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Osteria Rago Bloomington | Best Authentic Italian Restaurant

Looking for a cozy spot that serves traditional Italian dishes made fresh daily? Osteria Rago in Bloomington, Indiana, offers just that.

This restaurant focuses on homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and locally sourced ingredients. It’s a perfect place for anyone who appreciates real Italian flavors and warm hospitality.

About Osteria Rago

Osteria Rago Bloomington captures the true essence of Italian cooking. The restaurant takes pride in using fresh, organic, and local ingredients every day. Their passion for tradition shows in every dish they serve. From house-made pasta to freshly baked bread and wood-fired pizza, each meal is crafted with care and expertise.

This is not just dining; it’s an experience that honors authentic Italian heritage. The team at Osteria respects the art of cooking and invites guests to savor comforting flavors that feel like a home-cooked meal.

Osteria Rago Menu Prices

🧀 Appetizers

Item Description Price
Meatballs Fischer Farms beef and pork, pomodoro sauce, fresh mozzarella, house-made focaccia $16.99
Charcuterie Board Rotating selection of meats, cheeses, and pickled vegetables

(Half-board $19.99, Full-board $27.99)

Varies
Bruschetta Tomato, basil, garlic, balsamic reduction, crostini $12.99
Tomatoes Vesta Fire-roasted cherry tomatoes, lemon ricotta, arugula, red wine balsamic reduction, house-made focaccia $13.99
Polenta Polenta, truffle oil marinated mushrooms, fontina, pomodoro sauce $13.99
Burrata Burrata, Prosciutto di Parma, pesto, arugula $17.99
Focaccia House-made focaccia bread, extra virgin olive oil $6.99

🥗 Salads

Starter: $9.99 | Entrée: $15.99
Add-ons: Chicken – $7.99 | Shrimp – $8.99 | Salmon – $10.99
Dressings: Red Wine Vinaigrette, Bleu Cheese, Balsamic, Buttermilk, Caesar

Salad Ingredients
House Romaine, iceberg lettuce, fresh mozzarella, olives, tomato, celery, pepperoncini, Parmigiano, Romano
Caprese Fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, balsamic reduction
Caesar Romaine, parmigiano, croutons
Chopped Romaine, iceberg lettuce, tomato, celery, cucumber, red onion, pancetta, gorgonzola, parmigiano, romano
Salami Genoa salami, piccante salami, romaine, iceberg lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, peperonata, parmigiano, romano
Panzanella Seasoned focaccia croutons, spinach, arugula, tomato, cucumber, fresh mozzarella

🍲 Soups

Item Price
Soup of the Day Bowl $7.99

🥪 Sandwiches

For a lighter or quicker meal, Osteria Rago Menu Italian-style sandwiches that are delicious. The Big Al, with meatballs, provolone, and house sauce, is perfect for a satisfying lunch. The Di Parma, featuring prosciutto, fresh arugula, and balsamic glaze, is another tasty option.

Item Description Price
Big Al Genoa salami, mortadella, prosciutto cotto, prosciutto di Parma, tomato, provolone, iceberg, giardiniera, vinaigrette $18.99
Caprese Fresh mozzarella, tomato, red onion, basil, balsamic reduction

(with pesto: $18.99)

$16.99
Roasted Turkey Turkey, Fischer Farms bacon, tomato, provolone, arugula, calabrese aioli $19.99
Di Parma Prosciutto di Parma, fresh mozzarella, tomato, arugula, truffle aioli $21.99
Sottomarina Genoa salami, piccante salami, pepperoni, hot coppa, provolone, tomato, red onion, iceberg, vinaigrette $17.99
Mortadella Mortadella, burrata, pickled red onions, pesto, arugula $18.99
Ragazzone Piccante salami, turkey, pepperoni, provolone, tomato, red onion, pepperoncini, giardiniera, calabrese aioli $17.99
Prosciutto Cotto Prosciutto Cotto, burrata, apricot mostarda, arugula $19.99

🍕 Wood Fired Pizza

Pizza Of The MonthAsk server for details
🍷 Enjoy 30% off any wine with pizza of the month!

Pizza Description Price
Margherita Fresh mozzarella, pomodoro sauce, basil $17.99
Pepperoni Pepperoni, mozzarella, provolone, pomodoro sauce (Add Sausage +$1) $18.99 / $19.99
Wild Mushroom Wild mushrooms, provolone, fontina, parmigiano, romano, confit garlic, pomodoro sauce $18.99
Prosciutto Arugula Prosciutto di Parma, fresh mozzarella, arugula, pomodoro sauce $19.99
Bianca Lemon ricotta, fresh mozzarella, provolone, fontina, parmigiano, romano, olive oil $17.99
Diavola Fischer Farms sausage, piccante salami, fresh mozzarella, calabrese peppers, red onion, parmigiano, romano, pomodoro sauce $19.99
Bruschetta Fresh mozzarella, red onion, tomato, basil, garlic, balsamic reduction $17.99
Shrimp Scampi Pizza Shrimp, fontina, smoked mozzarella, garlic shallot lemon butter $19.99
Patata Suprema Roasted potato, Fischer Farms bacon & sausage, fontina, parmigiano, romano, white sauce, rosemary garlic calabrese oil $19.99

🍝 House-Made Pasta

Their pasta dishes are a real highlight. Try the tagliatelle Bolognese, fresh ribbons of pasta tossed in a rich, slow-cooked meat sauce. The gnocchi al pesto is also a favorite, with soft potato dumplings coated in a fragrant basil pesto.

