minnesota dining

HIGHLIGHTS: Sushi Lover Haven, High Quality Seafood,  Worth the Splurge, 'Instagrammable' Meals  | 10/10 

thank God for Billy and his sushi masterpieces. the best sushi you can find undoubtedly in Minnesota and arguably comparable to top sushi spots across the U.S. from the unique names, 'double d roll' to the screaming colors, your will never ever forget this place.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Special Occasions, Nigiri, Small Plates, Unique Dining   7/10 

with 3-4 new servers coming and going between each dish, it was so interesting to hear the intricacies & development of each plate. the prefixed dishes were unlike anything I’ve ever tasted or ordered. while I didn’t find the first two the most preferable, every plate after exceeded expectations.the portion sizes seem small but ultimately serve to satisfy vs. overfill you; this philosophy in itself made me reevaluate what a “good” meal means.

HIGHLIGHTS: Wood-Fired Pizzas, Korean Flair, Chef's Table Feature on Netflix | 7.5/10 

these unique, wood-fired pies exceeded my expectations and revived my excitement & admiration for 📌📌 @pizzerialola (thanks @chefstablenetflix for the reminder) when @youngjoni_mn is fully booked (uhhh always…!!), P.L. is the perfect alternative where you can order from a similar menu of favorites in an intimate yet fairly casual setting 🍕🍕

HIGHLIGHTS: Best in Town, Record & DJ Bar, High Class Ambiance,  One of a Kind | 10/10 

a beautiful & delicious experience at macanda from start to finish. some of the finest combinations of service, design, and food across MSP. Macanda has already been labeled the newest hot spot but I’m here to say it was entirely worth the hype AND a strong competitor to its high class neighbors in the area. easily some of the best and most unique tacos I’ve ever had & the ambiance itself could cover even the worst of food (the good news is - it’s the best of everything) 🥹 

HIGHLIGHTS: NEW in the Prairie, High-Class Bar, Fried Central, Competitive Cocktails | 7.5/10

entirely worth the wait & hype, meet eden prairie’s newest gem .  it EXCEEDED all of my expectations. there was simply too much to choose from but the appetizers were a great place to start. you cannot go wrong with the duck wontons & firecracker shrimp - SO good! 🔥cannot wait for our next visit and to try out the other amazing items on the menu. you must go!!!!

HIGHLIGHTS: Sushi, Multiple Locations, Speedy Service, Craft Cocktails | 6/10

we made a last minute resy to 📌📌 @yumissushi newer location in Edina & were blown away by the offering. $35 steal for two appetizers, 1 entree & 1 dessert 😮 highly recommend going with another sushi lover so the two of you can mix & match your orders. 🍱 the cocktail menu was so cute & we both made surprisingly delightful choices - the G&T and the Tokyo 75, would absolutely order again!!! also a huge fan of their chicken udon - you will not regret it.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Local, Peruvian Japanese, One-of-a-Kind, Flavor-Driven   | 7/10 

this meal from 📌📌 @kkinacomn was one of the best I’ve had in months and it was just right in my backyard 🤦🏼‍♀️ perfect portions, home-like atmosphere with a well above par menu of choices to choose from. we devoured each dish and I’m already dying for our next visit to try more. i am literally so impressed. with a Peruvian flair, this spot might be giving billy sushi a run for its 💵😬 make a reservation and make it now - you will not regret it. 🔥

HIGHLIGHTS: Ambiance In & Outdoor,  Gluten Free Options, Date Night Haven |   7/10 

rosalia is worth its hype with pizza options & delicacies galore. with modern and minimalistic furnishing, the restaurant is beautiful and perfect for a romantic date night or night with the girls. with an outside patio, rosalia even offers a cute little area in the winter to warm up next to the fire place and heaters while having a quick bite. 

