Perfect Fall Evening for the Perfect Dinner: Jensen’s Food & Cocktails-3840 Rahn Road/Eagan-651-688-7969. For over 25 years’ Jensen’s has turned out classic steak & seafood dishes, specialty martinis and early-bird deals! The finest cuts of meat coupled with top-notch service. Classy yet Sassy! Food Photos say it all! Whether dining for 2 or a large group, Jensen’s has you covered. You will leave this lovely establishment full and happy. Call now for reservations!

 

Shaw’s “Music” Bar & Grill-1528 University Avenue NE, Minneapolis/612-781-4405- has been a pillar for live music since its inception in 2000. Come for the music stay for the fabulous fare. Known for the Shaw Burger plus tons of other tasty delights. This tavern is way-welcoming -making you feel right at home. For those that “live” for Live Music – this is your Haven. Lots of darn good décor to gaze it at this “unfussy” tavern. Wear dancing shoes and have a hoot!

 

Mick’s Corner Café – 2251 Larpenteur Avenue East, Maplewood/651-777-6344. In a nutshell, this Café is simply the “Bee’s Knee’s” and Breakfast Rules! Young and old come to Mick’s for their enticing eggs benedict. Nothing says home-cooking like gravy and special sauces. Talk about making you feel right at home – be careful to not “nod-off” after the huge portions of fantastic food. Treat yourself, family and/or friends to this special spot soon. Be sure to tell them MNWeatherwear sent you.

 

Red Luna Taco Factory 5960 US-61, White Bear Lake/651-788-7136.

Magnificent made-to-order Mexican food sums it up! Let the Castellanos family tempt your taste buds. The smothered burritos are especially sassy. Fajitas are oh so fine. Taco Tuesdays -- crispy shell tacos for $1.29 each! Combined with a relaxed, fun atmosphere, please put Red Luna on your to-do-list of Good Eats!

 

The Pizza Ranch, 15662 Pilot Knob Road, Apple Valley/952-431-3333. If you have never ventured to a Pizza Ranch, you are no doubt missing out. While the name is correct, a “ranch” full of ever-pleasing pizza, the ‘broasted’ chicken is something to write home about! Crispy on the outside, juicy in the inside, Regular or Ranch--you must try both. Hard not to choose what is on the mighty mouth-watering buffet – but if you prefer, order a pizza your way! In a cheesy mood, try the garlic cheese pizza-add pizzazz to that cheese. Wing lover? The stingin honey garlic--such sass! Who doesn’t love a dessert pizza? This family-friendly “ranch” will most-likely lure you back again and again!

 

Maggie’s Family Restaurant, 844 Lake Street E., Wayzata/952-476-0840 has graced Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka for more than 40 years! Established in 1979 this ‘Breakfast-Served-All- Day’ restaurant is a favorite essential among many ‘regulars’. Lunch specials please the local office workers with crazy-good choices. Dinner crowd enjoys Italian and American fare. Crab Cake [eggs] Benedict will spin you a new delight -- cinnamon, strawberry, blueberry or apple French toast served with bacon-that is the bomb--will keep you hostage. Friday lunch specials=lasagna, fish sandwich or a tasty tuna melt! Sunday’s pork-chop dinner with a side of applesauce and Texas toast will keep you smiling! Content customers is what it is all about at Maggie’s!

 

Brick & Bourbon, 7887 Elm Creek Boulevard North, Maple Grove/763-208-9477. Hold onto your horses – don’t get a speeding ticket on your way to this pleasing place. The oh-so correct combination of food, atmosphere and service. Talk about a fun, unique menu! Such a key to a successful situation. MNWW recommends: -Candied Bacon Flight=seasonal candied bacon: whiskey jalapeno BBQ, roasted chili and brown sugar, honey mustard, and four pepper blend. –Tater Tot Hotdish (with such a twist) massive cheese and bacon filled ‘tater barrels’, rested over a bed of rich veggies and chopped beef gravy. Topped with smoked Gouda fondue and fire roasted corn. –Million Dollar Medallions=succulent medallions of beef tenderloin filet, rested atop a bed of creamy artisan two cheese polenta, finished with savory basil and fresh goat cheese bruschetta and a light balsamic drizzle. Homemade Ice Cream Bar-no words needed. This exceptional food experience uses the freshest ingredients and focuses on delivering every dish to impeccable specifications. A true “Foodie’s” Castle!

