Italian Gardens at Grand View Lodge — Restaurant in Nisswa

Oh my goodness, this restaurant knocked me off my feet. My husband and I had wanted to go out to this restaurant every year when we are at Grandview, but we never could get in because it was all booked up. This year, we took a group of 35 people not really know what to expect. First of all, the customer service working to book. The private room was amazing. They were all super flexible, very kind, and it went over smoothly.

They set up a lovely table for everyone. The staff was so cooperative, we had 15 children with us. The rest adults. They worked so well being flexible and patient with the kids. They were great about taking a drink orders and all the food and fun stuff.

But the food, the food was absolutely the best Italian I have ever had. And I’ve been to Italy! This was delicious authentic incredible food. The starter bread alone had me shocked at how good it was.

The ambience was perfect, the service was perfect, the food was out of this world, cannot say enough good things...

Worst dining experience I have had in over 40 years. We had a late reservation with 12 people 3 of which had dietary restrictions. We asked to get a 4th entree and they said no. So we asked if we could split the 12 top to 2 tables with 6 to accommodate those who had gluten and vegetarian concerns, there comment was "no we had already started a ticket". I wanted to get up and leave but took the high road. The food was horrible! Bruchetta looked awful as though the used an ice cream scoop to put on the toppings. Chef came out and said they could not accommodate at the beginning and was obvious that they were in a hurry to get out for the evening. Service was terrible asked for water and waited 10 minutes for them to return to table and then asked again.

This place is a joke and should not be on such a great resort or even exist. I would not be surprised if this restaurant was on an episode of Kitchen Nightmares! Funny 3 of our guests were from Italy and scoughed at the...

This place is a hidden gem! The menu has a broad selection to meet everyone’s Italian tastes.

The portions are quite sizable so be prepared to bring home some food.

Lasagna has a low “Minnesota hot” spice to it. A very good meal for Lasagna lovers.

Chicken Marsala had a light breading on the chicken and was just slightly on the salty side. But still a good dish to try.

Cheese-stuffed Manicotti is fantastic! Light and creamy with a lot of Ricotta. This was the table favorite.

A very good wine selection and the staff were on top...