HIGHLIGHTS: Coursed Menus, Special Occasions, "Homey" Atmosphere, Intimate, Personalized  | 8/10 

as our dishes came one by one, our server was so attentive & accommodating. based on recommendation, we both started with the tortellini in brodo (delish, would 100% order again). then, as our main entree, the risotto salto; this was a little less to my liking, but if you’re a cheese lover, right up your alley. and finally, dessert: the chocolate tart & fruity pebble @mndairylab ice cream. I don’t even like sweets, but I LOVED that.
all in all, this has been one of my favorite dining experiences in the cities and felt so unique to its contenders. will 1,000% return for some pasta!!! 🍽️🍽️🍽️

HIGHLIGHTS: Best Views, High Class Dining, Apps to Die For,  Pricey Date Nights|  7/10 

this one goes out to all of the ‘brunchers’ who really just wanted lunch. luckily for you, 📌📌 @6smithrestaurant has got it all. with appetizers galore, get something sweet or salty to fulfill those tastebuds. had the perfect, ‘boring’ cup of soup & apps to share across the table.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Top-Notch Dining, Special Occasions, Craft Cocktails, Seasonal Items | 9/10

📌📌 @hyacinth.restaurant was the perfect, intimate & delicious way to celebrate our anniversary. our server was phenomenal and ensured to start and end our night off with complimentary Prosecco and dessert wine. our three course meal was paced out pristinely leaving us time to chat & enjoy every burst of flavor. 

HIGHLIGHTS: Neighborhood Eats, Seasonal Specials, Quick Service & Dining | 5.5/10 

ta first timer to edina neighborhood staple 📌📌 @tavern_23 they had a surprisingly large menu and an unexpectedly nice interior, especially the dining room! we sat in one of the bar booths for a quick bite with a friend and it was one of the simpler dining experiences I’ve had in awhile. unlike many of my friends, I’m a HUGE fan of a hearty, fall beef stroganoff classic. i grew up with my mom’s which to this day happens to be one of my favorite meals. while it didn’t compare to as good as hers (she’s truly a 5⭐️ chef), it wasn’t bad, and to me, that’s a win! 

HIGHLIGHTS: Top-Notch Dining, Steakhouse Aesthetics, Special Occasion Dining, Appetizers Galore | 8/10 

not sure how I never heard of this gem beforehand but have nothing but five star reviews from my first visit to 📌📌 @baldamar_restaurant 🍽️🍽️🍽️ impeccable aesthetics, above & beyond service (peep the free s’mores dessert 🤤🤤), &&&& last but not least, that LONG, delicious appetizer list. a little splurgy and perfect for your special occasions. unsurprisingly, Baldamar & 6Smith are under the same ownership; whoever this person is has some damn good taste. 🍽️

HIGHLIGHTS: Parking in Uptown, Budget-Friendly, Good for Groups | 6.5/10  

📌📌 wakame- sushi and asian bistro was a delightful surprise - starting with the parking lot (rarity in uptown😂) and ending with a delicious meal spent with coworkers. i ordered the vegetable fried rice which came with a hefty portion & yummy leftovers for lunch tomorrow. 🍚

HIGHLIGHTS: Pasta Fix, Ambiance, Stellar Happy Hour | 7.5/10 

convinced this spot is among the most underrated restaurants right in minnetonka. bacio has all of the staples, new (literally - the new fall/winter menu additions💯) and old 🤍 you simply can’t go wrong with the classic parm crusted shrimp or honestly any other app on the menu. our orders across the board were delicious & we all became members of the clean plate club 🍽🍽 with stellar service, an unmatched ambiance & a heck of a happy hour, you will love your experience here 🫶

HIGHLIGHTS: Pasta Fix, Ambiance,  Location, Service, Craft Cocktails | 8/10 

Chef Daniel Del Prado has done it…. AGAIN. 📌📌 @laylinerestaurant is a magnificent (& much needed) addition to the Excelsior restaurant scene and exceeded every single one of my expectations. our server, Christopher, went above & beyond (literally) to make our experience everything and more - a handmade napkin rose, complimentary pasta add-on after hearing how badly I wanted to try it, AND a full freaking dessert spread for us to try from after not being able to make a decision. 😂 I was left basically speechless and woke up feeling so grateful for the experience their staff gave us. it was truly one-of-a-kind.