 

Tipsy Chicken Kitchen & Cocktails-13479 Business Center Drive/Elk River-763-595-1615. This one of a kind locally owned and operated scratch kitchen/bar is an absolute dining adventure. A healthy happy menu guaranteed to entice you. The chicken is certified organic and humane. The fun farm-style dishes definitely delight. Try the Banana Bread French toast topped with strawberries, caramel and pecans –served with bacon or sausage; the great Garlic Burger topped with roasted mushrooms, spinach and house-made roasted garlic aioli or the rad Roasted Apple and Braised Chicken served with roasted sweet potatoes and rainbow carrots. Bet you will refer your family and friends and return again!

 

DETELLO’S PIZZA & PASTA-2914 N .Chestnut Street, Chaska/952-856-2082. Family owned and operated for over 30 years – Unmatched Classic Italian Eats and Top Notch Pizza! The cozy setting is simply satisfying with a retro jukebox to boot. Voted as one of THE best places to eat in Chaska. A frequent spot for MNweatherwear! No better way to start your tasty Italian meal than with the garlic bread appetizer – add cheese please! Order ahead – as always a bustling place. Eden Prairie’s location is 6207 Dell Road, Eden Prairie/952-934-0333! Either location is a Must-Try establishment!

 

6Smith-294 Grove Lane East, Wayzata/952-698-7900. Exquisite and Excellent! Nestled along the sensational shores of Lake Minnetonka, 6Smith will surpass your expectations. This artisan inspired meat-seafood spot offers fresh, modern and bold tastes with ingredients sourced from local suppliers dedicated to their craft. 6Smith offers a Vegan menu – the roasted mushroom tacos are tantalizing. Lunch suggestions /The La Flaquita Salad | 1795 iceberg, grilled corn, black beans pickled peppers, avocado mousse, queso fresco, cilantro, tortilla strips chipotle lime dressing or--Sammy’s Cubano Sandwich | shaved ham, Nueske’s bacon, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, honey-cayenne mustard, house pickles, tomato escabeche, toasted Hoagie roll. Dinner/Hanger Steak Chimichurri | grilled tomato & scallion, toasted baguette or--Pan Seared Organic Atlantic Salmon | Yukon Gold potato puree, sweet corn and roast red pepper succotash, paprika. Decadent desserts/Key Lime Pie Lime Zest, Butter-Graham Cracker Crust Toasted Meringue or--Flan Napolitano House-made carmel, whipped cream caramel touille. Vivacious Views and Outrageous Food! Reserve a table now!

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Rudy’s Redeye Grill-4940 Highway 61 N., White Bear Lake/651-653-6718. Voted Best New Restaurant by Twin Cities Monthly---Rudy’s is a modern upscale cuisine restaurant best known for Pan-Fried Walleye and Char-Broiled Steaks! The magnificent menu intrigues with unique selections – Appetizers – Steak Bacon with Black Garlic Molasses; Snowcrab Lobster Cakes or Sautéed Brussel Sprouts in Bacon Fat. The Asiago Chicken, Bone-In New York Strip Oscar and Drunk & Dirty Pork Chops are all exceptional entrees. Try to save room for decadent dessert(s). While dine-in is downright delightful – Rudy’s has outstanding take out options during these trying times. Rudy’s will keep you running back for more!

 

The Walkin’ Dog in The Northstar Center-618 2nd Avenue South, Minneapolis/612-436-0055 has reopened in the renovated North Star Center.  Chicago style hotdogs with an amazing array of condiments/extras to select from. Please enjoy a magnificent Malt. The flavor combinations are out-of-this world. In the mood for a snack you say - nachos and pretzels have you covered. 

 

Andy’s Diner Uptown-1500 W. Lake Street/612-208-1518 is the 2nd location of Andy’s Garage which has been located inside the remarkable Midtown Global Market since 2006. No matter which location, Andy’s offers fresh food cooked to your liking! Just Like Homemade! Andy’s is a Must-Try Restaurant!

 

The Lion's Tap-16180 Flying Cloud Drive, Eden Prairie/952-934-5299 has been known as a "good eats" burger spot since way-back when with regular patrons coming back again and again!  Must try the Fries and homemade Rootbeer!

 

Crossroads Delicatessen-2795 Hedberg Drive, Minnetonka/952-546-6595 is more than a delicious deli - the bakery is an enormous bonus!  Jewish deli-style eats, from corned beef sandwiches to cabbage borscht or how about the lobster mac & cheese or chicken-in-a-pot all served in a casual, comfortable setting. Be sure to take bakery treats or heavenly homemade bread home!  Hard to decide which meal to eat --breakfast, lunch or dinner.

