When it comes to pasta, you've got your basic red sauce joints, and you'll find plenty of those in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. And there's absolutely nothing wrong with indulging in a little Italian-American comfort food. But there are other places that take the entire pasta experience - red sauce included - and elevate it to a level of cuisine that rivals anything else that's out there. That's where the revered brainchild of James Beard Award-winning chef Isaac Becker and Nancy St. Pierre enters the picture. This upscale Minneapolis eatery serves some of the hands-down best pasta in Minnesota. I love it, and if you haven't tried it, it needs to be on your must-visit list.
Bar La Grassa has been a North Loop stalwart for almost two decades, attracting lovers of Italian cuisine, pasta in particular, from all over the Metro and the country.
One could argue, frankly, that the eatery's presence here is what put the neighborhood on the map as an up-and-comer before the North Loop evolved into the vibrant community it is today.
Located on the first floor of an old brick warehouse, you enter from the street into a common area in the building.
From there, you wander into Bar La Grassa. The dining room is warm, welcoming, and cozy.
But if you ask me, the bar is the place to be here - not to mention, you get your drinks quicker that way.
Believe me, I know exactly how trite it sounds when I say that everything here is incredible.
But, the thing is, it's true. The spaghetti carbonara is Becker's fresh take on an old classic, and it's a meal that sticks with me. I think about it often.
The pasta negra - squid ink pasta - with mussels and braised tomatoes is simply stunning, both visually and flavor-wise.
It's one of the best things I've ever eaten. If not for the pasta negra, I'd order the carbonara more often...
Although not pasta, the lobster scrambled egg bruschetta is one the eatery's most iconic dishes.
The desserts at La Grassa are as decadent as the pasta and entrees.
Be sure to save room, and if you're not sure which to order, always get the cannoli.
Your meal from Bar La Grassa will certainly be one to remember. To learn more about this iconic Minneapolis eatery, or to make reservations (strongly recommended) visit Bar La Grassa on the web. Since you're already in the North Loop, why not make a night of it and pair your meal with a stay at the incredible Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis?
Do you agree that Bar La Grassa serves some of the best pasta in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to tell us where your favorite pasta comes from.
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