good) and grated parmesan (see note above about the sauces, it applies here too). I'm a busy person so I don't always have the time to make my own meals. Getting them from Cossettas, makes me feel like I'm getting food with a little love baked in. Everything is a little on the salty side, but that's how I like it. My dad loves to buy his olive oil from here and he is a very picky person when it comes to cooking his Italian style foods. The pasticceria and gelato selection aren't something you can explain. If you go to Cossettas for ANY reason- go to see just how beautiful (and delicious!) pastry can be. I strongly suggest the tiramisu gelato. My mouth waters just thinking about it... The lines are never terrible in this section so it's great to pop in and pick up a treat or several... The ONLY drawback is parking. If you can't get in to their designated lot area and street parking isn't available, pay the few bucks to park in the ramp attached to hotel next door. In my opinion, it's not worth the hassle driving around forever waiting for a spot to open up. They do have valet available but you're going to pay quite a bit more for that.
(5)
Marty S.

Good food and great prices! The store is expensive but you expect that as it's authentic Italian! :)
(4)
Toni L.

Normally this place does a great job but I tried take out and was terrible. Maybe ordering take out during Friday dinner rush is why. I got the chicken Parmesan sandwich. First it was a total mess of marinara everywhere sloppy mess. Then they forgot to add cheese. I will never order that again, it's best just to stick with their pizza slices!
(2)
Kristin B.

Great family lunch at Cossetta's today! Salads were fresh and tasty with plenty of wonderful ingredients. Pastas were good - really liked our tortellini Alfredo; not so much the mostacciloi con ricotta. Preferred the cheese and pepperoni pizza slices over the sausage. The cannoli was as good as I get on the East coast. Staff does their job; but I was made to feel that they were in a hurry to do so. Easy place to go with a group because of the cafeteria style ordering and large upstairs seating area.
(4)
Diana B.

We used to love going here regularly, but especially since they reopened after the remodel, the food and customer service at the pasta and pizza area have been subpar. The cheese on the pizza had an odd smell, and sour taste to it. I ordered pasta, and requested red sauce instead of white. I was rudely told, "They won't let us do that" and then ignored. Also, my pasta dish was cold, though I sat down to eat it right away. The ambiance is great, I just wish they would focus more on good customer service and food quality, especially given they received millions in taxpayer dollars to fund the whole project.
(2)
Katie C.

Food is pretty good, the main dish is always really good. The pasta side is a little bland, really nothing to get excited about. I have had the chicken Marsala and really liked it as well as the chicken and mushroom cannelloni which was delicious. My husband loves their sandwiches and their pizza is alright. I love the new shop and gelato, it all looks beautiful. I would give it 5 stars but the think that kills me is their drinks. I have never been anywhere that charges $2.75 for a can of soda..I have lived literally all over the world and I can say this is the first place I have been to like this that charges that much. It's not a high end place with high end gourmet sodas..it's coke!
(4)
Dan P.

The new addition is open at Cossetta's. It looks absolutely beautiful! Food was great, had a great time. They have outdoor balconies now to eat outside and have a great view of Downtown St. Paul. Food selection has grown some, and they have this new bake shop that sells artsy desserts and gelato, chocolate confections that are worth photographing, that they look so artfully sculpted. Yes, I said 'SCULPTED'! When you see these gems, you'll know what I mean. When you taste them, you'll say "OH YEAAAH"!!! Few things in life, are so well done IMO. Best Pasta in St. Paul too! The new digs are a premium GAS! Try them again! I like the salads!
(4)
Keith P.

I have been going to Cossetta my entire life. I was there even before they sold hot food. The original Cossetta was just an Italian grocery that my Mom would bring me to. Then they moved to a slightly bigger place that was just big enough for a counter with about 5 stools that you could sit and eat pizza by the slice. It was the biggest treat in the world to go to Cossetta for pizza. That's all they sold for hot food until they moved into their current building and started an empire. I know a lot of people would disagree with me, but this pizza is the best pizza in the Twin Cities. It's crust is thin, chewy, and has great bite to it. The sauce is sharp, flavorful, and the perfect consistency. The cheese is so flavorful and has to be whole milk mozzarella. Toppings are plentiful. The Italian market and deli counter have the best meats, cheeses, breads, and all around Italian products in the state. I seriously get a smile on my face just thinking of the place. It was a big part of my childhood and will be a big part of my girls' childhood as well. The new expansion is glorious. Dave Cossetta did everything perfectly. I love coming here.
(5)
Julia S.

I used to love eating here until I recently found out they use pork broth for all their noodle dishes. Limited options for vegetarians, super disappointing.
(1)
Martin H.

Great place to hang out on a rainy day. Can't go wrong with the pizza specials all under $5. Love the refurbished upstairs booths, decor and ceiling fans that take you back to the last century.
(5)
Chris W.

Having lived nearby for several years, I've been to Cosetta's many, many times. Overall, I just don't get the high rating from other yelpers (sorry guys!). The pizza is pretty awesome, one of the best in the Twin Cities I would say, but everything else seems to be reheated stuff from Simeks. Especially the lasagna. I can't tell the difference at all between Cosetta's and what I get in my grocers freezer section. The portions are small and often lukewarm. It's just a humdrum, plain jane, average place. Combine that with slow service at the deli counter, a cramped and crowded downstairs, a small upstairs... I just don't get why people have such an affinity for this place. As someone else mentioned below...at least at Sbarro you get free refills and a soda fountain. Drinks here at Cosetta's consists of actual cans of soda. Overpriced cans of soda for that matter (really, $1.50??). Now... I haven't been there since they expanded the store into what used to be their little side parking lot, so I'll go again and give them another shot the next time I get an italian craving, but based on past experience I don't know that more square footage will mean better tasting food.
(3)
Jess R.

I've been going to Cossetta's for years and everything about this place is wonderful. They made it even better last summer with a remodel. The faster food portion of it is delicious, the pastries and coffee are to die for, Louis upstairs has excellent food and a great roof top patio (the only in St Paul?) and the market is dangerously full of great foods. I work at the hospital across the street and when I come in during busy hours, I always see the manager running around and making sure everything is going fast and smooth. It's great to see. I will always recommend this place to people if you like great, quick Italian food (or fancy at Louis) and the best Italian desserts.
(5)
Stephanie R.

Pretty much the only place we could find on Yelp anywhere in St. Paul... The salads are really delicious, lightly coated in dressing and good portion. The croutons were really big and hard though. If you get pasta, they will give you a lot! I got the lasagna and it was good quality but a bit salty. They wouldn't let me mix pastas but I tried my friend's white sauce pasta and the bacon was the best part. They should do half and half of pastas in the future. The food quality was sub-par, but for the price I guess it is okay. Would recommend over other places in St. Paul I suppose. AND the desserts!!! So many options and all look equally delicious! I got the key lime mini tart/pie. So cute :)
(3)
M S.

Today I ate here for the first time. I've had Italian food (traditional styles and others) throughout Italy, London, Paris and America. Never will I return here for a meal. My husband picked the spot when I asked him to pick a spot for lunch. The salad was bland and strongly under-dressed. (Cesar Salade and some kind of spinach and fruit one.) The pizza was heavy and nothing great. Plain tasting. It cooled down fast, leaving the cheese stiff. I will try the patisserie again. However, the macaroons were inferior to all that I've had across America, from coast to coast, and other countries. I had the pistachio, lemon, and strawberry. They should have been a bit less tall on each side, which would have cured the problem of the dryness. The cream in the lemon was strange, very soft like a butter cream but almost no lemon flavor at all. The other two had fillings that were gels. The pasta dishes I saw on plates looked unappetizing. A bit revolting really. It seems like this local institution isn't keeping pace with what Italian food is, however, I will check out there supply shop and perhaps buy some staples, cheese, meat, something.
(1)
John R.

Some of the best pizza there is in Minnesota. I can't speak as to the pastas, but every slice of pizza I've ever had at Cossetta's has been phenomenal. Its a great atmosphere, sit upstairs in the right spot and you can watch them toss the crusts.
(5)
Julia W.

Love the Italian Market!
(4)
Megan P.

I love this place SO much, but today I had the biggest rip-off meal I've ever had there! I ordered the Chicken Parmigiana, which is over $10. It is one chicken cutlet with red sauce and a small side of mostaccioli (which was even smaller than usual because a manager-type dished it up). It was delicious, but later I remembered seeing on the online menu that you can get a piece of Italian breaded chicken as a side item (I didn't see this option anywhere on the chalkboard by the hot food when I ordered...maybe I missed it). I went back and looked and, sure enough - $1.75/piece. That's it! So, I could've ordered a small mostaccioli (which is a VERY generous portion) for $5.89, plus the chicken as a side, WITH a Diet Coke for less than or close to $10. So disappointing! Will I quit eating there? No. Was the food bad? Far from it. In fact, Cossetta Eventi catered our wedding - that's how much we enjoy their food. But I WILL be more cautious about what I order from now on, in terms of value.
(4)
Dave F.

I can see why kids and teenagers might really like this pizza... but after reading some of these reviews that are raving about the place, I can't resist putting in my two cents. Their pizza is just OK, and I can easily think of a dozen places in town that I believe are much better. The pizza is too 'kid-friendly'; the sauce is somewhat bland, the crust is passable but nothing stellar, and the cheese is average. The entrÃ©es are surprisingly generic and cafeteria-like; it's leagues below DeGidio's or Broders. The price to quality ratio is wayyy off. I suspect that the power of suggestion, past reputation and nostalgia must be the driving factors for these glowing reviews.
(2)
Andy T.