Pasta Description Price
Spaghetti Pomodoro sauce – $15.99

With meatballs – $18.99

With ragu – $18.99

Varies
Bucatini Amatriciana Pomodoro sauce, guanciale, calabrese peppers $18.99
Cacio e Pepe Parmigiano, romano, black pepper $17.99
Carbonara Eggs, guanciale, parmigiano, romano $18.99
Fettuccine Alfredo Base – $16.99

+Spinach, mushroom, sun-dried tomato – $2.00

+Chicken – $4.00

+Shrimp – $5.00

+Salmon – $7.00

Varies
Aglio e Olio Garlic, olive oil, red pepper – $15.99

+Chicken – $5.00

+Shrimp – $6.00

Varies
Cheese Ravioli Five cheese blend, choice of sauce (amatriciana, alfredo, pomodoro, pesto, ragu) $18.99
Meat Ravioli Fischer Farms beef and pork, choice of sauce $20.99
Pesto Pasta Basil, arugula, pine nuts, parmigiano, romano, olive oil $18.99
Gnocchi Potato gnocchi, pomodoro sauce, parmigiano $18.99

Entrées

The classic lasagna is a must-try. It features layers of tender pasta, hearty meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese, baked until bubbly and golden. Osteria Rago Menu also offers a variety of wood-fired pizzas. You can’t go wrong with the simple Margherita or the flavorful Prosciutto Arugula. They even have a rotating “Pizza of the Month” for something new and exciting.

Dish Description Price
Eggplant Rollatini Rolled eggplant, five cheeses, fazzoletti pasta, spinach, pomodoro sauce 21.99
Risotto Rotating seasonal selection Market
Chicken Parmesan Breaded chicken breast wrapped in prosciutto di Parma, pomodoro sauce, pesto; with pasta 23.99
Chicken Marsala Breaded chicken cutlet, polenta, wild mushroom, marsala sauce, seasonal vegetables 23.99
Tuscan Salmon Salmon, wild mushrooms, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach; with pasta 25.99
Veal Braciole Veal cutlet, prosciutto di Parma, golden raisins, pine nuts, parmigiano, romano, polenta 25.99
Lasagna Beef & pork bolognese, parmigiano, bechamel, ricotta 19.99
Piccata Lemon, capers, arugula (add chicken +4.00, shrimp +6.00, salmon +8.00) 15.99

Kids Menu

(12 and under)

Dish Description Price
Kids Cheese Pizza 11.99
Kids Pepperoni Pizza Add sausage +1.00 13.99 / 14.99
Spaghetti Pomodoro sauce (add meatballs +3.00) 11.99
Capellini in Butter Sauce 9.99

Desserts

Save room for dessert! The tiramisu is a classic layered treat with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone. The panna cotta is smooth and silky, topped with fresh berries for a refreshing finish.

Dessert Description Price
Affogato Gelato with a hot espresso pour-over 9.99
Gelato Rotating selections 8.99
Cannoli Rotating selection 11.99
Tiramisu 11.99

Coffee

Drink Size Price
Americano SNGL 1.99
DBL 2.99
Macchiato SNGL 2.99
DBL 3.99
Cappuccino SNGL 3.99
DBL 4.99
Latte SNGL 3.99
DBL 4.99
Espresso SNGL 1.99
DBL 2.99

Drinks

Drink Size Price
Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite Bottle 3.99
San Pellegrino 1 L 6.99
San Pellegrino 500 ml 3.99
Craft Sodas 3.99
Hot or Iced Tea 3.99

5 Signature Dishes You Must Try Osteria Rago Menu

After spending time at Osteria Rago in Bloomington, Indiana, and watching what people order the most, here are my top five slices that stand out for flavor and popularity. I’ve personally tasted each one, they’re packed with smoky, cheesy goodness you won’t forget:

1. Classic Lasagna

This hearty favorite combines layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese. It’s comforting and deeply satisfying.

Classic Lasagna
osteriarago.com

2. Tagliatelle Bolognese

Fresh pasta with a savory meat sauce that tastes like it came straight from an Italian grandmother’s kitchen.