HIGHLIGHTS: Top-Notch Burgers, Ahi Tuna Crisps, Ambiance  | 8/10 

rarely eaten such a perfectly cooked burger. i typically order just about anything else on a menu, but at red cow, the burgers are an absolute must. don’t get us started on those gluten free buns…….! for apps, just about anything is good but the ahi tuna crisps are among the best I’ve had at an American restaurant. so light & fresh (AND a perfect prelude to a fat burger 😂) if you haven’t made the trip, it’s absolutely time to. 🍽🍽🍽

HIGHLIGHTS: Clubhouse Staples, Seasonal Specials, Family Dining  | 6/10 

BPCC  has been a family staple for as long as I can remember, but it recently got a much needed refresh ⭐️⭐️ from the new chairs to the new AND throwback menu items, we couldn’t have been more excited about our dinner experience. these appetizers were PHENOMENAL and unlike anything BP has served in the past - I still cannot get over the crab cakes 🥹 not to mention, the return of my all time favorite entree, chicken scallopini hit exactly like it used to. we cannot wait for our next takeout order and will definitely be returning in-person for our special family get togethers.

HIGHLIGHTS: Authentic Cajun Cuisine, Flavorful Home Cooking, Authentic Service, Crazy Cocktails, Unbeatable Location  | 10/10

we truly couldn’t have found a more perfect spot to spend the day, especially for a Lafayette native 🤠. We hate brunch but somehow 📌📌 @mrpaulssupperclub offered the best of it with an étouffée & biscuits and gravy to die for. From a personal tour of the po’ boy shop to some complimentary boudin balls from the head chefs, mama felt like royalty and so did I. 👑 for the first time in a long time, we felt like we were floating on cloud 9 in terms of MN dining - and wow, what a time. My hangover might last two more days.

HIGHLIGHTS: Best Happy Hour,  Splendid Service, Hidden Speakeasy, King of Tequila,  For The Budget Cautious  | 5.5/10 

 a local eden prairie favorite (pretty easy considering we have limited options) STILL, some of the best happy hour deals and chips and salsa around. if you're looking for a quick bite and a pet-friendly patio, tequila butcher is a must and will become a routine stop for dinner.

HIGHLIGHTS: A Choice for Everyone,  Intimate Seating,  Worth the Splurge, Ideal Location | 9/10

some of the BEST pasta and pizza in MN in my favorite location of all: DT Wayzata. josefina is a must whether it's for date night or a family night out, and literally nothing on the menu has ever disappointed. I will come back for years to come.

HIGHLIGHTS: Saucy Pizza Pies, Stone Fired Grills, Brews, Wine & Cocktail Options, Pet-Friendly Outdoor Seating | 8.5/10 

📌📌 @bearcavebrewing lives up to the community buzz in every shape, way, and form possible. from the stone fired pizzas (extra saucy - my fav) to the three levels of self-served beer, seltzers, and wine, bear cave has a little something for everybody. it’s a mini Malcolm yards right in Hopkins’ backyard with the best rooftop patio seating & a visibly enthusiastic staff who aim to please. we LOVED our experience and I can promise I will be back MANY more times in the years to come. not often you find a brewery with great food and this place found a way to do both 🍽😋

HIGHLIGHTS: A Choice for Everyone, Green Eating Central, Gluten-Free Everything, Modern Dining Experience, Location | 8/10

took our last minute sunday brunch outing to 📌📌@thegrocerstable and we were NOT disappointed 🤪 my niece, blakers, is gluten and dairy free so we’re alway trying to find places where there are GOOD substitutes vs just having to avoid yummy meals like hamburgers. we were surprised and so happy to hear that TGT’s menu offered just that and more with dozens of homemade & fresh items for both lunch and breakfast. we all LOVED our meals and the atmosphere couldn’t have been better with our outside seating (by the heater & supplied with cozy blankets!!)

