Michael Valentini and crew are bringing great Italian cooking to the Gunflint Trail on Saturday, February 18th and Sunday, February 19th. Two seatings for these dining nights, 6 PM & 8 PM.
Note: 6 PM seating Saturday is full, available seating at 6 PM Sunday is somewhat limited; plenty of openings for 8 PM seatings both night. Eat later and linger longer.
The Valentini name has been synonymous with Authentic Italian dining in Northern Minnesota since 1934. Immigrating from Central Italy (La Marche) Louis and Justina Valentini settled in Chisholm, Minnesota and began the first of three generations of the family restaurant.
Your guest chefs for the evening will be siblings Michael Valentini and wife Sally, Carol Valentini and husband Ed, and John Valentini. Michael was a third generation owner of Valentini’s in Chisholm. He and Sally sold the restaurant (to a cousin) and now live at the end of the Gunflint Trail on Saganaga. Carol and Ed opened the new Valentini’s Vicino Lago in Duluth and have carried on the tradition of providing the best in ethnic dining to the Twin Ports. John left the restaurant world to become a chiropractor in the Twin Cities. But he has always maintained a passion for cooking and frequently lends his talents to fundraisers and family functions.
The Valentini family has chosen a variety of entrees for this special weekend, featuring many of the dishes, sauces and desserts that have been staples of the Valentini family. You will also have an opportunity to bring home a copy of the family cookbook “La Razza Die Ciurri” (translation: The Clan of the Curly Heads). The book is filled with countless home recipes of culinary delights that were the hallmark of our Italian heritage.
As always, Bearskin dining is open to everyone, whether you are a Bearskin guest, a local resident, or are staying elsewhere. Because Michael Valentini is a well-known Gunflint Trail resident, we anticipate that both nights may fill early with reservations from area residents who are eager to sample Valentini’s cuisine. We encourage you to reserve early for these special nights of dining. Call us at (218)388-2292, e-mail us at stay@bearskin.com, or use the convenient reservation form here.
Menu | Saturday February 18th
Main Entrée Choices
Valentini’s Rib Eye Steak Cabernet – $35
USDA Choice Ribeye with a rich Cabernet sauce served with Roasted Italian Vegetable and Pasta Porcini (wild mushrooms and prosciutto)
Chicken Marsala – $28
Chicken Breast sautéed with Bacon, Garlic, Shallots and Mushrooms topped with a Creamy Marsala Sauce on a bed of home-made linguine. Served with roasted Italian Vegetables.
Seafood Stuffed Walleye – $35
Crusted freshwater filet with seafood, herb & cheese stuffing and a garlic lemon aioli. Served with roasted Italian vegetables and Pasta Porcini (wild mushrooms & prosciutto).
All entrees include fresh bread and olive oil for dipping. Also choice of Valentini’s Italian Dinner salad with homemade Italian dressing or Caesar salad. Cup of soup of the day
Dessert Choices
Traditional Tiramisu (means “pick me up” in Italian)
Panna Cotta with Spiced Cranberry Sauce and White Chocolate Shavings.
Menu | Sunday February 19 | Sera di Festa Italiano (An Italian Festival evening)
Main Entrée Choices
Chicken Cacciatore – $28
Slow roasted bone-in chicken in a rosemary wine sauce
Pork Tenderloin - $28
Roasted Pork tenderloin stuffed with prosciutto and spinach
Entrees served with pasta and choice of three sauces:
- Sugo – smooth, signature slow-cooked classic red sauce simmered with beef & pork
- Pomodoro – light fresh tomato basil & garlic sauce with no meat
- Alfredo – rich, creamy, seasoned white sauce with Asiago, Fontina & Parmasean cheeses
All entrees include fresh bread and olive oil for dipping. Also choice of Valentini’s Italian Dinner salad with homemade Italian dressing or Caesar salad. Cup of soup of the day.
Dessert Choices
Traditional Tiramisu (means “pick me up” in Italian)
Panna Cotta with Spiced Cranberry Sauce and White Chocolate Shavings.
Call Bearskin to reserve at 218.388.2292 or e-mail stay@bearskin.com
