Where to eat
Comforting and warming—that’s the recipe for Minneapolis dining, which isn’t surprising when the winters are as challenging as they are in the Midwest. But a new generation of chefs are forming a mouthwatering new food movement so that the city’s fast becoming America’s one-to-watch. When you’re ready to experience it firsthand (or firstmouth, maybe), these are some of the best:
Dalton & Wade
The fresh and flavorful food at Dalton & Wade is just like momma used to make—if momma was an executive chef and whiskey expert. Unpretentious dishes such as chicken wings and fried bologna sandwiches go surprisingly well with one of the restaurant’s 200-plus whiskey options. You can find D&W in the North Loop.
Young Joni
Warm and welcoming, Young Joni puts an approachable twist on traditional fine dining. For the full experience, order one of the divine wood-fired pizzas and share some kimchi-fried grains with your squad. If the long, red light is on in the alleyway, the exclusive speakeasy-style back bar is open for business. Don’t miss it. You’ll thank us later.
Hai Hai
From the ashes of the famous Deuce Deuce dive bar rose this fun and funky Southeast Asian eatery that focuses on street-food fare. With Chef Christina Nguyen at the helm, you can expect more than just fried rice, pad Thai and pho. Each delicious dish celebrates her Vietnamese heritage. The drinks, too. Give the Lychee Keen Slushie a shot.
Brasa Premium Rotisserie
With one location in Minneapolis and one in St. Paul, you can explore the menu at Brasa no matter which of the Twin Cities you find yourself in. Here, the ingredients are locally sourced, and the meats, eggs and dairy are 100% natural. Plus, there are organic fair-trade coffees and teas. So yeah, it’s feel-good soul food. For the best Brasa experience, sit on the sunny outdoor patio.