HIGHLIGHTS: Instagrammable Cocktails, Unique Menu, Flavorful Tates, Earthy Aesthetic, Perfect for Two | 8/10

This place was seriously gorgeous - inside & out and a refreshing glimpse of dining in Minnesota. The greenery and modern tables were beautiful. That duck drink I’ve featured in the first photo was a long term goal of mine to try & I wasn’t disappointed once I did. For those of you who dabble in fast food, sonic is my favorite (sorry) and their ice is the best in the world. Colita serves the same and I was overjoyed!

HIGHLIGHTS: Authentic Spanish Cuisine, Ambiance, A Place to Celebrate,  Seasonal Cocktails  |  7.5/10 

📌📌 @iconosgastrocantina is to die for and a meal I’ve been thinking of ever since our visit a couple of months back. Beyond the most confusing parking experience of my life, I couldn’t be happier to have found this spot on my IG.With superlative Latino cuisine, I swear some of these dishes fulfilled beyond my expectations of what a taco should LOOK and taste like. For a very reasonable price, this place is the BEST to catch up with friends (and cocktails). 🍹

HIGHLIGHTS: Best of MN, Worth the Splurge,  Quality Service, Intimate Dining, Flavors Unlike Any Other |  10/10 

Although a bit $$, Josefina’s menu is EXCELLENT from top to bottom, I’m counting down until my next visit. It was so hard to pick two entrees and one appetizer amongst the two of us - it all looked so good. Despite slower than average service, we couldn’t have been more pleased with our meals. 🍝 The Spaghetti Americana + Tagliatelle complemented one another well and made for delicious leftovers. While the burrata itself was yummy - the spread was iffy. Instead of tapping into that, I’d recommend just getting the bread (it was so good) + adding a little balsamic vinegar for the perfect appetizer.

HIGHLIGHTS: Best of MN, Worth the Splurge,  Quality Service, Intimate Dining, Flavors Unlike Any Other |  10/10 

Although a bit $$, Josefina’s menu is EXCELLENT from top to bottom, I’m counting down until my next visit. It was so hard to pick two entrees and one appetizer amongst the two of us - it all looked so good. Despite slower than average service, we couldn’t have been more pleased with our meals. 🍝 The Spaghetti Americana + Tagliatelle complemented one another well and made for delicious leftovers. While the burrata itself was yummy - the spread was iffy. Instead of tapping into that, I’d recommend just getting the bread (it was so good) + adding a little balsamic vinegar for the perfect appetizer.

HIGHLIGHTS: Diverse Menu, A Setting For Any Occasion, Worth the Splurge, Up Close & Personal Viewing of the Kitchen   |  7.5/10 

while I’m not on the cauliflower gnocchi bandwagon like everyone else seems to be (way too orange tasting), we did really enjoy this place & its bustling downtown atmosphere. the smattering of orders across tables looked delicious - especially the simplest of pastas. while I’m the first person in the room to ask for recommendations, go with your gut because it will likely feel perfectly full afterwards if you make the right decision.

HIGHLIGHTS: Casual Ambiance, A Trip to the Tropics, Authentic Mexican, High-Quality Seafood, Top Tier Location   |   7.5/10

Even in the bitter minnesota winters, Baja Haus brings a carefree Californian vibe with Mexican food to die for. The walls are equally as colorful as the dishes - my favorite being the tacos. Truthfully, from my visits, I don’t think you can go wrong with anything on the menu. But PLEASE, for the love of Baja - don’t forget to order the street corn. 🌽

HIGHLIGHTS: Chips & Salsa, Outdoor Seating, Pet-Friendly Patio, Killer Margaritas   | 6/10 

 the margaritas here were by far some of the BEST I’ve had in #msp and Nico’s outdoor seating is perfect for a cute + sunny date night for 2. please beware of your salsa order (you only get 1) because it WILL impact your ability to breathe for the rest of the evening. I love spice but that stuff was HOT!