Cossetta's, a true St. Paul landmark. There's something about the atmosphere I just love. The wall art mixed with Italian music is nostalgic somehow. I grew up on w 7th and Goodhue just a half mile away. My dad would treat me to Cossetta once and a while. At Cossetta your getting authentic Italian recipes for lunch prices. Amazing. It's an easy 5 star for me.
(5)
Eric M.

Man this place has changed. Physically, but not taste wise If you're reading reviews however far down this is trying to figure out if this is a good place to stop in, you should go. The Artichoke salad is to die for, as are the sausage and peppers. My wife always gets sandwiches, and those are just as delicious. If you are in the twin cities and have never been here, stop what you are doing and go down right now.
(4)
David S.

I took my wife to Cossetta's on Friday for,our 22nd anniversary, (we have not been there for some time,) and we were very surprised at the very poor quality of our entree's, particularly the Linguine Alla Vongole. My wife received a very small serving of what looked and tasted like Raman noodles (the microwave variety,) which included some very nasty clams. We mentioned this to the waiter and he offered no resolution. Needless to say, we will not consider returning to what used to be a favorite dining place of ours.
(1)
Jeremy D.

Just stopped in tonight. The special pizza of the day is onion green pepper and black olive (no meat on it). Had 2 slices of Sausage pizza... was HOT right out of the oven and was cooked perfectly. Also had the veal parm dinner. Big slice of veal freshly fried to a nice crisp. The mostaccoli seemed creamier than usual today with the rocotta cheese, but it could be because it was hot. They are almost finished with the addition, tripling the size of the restaurant. That is the good, the not so good is that the hvac (heat and ac) was a little jacked up because of the construction... so it was hot - but in all fairness it was also 102 degrees when we pulled up. Even with it warm upstairs, the sausage pizza was so darned good tonight it more than made up for it.
(5)
Paul P.

Today my taste buds said I needed some pasta for lunch. There are quite a few options around my part of town for pasta. So that was the hard part of the decision. Where do I go for my pasta craving? I decided on Cossetta's. Though they have free parking, it is still a nuisance. Small lot. Hard to get in and out of a parking spot with a full size vehicle. But I managed... It is kind of a zoo when you get in, pick up your tray and plastic ware and then decide what you want so you can go to the right counter !!!! I knew I wanted a pasta dish of some sort, so went to that counter. I decided on the Sausage, Peppers and Onions. It comes with a side of Mostaccioli and Ricotta. I placed my order and was served up 3 small Italian Sausage Links with the Peppers and Onions and the side of Mostaccioli and Ricotta. Seemed to be a perfect amount for me. Went to the pay line, got my beverage and paid. I sat down at a small table. I don't know how they can expect this to be a table for 2. Way to small if both parties have a tray. They do not have a lot of food prep cost. At least not for the Peppers and Onions. Clean them up, cut into quarters, cook. Moved the Peppers and Onions out of the way to get at the sausage links first. Cut off a slice and it was wonderful. Perfectly spiced. Well cooked. The peppers and onions were OK, but nothing great. A little of the sausage, peppers and onions, then had to try out the mostaccioli and ricotta. The sauce to was very good. Rich flavor with a hint of some spiciness. It is expected to have parking issues when going to a place near the Xcel Center. Hard to fault them for that. At least they have a parking attendant to help keep this zoo of a lot organized. I cannot imagine what it would be like if it was very busy. Two spots reserved for take out orders. A place the size of this place needs more then just 2 spots. But land is pretty expensive around here. It has been rumored that the buyer of 7 Corner's Hardware paid 8 Mil for that property. But if they put up a Hotel, they do not care how much they paid. Rooms will be $150 to $500 probably. And an extra charge for parking. People will grumble and complain, charge it and grumble more. But they will pay the price. If you think you are going to have leftovers, get your cover when you get your food. All food is served in 1 use containers and 1 use eating utensils. Beverages are canned or bottled, so no refills. For those not familiar with 7 Corners, it is named for that reason. At one time there were 7 streets coming into 7th st. I was too young to drive in those days, so I do not member it well. But I do remember hearing they closed off a couple of streets back in the mid 60's.
(4)
Phil P.

St. Paul institution, love the place and the addition is great. Now, the food. We had chicken cacitore, a slice of sausage pizza and a chopped salad. Chix cacitore was good, not great, pasta well made and the pizza was good. The chopped salad was another story. Can you say SALT? They just ladled on the bacon bits along with gorgonzola cheese. And the bacon bits were so small could not separate them and eat the rest of the salad. The italian dressing on the salad was salty too. Guys, get a manager over and instruct on how to make a proper salad. Had the chocolate cheesecake at the end, was very good. One other item. We all drink water with our meal. Do you think they could provide a decent size cup for the ice water they offer. With all the salt in my salad, I must have gotten up three times during my meal to get water. I would think paying $40 for a family of three they could at least provide a decent drinking water arrangement. I sincerely hope that Cossetta's management reads these reviews and makes some changes. I hate denigrating a local landmark.
(3)
Scott F.

Very good pizza. Was just looking for a light quick lunch but was surprised to see all the pasta and sandwich menu selections. I tried the sausage pizza and it was great. Can't wait to go back when I'm more hungry.
(5)
ricardo m.

There a must if your downtown to see a show or a game at the X. There always very quick and organized. They have a really cool collection of pictures and maps on the walls. They even have a signed SInatra picture. I really like their little Italian market, they always have the best olive oil in the big jugs. I take one point off for the grease, there is alot of it. That dosent mean its bad, just, well, fattening.
(4)
Shannon C.

Whether you are dining in or taking out, you can't miss with anything on the meny or in the freezer case. Grab dinner on the way home from the freezer case, swing by for lunch (the line moves quickly - have no fear), grab a tiramisu cup to go. Everything is fabulous. It's a St. Paul classic :)
(5)
Sean J.

this is how cossetta's got to be really popular. it was established in the 1920's, but was just a neighborhood market that didn't really grow. it really took off during prohibition when the chicago gangsters would head north to get out of town, and they would make their way to cosseta's. it was a perfect little hideaway for them, and it was a good coverup to sell alcohol. when prohibition was over, it stuck by word of mouth and people kept coming back. it was revived in the nineties when it became a hip local market that had great food and an even more impressive history. and that is the story of cossetta's. actually that's not, but that's the very story i told my brother on the spot while we were eating there. he was skeptical, but that's due to the fact that i'm his little brother, not that it sounded unbelievable. with that said, i loved cossetta's. the ravioli, garlic bread, and merlot were all great. the atmosphere is fun, but the lines are long. brave the lines and go to cossetta's. it's a great fun place!
(4)
Dan B.

This another childhood favorite of mine. The pizza and atmosphere have always remained consistent at Cosetta's. It's different than any other Italian restaurant that I've been to. It has an Ã€ la carte line with plenty of pasta dishes and the like, and an area where you can order pizza by the slice. They also have a wonderful case with a selection of irresistible deserts, including Tiramisu that is a MUST have. The pizza is wonderful, not to mention fun to watch when it's being made. I always enjoyed watching the pizza dough being spun around in the air from the second floor as a kid. Cosetta's also has a little market area where you can pick up various Italian staples. Overall, this place is a classic location that has never and probably will never lose it's charm. If I could issue one warning to you, it would be to choose the time of your visit wisely. If there's an event going on downtown, especially at the Xcel, you're going to be waiting a long time. I don't mean a little line, I mean out the door.
(5)
Peter L.

It's the bomb! I don't know what else to say.... They've constantly got Sinatra on in the background, the staff are always dressed sharply and are knowledgable and friendly, ALL of the food is great, they have a slice line, a pasta line, as well as a full, fresh deli counter where you can buy some of their homemade stuff and bake it at home, and it's one of the few places in the TC that you can get a Moretti beer(For those of you that are fans of rare imports). I've never been to Italy, but I would say that this place is as close as it's gonna get for Minneapolis/St. Paul. If you love Italian food, then you will love Cossetta's.
(5)
Matt M.

I can't think of a better spot to get a slice of pie in the twin citys!:))
(5)
Sarah S.

Food at Cosetta's is only so-so, although the pizza is decent for the price. Also, they just got a waiver from the city so that they don't have to pay their workers a living wage (even though they are tripling the size of the restaurant and store... why can't they share some of the additional profits they'll get with their low-wage workers?) Shaaaaady. I won't be eating there again.
(1)
Kendra R.

Checkered tablecloth tables and Italian musical notes exclaim Italian as you walk into this gem in St Paul. More often than not Cossetta's is crowded, and the line will wrap around the stairway for the pasta selections, but it's worth the wait. Cossetta's has their own parking lot which they validate. The Mostacholi is al dente and blanketed a layer of cheese and marinara. The garlic bread is moist, crunchy, and worthy of an after dinner mint. The slices of pie are New York style; perfect for folding in half. No fancy toppings, just the basics that we adore. Every time I visit I have my "usual" : slice of pizza (pepperoni or cheese), mostacholi to share with company, and a bottle of beer. They have a market area so patrons may take items home and venture to be Italian chefs themselves. Take out service is available too.
(5)
Greg A.

A favorite place to bring that special someone to to chit chat and enjoy a culinary masterpeace weather it be your wife if 40 years or a future ex-lover Generations of Cossetta's customers can confrim that the sauces, cheeses, dough pizza ice cream and everything else under the roof are nothing less than wonderous. The pizza is simple, yet delicious, the meatball sandwich? so saucy and meaty even Oprah would be satisfied and reach for the Tums. As you slide your tray down the line your brain will be jumbed and not be quite sure what to pick because there is so much fantastic food choices in front of your eyes. Rest assured, no matter what it is you will like it PS I highly reccomend adding an asiago breadstick to your order. it's the icing on the cake!
(5)
Ian A.

