SAGRA Food and Wine — Restaurant in La Crosse

Sagra is an Italian Eatery above Piggy’s on Front Street in La Crosse. It was recommended to us by several residents. It did not disappoint. We started with an Arancini appetizer. We have had arancini before, but NEVER like this. It’s the best we have ever had. Instead of being rice heavy, it was cheese heavy. They were almost like a Wisconsin cheese curd. The pecorino, a mixture of Italian cheeses, was melty and delicious, especially dipped in the buttermilk dipping sauce. We also ordered the special appetizer, fried wax beans. The breading was very light, almost like tempura. The dipping sauce added the flavor. They were good, but the Arancini definitely stood out. For entrees we got a crawfish dish and a chicken dish. Both were generous portions, which allowed us to have leftovers for lunch the following day. The Crawfish Fra Diavola was filled with crawfish and was very flavorful with fresh ingredients. The Chicken Scarpariello was delicious. The polenta was rich and creamy. The chicken comes bone in and skin on, which keeps it juicy. This dish also had Italian sausage and fresh vegetables. I really enjoyed the Italian sausage as a contrast to the chicken. The only disappointment was when we asked the waitress what 5 dishes were on the “chef’s market menu,” she didn’t know and really wouldn’t elaborate. I wanted to try that, but at $58 per person, the requirement for full table participation, and no information, I wasn’t willing to...

SAGRA is an absolute gem. From the moment you walk in (kind of feels like a speakeasy as it’s upstairs of Piggy’s), you’re welcomed like family, and the atmosphere perfectly balances warmth and sophistication.

The food? Outstanding. Every dish is crafted with care, and you can taste the quality in every bite. The flavors are bold yet refined, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re indulging in a multi-course dinner or simply savoring a perfectly prepared entrée, it’s clear that the kitchen operates with precision and passion. Compliments to the chef for designing a menu that’s comfortable but yet brings a new level of cuisine to the tired La Crosse food scene.

The drink selection is just as impressive. Thoughtfully curated wines, creative cocktails (classics with a twist) , and expertly poured spirits make every pairing feel intentional. If you appreciate a well-crafted drink, SAGRA delivers on all fronts.

And the service? Impeccable. The team is knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely invested in creating an unforgettable dining experience. They anticipated our needs before you even realize them and do it all with an effortless grace that makes the entire evening seamless.

SAGRA isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an exceptional night out, this place has exceeded our expectations every...

Entrance is through Piggys UPSTAIRS! Don't walk around the building forever like I did....

So close to 5 stars for me - I think if there was some more training / personnel rearrangment, it could be better, though. Also, I've worked in food service before this is overly critical.

The food was incredible. GO on Monday for Meatball Monday! I had Straciatella (creative) and All'amatriciana (love guanciale) + 1 Meatball. For the food 10 stars, authentic and worth the price. Pasta is home-made and amazing for sure.

On Meatball Mondays, there is one drink special, the Negroni. My waiter didn't know what a Negroni was when I asked the ingredients... and then came back and said Gin + some sort of mixer 😂... like.... Dude, there's only ONE special drink on there.....So, it definitely didn't sell me on it, and I chose a glass of red wine... Which would have been great to have if he hadn't then forgotten it. But the host was so on top of checking the whole room that he eventually brought me a glass when I asked about 20 minutes later.

The chef brought out food and talked to some guests, and the other waitress was on top of her game as I listened to her at other tables.

I also think the table side cut prosciutto is cool but I came alone so couldn't get more food.

High hopes this place will become a legend in la crosse for sure and would love to upgrade to a 5 star review once a few kinks...