HIGHLIGHTS: Aesthetics, Costa Rican Influence, Heritage-Focused Dishes, Large Portions

a hidden gem owned & operated by Chef Rolando Diaz. creative, flavorful heritage-driven menu with so much costa rican flair. if you're looking to spice up your next date night, absolutely worth exploring your palette and trying something new.

HIGHLIGHTS: Lively Ambiance, A Trip to the Tropics, Pan Asian Cuisine, Flavorful Bites, Specialty Cocktails  |   7.5/10 

with little experience with Vietnamese dining outside of one of my favorite takeout spots down the street, I was bewildered by the menu and the various ingredients. despite our unfamiliarity, our waitress dumbed the entrees down to just our liking and helped us choose some awesome spreads. they were all incredibly unique and unlike anything I’ve ever tasted before.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Pet-Friendly Patio, Bar Food Eats & Drinks, Budget-Friendly, Quick Eats |  6/10 a quick trip to 📌📌 @willymccoys for dinner 🍽 colorful plates w/ one too many options for me to choose from on the menu. family-friendly patio seating with a welcoming staff and all kinds of appetizers to share. nachos were the favorite of the night with fresh jalapeños & guac 🤤🤤

HIGHLIGHTS: Unique & Cultural Ambiance, Flavorful Food, Distinct Menu, For Vast Appetites |.     6/10 

I love me some Brussels sprouts, and 📌📌 @step_chld sure knows how to make them. Still, I won't lie; I have no idea how to categorize this restaurant because the menus origins go beyond me. Its 'off-kilter' cooking concepts fit its small yet exploratory greenery-filled and styled restaurant space. Serving wine solely, this usually would be my haven. 🍽🍷

HIGHLIGHTS: Consistent Dining, Family-Favorite Meals, Quality Food & Service, Prime Location.  |  8/10 

Tavern 4&5 is the king of quality and hospitality all day, every day. From breakfast to dinner, locals frequent this place like a second home. The dining experience has been consistent since day one and people just find themselves glued to their favorite dishes (me: the minute chicken, the skinny hog & goat pizza with the house salad, AND those damn cheese curds🤪) You simply cannot and will not go wrong with an order here and I’ve yet to meet anyone who has a bad thing to say about the service.

HIGHLIGHTS: Hometown Haven, A Choice for Everyone, Family-Friendly, Locally Sourced  | 7.5/10 

Modern, upbeat, and aesthetically friendly, this place was perfect for a quick bite with a friend to catch up. It's not just a local gem but a spot to consider anytime when navigating your way through the suburb restaurant scene. 🍷🍷 These were just a few of the items from the menu; I can nearly guarantee there were more 'fan favorites' to choose from.

HIGHLIGHTS: Arepas Galore, Flavors for Days, Specialty Cocktails, Outdoor Seating, A Trip to the Tropics, Ambiance.  |   9/10 

for brunch, lunch, and drinks in between, @holaarepa will cater to all of your dining needs & then some. with arepas of all sorts (to die for🔥) and tropical craft cocktails, vacation won’t seem so far away from this Midwest haven. cannot recommend this place or its small plates enough - once will never be enough. a date night staple no matter the season 😍

HIGHLIGHTS: High Quality Seafood, Rooftop Patio, Best for Celebrations, Appetizers for All ,Summertime Haven  |   6.5/10 

with stellar views and seafood pastas to die for, Stella’s in an absolute MUST. there are very few places I return to event after event, but for some reason birthdays find themselves best celebrated on the sky deck here with photos and food to share with all 💛 i cannot say a bad thing about this place and despite the $$ menu, everything from appetizers to entrees will exceed expectation. while it wouldn’t be my first pick in the winter, you can bet your bottom dollar I’ll be back as soon as the suns back out for a Minnesota summer. ☀️

