Authentic Italian cuisine as close as St. Paul

April 1, 2008

Take a step into Cossetta’s Italian Market and Pizzeria, and you get a little taste of Italy. Complete with pizzas tossed in front of your eyes, handmade noodles, and authentic Italian goods with labels in a language you can’t understand, this friendly market is the perfect place to shop for your next international cuisine dinner or to satiate your craving for that perfect slice of pizza.

Located across the street from both the Xcel Energy Center and the Science Museum, Cossetta’s is a great example of a small, affordable, and charming market and restaurant. As you enter, you are greeted by Italian opera music and the friendly chatter of customers in the line for Cossetta’s most popular item, their pizzas. With various toppings and specials, your selection is wide, but beware: each pizza slice is plenty for one person.
If you’re looking for something lighter, try the salad, soup, and sandwich bar, where fresh bread is made daily. Another favorite is their signature mostaccioli, a savory baked noodle dish with marinara sauce.
Part of what makes this restaurant keep its authentic feel is the section selling Italian goods, from pasta sauces and noodles to olive oils and breads. It’s romantic yet pleasant mood and low prices, with entrees ranging from five to ten dollars, add to its appeal. Sitting on thelia upper level, customers can see all the action below, from chefs in red and white pinstripe jackets throwing pizzas to customers weaving in and out of the market.

Whether it’s to taste the mouth-watering pizzas, to bring home their flavorful pasta sauce or sausage, or to simply experience an authentic Italian market, Cossetta’s is definitely worth your visit.

Amelia Raether, staff writer

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