 

The Wild Boar Restaurant & Bar located at 1022 (good old) Mainstreet in Hopkins/952-546-6595 is perpetually busy because of the upbeat atmosphere and dining delights. Here are a few faves: Boar (sirloin) Bites served with sassy sauces and the Coconut Chicken Sandwich that sports a slice of grilled pineapple drizzled with sweet Thai chili sauce!   After the “eats” partake in a game of billiards or enjoy the Boar’s activities/games.

 

The Hilltop Restaurant-5101 Arcadia Avenue, Edina/952-925-5628. Experience this “comfort classics with a modern twist” restaurant that has a retractable roof over its year-round patio! Hardest decision will be what to order. From savory appetizers to the horseradish salmon entrée, your taste buds will water upon perusing the menu.  

 

Key West Bistro-2803 E. 38th Street, Minneapolis/612-729-9718. Outstanding coffee, delish treats with terrific tropical vibes makes this an easy spot to recommend. The Sea Salted Dark Chocolate Mocha is beyond tasty. A bright Bistro in more ways than one.

 

Town Hall Brewery-1430 S. Washington Avenue, Minneapolis/612-338-8696. The “Hall” has been crafting brilliant beer at Seven Corners since 1997 and has been awarded more medals at the Great American Beer Festival than any other Minnesota brewery! Town Hall Tots are to die for or try the Blackened Walleye BLT made with pecan wood bacon!

 

Runyon’s –107 N. Washington Avenue, Minneapolis/612-332-7158. ‘Runyon’s-Runyon’s--yeah-yeah-yeah’ a long-time downtown neighborhood bar – you know – the place with the addictive awesome Buffalo Wings? Stop on by for an assured “smile” in this regular hometown place.

 

North East Social-359-13th Avenue NE/612-877-8111. This intriguing bistro features American and Continental cuisine. The décor is pretty darn pleasing and how about the tempting Tiki bar? The mushroom bruschetta and ½ smoked chicken [roasted] were flavors to savor! Treat yourself to this ought-to-try establishment.

 

George’s Vineyard-1160 MN-3, Northfield, MN 55057/507-645-0100. This family-owned and operated restaurant is outrageous in many aspects. From the atmosphere to the fine food, there is a good time had by all. Irresistible Italian – pizzas, specialty pies and amazing service. The Chicken Bianca Pizza and the Pesto Pasta were divine!

 

French Meadow Café & Bluestem Bar-2610 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis/612-870-7855. Since 1985 French Meadow has been a pioneer for organic cuisine. Long-standing relationships with local farms makes this possible. Breakfast delights include Baked Cinnamon French Toast, Avocado Toast and Martin’s Huevos Rancheros. Lunch temptations –Blackened Fish Tacos, Incredible Cauliflower Grilled Cheese and Buttermilk Fried Chicken!

 

Joey Nova’s Pizzeria-5655 Manitou Road, Excelsior/952-405-2700. Located in the quaint town of Excelsior, Joey Nova’s serves up fun appetizers, specialty pizza, sensational grilled subs, salads, pasta and downright delicious desserts.

 

Gold Nugget Tavern & Grill-14401 Excelsior Boulevard, Glen Lake/952-935-3600. What once started out as a one-room burger “joint” has evolved into a classic pub with an interesting menu. Suggestions: Appetizer-Cheeseburger Wontons; Sandwich-Nashville Hot Chicken (served with firecracker aioli). 

 

Clancy’s Bar & Pizza Parlor-220 Triangle Lane North, Jordan/-952-492-2199. If you happen to be near Jordan, MN – check out Clancy’s an old-time “spot” to catch a hometown story and feast on food that is real-reasonably priced! While known for their pizza – the burgers are ultimate! Fast-service in a relaxed setting.  

 

Tuttles: eat..bowl..play!-107 Shady Oak Road, Hopkins/952-938-4090. Tuttles ‘fare’ is consistently succulent and served with enthusiasm and a smile. Favorites include – Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Bourbon BBQ Chicken flatbread pizza; Hot Sandwich – turkey or pot roast with mashed potatoes/gravy or Friday night’s prime rib special. Don’t’ forget Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday – Omelets rule! Served with enthusiasm and a smile!