I am a huge pizza fan, it is one of those things from my childhood that I never grew out of. Cossetta's hits the standard tossed pizza on the head, very delicious. Parking is pretty easy, they have a sprawling serious of lots that are free for use and manned by a parking attendant to let you know where to park. The restaurant itself also sells a couple pasta dishes, but I've never been able to pull myself away from the pizza. there is a lot of seating, but I've only been in Cossetta's a few times when it wasn't completely packed. After you enjoyed the great food, I would recommend picking up a small dish of amaretto gelato on the way out.
(5)
Jennifer K.

Snuck away during my prep time for a quick bite before dealing with kids a week before school is out...yeah, needed something a little better than an SA sandwich... Had a bubbly piece of cheese pizza-sat outside with annoying piped in music, but other than that...Cosettas fits the bill. Wouldn't wait in a long line for it, but for a good slice of pizza-this is your place. i've had their entrees in the past, and they are good, but a little pricey. Wish I had time to peruse the store though...
(3)
Tiffiny C.

My favorite part of Cossetta's is their pizza and frozen food stuffs. Did you know you can buy frozen Cossetta's pizza, red sauce, and other pasta yum yums in their deli? Yes, it pretty much rules. And their hot ready-to-go dishes are fabulous too. I prefer their hot Chicken Marsala over their cold pasta salads any day, but that's just me. Wheelchair accessibility is limited to the first floor only, so if it's crowded it may be hard to get a table.
(4)
Kenneth H.

had the pastrami and pepper hero three times in the past month. it's that good. they serve manicotti only during the month of april. do NOT order this. you will develop an addiction to this incredible dish and suffer severe withdrawal come the following month. i learned this the hard way. pizza is just okay. nothing special. tiramisu is the real deal, ladyfingers and all. get it frozen, even if you're planning to eat it right away. potato salad is very good and hard to refuse at $2.09/lb. they do give you a little cup if you order a sandwich though, so you can give it a try first.
(5)
Tony C.

I think I am the only one that goes into the store area and buys the truffle salt. Anyways, the pizza is very under rated. I get a little confused by the lines, but I do enjoy their food.
(4)
Nicholas P.

First off my experience this last Saturday. My extended family set up a time to meet at Cossetta's for a little get together before my bro went home to San Diego. We ended up going right before a Wild Hockey game. Despite the huge crowd's, we all we're able to park, get food, and a table for 12 really fast. I was planning on getting pizza as always, but as I walked in the door, there was Mrs. Cossetta herself sampling her Penne Bolognese sauce. She exclaimed to me how it was much better then anything that I can cook myself, and also that she's been married 56 years. What a sales women. This was the most amazing Bolognese sauce I've ever had, it had sausage, and Panchetta, and San Morazano Tomato's. I ended up getting that for lunch and it was ridiculous how good it was. Luckily, my wife got pizza and I got a bit of that as well. The gelato was pretty good for being made in Minnesota. The flavors were'nt quite as traditional as I would have liked, but the Hazelnut Chocolate was amazingly decadent. I used to go here only for the pizza, which is probably the best pizza in the twin cities. I want to make sure that everyone knows about the rest of Cosetta's as well. Go there for the pizza, keep going back to try their pasta's, and then become a regular customer when you start to discover all of the amazing products they have in their deli, like fresh baked bread, pizza dough to take home and make your own pizza's, italian meats, cheeses, olives, pasta's, oh my frickin goodness. Here's a tip though, there's a line for the pizza, and there's also a separate line for the pasta and salad. if you want to get everything, then just go in the one line that starts by the salad. It's a little confusing, but not to worry, any line you get into is gonna move fast!!!! Oh yeah...Holy Cannoli!!!! I can't think of a better Cannoli I've ever had.
(5)
Emma Z.

Ok, I'll admit, I'm not a huge pizza fan. Considering I can't eat cheese it takes some damn good fixin's and crust to get me to go through the fuss of picking off the cheese (since we're being honest I think we can all agree there is no substitute for cheese, that fake stuff is kidding itself). When my folks bought some pies from Cossetta's I took a bite of the crust and that was all it took . The veggie pizza was loaded with fresh peppers, onions and mushrooms on a fluffy cooked-just-right crust. The house salad had a unique tang to it that told my tongue this wasn't your typical Italian lame greens, tomatoes and shredded carrots. I'll be asking for this to meet me next time I come to the cities for a visit.
(4)
Matthew C.

A popular Italian restaurant next to the Xcel Energy Center in downtown St. Paul. This restaurant receives full rating for the whole atmosphere of the restaurant, not just the food. The food is simple but exquisite. The two popular choices on the menu are its pizza and it mostaccioli. The price in inexpensive. It's around $3.50 for the pizza and $4 for the mostaccioli. The menu has a full range of pastas. What makes it unique is not just it's explicit food, but it's store that is connected to it. That sells a vast aray of various italian foods. The atmosphere of the restaurant is very lively and it has a home feel to it.
(5)
Amanda S.

Stopped by here for lunch while I was in town on business. I went with the daily special Manicotti. Definitely had enough food for 2 meals! The break sticks were a little hard, but once dipped in the sauce they were delicious. Stopped by on a Wednesday afternoon and by 11:30 the place was packed and didn't have too many tables to sit at. Had a great little market off the side of the restaurant (definitely would have shopped there if I had room in my luggage). There was a little construction going on and we had to use the entrance at the back. It didn't stop us nor did it stop the other 30+ people that had lunch there!
(4)
Dee T.

Re: Pizza only. Didn't wander through the market and I was toofa king confused by the different lines to even consider pasta or salad after we got our order in. This in no way should be classified as a New York slice. Sure, it's foldable and wedgy (thank god), but there's not any oil to speak of and the crust is far too thick, and the toppings are too numerous in number. The sauce is decent and the toppings at least are fresh...but all in all, I'm not a fan. This would be the kind of pizza place I'd find in Times Square, if that's what you mean by New York-style, if you know what I mean.
(2)
Corey C.

I'm only giving Cossetta's a four star because of their PIZZA. Some of the best pizza by the slice in the twin cities. I'd go here over Pizza Luce' for pizza "by the slice" (Usually Luce' slices are old and dried out) Big awesome pieces of greatness for just under $4 and for their more gourmet slice its about $4.50 its totally worth it! If I was rating this place on their pasta, I would consider maybe hmmm a one star, the pasta sucks, don't get it, don't waist your time or money. Skip the pasta and go straight to the pizza!!!
(4)
Tina W.

I'm more of a fan of the grocery than the pizza, but there's certainly nothing wrong with the food. I HAVE to go at an off time, though, as the lines and crowds can get CRAZY busy.
(4)
Judyth B.

After discovering that Cossetta's had asked for money from the city to expand along with an exemption from paying their employees minimum wage I was so disgustred I will never go there again! Free money but not to share with employees! Now that Cossetta's has made it they do what's expected - cheat the poor! Shame on you!!!! I will never recommend or use your business again until you pay all your employees at least minimum wage!
(1)
Sarah T.

If you are planning to make an Italian meal anytime soon, then you NEED to stock up on goods from Cossetta's Market. Noodles, check! Oodles of italian sausage, yes! Cheese, oh yeah (mozz, ricotta, parm, mascarpone, etc etc etc) Hearty selection of bread--yes. Olives Olive oil The list goes on And the most amazing ingredient you can purchase is Cossetta's own pasta sauce. I don't know what they do to this stuff but it will turn any of your ho-hum dishes into an amazing feat!
(5)
Heidi H.

YUM! I have such fond memories of Cossettas! This was THE place to go in college because it is so good and CHEAP! The pizza here is really great and most people go here just for the pizza, but for me, I'm all about the mostaccioli smothered in ricotta, butter, and garlic with a nice piece of garlic bread on the side.. yummmmmm! And if pizza and mostaccioli isn't your thing than have a big Cossettas salad, choose from the variety of pasta salads, have a sandwich, or maybe you might like lasagna... its up to you.... just make sure you leave room for dessert because their tiramisu is a chocolaty, creamy, nummy, and perfect ending to all of the garlic you just had for dinner. I also love how there is an Italian market connected to the restaurant, so if you are wanting to create your own special Italian meal at home you can get the goods here.... including their delicious sauce! If you have never been to Cossettas, though, it may be a bit weird to navigate. The food is served cafeteria style with the pizza line being separate from the everything but pizza line. Its also OK to cut in front of someone that is waiting for their sandwich and you just want to get to your pasta. After all, this is MN and you have all heard of Minnesota nice, right? Great. So now I want pasta. Man, I wish I were in MN now!! Luckily, I still get back at least once a year!
(5)
Charlie W.

Solid food! Very good sauce borderline best ever red sauce I've had. Pizza is good but for me Reds Savoy the original is on a tier by it's self! But for quality Italian no one not even La Grassa comes close to Cossetta"s.
(4)
Dodi A.

Great mostaccioli with meatballs, chicken and peppers, and antipasto salad. Also a great place for kids to eat in, mine love to eat at Cossetta. The market also has excellent italian products. The home baked bread is fantastico, and at Cossetta I can always find good mozzarella di buffala for a Mozzarella Caprese. If you appreciate good espresso I recommend the Lavazza brand. I used to serve it to customers on Grand Princess Cruise ship. It makes an authentic Italian Espresso shot that will wake you up instantly for a more productive day.
(5)
peggy l.