HIGHLIGHTS: Unique Dining Experience, Intimate Seating, Worth the Splurge, Specialty Menu  |  9/10 

I did NOT know that ‘Japanese Italian’ was a thing but we were pleased by the unique blend at 📌📌 @sanjusanrestaurant to say the least. 🍕🍕from gyoza to a margarita pizza, I ate almost every bite (minus the two slices I took home and ate immediately after 😂) i knew the reviews were good but I can now absolutely vouch that this place was a TREAT. I will definitely venture outside of my comfort zone with my next visit 💛

HIGHLIGHTS: Locally Sourced, Unique Menu, Prime Location, Splendid Service  | 6/10 

a low maintenance, comfy & cozy spot with killer cocktails and homemade fry-chips to die for 🍹🍹📌📌 @urbaneaterympls is conveniently nestled below the calhoun beach club & is the perfect last minute spot for your next date night. each meal from the shrimp tacos to the homemade pasta offered a truly unique taste with a rejection to the traditional american label. 

HIGHLIGHTS: Budget-Friendly, Dive Bar, Bowling Alley, Family-Friendly, Wings to Die For   |  9/10

this ‘hole in the wall’ diner is one stop shop for fun & deliciousness you won’t want to miss out on. From the old school diner booths to the dollar signed walls, the nook will make you feel at home from start to finish. 🍔🎳
I’m not a burger lover by any means, but this place has to make one of the best in the #twincities. Not to mention their flaming hot cheese curds & house made fries are something you’ll continue to salivate over. make it a #sundayfunday and see what @thenook_ranhamlanes is all about 🍽

HIGHLIGHTS:  Top Notch Pizza, Intimate Seating, Reservations In Advance, Flavorful Bites, Perfect for Two  |  9.5/10 

get your reservations in a month early if you want the chance to eat at this masterpiece of a pizzeria. the global influence shines across each dish and its array of appetizers. with an award-winning chef - you simply won't be let down and are bound to call this dining experience one of the best in your eating career. 

HIGHLIGHTS: Unique Menu, Gourmet Bites, Personalized Recommendations, Cozy Seating, Perfect for Two  |  9.5/10

don’t let its name mislead you, 📌📌 @thesnackbar offers far more than a granola bar and bag of chips to-go. this weekend, do yourself a favor and make a reservation before it's too late. 🍽 since it’s #nationalpizzaday I’m pretty sure there’s no better time to make the visit 🍕🍷😍 small yet mighty, the snack bar is quaint, classy, and perfect for your next date night or pregame with friends. Whether you're looking for a quick app or a full-blown meal, this menu will not let you down. I'm not kidding when I say I'm still daydreaming over the bazillion incredible options to choose from.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Best Location,  Japanese Favorites, Quick Service & Consistent Quality | 8.5/10  

wih a prime location right on excelsior, Yumi is often an overlooked hub for japanese food in the area. from the authentic chicken udon to the killer sushi, not much can top Yumi from others in the suburbs. it's a must-try and perfect for take-in or take-out!

HIGHLIGHTS:  Small Town Eatery, Quaint Seating, Euro-Style Plates, Fresh & Local Eats | 6.5/10 

a quaint little euro-styled restaurant right in the heart of Victoria. with a men's club vibe and casual atmosphere, locals flood the limited seating ordering their favorite bites. the menu is unique and different than any other place i've been to in the cities but also familiar enough to not seem/feel outlandish to the out of place diner. while it wasn't my favorite bite in the cities, it was a different kind of one that was worth a shot and likely meant for some tastebuds more than others. 