 

Norm’s Wayside-2448 Highway 55, Buffalo/763-684-0300. On every motorcycle rider’s list of a ‘cool cruise to do’! Stop and refresh at this fun-local-hometown preferred place. A high-energy establishment that sports an outdoor patio haven. While known for their pizza, I prefer the garlic cheese bread created the deep dish/square way only Norm’s makes! Be prepared for large portions. Breakfast keeps you full the entire day. Take a walk around and enjoy the amusing décor! For first time patrons--guaranty you will return!

 

Dagwood’s-250 2nd Avenue South, Suite 210, Minneapolis/612-371-0687. Taking it Downtown today. Dagwood’s has been serving their specialty subs for decades. Hot or cold, let your taste buds run free! All are prepared on a toasted Italian loaf with their special house dressing. Served with crisp-crisp potato chips. White Tuna Dagwood is my selection. Simply can’t resist a “handmade” Cherry Coke with real syrup. Be amused at the Blondie and Dagwood décor. Been a fan forever – grateful this beloved diner remains open.

 

Cy’s Bar & Grill-500 N. Pine Street, Chaska/952-448-9001. One of Historic Chaska’s favorite establishments – Cy’s is the place for Good Eats! Cy’s has been located in a few “spots” over the decades – present location is pretty pizazz! Found in the Chaska Mill, Cy’s delivers fun, food, activities and live music to you! Happy Hour every Weekday 4p-7p; Bingo Mondays at 7p; Friday Nights--Live Music 9:30p to 1:30p and Do Not Forget the mighty Meat Raffle every Saturday at 4p! Awesome atmosphere with plenty of pleased patrons. 

 

BUNNY’S Bar & Grill-5916 Excelsior Boulevard, St. Louis Park/952-922-9515. Well-Known for decades is this unpretentious haunt that offers comfort eats, beverages, sports-over 30 TV’s! Add a jovial atmosphere and you are set! Once located ‘further-on down’ Excelsior Boulevard, Bunny’s has been a long-time intricate part of the St. Louis Park community. Be prepared for large portions of pretty-amazing dishes. Check out their “merch”. One of the thickest finest sweatshirts out there – and who doesn’t like a “Bunny”?

 

Flynn’s Diner – recently renamed to Flynn’s Eats Chicago Style-6600 Penn Avenue South, Richfield/612-353-5072. Come to the corner of Penn and 66th to take a trip back in time in this 1950’s retro-amusing Diner. Super cute/comfortable, order at the counter, choose your seat and eagerly await your delicious delivery. Chicago Style ‘Good-Food’ starting at $5.80 - price alert! Breakfast/served all day long –or- lunch-- you won’t go wrong! Adventure out and please tell them MNweatherwear.com sent you!

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Wally’s FAMOUS Roast Beef-8120 Penn Avenue South, Bloomington/952-884-4349! Simply one of Bloomington’s Best-Kept secrets since 1969. The journey began on 90th Street then relocated to the Southtown Office Park. Their tasty “roast beast” is unbeatable! Switch it up a bit if you can stray from the roast beef, as the daily specials will provide pleasure. A comfortable-laid back atmosphere were you will catch a smile on everyone’s face – YES -- Wally’s is the place!

 

Lyon’s Pub-16 South 6th Street, Minneapolis/612-333-6612 is located in the heart of Minneapolis’ business, hotel and sports district has been serving fantastic food to its patrons since 1984. The official “Husker [Nebraska] Bar” where partaking in sports is spectacular! Food: Try the Roasted Vege Quesadilla – soft flour tortilla stuffed with red onion, yellow squash, black beans, zucchini and a wicked blend of cheeses [served with sour cream and salsa]. Or for a change of pace – Greek Chicken Wrap – marinated chicken breast, tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, green bell peppers, red onion, mixed greens, Feta cheese and Greek Vinaigrette dressing all encased in a tomato basil tortilla. Don’t forget their daily specials: Tuesday’s is Taco Tuesday: 11am to 11pm – 2 Chicken (soft flour tortillas or crispy shells) Only $3.95!

 

Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill-4100 Vinewood Lane North, Plymouth-763-535-7000 was established in New Hope in 1976. This privately owned/operated superb restaurant relocated to its present place (further up Rockford Road) in November of 2013. Easy location [494/Rockford Road exit] with a creative menu – also serves-up Happy Hour with specials on food and libations. Locals have considered this a fine-family place to meet for generations. Few suggestions for fare: Cajun Chicken Fettuccini – Julienne Cajun Chicken Breast over Spicy Cajun Alfredo-is outrageous! Fish Tacos (2) – Crispy Alaskan Cod, Lettuce & Cabbage, Pico De Gallo & Chipotle Mayo – Num! A definite dining experience to do!