Not sure how to describe the place except to say that it has been around for many a year. There are no frills it is a plain family restaurant with deli style service. There are so many things that look so good, can somebody get me a fork I'm not really hunger I just want to taste...yes taste it all. I start with the Veal Parmigiana with garlic bread and Mostaccioli Con Ricotta (pasta), sounds oh so delish, add a glass of wine and you are halfway to heaven. I, being a Brooklyn girl, expected the veal to have cheese on top, that is the name veal parmigiana to my disappointment there was none. All in all the pasta was excellent and the garlic bread tasty, so what if I am still looking for the cheese, Where's the cheese? I have been told that the pizza is excellent so of course I had to try. I tried the sausage pizza. It brought me back to my New York roots it was fantastic. Well you would thing the feeding frenzy would be over at this point. There is one more thing to ingest...the lip smacking cannoli.
(4)
Jenny W.

I sometimes dream of Cossetta's and ponder moving back to my hometown in good ole Minnesooooooota! Yeah, you betcha! Whenever I'm home, my bro cooks up the most DELICIOUS pasta concoction with their homemade marina and ricotta sauces. TO DIE FOR! We're both lactose intolerant but its TOTALLY worth it! You're darned tootin'! I'm in LOVE with their deli filled with beautiful meats, cheeses and sauces plus fresh breads, pastas and my favorite... SPUMONI ICE CREAM! I seriously pack on the pounds when I'm home. Haven't found anything like it in Cali :( Que Sura, makes my trips home that much sweeter.
(5)
Josh S.

My favorite place to eat in the Twin Cities. Pizza is the best in town. Try a canolli for dessert.
(5)
jenny A.

They cater our office Christmas party every year. Great main course selections, excellent salads, breads and awesome dessert and hors d'eouvre platters. Their delivery staff is competent and friendly. They are pros and that is not always the case with catering.
(4)
Ninja S.

When I think of Saint Paul Italian, I think of Cossetta's. Their mostacholi is legendary. It is included in every meal you order here (note. a slice is not considered a meal in this context), but ordering a big dish of it on its own is also completely acceptable. Everything served here is fantastic. You can not go wrong with anything on the menu. They've been serving the same food in the same way for decades. It is no wonder that the restaurant also has an imported Italian foods grocery section. It makes perfect sense given the way the food tastes as American crops have been oriented toward production and not flavor. All of my memories of this place are good ones. I'm not sure why some of the others complain about service. You get your food and you have a seat. What's the big deal?
(5)
Yiling W.

Delicious! Get the pasta with red sauce, a meatball, and a breadstick and you'll be happy for the next five hours. I guess you could try the pizza (line up cafeteria-style according to what you'd like to order, pizza on one side, the rest on the other), but why bother when the pasta sauce is so delicious? I first heard about this place when I was in high school, and I always imagined it to be some fancy schmancy place, from the way people would talk about it. Finally, post-college I ended up here one night, and returned the next day for more. Go for lunch, go for dinner, then return soon with your friends. Downtown parking isn't an issue with the validated lot. There's also a store area where they bottle the wonderful stuff!
(4)
Rebecca Y.

Quite possibly the best little place for pasta, veal and pizza. Located right across from the Excel Center Cossettas gets packed right before an event, but is well worth the wait. Service is excellent as the line moves very fast. Prices are cheap and the portions are huge! If you're not a huge eater, be sure to go with the small size of pasta. Also a fav lunch spot for those trapped in office buildings during the week. Cossetta's also has a little market attached to their restaurant. Staples from Italy plus a full deli including frozen pastas from the restuarant. mmmm....so good!
(5)
Dan S.

If you can get past the lines and wait it will be worth it. :)
(5)
Chad H.

I concurr with the other reviewers: good food, great prices, excellent Italian market store (where I've picked up frozen pizza's, noodles, chocolate, italian meats, etc.). Free parking too. In all this is probably my favorite place to eat in downtown St Paul. Probably my favorite food to eat there is the lasagna (comes with Mostaccioli too). The pizza isn't anything special in my opinion.
(5)
matt k.

If you want Pizza. This is the place to go. I should really leave the review at that. Their pizza, served NY style is out of this world phenomenal. I'm not sure about their other products because I can't get past how good the pizza is. It's served huge, big slices, great crust that's not too thin or thick with a tangy sauce and great ingredients. We've been going back for years. The only thing that's bad - the scales the next day. Oh and, if there's an event going on at the Xcel Center, Cossetta's is VERY difficult to get inside... They could totally fix this if their mgmt have half of a brain... ;)
(5)
Britt B.

Best Italian in the Twin Cities. Carbohydrate heaven. I highly recommend the lasagna. Their tomato sauce is more sweet than tangy. So if you're into that, you will love their tomato sauce. Cosetta's gets extremely busy and loud, especially on the weekends, so probably not the best place if you're looking for something quick or a place for an intimate dinner. It's also a little cramped and crowded for anyone who has trouble walking (perhaps some older adults) or for someone in a wheelchair. This is a cafeteria-style establishment, so it takes a little work on your part to get your food. I do like that you pay at the end of the cafeteria line so you don't have to wait for a check at the end of your meal. Makes for a quick getaway. They also have a great Italian grocery store and a good variety of foods in freezer and fridge for take out. An excellent option if you're craving their lasagna (which I do) but you're not up for the crowd.
(5)
Eric S.

My favorite pizza anywhere. This the classic Italian restaurant in St. Paul where Charles Schultz lived above. The deli, grocery, dine-in, and take out services have all been pleasing. Eating pizza across the country, I am surprised that a restaurant in St. Paul has managed to meet and even exceed New York, Boston, and Chicago pie quality.
(5)
John O.

I finally found Brooklyn pizza! Awesome!
(4)
mike r.

Always good here. The cafeteria style ordering is fun. Just a warning it can be a bit overwhelming for the first timer. There are tons of options to choose from. I dont think i've ever been here when it wasn't busy. Plus they're is a market connected to them. All kinds of meat choices plus other kinds of foods. There isn't much more to say about Cossetta's other than you will love your time there. Go check it out. It's an actually reason to go to St. Paul.
(5)
Chris H.

Ok, the food is only mediocre AND the service occasionally blows AND there are often lines/lines of people BUT I really do enjoy Cossetta's. I love cafeteria style dining. I love the history of this place. The pizza is quite good. I wish the market had more housemade specialties to take home. I look forward to the expanded space hopefully give me more, More, MORE!
(4)
Mark S.

Cafeteria style eatery. Great cheap eats and a pretty fun atmosphere. My wife loves to sit above the pizza makers and watch them throw the dough. Red sauce is almost addicting. We also love to get some fresh mozzarella from the deli attached.
(4)
Bethany D.

Always a YES!
(5)
Jennifer H.

I've never been disappointed by this place in all the years I've been a patron. The pizza is legendary, the pasta is perfectly cooked, and the sauces are heavenly. Service? It's an Italian cafeteria, people; get a grip.
(5)
Clementine R.

Never, ever disappointed. The crust? The sauce?? The Italian Sausage....yum....YUM! I've only ever got it by the slice, which is enough to feel very well fed. The slices are huge, have plenty of robust, tangy sauce, and the Italian sausage is bursting with flavor and a touch on the spicy side. Everyone in your group will be satisfied here as there is so much to choose from. ...The Tiramisu? mmmmmmmm, creamy mascarpone, lightly boozed up coffee, dark chocolate shards and imported ladies fingers in a little plastic cup you grab and toss on your tray and savor after your slice. The gelato looks really good, but always been too full to try it. The building is very cool and old with lots of historic pictures adorning the walls. It's around the corner from some neat historic homes that make for a nice little walk. In the midst of them is a little town square park. Cute. ... A little pricey for serve-yourself, but they've got a monopoly on the good stuff, so I guess they can do that.
(5)
Jim M.

Cossetta's is hands down my favorite place in St Paul (mind you I have only spent three weeks there, but I was eating out every night...). I have not had the pizza, but the cannoli, cold sandwiches (get the prosciutto and provolone), and cold salads are good (I seem to gravitate unconsciously towards the prosciutto and gorgonzola tortellini salad every time with red onions, garlic, herbs and parmesan). The item that absolutely makes my mouth water just thinking about it even now is the lasagna though: they use their house made sausage, and they make it in individual portion sizes, so you get really good chunks of slightly crisped cheese, and it is topped with fresh mozzarella and a thick layer of fresh tomato sauce that tastes as though they utilize San Marzano tomatoes: it also comes with garlic bread and a side of pasta for a ridiculous under $10. Their market section does have a moderately good selection, but they are missing a lot of the of the variety of selection I like to see in Italian specialty markets
(5)
jennie b.

Great pizza and cannolis and a neat Italian market, too!
(5)
Meghan B.

Really tasty pizza right in the heart of downtown St. Paul. Casual, family atmosphere.
(4)
Max M.

A charming place that has made its name with high quality pizza, pasta and salads at good prices. Just make sure to watch out before events at the X, no matter how efficient the staff is there's no way to keep up with the hordes that come here before games and shows.
(4)
Lacey P.

It's pretty good. Make sure everything you order is COMPLETELY vegetarian, if you care. I like their giant slices of pizza and their pasta dishes. I also like that they have that cute little overpriced grocery area which I never shop at but think is quaint.
(4)
chris s.

Best pizza I have had.
(5)
b g.

I love this place. The service sucks, it's cafeteria style, the food isn't that great (but it is good) but it all works well together and I like it a lot. Pizza is good here.
(4)
Brian B.