Tagliatelle Bolognese
thewanderlustkitchen.com

3. Wood-Fired Margherita Pizza

Simple, fresh ingredients baked to perfection in a traditional wood oven.
Wood-Fired Margherita Pizza
4. Gnocchi al Pesto

Soft potato gnocchi tossed in bright, flavorful basil pesto sauce.

Gnocchi al Pesto
qbcucina.com

5. Antipasto Platter

A perfect way to start with an assortment of meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables.

Antipasto Platter
osteriarago.com

Dining Experience at Osteria Rago Menu

Walking into Osteria Rago Bloomington feels like stepping into a quaint Italian village. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with rustic wood accents and soft lighting. It’s a great spot for romantic dinners, family outings, or catching up with friends.

Service here is attentive and friendly. The staff knows the menu well and is happy to suggest dishes or wine pairings that will enhance your meal.

Osteria Rago Overview

Name Osteria Rago
Google Rating 4.5 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) (based on 593 reviews)
Price Range $20–30 per person (reported by 164 people)
Cuisine Italian restaurant
Description Quaint Italian restaurant featuring housemade pasta & pizza, weekend brunch & gourmet foods to-go.
Services ✔ Dine-in · ✔ Takeout · ✘ Delivery
Address 419 E Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47408
Plus Code 5F8C+Q9 Bloomington, Indiana
Phone (812) 822-0694
Website For the prices on the menu, visit the official website here.
Reservations Reserve a Table
LGBTQ+ Friendly Yes

Location and Hours

  • Phone for Reservations: (812) 822-2033
  • Phone for To-Go Orders: (812) 822-0694
  • Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 5 PM to 9 PM; Closed Sunday and Monday

Location on Map

Street parking is available nearby, making it easy to visit whether you’re dining in or picking up takeout.

How to Make a Reservation

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. To book a table, call (812) 822-2033. For takeout, call (812) 822-0694 to place your order in advance.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating: 4.5/5 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) Based on 593 reviews. Google Reviews

Many diners praise Osteria for its authentic flavors and welcoming vibe. One reviewer said, “The lasagna here tastes like a warm hug—comfort food done perfectly.” Another noted, “Great pizzas with a perfect crust baked in a real wood oven. Highly recommend!”

🍽️ 4 Similar Restaurants Nearby

In my experience exploring the pizza scene around Bloomington, I found these four places really stand out. If you like Osteria Rago Menu, you’ll probably enjoy these spots too. Each one has its own special style and great flavors that make it worth a visit.

If you love Osteria Rago Menu, here are four other local spots worth exploring:

1. Grazie Italiano

 Website: For the official menu prices, visit here.
Google Rating: 4.3 ★★★★☆ 
Grazie Italiano offers modern Italian dishes with an upscale twist. It’s perfect if you want the same quality as Osteria Rago but a more contemporary atmosphere.

2. Nick’s English Hut

Website: For the official menu prices, visit here.
Google Rating: 4.0 ★★★★☆ 
Not Italian, but a beloved local pub. Ideal for drinks and pub fare before or after your Italian meal. A great place to soak in Bloomington’s local vibe.

3. Cafe Pizzeria

Website: For the official menu prices, visit here.
Google Rating: 4.2 ★★★★☆ 
Known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, this spot offers wood-fired pies with fresh ingredients. A strong alternative for pizza fans.

4. Bucceto’s Smiling Teeth

Website: For the official menu prices, visit here.
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.1  
A welcoming place with a broad Italian menu, including pasta and sandwiches. It has a friendly neighborhood feel like Osteria Rago.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Osteria Rago Menu vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, many pasta dishes are vegetarian or can be customized to suit your needs.

Is the restaurant kid-friendly?
While the setting leans towards a more intimate, adult-friendly vibe, families with kids are welcome.

Are gluten-free options available?
Gluten-free options are limited. It’s best to call ahead to confirm what is available on the day.

Does Osteria Rago have outdoor seating?
Yes, outdoor seating is available, perfect for warm evenings.

Can I order takeout or online?
Takeout is available by phone. They do not have a full online ordering system.

Is parking available?
Yes, street parking is available nearby in downtown Bloomington.

Conclusion

Osteria Rago Bloomington stands out as a charming and authentic Italian restaurant in Bloomington. The use of fresh, local ingredients combined with traditional recipes creates a memorable dining experience. Whether you are craving hearty pasta, wood-fired pizza, or just a relaxing dinner with friends, Osteria delivers quality and warmth in every bite. Don’t forget to try their signature dishes and explore the nearby similar restaurants to make the most of your visit.

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Website |  + posts

Taqi Anjum is a seasoned culinary and travel expert with deep knowledge of America’s restaurant and travel landscapes. Specializing in menu pricing, dining trends, cost-saving strategies, and insider travel tips, he crafts authoritative guides that empower food lovers and travelers to explore the USA with confidence.

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