I Nonni

Contributor 

on Citysearch

18 years ago

Italian style radiates throughout this sophisticated suburban eatery. – In Short Stylishly swank, this Lilydale restaurant was built for Frank Marchionda's family who owned St. Paul's Buon Giorno Italian market. The buttery gold walls, ruby-splashed sconces and huge chandeliers are pulled together with a tiled floor--it's noisily romantic with ultraflattering light. The Italian specialties are arranged with sturdy simplicity. Entrees aren't always fancy, but filling, like pasta with a lively tomato-hot pepper marinara and ch... read more

sjones13315 

on Citysearch

18 years ago

Not worth the drive or money – I have been to Nonni on two separate occaisions - once about a year ago - when we finally walked out after waiting over 40 minutes to order - the waitstaff was non-existent! This time we went for a midweek dinner, we were told it would be 25 minute wait for the patio (they inside appeared reserved for a wine tasting) and we could wait in the bar. We waited almost 40 minutes for our table, had excellent service from the bartender however - who was friendly and very attentive, we had the I Nonni ... read more

lauriesquillace 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

Exceptional – I realized last night that I am spoiled to have Osteri Innoni in my backyard. Since Boun Giornos move to Mendota Heights I have been lucky enough to continue to partake in the fine eats at the market, and also to indulge in superb Italian vino, and exceptional cuisine at Innoni. Last night I dined with a friend, we started the evening by sitting at Innonis beautiful bar enjoying a glass of red (chosen with the help of our knowledgeable bartender). Frank Marchionda stopped by to say hello, and shake hands he is ... read more

newcrit 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

Excellent Dining Experience – This is the second time we have dined at OIN and both times have been wonderful. The first time we were celebrating our anniversary and we were pleasantly surprised to find on their wine list, the same Amarone that we had enjoyed when we were in Italy a few weeks before. The second time was just as fantastic. My husband brought a colleague from Europe and we all ordered the featured four course fixed menu with the accompanying wine selections. The food/service/wine were unsurpassed. It was also ... read more

mnbhoy 

on Citysearch

20 years ago

Genuine Italian; Poor Service – I brought a business partner to OIN on a less than busy Monday night and was somewhat disappointed. I heard much of OIN's reputation and looked forward to showing off the area's culinary expertise to an out-of-towner. The atmosphere was very nice - excellent for privacy and conversation. The food was very good - a nice sauteed skate wing special as well as beef cheek and sweetbread ravioli. The much-hyped calamari appetizer was good, but nothing special. The service will probably keep me from ... read more

succulentwildwoman 

on Citysearch

20 years ago

Succulent... – I lived in Italy for nine years and this is one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in the Twin Cities. However, it is expensive and I would only go for special occasions, business meetings, or even an appetizer accompanied by one of the wines on their vast wine list. This is also a great date place if you want to impress that someone special. The Executive Chef is from Rome and he knows how to run a kitchen and make good food. The food is simple yet made with quality fresh ingredients. I have eaten here... read more

pandora4 

on Citysearch

21 years ago

Can you say rubber? – I tried the calamari fritti, it was the worst stuff I have ever had. It was very under cooked in my opinion, the batter was mushy the calamari was so chewy that I gave up less than 1/2 way through the dish. It was also very bland, no sauce only lemon. When asked if it could be cooked more, I was told that the chef would not cook it longer, that he was from Italy and that's how they prepare it over there. Well I guess that there are no special orders here. 

melneis 

on Citysearch

22 years ago

Kudos all around – We arrived and were promptly seated at our two person table. The waitstaff was extremely attentive through the whole meal and our water glass was always filled. The calamari appetizer is a must and is served very simply. The squash risotto was another highlight of the meal and I would go back just for that. The atmosphere was upscale and intimate. I would not hesitate to go back and will return for many visits there and also to the attached Italian market. 

pettingzoo 

on Citysearch

22 years ago

Like Italy--Hit and Miss – Visited in early Dec. Appetizers--Carpaccio (to earlier reviewer--it's supposed to be raw) and Portabellos in balsalmic--were wonderful and huge. Appetizers:8 We ordered fish in parchment and carbonara. Carbonara was mild, a bit too much creme, with only the barest hint of ham/bacon. The fish came as a block in tomato sauce. It was in parchment, yes, but nestled in aluminum foil. Yep. Reynolds Wrap. No garnishments. Fish was just OK. Entrees: 5 Wine--a great Chianti, wine list:9 Dessert--a dry, bla... read more