Cossetta's smells like my childhood. I loved going here as a child and going through the cafeteria lines ot get a slice of pizza and a root beer in a glass bottle. I used to love to sit on the inside of the upper floor so I could watch the employees working below. I used to want a job there when I was a child. That dream never came true. As an adult I love Cossetta's even more. I not only still love my pizza and a root beer, but I love the market place. I make the drive all the way from one downtown to another just for the bread and sauces. I will continue to go to Cossetta's and soon I look forward to passing this tradition along. The advice I have: -Don't go on a night the Wild are playing EVER! -Always finish your meal with a Cannoli
(5)
Amy B.

A little confusing, but definately Italian! So much going on... We found a place to sit, then got back up and stood in line. Found out it was the pizza line, not the pasta line. Whew! Then, I couldn't decide on what to get as I was ready to eat my arm off and everything looked/smelled fantastic! I had the special of the day, with a pesto sauce, and it was pretty wonderful. The Italian sandwich was pretty freakin good too - sausage, red sauce - but the best part was the bread they used. I'd probably take a slice of that over their garlic bread. Now that I know what I'm in for, I can see how it'd be great to swing through & grab a slice.
(4)
Sidney P.

Who would give this place a less than 5 star rating? I don't respect your opinion, cause truly every things are great here. I'm not even going to go in details, come and try it for yourself. Oh I do love the garlic strings decor more than everything else.
(5)
Nicole P.

One hell of a place to shop for Italian goods! it gets Jam-Packed on the weekends when there is an event at the excell center. They have great cheese, olive oils, breads, and meats. House made pastas and sauces to take home. Never been disappointed with anything purchased here and the prices are fare. The lunch counter is a bit of a mess, you can enter from 2 sides and it gets confusing. it wasn't cheap for 5 slices of pizza and sodas, about $38 for our party. the pizza was Ok, but not great by any means. the slices are huge and plenty for a lunch. Go for the shopping but take your food to go.
(4)
John W.

The place has a great market with good salamis, ham and cheeses. Genuine Italian sweets. Yes they have great salads and dinners. BUT WHO CARES??!! It's the PIZZA! I'm from New York, and I can tell you Cosetta's is the only place in the Twin Cities that has genuine New York-style Pizza. This is exactly the kind of pizza I got as a kid for 15 cents/slice on Long island. Punch is great, Luce is nice, but they're mere runners-up in Pizza. Green Mill isn't even close. Sorry, but this just has to be said. Oh, wait. The CANNOLIS are perfect, too. Okay, I'll put down the megaphone.
(5)
Kat W.

The sad reason I've eaten here so many times is because when assorted elderly family members were at United for prolonged stays, this place was convenient. But hello?! It is absolutely delicious. I, personally am a mostaccioli sort of girl, because that in and of itself sings. But the pizza is delicious and what they're serving by the slice is always fresh. Oh, and the dressing on the Cossetta's Salad is absolutely addicting. Pretty sure they sell it by the bottle as well. Plus, you simply cannot shake a leg at an italian restaurant that has a gelato case. They also have this little market for all of your Italian ingredient needs. I can't recall if I or family members have ever purchased anything from it, but cool that its there. The only scary part are the stairs you have to walk up to get to their other seating level with your overly-full tray of delicious, delicious Italian food.
(5)
Emily V.

I used to go here to the market section with my mom and my little Italian grandma when I was growing up to get fresh bread and parmesan. I still love to go back not only because it reminds me of those times, but because the food is reasonably priced and I have yet to try something I didn't like. And this is over a 35 year span. I'm to the point where I definitely do have my favorites, but I will try something new if they have a special dish they're trying out. I mostly stick to their mosteciolli (sp) ricotte and Cossetta salad, which has the best dressing ever. The staff isn't always the friendliest (although the last couple years have been a marked improvement), and the seating (especially upstairs) kinda sucks, but the food and the prices make up for it. Can't wait to see what their big remodeling/expansion project ends up like, I just hope the prices don't go up too much...
(5)
Roshan R.

My husband and I were visiting from out of state, and this was the first place we ate. The atmosphere was great, as was my husband's chicken marsala. I got the veal parmesan with high hopes but was disappointed. It was fatty and average. The shop that is attached next door has fun food items, including the best asiago cheese bread i have had in a long time. It is a good, quick place to hit for lunch but it is just okay. The cannoli is way good :)
(3)
Ashley F.

I have strong pizza allegiances. You can't just go around saying "Cossetta's has the best pizza in the Twin Cities." Because it doesn't. No one place has the best pizza in the Twin Cities. But Cossetta's does have "The Best New-York Style Pizza" in the twin cities. And the cannoli's are delish. Just never,ever, try to go there before a concert or a Wild hockey game. It's madness.
(4)
Victor M.

I gave this place 2 stars only because its little shop. the place is like a soup kitchen you walk down the line and the options are very slim. They had the same type of pasta with just different sauce on it. I was disappointed. this is not the place if you want a large selection of food. The pizza is good but that was about it.. the pasta sauces were lacking in flavor.
(2)
Jim R.

There simply is nothing not to like about Cossettas. Delicious Pizza, wonderful desserts in the newish pastry shop and wonderful, authentic Italian foods in the grocery store. I seem to find myself making my way from the west side of the twin Cities to St. Paul at least monthly to stock up. My visits always start with a slice of Pizza - usually sausage but sometimes Pepperoni (that' the line on the right for those visiting for the first time), then head upstairs where there are lots of tables. After my meal, I must stop in the grocery for cheese, salumi, dried pasta, fresh Italian bread and more. I love the tuscan salumi (you can get a taste before you buy) and always find some great pecorino, Parmesan or other cheese that I need to buy. Often I get a pound or two of the tasty meatball mix and whip up some meatballs at home or stick it in the freezer to get me through until my next visit. If I'm in for a splurge, I might get a gelato in the gelateria or some fresh Italian pastries to bring home for desert. My absolute favorite place in St. Paul and an iconic part of its history.
(5)
Josh Z.

Anyone who gives this less than four stars doesn't know what they are talking about. This is my favorite restaurant in the world and I purposely drive to St. Paul once or twice a year just to eat here. While the pizza and main dishes are incredible, I love the canolli. The antipasto is on a whole different level. Ever since they expanded it has made the whole experience much better. The only downsides: not the cheapest (but certainly fair), parking is usually plentiful but can be full, and the staff can be surly, especially when busy. None of these cons are too bad and the world class food more than makes up for it. Anyone who disses the food has no clue what delicious, made from scratch, authentic, classic Italian food is supposed to be.
(5)
Lauren P.

It was girls' night out last night, and Louis (a part of Cossetta's) was just what the doctor ordered. Our server Mark was en pointe, giving us suggestions that were catered to our desires. To finish off our meal, we shared the cheesecake (to die for!) and the chocolate dessert (a ganache-filled upside down cupcake of sorts). Overall, our experience was top-notch. The only low point of the evening was the special, a salmon dish. Although the fish was cooked to perfection, the accompanying sauce left much to be desired. It was quite salty, and the brussels sprouts were undercooked. Thank-you, once again, to our server Mark for helping us enjoy a wonderful evening.
(5)
Adam L.

Absolutely love this place! A great atmosphere and fun place to go when in the Twin Cities. Great options for everyone from salads, Italian subs, pastas, and pizzas. The Italian bakery is awesome and chocolate cannoli is probably one of the best I've ever had. The Italian grocery store is fun also all sorts of great finds here. Plenty of seating for small groups and larger groups. Also love to seat on the balcony a pretty cool view of 7th street in St. Paul.
(5)
Sarah A.

Cafeteria style. Go in, pick what you want, go to the cash register, then find a place to sit on the second floor. I had the chocolate cannoli which was so good! I saw a few yelp reviews mentioning it and I just had to try it. It was the best cannoli I've ever had. Also I had the supreme pizza which had fresh green peppers, onions and black olives. The pieces are very big so one slice was enough for me! I'd go here again and recommend it to anyone.
(3)
Zarina M.

The best italian grocery store in MN! It has everything you need, prosciutto de parma, amazing brands for balsamic, and a large array of cheeses. The italian sub is a bit lacking, too little meat and super heavy on the mayo and the veal parm was lacking in enough sauce. The sub a huge though, definitely just buy 1 to share. You definitely want to make room for dessert. The lobster roll wasn't crisp enough and the creme inside a bit too dense. I'm being super picky, but i know my lobster rolls... and it's just not the same as in boston. sorry.
(5)
Tracy R.

Pretty delicious pizza. It's been my husband's favorite since he was a kid so we go most times when we visit MN. Be careful if you're a vegetarian though, their pastas are all made with chicken stock. Plain and veg pizzas are safe last time I went though. Just make sure to ask.
(4)
Josh K.

Cossetta... the St Paul landmark Italian joint that it's almost a sacrilege to speak ill of without getting someone in your face. After having my ass handed to me again in bowling, some pity pasta was in order and Cossetta for an early dinner/dessert seemed great. The location is exquisite post re-model. A great, far more open and far more inviting inside than what it used to be. The cafeteria style eating arrangement is a bit of a mess. Especially with very few people directions and if you make one wrong turn. I went with the lasagna while the woman went with the chicken parm. Grabbed a spot and dug in. Lasagna was absolutely amazing. Perfect flavor mix between the sauce, cheeses and sausage. The pasta was also done perfectly without any crunch spots or being too over done and mushy. The standard mostaccioli con ricotta that comes with it was also amazing. Wish the proportion was a bit bigger, but, think that's just because I was that hungry. Chicken parm was really good. Great breading to the chicken, little bit of spice in the dredge that gave an extra spicy component. The garlic bread was a miss. Rock hard, cold, and like eating a salty garlic chair leg. How do I know what that is like? Maybe I was dog in a past life, who know's, but the bread was barely touched by either of us for fear of chipping teeth and dying on the spot of salt induced dehydration. Not so fast my friends! Time for dessert. Lampone (raspberry) sorbet and Cioccolata Al Latte (milk chocolate) gelato together with a piece of strawberry cheesecake. The sorbet and gelato were amazing. Great mix together. While the cheesecake was a lighter style cheese cake (not the hard kind) with a great grahamy crust. Great stuff all around. Just wish the bread was on point.
(4)
Mitchell F.