HIGHLIGHTS:  Intimate Seating, Seasonal Specials & Packages,  Fancy Dining |   9/10 

If you’re like me and always making last-minute reservations with no idea where to go next, let me help make your next decision a little easier. 📌📌 @dinegiulia was a fantastic surprise to find and an even better four-course meal to celebrate our Valentine’s Day last year. Although it’s March, and you won’t luck out as much as we did, I can nearly guarantee this will be one of your most unforgettable date nights around the twin cities. Nestled next to a coffee shop and inside a 4-star hotel, Giulia is simply gorgeous aesthetically and makes you feel nearly as high class as its cuisine. 👌🏻👌🏻⭐️ the vibes were impeccable, and the food was superb.

HIGHLIGHTS: Specialty Drinks, 'Pawtio Seating,,' Comforting Bar Food, Happy Hour Madness | 6.5/10 

the block's newest and trendiest sister featuring an all green & grass 'pawtio' for your four-legged friends. with a similar menu to the block, duke's offers an array of all of your favorites without sticking to the bar menu status quo. from CBD-filled slushes to bangin' buffalo wings, you'll find a solid meal here that's worth the price.

HIGHLIGHTS: Family-Friendly Dining, Local Haven, Fan-Favorite Meals |   7/10

went a little out of the way for date night yesterday and I have zero regrets. 📌📌 @plateonmain was impressive as can be and clearly a local fav in the area. 🤩🤩🍽 we ate our pLates clean with some delicious meals & friendly service. Here’s what we ordered:  The Buffalo Shrimp 4/5 ⭐️ (Lotza Spice)• The Steak Burger (Thanks @graycepetersen 😉) 7/10 ⭐️⭐️ •
Tres Amigos Pasta 7.5/10 ⭐️⭐️ • Blood Orange Martini 9.5/10 🍸

HIGHLIGHTS: Margarita Central,  Top Service, Best Location, Chips & Salsa Galore  |   7.5/10 

While you may know #tacoma as a city, I know it as an after effect from my visit to 📌 @pajaritorestaurant 🌮🌮 serving the best of margs & chicken tinga tacos that makes your tastebuds ‘TING’ 👅 - Pajarito ensures a dining experience you won’t forget. STILL, even though I’m all the rave about food, it’s equally as important to remember that it’s all about the company you share it with. So grab your friends, fam, or even your former boss 😉 because that’s what truly make these kinds of meals go from good to great. 💛🌮💛

HIGHLIGHTS:  Top Location, Splurge Prices, Seasonal Specials, Seafood Central | 5/10 

here comes a solid but less than exciting review of 📌📌 @coalition50th - something we’d call a ‘good’ but not great dining experience in whole. our appetizers stole the show, especially the shrimp bruschetta , diminishing what little light was left across our entrees. 😕 I don’t like writing negative reviews, and truthfully have never had a bad experience at the excelsior location, but I’d be lying if I said this was a cost-worthy night of dining. in terms of 50th and France, food is always expensive, but it almost always has been worth the price. I can’t say that our meal was worth the price or the calories - however, I would consider coming back for simply quick apps and a cocktail. 🤷🏼‍♀️🥺

HIGHLIGHTS: Brewery, For The Friends, Best Brewery Food, Weekly Events, Prime Parking   |  8/10

no #sundayscaries allowed at 📌📌 @fatpantsbrewing ••• a local favorite in the prairie that’s game and family friendly with not only GOOD beer but 🔥 food. Coming from someone who typically avoids breweries (avid wine drinker), I have nothing but great things to say about this place and their super accommodating staff. Fat Pants is always hosting fun events from improv to live music in and outdoors for all to enjoy.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Seasonal Specials, Celebratory Events, Seafood, Panfish Fry Friday's  |   9/10 
if you’re looking for a fish fry to die for (literally - with leftovers for later) + a new pasta for every season, this place is a must visit. 💛 From date nights to a girls night out, you won’t regret it. ninetwentyfive has the cutest outdoor seating for summer + cozy indoor spots for Minnesota winters — you can even rent a heated igloo outside!

