ST. JOSEPH - Authentic Italian food is a favorite for many - and now, you'll be able to find it in the heart of St. Joseph.

While Bello Cucina is wrapping up its first week of business locally,  this isn't the restaurant's first location. Chef Jason Mueller and his wife, Candra Ruiz co-own two other businesses of the same name in Fergus Falls and Morris.

Ruiz says they've seen much success through reputation and word of mouth in those locations, and have had plans to open a third restaurant here in the St. Cloud area for several years.

Ruiz says their popularity stems from creating everything on the menu right in house.

Ruiz manages the front of the house. She says, while they do tend to change up the menu 3 to 4 times a year, they'll always offer the classic Italian favorites like Osso Bucco and many different varieties of pasta.

Bello Cucina offers an expansive interior dining area with bar seating, an extensive wine list, and a large outdoor patio.

It's located at the corner of  the Millstream Shops and Lofts building on Minnesota Street.

Their hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and closed on Sunday.

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