Cossetta must mean McDonald's in Italian! I would say it must mean Burger King, but at least there you can have your food your way! I ordered Chicken Parmesan, which is an Italian staple, right?! It was not very good, and the "lunch lady" behind the counter wouldn't let me have any pasta on the side. "You must have the old, basic raggedy pasta" (paraphrased), she said! I offered to pay an up charge and she offers that I can buy a second meal!!! I asked to speak to a manager. Not worthwhile. He was just as rude and the woman in a hairnet. He said, "It's the rule!" Hmmm....so the menu sign says NOTHING about no substitutions. And everyone was eager to take my payment, but not so much to provide good service. I don't anticipate that I will ever return to this place, and unless you want a dessert item I wouldn't recommend you do either! You can use your own "shaker cheese" at home....yeah, that's right. It wasn't even good Parmesan (see photos)!
(1)
Troy J.

Can't decide where to eat? Tired for talking? Cossetta is a no-miss destination. There is no finer place for casual dining. The food if authentic, fresh, and affordable. Don't be fooled by the cafeteria-style service. The upstairs dining area is uncompromising and includes outdoor, heated seating. Staff is friendly and attentive. Many items, such as the Chicken Parmesan is made to order. The salads are excellent. The pasta and pizza are good. I enjoy the rice balls as a no-meat meatball alternative. Ive eaten here with a family of five. and everyone was happy. The only disappointment? We didn't have room for Gelato after meal. Don't forget to visit the italian bakery and grocery store connected to Cossetta. You'll find some no-miss favorites. Ours includes fresh spices and parmesan cheese from the grocery -- and cannoli from the bakery.
(5)
Jackie C.

This place was absolutely delicious!!! This was my first time here and had the Chicken Marsala lunch meal which was incredibly flavorful, and the wine sauce was ridiculous.. I wish I would have asked for more! The meal was served with a piece of warm buttered garlic bread and some pasta with a rich Marina sauce. The portions are very generous so come hungry. My favorite part about this place is that it is cafeteria style which makes it the perfect choice for large groups since everyone can find something they'll love. Will definitely come back soon
(5)
Vivian L.

A friend recommended this place as her favorite bakery and I can see why!! They have a giant GINORMOUS selection (bakery, grocery store, eatery sections). Their cakes look fabulous I almost drooled on the glass display! I got a tiramisu and cheesecake to go and tried their mango gelato which was Oh So good. Their cakes look much prettier than they taste though. But I would go back and try more flavors! Their cheesecake was a little too lemony and tiramisu didn't really taste like coffee. Nonetheless my eyes were very satisfied! It would be perfect to get someone for their birthday. Their cannoli was pretty good but it was my first cannoli so I have nothing to compare it to... We purchased some deli meats and a loaf of Vienna bread from the grocery store which are all fairly priced! We got a nice soft and crispy crust loaf that they helped us slice for $4. The people there were all very friendly and helpful. I can't wait to go back!!!!! They even have their own parking lot although it's kind of packed on a Sunday. I need to try their restaurant soon! They have a food court type thing upstairs which is good for casual dinners and groups. I saw one table order two huge pizzas which had to be 2 feet in diameter!
(5)
Keith S.

For years, my Cossetta experience was: Mostaccioli Cossetta salad Tiramisu And a water. And that was a damn good, economical meal. I loved the building and atmosphere. In recent years and especially since the remodel, I've branched out from the usual. I really enjoy the grocery side of the business, frequently picking up specialty items for cooking back at home. Back on the restaurant side, the pizza slices and lasagna are now in limited rotation on my stops. Really liking the pizza more than I have in the past. Then there's the pasticceria, aka desserts. It's overwhelming in the best sort of way. A glassed in case of amazingness that is nicely separated from the rest of the space, allowing for some quieter conversation or just some private time with your favorite gelato. The overall space and logistics are improved but I really do miss the charm of the old space. That said, there are more hidden spots to grab a quick bite or even just hang out for a little while. Tips: Two parking lots in back. Don't even try to go here on a Wild game night or during a tournament at the X. It's chaos. Don't sleep on the deli. Great stuff to bring back home. Your meal is not complete here without dessert.
(4)
Sara P.

We ate at the lower level, casual dining area. It was great! The place was full because of an event at the Excel center & the line was so long but it went fast. The place was packed but there was still plenty of space & tables. Employees were friendly. The food was fantastic. The lasagna is the best! We also got mini cannolis, to be sure sure we liked them before getting the regular size. We stopped back at the pastry counter to pick up the regular sized before we went back to our hotel. They open at 7 am in the morning & we plan to stop again before we go home. I would come back to St. Paul just to go to Cossettas.
(5)
Alan C.

The food is one of the best Italian places in St. Paul. What makes this place exceptional is the atmosphere and view. The music creates a great feel and when sitting outside, its the perfect place for a date.
(5)
Dan C.

Cafeteria style dining. Great interior. Great patio seating. Great food.
(5)
Turaj F.

I'm a huge huge fan of pizza like the rest of the world and it saddens me to say but I found my cheese pizza to be dry and tasteless. It by far was the worst pizza I've ever had it's worse then cold Little Caesars pizza. The pasta however is to die for and delicious hits the spot every time.
(4)
Tiffany M.

Tortellini pasta topped with prosciutto was creamy and enough to share with someone. Arancini was delicious and big, which I was glad to have shared. Since I was full and didn't have room for dessert, it only meant that I would have to get it to-go. I can't wait to come back to try other dishes. Italian market was cute and had a great case of various Italian meats and prepped food.
(4)
Farah A.

I would highly recommend Cossetta for their patisserie, not their food. The desserts are all delicious, you won't go wrong mo matter what you order. They serve lavazza coffee, which is a plus. Their deli salads are delicious, but their hot foods are okay. The reason they get 4 stars and not 5 is because their food is mediocre, and while the pizza tastes good, it doesn't leave you wanting more.
(4)
Amy R.

Holy crap this food is good! The food is served cafeteria style. And because the food is so good it gets busy, especially around Prom, Mother's Day, and possibly even Arbor Day. There is a parking lot, but it gets full fast and people will sit in traffic to get in even though there are plenty of lots/garages around. If you are looking for really good Italian food in the Twin Cities, put this place on your itinerary.
(5)
Myly F.

K.I.S.S. it! Italian food here is meh, especially for the price range, however the bakery deserves a 3 star rating. Delectable treats sure to cure almost any sweet tooth, including OK gelatto. One of the few reasons I even head across the river to a place called St.Paul :) Thumbs up: Their treats Pretty Good C.S. (customer service) Parking lot Thumbs down: Meh food for price point and in general Can be very busy with long cafeteria lines Back for sweet tooth cravings!
(2)
Kelly R.

Italian sausage, fresh mozzarella and some great looking Italian men. What more could a girl ask for???
(5)
J S.

It's good. Pizza has better flavor than pasta. The canalonis are to die for. The environment is outstanding.
(3)
Donna V.

Their food is always, always, always hot and fresh. I ordered food for 10+ people in the office and they didn't mess up on any of our order. Their customer service is prompt and professional. I went to go pick up after calling in my order, I went to go pick it up during their busy lunch time but instead of having me park across the street in the other lot, the (very helpful and polite) lot attendant allowed me to park right at the front door and I was able to be in/out. Will definitely recommend it and will most certainly go back!!
(5)
Maxx M.

Cossetta is definitely a St. Paul icon. I have to agree with Jonathan T. I really WANT to love this place. But honestly, if I was blindfolded & I didn't know where the food came from, I'd have to say that most of the food is average. It's more in-line with the Olive Garden than a place like Biaggi's. There are a few standouts, like the canolis. The decor is amazing. The long history is very cool. I also like the cafeteria style ordering. The customer service is hit or miss. The food--varies from okay to good. The prices are very reasonable. Our daughter was at the Science Museum yesterday and my wife stopped at Cossetta to get a pile of food for dinner. I've eaten there on & off since my first time in the 1980s. After eating my dinner last night and recalling my 30 years of meals from this corner on West Seventh, I'd say Cossetta is a solid 3. -Daddy Maxx Retro
(3)
David B.

Very cool and interesting restaurant. It's an Italian restaurant with a cafeteria style ordering system. You go through the line, choose your salad, choose your entree and choose your side, add a breadstick if you want, then total it up at the cash register. The benefit here is you get to drool over all the delicious, finished choices before you make your final decision. I'm told they just finished a $15 million renovation. Before I dined here I wondered how that was even possible for a restaurant. After visiting I'm not surprised at all. The place is huge, and the interior has a cool Italian movie feel, complete with wood panels and brass knobs. Don't forget to stop by the built in grocery store before you head out. Food was very good and reasonably priced. Overall, a great spot for casual, classy Italian.
(4)
Diana O.

