Cossetta's Italian Market, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA

If you are in the Twin Cities area you must make the trip into St. Paul to dine at Cossetta's Italian Market and Pizzeria.



Cossetta's has been written about by everyone from the New York Times to Frommer's Travel- and it never fails to make the "Best of the Twin Cities" list. For a perfect slice this is the place to go.



Cossetta's began as a grocery in 1911 and has not only survived for almost 100 years; it has become an institution. Housed in an historic building on St.Paul's W 7th Street (211 W. 7th) Cossetta's is right on the edge of a revitalized downtown. And you don't have to worry about parking- Cossetta's has their own (free) lot. It is only for use while you are dining; if you plan to shop in any of the great antique stores or wander along the river (both great activities in St. Paul) you will want to find someplace else to park.

The food is served cafeteria style. Grab your tray and peruse the menu. I recommend the Cossetta Sandwich- a spicy Italian sausage on thick sliced Italian bread covered in marinara. Yum. Doug enjoyed the Chicken DeBurgo with pasta. And Brenna was almost dwarfed by her slice of pepperoni.

Which Caelan also enjoyed.

After you have made your selection find seating. I recommend going upstairs and trying to get a seat overlooking W. 7th street. Enjoy the atmosphere. St. Paul and Cossetta's have a long history; much of it lines the walls.

Highchairs and booster seats are available- just ask one of the friendly busboys to get one for you. And don't forget to leave room for a cannoli, gelato or tiramisu. All are yummy.

After your meal wander through the market. Take something with you for later. Or just grab an interesting item from "the old country" as a souvenir.

Cossetta's is open daily at 11am, closing times vary by night. The entrees average about $10.