- Attraction: Josefina
- Location: 739 Lake Street East, Wayzata, MN 55391
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://www.josefinawayzata.com/
Picture this: you’re craving authentic Italian flavors but want the intimate charm of a neighborhood trattoria that actually knows how to wow you.
Just steps from the shores of Lake Minnetonka, Josefina delivers an inclusive dining experience that works beautifully for any occasion. This acclaimed restaurant opened in April 2021 from celebrated chef Daniel del Prado, the culinary genius behind Minneapolis favorites like Martina and Colita.
What makes Josefina special isn’t just its prime lakeside location in charming downtown Wayzata.
This boutique Italian spot transforms the former Bellecour space into something that feels both upscale and wonderfully approachable, where you can celebrate an anniversary or grab a casual pizza with equal satisfaction.
Menu Highlights That’ll Make You Swoon
The Focaccia Experience: You’ll want to start every meal with their daily focaccia creation. This artisanal bread emerges from the wood-fired oven with a perfectly crispy exterior that gives way to a rich, tender center.
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Keep Exploring →Each day brings a different version that showcases seasonal ingredients and the chef’s creativity.
Pizza Perfection: The wood-fired pizzas here are absolute standouts with creative combinations that showcase del Prado’s inventive flair.
You’ll discover classics like pepperoni alongside inspired creations such as mushroom with crème fraîche and preserved lemon. The crust achieves that perfect balance of char and chew that only comes from a properly managed wood oven.
Pasta That Captivates: The handmade pasta dishes represent some of the restaurant’s finest work, with options like burrata preparations, fresh mussels, and perfectly executed classics.
The mafaldini cacio e pepe delivers ideal creaminess with just the right peppery bite. Each noodle gets crafted with care, resulting in that perfect al dente texture that makes you understand why people get emotional about good pasta.
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Discover MoreCreative Appetizers: The small plates program shines with sophisticated options that highlight del Prado’s adventurous flavor combinations.
The bigeye tuna crudo presents artfully with vibrant colors and bold taste contrasts. The Brussels sprouts consistently earn raves, and the burrata presentations change seasonally to keep things exciting.
Caesar Salad Excellence: This might sound simple, but Josefina’s version elevates the classic with generous Parmesan, perfect umami balance, and impeccably crisp lettuce. You’ll find this version surpasses most other attempts at this timeless salad.
Atmosphere & Décor
Bohemian Minimalist Vibes: The restaurant showcases classic bohemian minimalist design with rattan chairs and windows lined with lush plants. The aesthetic feels fresh and contemporary without being cold or sterile. Natural elements create warmth throughout the space.
Open Kitchen Energy: You’ll notice the beautiful open kitchen that reveals the craftsmanship happening behind the scenes. While positioned toward the back, it adds an element of theater and transparency that makes the dining experience feel more connected to the cooking process.
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Keep Exploring →Intimate Spacing: The restaurant maintains a cozy, intimate scale that encourages conversation and connection. The thoughtful atmosphere allows you to relax and unwind after a busy day. Tables are carefully spaced to give you privacy while maintaining the energy of a bustling trattoria.
Plant-Forward Design: Windows lined with greenery soften the interior and create a natural, welcoming environment that feels both sophisticated and approachable.
Other Considerations
Premium Pricing: You’ll find Josefina positioned at the higher end of the Wayzata dining scene with most meals falling in the $50-100 per person range. The quality justifies the cost, particularly considering the caliber of ingredients and execution you’ll experience.
Reservation Strategy: When making reservations, you’ll need to choose your preferred seating area during the booking process. Pay attention to this detail when reserving online to ensure you get the dining experience you want.
Extensive Wine Program: The restaurant maintains an extensive wine list that gets refreshed regularly. The beverage program focuses heavily on wine pairings that complement the Italian menu, with knowledgeable staff available to guide your selections.
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Discover MoreGluten-Free Accommodations: Most pasta dishes and appetizers can be adapted for gluten-free diets with excellent results. The kitchen staff demonstrates knowledge and sensitivity around dietary restrictions, though they’re transparent about cross-contamination concerns with their wood-fired pizza oven.
Perfect Location: Walking distance from Lake Minnetonka’s shores, you can easily combine dinner with a stroll through downtown Wayzata’s boutique shops or enjoy lakeside views before or after your meal.
Josefina
📍 739 Lake Street East, Wayzata, MN 55391