Food was good with very large portions and ample seating upstairs. We tried the lasagna and special (mushrooms, bacon, penne, cream sauce), they were both tasty. Wasn't a fan of the ordering style as it was a little high pressure and chaotic for us first timers that weren't really familiar with their dishes and what to order. We made split second decisions. The dessert bakery was what really got me, awesome looking sweets as far as the eye can see, plus gelato. I would go back just for that.
(4)
Larissa R.

I'm not writing this place off the map as I think it's a classic, great option for downtown St. Paul. The food is straight forward, no frills, and definitely at the right price point for lunch or dinner. You want pasta, you'll get it! I was just hoping for a little more creativity and punch from such a longstanding establishment. Molto Buono (Very good!) - the interior is beautiful. Dark wood columns, high ceilings, and an easy to maneuver layout, it feels nothing like real Italy but the main floor is an efficient and welcoming space. Buono (good!) - the service. The cashier was super friendly when I asked where to get water. Something normally self-served, she instructed me on how to find the tap water but also offered to pour me a glass out of convenience. How nice! Sufficiente (ok) - lasagna hit the spot on a freezing, signle-digit weather kind of day but I won't lie saying it was just average. It was STUFFED with meat and I had to dig around to make sure there was actually lasagna pasta in there. There was plenty of sauce though and the extra side of pasta and bread stick (complimentary)was a welcome addition.
(3)
Mama D H.

This is my favorite Italian restaurants in St.. Paul. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Love the layout and all the small details. What more do I need say about the food here....I love the pizzas, I have never had a bad meal in all the years I have gone to this restaurant.
(5)
Khyre D.

Cossetta's itself is a very beautiful building with a industrial look and a cool cafeteria feel to it. Pros: Very Spacious Dining Area Decent food choices Quality ingredients Very pretty location The cake is AMAZING! I always get the carrot cake and it is the best. Cons: Lack of Customer Service (The nicest people are the one's at the register.) A little expensive The bread ( Let me explain, I always order a sandwich because I like the quality of the meat. However, they give you very little meat. And the bread is very thick and hard to chew. I take half the bread off so that I can eat my sandwich. Overall I will continue to go here because I love the balcony seating( And Cake) and my kids love the pizza.
(3)
Melissa S.

I use to love this place. But what I just tried to eat was disgusting! The sausage was dry (crumble apart dry!). I honestly couldn't eat it. I've rarely ever post bad reviews but this is awful. The cranberry salad was just dripping in dressings. That's all you tasted. My husband got the chicken Marsala and the pasta was dry! How do you screw up pasta at an Italian restaurant?! Not coming back that's for sure. Update: I did receive my money back for the sausage calbrasa thing.
(1)
Sam H.

I love it I love it. What a great spot for lunch. The pit beef sandwich with the giaderia is incredible. Coworkers have raved about the pizza as well. This is the only place I go for lunch when up in St. Paul.
(5)
Kate M.

Cossetta's went through quite the makeover in the last few years that really modernized the look of the place. It also has a little dessert cafe inside that has pastries, espressos and gelato. There is also a small retail area. Cossetta's is cafeteria style with a variety of salads and hot/cold sandwiches made to order; a hot menu of sausage n peppers, chicken cacciatore, lasagna, chicken marsala, chicken parm. Various noodle options. There's also pizza by the slice or pie. My first experience with Cosetta's was ordering catering from their Eventi side. This was before their remodel so I don't know if they're updated where orders are picked up. I just know it was a little confusing to find the food. The prices were reasonable and one of the reasons we went with them. Easy to feed quite a few people. I've been back many times over the years and tried the pizza, the Italian hero sandwich, Italian beef, salads, sausage and peppers and lasagna. (I don't like mushrooms which takes out the two chicken entrees for me.). the sandwiches are huge (slices of bread that make one wonder about the jaw sizes of the owners) and where I learned that prosciutto is kinda amazing. Size seems to be the secret to Cosettas with overwhelming diners with enormous portions. All the entrees, for example, come with a side of manicotti and garlic bread. After eating a hearty slab of lasagna, it's hard to imagine where to fit the manicotti. I enjoy the food tho I'll be honest in that Italian food is not my favorite (mostly because of the mushrooms). It can get a little pricey for 2 since the beverages are very marked up. I think it's more than $1 for a can of pop. A bottle of crush is closer to $2. Overall, a place worth checking out if you've never been.
(3)
Tino K.

L-O-V-E Cossetta's! Generous portions + reasonable prices + excellent food = one happy Yelper. Plus, parking is free in the back. I've tried several entrees here - from the pizza to the sandwiches to the pasta - and have loved every bite. Everything here is just so robust and flavorful. The key is the marinara sauce, which is rich, tomato-y, herbaceous goodness. The hot Italian beef sandwich is a personal favorite - tender, scrumptious slices of beef, topped with your choice of hot or mild giardinara, and sandwiched between fresh, crusty Italian bread. Simple and delicious. And not to mention huge. Just reheat the leftovers in foil later to relive the awesomeness. Oh, and if you somehow have room for dessert, they have an amazing selection of goodies next door, from several flavors of gelato to an entire case of incredibly good-looking (and good- tasting!) pastries. And if you want to bring more than just your leftovers home with you, you can stop in the grocery section for take and bake meals, fresh-baked bread, and more. The selection is drool-worthy.
(5)
Justin T.

St. Paul! St. Paul! Oh what a town! I step in to Cosettas I say do you have any pasta, you bedda? They put the cream in my cup And the gal on my arm Hands me a pre-nup I get a sloppy noodle and stop to pet a frisky poodle Its easy to see baby you and me the Xcel and Union Gospel Mission Don't do no Mississippi fishin! The carp are full of lead Just like the feet of a groom to be wed Mullet hair the Xcel Center games Darling what a shame Cause, St. Paul, oh St. Paul You're. Myyyyyyyyyyyyyyy. Tooooooooooooooowwwwwwwn. 'Tanks for the memories, Cosetta. Your my baby, my darling. St. Paul, I mean. You'll always be my kind of town baby doll. Here St. Paul, give me a smackeroo on the old smoochers. What? Why are you handing me a carp? No, baby. I ain't sexist. Love, Old Blue Eyes
(3)
Taylor Y.

If I could leave 0 stars, I would. I have been coming here for 20 years and have never been treated so poorly by staff and management. I ordered a large mostaccoili with a meatball and was given a small portion in a large container. My boyfriend agreed it looked skimpy - so I asked the girl if it was indeed a large and she said 'yes' not friendly. I asked again since I'm used to getting an overflowing amount and she very rudely said "YES" and rolled her eyes at me. As we we were getting rung up, the cashier asked us what size mostaccoili we had...so we told her what happened and how strange that she couldn't tell what size we had either. She said she would pass it along to management, but I was not offered anything (like more pasta!) beyond that. My boyfriend ordered a bland and over salted tortellini dish the he didn't even finish half of. We decided that perhaps some redemption could be had for this establishment....we soon found out in speaking with the manager, Gregory - that would not be the case. He said bc more than half the pasta was gone he couldn't get us any other entree. Mind you we only asked for a small mostaccoili that is much less than the cost of the pathetic excuse for pasta they served him. Frustrated, we began to tell him of how we were treated by his pasta scooper and his only response was "that is a separate issue." He offered us dessert which we did not want. We weren't looking for any freebies, just to be happy with our 30$ meal of 2 pastas, a meatball and sodas. Give me a break! No wonder the staff acts the way they do with a manager like that.
(1)
Donna N.

UPDATE: NO longer carries Queen Ann products (Ravioli, Manicotti) from Brooklyn, so no need to go anymore. Found great substitutes (better products at lesser price than Cosetta charges) at Bon Giorno
(2)
B B.

1* for dinner. Everything had too much sauce, dressing, cheese, ect, and way too salty to eat. The kids behind the counter didn't know what they were doing, hence the drowned salads and pasta. 4* for dessert. Excellent Gelato, pastries and coffee! Sadly, not up to my memory of Cassettas from 20 years ago. It seems more like a tourist trap for hockey and concert goers.
(2)
Rachel W.

In the heart of downtown St Paul you can't help but have Cossetta's on the top of your list. I was nearby recently and we made it a destination spot for lunch. Having been in the old space I couldn't believe the size and extend of their renovation. It took me a few minutes to just walk around the space and absorb the many options available for dining. Anything from deli salads (sold by the pound), soup and hot/cold sandwiches to pasta entrees and pizza's. The nice thing is you can grab a slice of pizza or pick out an entree and be on your way if you're in a hurry or need to get to an event. My husband went with a pasta option "Florentine lasagna". I tried a few leftovers and it was filling and tasty. I loved the homemade minestrone soup. It was plentiful with all kinds of vegetables but added an additional breadstick to fill my plate. I enjoyed both but the breadstick was filled with butter and a little to greasy for my liking. The space is open and now offers ample seating with the addition of Louis Ristorante & Bar upstairs. But wait! You can't possibly leave this place without either having dessert or bringing something sweet to eat at home. The pastry shop is one of the most impressive I've even seen. You will quickly develop an overwhelming desire for something sweet when you scan the dessert showcase. If you like to cook the Italian Market (now 3 times bigger) offers all kinds of imported ingredients as well as take home options for dinner too.
(4)
Eleanor J.

As an Italian transplant from NY, invariably the question I get asked all the time is, "Have you been to Cosetta's?" Well, I have. Sorry, folks. I'm wholly unimpressed. The staff was unhelpful, and a little too smug. The food was just bathed in a thick, unimaginative stew, that really lacked any authentic flavor. All in all, Cosetta purports to be the best Italian food in the area. Maybe it is, because I haven't had anything good, but as east coast standards go, it's totally below average.
(1)
MM R.

hype. really hype. might improve if staff improved. bottleneck of midday lunch-going visitors (many looked confused) wondering where to start, pick-up tray, proceed through congested cafeteria line....with NO direction from staff. salad/sandwich staff should present more "st. paul friendly" than they did as well as cashier/drink attendant. disappointing but it's packed so.....hype on.
(3)
Kari G.

