Rinata Date Night Review: Cozy Italian Dinner Spot in Minneapolis
When it comes to finding the best date night spots in Minneapolis, we're always on the hunt for places that nail that perfect combo of amazing food and romantic vibes. For Cindy's birthday, I knew I had to pick somewhere special and let me tell you, Rinata absolutely delivered!
Why Rinata is One of Our New Favorite Minneapolis Date Night Italian Restaurants
If you're looking for a date night spot Twin Cities style with incredible Italian food, this spot needs to be on your radar. Sure, the location might not have the most Instagram-worthy views, but trust us, once that food hits your table, you'll forget all about what's outside the window.
Quick heads up: There was some construction going on when we visited, so it might be a bit hectic during daytime hours. But honestly? By evening, we barely noticed.
What We Ordered (And Why You Should Too!)
Shared Starters That Hit Different
You know what got us right from the start? The free bread with oil and olive tapenade. We literally finished every last bite right as our appetizers arrived, perfect timing and even better flavors.
Small Caesar Salad - Okay, can we talk about portion sizes for a sec? The small was literally perfect for the two of us to share. Any more than two people and you'd definitely want to go large, but for a date night? This was the perfect amount of salad. Not overwhelming, just the right amount to get your appetite going.
Meatballs - Two perfectly crafted meatballs that were basically made for sharing on a date. We're talking fork-tender, flavorful, and the perfect intro to what was coming next.
Our Individual Entrees (But We Shared Anyway Because We're That Couple)
Max's Pick: Pappardelle - I went with the classic, and wow. The bolognese was rich, hearty, and everything you want in a comfort pasta dish. The pasta used was flavorful and unique, it reminded me of the pasta used for lasagna. If you enjoy red sauce this is a must.
Cindy's Choice: Conchiglie - She went with the pesto version, and this dish was absolutely stunning. The shell pasta held onto that vibrant pesto sauce perfectly, creating these little pockets of herby, garlicky goodness in every bite. Fresh, flavorful, and exactly what you want from house-made pasta.
The best part? All their pasta is made in-house, and you can absolutely taste the difference. Fresh, delicious, and exactly what you want when you're looking for an amazing date night in Minneapolis that involves incredible food.
Let's Talk Drinks
Cindy's Espresso Martini - She's basically an espresso martini connoisseur at this point, and while this wasn't her all-time favorite, it was definitely worth ordering. If you're into that perfect coffee-cocktail combo, don't skip it.
Max's Liquid Journey - Started with an IPA because, well, I'm predictable like that. Their beer selection isn't huge (it's an Italian restaurant, so totally expected), but they had at least one solid option for an IPA.
But I had to switch it up and try the Sidecar cocktail. I don't typically go for these, but this drink converted me. Not too strong, incredible flavor, and now I'm definitely ordering these again.
The Little Things That Made It Special
Service was definitely prompt at this restaurant, and the wait staff did an excellent job of explaining their most popular dishes and what makes them unique.
The progression from bread to Caesar salad and meatballs to our pasta dishes felt like the perfect date night flow. Not rushed, not too slow, just right for good conversation and even better food.
Why This is a Must-Visit Minneapolis Date Night Spot
Listen, when we say we're already planning our next visit to try their pizza (also made in-house!), we mean it. This is the kind of place that checks all the boxes for a great date night spot in Minneapolis:
- Incredible, fresh pasta that's made on-site
- Perfect portion sizes for sharing
- Solid drink menu with something for everyone
- Cozy atmosphere that's perfect for conversation
- Food so good you'll be planning your return visit before you leave
The Bottom Line
Rinata earned its spot on our list of go-to date night restaurants in Minneapolis. The food is incredible, the vibe is perfect for couples, and honestly? It made Cindy's birthday dinner exactly what it should be – memorable, delicious, and full of those "we need to come back here" moments.