The arancini and aioli were amazing. Trout tray was fun. We went for the carbonara. It was ok…read more Service was excellent.

Anima Cucina is such a cute spot in Bismarck. I was greeted right away and seated promptly, and the…read moreservice throughout the meal was warm, friendly, and attentive. For a small restaurant, they also have an impressive wine selection. We started with the garlic bread, hot olives, and meatballs -- all of which were flavorful, balanced, and absolutely delicious. For entrées, our table had the breaded walleye, the Bolognese pasta, and the Porchetta. The walleye and Bolognese were outstanding, but unfortunately the Porchetta was a big letdown. The skin was chewy rather than crisp, with a thick layer of unrendered fat beneath it, and most concerning, it still had visible pig hair. I was expecting the classic combination of crackling skin, melting fat, and tender pork, but instead it was oddly undercooked on the outside, dry inside, and after biting into hair, I really lost my appetite for it. We finished with tiramisu and a torte, and both desserts were excellent -- a strong way to end the meal. Overall, Anima Cucina has a lot going for it: charming atmosphere, friendly staff, great starters, and standout entrées (other than the Porchetta). I'd happily return for the appetizers, pasta, fish, and desserts, but I'd avoid the Porchetta based on my experience.

Our salad and three different types of pizza were all excellent and the lady serving was friendly…read moreand attentive. Would definitely return.

Stopped in for lunch with my college student on a Friday, and it turned out to be the perfect…read moresolution for a meatless Friday meal. We were greeted right away as there was no one else in the restaurant. Its an open floor plan with two rooms. Im guessing its quite lively in the evenings. We shared the chopped salad and the Daisy pizza. The salad was good, though not a traditional chopped salad--it used that trendy wild greens mix that so many restaurants are leaning on these days. Personally, I'm not a huge fan, but the menu did specify it, so that one's on me for not paying closer attention. The pizza, however, was absolutely terrific. The crust was soft and chewy with just the right amount of char from the stone oven. The combination of the sauce, cheese, and fresh basil was spot on. They also drizzle a flavored oil over the top--we couldn't quite pinpoint what it was, but it added an extra layer of flavor that really elevated the pizza. We devoured the whole thing--three slices each! At around $20, the pizza might feel a bit pricey, but it's clear that everything is fresh and made from scratch, so it's well worth it. Service was attentive, though we were the only ones there at lunchtime. I imagine this place really comes alive in the evening. I'd definitely come back to try more of the menu--and next time, I'm not sharing my pizza.

Best bakery in Bismarck hands down. Everything is made fresh from scratch, if you crave and miss…read moretropical flavors, look no further. They have everything from simple Bavarian cream to guava and mango flavor! It's hard to choose but my favorite is the mango donut, a simple glazed donuts full of fresh mango filling, it's heaven! We met one of the employees of the bakery and he told us how they make sure to have quality ingredients and make sure nothing is old and stale. They also make Cuban and Puerto Rican sandwiches if you want something savory, he said to call him ahead of time so that we can have something fresh right when we eat. So thankful to have a diverse local business!

I couldn't believe it when I heard that Bismarck had an actual Puerto Rican bakery and had to see…read morefor myself! So, on my friend's birthday, a group of us went to check it out. From the moment we wandered in, the owner was incredibly friendly and helpful. Not only did he explain what every dessert in the case was and how it was made, he let us try their fresh baked breads and described their sandwiches and the grocery area of the store as well! It was a personal tour and we were so grateful! One of my friends has family in Mexico/travels there frequently and was delighted to find some of her favorite soda as well as desserts (albeit with different names) here. And she left well stocked! Of course I had to ask if they had a vegetarian sandwich (as he was describing how they make their sandwich meat) and he paused a beat and then exclaimed, "That's not latin!" Oh it was so funny, we all had a great laugh! He went on to say he'd be happy to put some veggies on a sandwich for me if I wanted. We did ask how he came to North Dakota and he explained it was because of the hurricane in Puerto Rico awhile back. We told him how happy we were he chose Bismarck of all places. It can't be easy! We all left loaded down with bakery boxes and items from the grocery portion of the store. And were all delighted at how amazing their prices were! Seriously - this place has great prices. I got tres leches, a giant slab of the most amazing vanilla cake, a cup of what tasted like horchata that was a cross between pudding/jello in texture, and a cork screw shaped pastry filled with bavarian cream that I've seen reviewers call a cannoli but he was specific in the fact that it was absolutely not a cannoli. (I believe he called it a quesito but I could be wrong.) The owner also stressed that the desserts in the case change in variety daily so what may be there one day won't be there the next. All in all - this business is fantastic in every way (right down to the fact that the room was absolutely spotless and sparkling clean) and we will be back next time we are in Bismarck! Please turn out and support this wonderful new business!

Stopped in here for a quick ice cream before heading back to the hotel. What a fun gem to find…read morehidden behind hotel row. The vibe is super fun and reminds me a lot of Central Perk from Friends. Tables and couches arranged in cozy conversational corners. We ended up staying because we liked the ambience. We each had a gelato with a topping that came in around $15 including tip. I had salted caramel and my guest had the butter brickle. Both were very tasty and we would likely come back to try some other flavors or just enjoy the vibe with some coffee. The staff was both friendly and helpful and offered samples of the gelato to help us decide.

Super cute ice cream place combined with a coffee joint! Loved the affogato! We liked it so much,…read morewe came back a few times while studying in Bismarck. Lots of sitting area with chess tables and areas to study. Staff is nice :)

I was in town for work and wanted something for dinner that wouldn't make me feel terrible, no…read morefried foods, a real meal. It was -17 degrees in and I was able to walk in for dinner. I'm sure this place is usually much busier, but I'm happy I lucked out. The staff were so friendly and attentive from the second you walk in, with such a warm welcome by the host. The restaurant felt cozy and still had plenty of diners despite the cold. I had the beet salad with goat cheese and pecans, and the bison braised short ribs. Both were excellent. I make a similar beet dish at home, so it was nice to have something simple, comforting, and genuinely delicious -- it felt like eating at home. The beef was incredibly tender and fell apart easily with just my fork. I also had the vanilla crème brûlée for dessert. It was pretty good, but it was cold, and I usually prefer it a little warm and smoother. Not quite the cozy dessert I was hoping for. That said, they had a great dessert selection, and I'm excited to come back and try something else.

It's been 18 years since we've been here. Always liked the ambiance of the place. We returned for…read moreour 25th anniversary and was treated well by our server. She was on point with the drinks and serving. Sometimes I did not know she was near until the plate disappeared or the glasses filled. I had the ND bison short ribs and hubby had the walleye. Both delicious. We both chose the dill mash potato. I am thinking that maybe a fondant potato would pair nicely with the bison short ribs but all in all in was a very nice experience for our anniversary. Thank you!

My first day in Bismarck was highlighted by delish BBQ ( pulled pork sandwich, rib platter, and…read morehomemade sides). We were asked to pay a cover upon entry ($10 each) and at first I was kinda meh about it, but the band playing was local and very good (well worth the cover and an extra tip!). The beer selection was plentiful and the IPA I chose was above board. I've been back a few times and plan to return often. The service was friendly and attentive too.

A very good place and great beer and food! The burnt ends and wings are absolutely awesome! Great…read morebeer selection and service is fantastic! Great atmosphere and axe throwing! Definitely one of the better places in this town!