Classic Italian in St. Paul. Great location and great building that they are re-vamping. Food of course is a hit each and every time. Staff - do not appear to enjoy their job.
(3)
Leah S.

I've been told countless times that Cossetta, one of St. Paul's beloved eateries since 1911, has fantastic food. Oddly, for all the years i've lived here I have never had the pleasure of eating it. I have tried several times but for some reason the powers that be would never allow it. I finally bested them and got to St. Paul to see what all the fuss was about. As you enter, to the right is the line for a whopping piece of pizza. To the left, a queue for salads, entrees and pasta. Upstairs, diners squeeze into tables and get cozy. While you certainly wouldn't know it, I believe there is some method to this loveable Italian madness. It all seems very chaotic yet runs like a well oiled machine. The options are very basic. They only offer pepperoni, sausage, cheese or the "special," but they do them all very well. The slices are huge, hot and handmade. The sausage is spicy, the pepperoni is plentiful and the cheese, is well, cheesy. These substantial slices have easily moved to the top of my favorite list for NY Style thin crust. You can also buy almost any kind of meat, cheese, pasta or olive oil from the Italian Market. They have frozen pizzas and pasta dishes ready for you to take on the run. I almost bought a big fat pepperoni stick to nosh on since i'm a pepperoni loving freak, but I got yanked out of there before I could sneak up to the cashier. My only complaints are they didn't have fountain soda (which made me very sad). And, I would also much prefer if they would serve me at the table instead of herding us through the line like cattle, tray in hand, beating down people as we go, in order to get a table upstairs. Okay fine, I didn't actually have to beat anyone down to get a table but then again there wasn't an event at the X last night. Those nights are just plain manic and I wouldn't doubt for a second that some hungry unsuspecting soul has been trampled to death in the line while trying to get a taste of these mouthwatering morsels. So do I think that Cossetta lives up to all the hype? The short answer is yes, their pizza definitely does. I had a very delicious, although rushed experience here. Despite the rush, I have been converted into a Cossetta fan and I'll definitely be back for another heavenly slice.
(4)
Patrick D.

This is my favorite restaurant in St Paul. I remember growing up going to the state tourney and dipping over between sessions for a slice, oh the memories. Please don't change on me, went this year when my beloved Sioux were in town for the tourney, they didn't fail to dissapoint. I miss and love this place, wish we had something similary in Denver.
(5)
Karin M.

Love the market portion of the place even more than the pizzeria. We usually by the pizza dough and toppings to make our own pizzas at home (on the grill in the summer). Their sausage is outstanding with just the right amount of spice. They have a wonderful assortment of traditional food items around the Christmas holidays.
(4)
Lauren H.

This pizza actually tastes exactly like NYC pizza. It is really really good-but the mostacoli with the breadstick is also, quite delish. I would get the Farfelle pasta salad, the pasta, and a cherry coke. Then other times I would get the pizza. The Gelato is brilliant, the cannolis are great, and the fact that you can get anything they serve in the freezer and bring it home is kickass. They even sell their sauce, dough, and cheese. The Italian market place is one of my favs; I would get meatballs for the boy, spices, bread, Lavazza coffee, sweets, and other fun items. I miss it. So you should go. For me.
(5)
Brian D.

This place has the best pizza in Minnesota. Minnesota has the worst pizza in the country. I can't give Cosetta's more than three stars. The dough is properly prepared, but there is too much cheese on the pizza, the dough was almost but not quite cooked enough (the bottom was just shy of being properly crisped), and the pepperoni had no bite. The sauce was okay. With a little tweaking, they might get it right. Just about any non-chain pizza joint in the New York metro could help them correct the flaws.
(3)
Bee K.

LOVE COSSETTA'S! Have been a lifelong patron. As a child I loved the pizza and the AMAZING mostaccioli - so fresh and delicious! Now I always get the chicken marsala, which I honestly only ever eat from Cossetta's because the chicken marsalas I've tried else where can't compare. Lots of yummy things in the cold salad/antipasto section. Next to this are the hot entrees; sandwiches, sausage and peppers, lasagna, ravioli, etc. Pizza is on the adjacent side of the cashiers, which meet in the middle of the long winding counters. They also have a selection of gelato. Never purchased anything from the store, but it looks jam-packed full of delicious and authentic goods. Sometimes they have samples of their products for sale in the store and they are always fantastic. This place can get really busy, especially around lunchtime. Parking isn't a problem because they do have a "lower" and "upper" lot adjacent to the restaurant itself. When there are events at Xcel/RiverCentre/Roy Wilkins, expect a very long wait in line at Cossetta's. It's always worth it, but I try to go during off-peak hours to avoid waiting any longer than necessary to eat my orgasmic Italian meal.
(5)
Tori M.

My grandpa was recently in United Hospital and so when he'd take his nap, I'd shlep down to Cossetta's. This is definitely the place to medicate yourself with food. You can get a pasta entree, with a side of pasta. You could also go the pizza route, as they always have the staple toppings as well as some good veggie combos. Or, if you're feeling extra fat, you can just get a little of everything. Quite tasty for lunch too! But, please. I implore you. Save room for gelato (when isn't there room for gelato?) They always have great flavors (get blueberry if they have it! Superb!) The market isn't half bad either. I like getting their hot Italian sausage to have on hand for sauces and lasagna. I also like that they sell their pizzas frozen so Cossetta's deliciousness is only a quick oven fire-up away. They are a bit pricey though, so best to save for extreme times of comfort.
(5)
Alison M.

I had given my fiance the job of planning rehearsal dinner and he booked Cosetta's for the catering. Dont get me wrong--I love Cosetta's--but I didnt really think of it as a good catering place and the thought of giant crusty vats of luke-warm pasta had me a little worried. Also, I didnt think it was that impressive. Spaghetti and garlic bread? Whoop-de-doo. I eat that every Tuesday night. Although I was worried and expecting the worst (sorry hubby), I was surprised and impressed with how it turned out. There was a delicious bread variety of at least 5 kinds with 3 kinds of spread including some olive tapenade and some artichoke dip of some sort. There were 2 types of pasta and 2 types of salad to choose from. The tortellini in white sauce were incredible and we had some tube pasta with red sauce that people were all over. They also stuck in little decorative touches on the platters so it felt a little fancier than I expected. They even sent along decent serving spoons and forks for tossing the salads and dishing the pasta. It didnt look all cheap and aluminum foil and plastic forks, which I was really glad about. Like I said, people loved the food. I would definitely cater from Cosetta's again.
(4)
Todd S.

Wanted a fun place for kids to enjoy. Found this with Cossetta's. Followed two bus loads of kids into eatery but with cafeteria style went faster than we could decide on a choice. Kids were surprised by place as it is large, loud, and exciting. Prices were on the higher side for style of restaurant but atmosphere allowed us to enjoy an initial visit. Would we use this a a frequent stop if lived in area? Probably not as the pricing would become a frustration for us but recommend it strongly for those traveling and wanting to enjoy a great restaurant with loads of history and charm.
(4)
Nick L.

Great and reasonably priced Italian food. This cafeteria style restaurant features larges slices of pizza, many different pastas, salads and sandwiches to feast upon. I really like the mostaccioli. The sauce may be a little rich for some, but to me it's delicious. The line can get a little long before events at the Xcel, but it usually moves pretty fast.
(4)
Chelsy W.

I LOVE Cossetta's. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE. And so do a whole lotta other people, based on how freaking busy it is every time I'm there. The pizza is fantastic but we go for pasta instead. My fiance and I share the same thing pretty much every time: the cold tortellini proscuitto gorgonzola salad, two parmesan breadsticks, and a large mostaccioli. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. We also like their potato salad and will drive to St. Paul from Minneapolis just to pick a pint up for family events and such. I love the deli and grocery section and usually splurge on a few items while I'm there to take home with me. Maybe some dough to make fresh bread, or a jar of specialty olives, or marinara sauce to freeze for later, or some awesome cheese, or biscotti...oh God, I'll take it all! They have a huge, free parking lot and even though it is always busy we've always been able to get a spot. The parking attendants are a nice touch and very helpful in directing traffic and managing the lot. Plus, they are friendly. The atmosphere, the employees, the history, the FOOD...it can't get much better than Cossetta's!
(5)

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Address : 211 7th St W
Saint Paul, MN, 55102
Phone (651) 222-3476
Website https://cossettas.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes

Claim Restaurant

Italian Cuisine

The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.

Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.

If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.

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Cossetta Alimentari

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

Cossetta Alimentari Menu

Hors D'oeuvres - Vegetarian

Hors D'oeuvres - Seafood

Salads - Chicken

Salads - Beef & Pork

Macaroni - Penne Traditional

Macaroni - Penne Fresco (meatless)

Lasagna - Beef & Pork

Lasagna - Meatless

Desserts - Cakes & Tortes

Desserts - Pastries

Healthy Meal suggestions for Cossetta Alimentari

Hors D'oeuvres - Vegetarian

Hors D'oeuvres - Seafood

Salads - Chicken

Salads - Beef & Pork

Macaroni - Penne Traditional

Macaroni - Penne Fresco (meatless)

Lasagna - Beef & Pork

Lasagna - Meatless

Desserts - Cakes & Tortes

Desserts - Pastries

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