The Finest Dining in Minneapolis
Minneapolis, incorporated in 1867 is the largest city in Minnesota, the county seat of Hennepin County, and the larger brother to it's neighboring St. Paul. Both cities are part of a metropolitan area that is the 16th largest (based on population) in the United States with approximately 3.5 million residents. It's name is derived from both Native American "mni" meaning simply "water" and the Greek word for city "polis". The settlement began around St. Anthony Falls which is the highest waterfall on the Mississippi River which served as a source of power for the burgeoning lumber industry in the region. The area also has it's roots in the agricultural milling industry as a result of the abundant hydropower found in the city.
Like many cities in the US, Minneapolis is home to many cultures, most notably those of German, Norwegian, and Swedish descent, with healthy samplings from many other races and cultures. When visiting or living in Minneapolis, you can be sure to enjoy the rich cultural scene with a healthy number of museums and theaters dedicated to the arts. You'll also find a very rich music scene as well as a literary culture that is home to a large center of printing and publishers.
While spending time in Minneapolis, you will also want to sample the many fine establishments dedicated to cuisine! There are award winning restaurants and chefs in the area and while many of our favorite eateries may not all be "award winning", we enjoy them fully nonetheless. Without further ado, here is our list of "can't miss" restaurants in the great city of Minneapolis!
528 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 379-4909
Perhaps one of the very best kept secrets of the Minneapolis dining scene is Restaurant Alma. Alma is a more upscale "New" American cuisine, and their menu is a amalgamation of many different cultures into one unbelievably delicious melting pot of goodness. They offer a great variety of offerings, and an extensive wine list which they will gladly help pair up with the meal you choose. Be advised that their menu is seasonal, so it will change from time to time. But, their chef is top notch, so you will not have any problems finding something delicious to savor.
112 N 3rd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
(612) 343-7696
Another fine "New American" choice in the heart of Downtown Minneapolis is the 112 Eatery. You will find that each and every dish prepared here, is made with astute attention to detail regarding both presentation as well as taste. And let me tell you, that your mouth will start watering the moment you can catch the aroma wafting outside. The chef here provides a very unique and dare we say... inventive menu that really sets this place above and beyond most other restaurants we've been to. The ambiance here is hard to top as well. You simply have to try this place to believe it!
2726 W 43rd St, Minneapolis, MN 55410
(612) 354-2806
Tilia is an excellent example of what fine dining is all about! For each visit here, we've found the wait staff to be friendly and attentive and the food has been truly delicious on every occasion. From the moment you step inside this cozy and inviting neighborhood establishment; you know you're in for a real treat! You'll find a menu that is ever evolving, and a wine & craft beer list that is always being changed up based on what is seasonally available. You'll find everything from appetizers all the way through to dessert prepared to perfection and made to order just for you!
211 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
(612) 224-9850
Located in the North Loop area in Minneapolis, Spoon & Stable is a restaurant and bar that never fails to deliver on the unique and delicious. You'll be greeted by a professional and friendly host or hostess, and your experience just keeps getting better and better as the meal progresses all the way to dessert. To accompany your dinner, you'll be tempted by a vast wine list, as well as a bar full of the finest beers and most unique cocktails in the North Loop area... At least that we've found. As for the staff, from the lead Chef on down, you'll never encounter a more down to earth group. Highly recommended!