HIGHLIGHTS:  MN Dining Staple, Consistent Favorites, Worth the Splurge, Casual Diningl  |   8.5/10 

the local trio us MN foodies have grown to know & love. although I don’t have many photos to show for it, some of my favorite meals have taken place here during family nights and fam brunches. prices may be a bit fussy but meals are consistently quality here along with particularly great service. menu stays pretty static, HOWEVER, the specials change and continue to be some of my favorite meals. now, the cocktails…… don’t even get me started.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Fan-Favorite Dining, A Local Staple, Strong Drinks, Worth the Splurge  |   7/10 

with a world-class selection of apps and seafood entrees, prices are steep but worthy of an occasional and celebratory splurge. Redstone is the king of consistency and will rarely let down. If you’re looking for a strong buzz, the Tito’s lemon-aid does NOT disappoint. 🍸🍸

HIGHLIGHTS:  Top Seafood, Worth the Splurge, Lakeside Views, Coastal Ambiance  |   9/10 

With stellar views of the lake, fine dining & seafood options galore, this place has been a one-stop-shop for celebratory meals and outings. 🦞Whether it’s a GNO for apps and cocktails (just slightly cheaper) or sunday brunch with the fam, you’ll always find something appetizing on the menu. While MN isn’t usually a goldmine for lobster or oysters, I will admittedly say that the cōv serves some of, it not THEE best, in the state.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Pet-Friendly Patio & Plates, Charcuterie Boards & Teaching Events, MN Wine Flights and Superb Recommendations  |   7.5/10   a more or less food-related reminder to get your butt to 📌📌 @vineroom.co because if you love wine, you WON’T regret it 🍷🍷& a quick fun fact if you didn’t know that I’m a charcuterie fanatic and it almost always ends in disappointment when ordered from wineries, bars, etc. HOWEVER, I can happily say that at The Vine Room this was not the case and I was pleasantly surprised and impressed by their smattering of ingredients in both human & PUP boards 🥺

HIGHLIGHTS: Steakhouse,  Best Salad, Best Bread and Butter, For the Picky Eaters  |   7.5/10  

for the fancy schmancy (and semi-boring) eaters who like a simple and to the point dining experience, wildfire is likely your perfect spot. with expensive (but not outrageous) prices, staff treats you like a ten and pulls all the stops to make your night special. from your perfect steak to the perfect side, you'll leave full and satisfied.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Lakeside Bites, Basement Bar, Consistent Service, Spicy Margs & Top Tier Seafood | 8/10 

 minnesota summers are meant to be spent at 📌📌 @birchsonthelake with some of the prettiest views & most consistent dining around, I can never get enough of Birches 🍽🍽 the apps are top notch & don’t even get me started on some of their entrees. we mixed up our date night by sharing a pizza & a filet mignon and neither disappointed in the slightest. you absolutely must try because it’s always a treat! 💙

HIGHLIGHTS:  Pet-Friendly 'Pawtio,' Quick & Friendly Service, Fast Bites, Something for Everyone  |   9/10 

📌 @theblockslp is a go-to spot for family brunches (with a 🐶friendly patio) and happy hours with the gal pals.
Serving a little something for everyone (puploaf, too!), the block knows the way to satisfy every tastebud. From beyond burgers to yum yum bowls, you won’t regret the stop.

HIGHLIGHTS:  Instagrammable Ambiance,  Trendy Cocktails, Italian Eats   |   5.5/10 

all in all, I wasn’t in love with my order but my friends pizzas were exactly what they hoped for. the salad looked delicious & nearby pasta orders made me regret ever ordering the pizza to begin with 🤦🏼‍♀️ appetizers stole the show with a simple bread & cheese and meatballs order. if I’d do it all over, I’d sit at the bar and stick with an app and maybe a salad. 🍽🍽