New Italian Restaurant Opens in Robbinsdale

Risata Cucina is led by chefs Brendan Denne and Bryan Gooding. The restaurant opened its doors on March 9, 2026, at 4168 W. Broadway Ave. The space was previously occupied by Nonna Rosa's, another long-standing Italian restaurant that closed in June of the previous year. The menu focuses on Italian-American classics such as chicken parmigiana and rigatoni alla vodka, with the majority of entrees priced under $30. Co-owner Bryan Gooding stated, "We're not riffing. We're just doing the best versions of what we do." The bar program will feature classic cocktails, including Negronis and Aperol Spritzes on tap, and an extensive collection of nearly 50 amaro varieties. The opening is part of a larger culinary evolution in Robbinsdale's downtown, heavily influenced by the Travail Collective restaurant group. Travail Kitchen and Amusements, a flagship restaurant of the group, has been described as an "economic engine" for the area. The collective also operates other local concepts like Pig Ate My Pizza and has a history of fostering culinary talent. Robbinsdale is actively pursuing downtown redevelopment beyond just its restaurant scene. The city is considering the redevelopment of several government-owned properties, including parking lots and the Hubbard Marketplace. These efforts are happening in anticipation of the future Metro Blue Line Extension light rail, which plans for a "walk up" station in the downtown area to support business and residential growth.