Mpls.St.Paul Magazine - December '24 by

Restaurants Best

The steak tartare at Bar+Cart in St. Paul

Dario’s fresh pasta play: butternut squash cappellacci

Your Holiday Feast

Without the Fuss

COME TOGETHER FOR THE THINGS THAT MATTER MOST

Spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories this holiday season with Cub-crafted dinners. Simply heat, serve, and savor.

Rebecca Rowland EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Jayne Haugen Olson EDITOR IN CHIEF

Shelly Crowley PUBLISHER

Stephanie March EXECUTIVE EDITOR NEW MEDIA

EDITORIAL

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Brian E. Anderson EDITOR 1977–2010

Original storytelling since 1972

Inside THIS ISSUE

FEATURE

The Best Restaurants 58

It’s the end of the year. We’ve made it—and so have so many restaurants, bars, and dining clubs around the Twin Cities. We’ve rounded up 50 of our favorites: from new spots to old haunts, burger chains to ﬁne dining restaurants, neighborhood joints to places to plan a weekend around. We’d like to think there’s something for every eater on this list—so what are you waiting for? Start checking them oﬀ. The countdown starts now.

on the cover

► ► To subscribe, go to mspmag.com/subscribe. For additional information, see page 4 or 127.

Butternut squash cappellacci with sage from Dario Photograph by Caitlin Abrams

At Myriel, seasonal dishes (and collected serveware) create a memorable, intimate experience.

Spoiler alert—Myriel’s on The MSP 50. Find the other 49 starting on page 58.

Free to put you ﬁrst.

Eduardo J. Perez M.D. | D.A.B.N.S.

Dr. Perez is an expertly trained and experienced neurosurgeon who specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques for brain and spine conditions, including cervical and lumbar disc replacement, spinal decompressions, fusions, and cranial procedures for brain trauma and tumors.

He collaborates with his patients to guide them through the most appropriate treatments, focusing on outcomes that will allow patients to recover quickly and return to a fulﬁlling life.

Dr. Eduardo Perez, a Board-Certiﬁed neurosurgeon, received his medical degree from State University of New York Upstate Medical University before completing his residency in neurosurgery at Ohio State University Hospitals. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his work on the neurosurgical team during his deployment in support of Operation Iraqi freedom.

“I believe my role as a neurosurgeon is to guide each patient towards making decisions for optimal outcomes.”

DEPARTMENTS

editor’s note 12

Talk 15

Catching up with documentarian Erin Lee Carr… Why Holidazzle is (ﬁnally!) returning to Nicollet Mall… Thanks to Minneapolis’s 2040 plan, apartments are coming to 50th and Lyndale...A county commissioner keeps calm with a surprising hobby...Check out the M’s new museum wing... What it took for Paul and Sheila Wellstone’s son to restore their famous campaign bus Get to know retail pro Berthiaume’s Twin Cities... Our monthly Culture Meter happenings and events...Plus, musings from columnist Cohen (page 34).

José James plays the Dakota, page 32

of local lynx (and Lynx), page 128

Taste 37

What Minari, a new Korean and East Asian spot with nightly dim sum, brings to Northeast…At Travail’s new spot, snacks and sips reign supreme…The best cinnamon for baking season… In defense of the seasonalthemed bar...After following Saturday Dumpling Co.’s resto opening process for months, what have we learned?... Plus, deconstructing Hope Creamery’s butter.

Our mood board of fine jewelry to gift (and get) this season... Leopard prints cozy and chic an après-ski-ready pop-up Le Labo opens in the North Loop…What to buy (and where to shop) in Wayzata’s Design District Plus, honors her heritage while creating something new.

Timeline

From Lynx to cat burglars to famous tigers, learn all about Minnesota’s feline friends throughout history.

ALSO INSIDE

Winter Travel 81

Circle the state with our roundup of ways to get warmed up this season, from romantic resorts to buzzy coﬀee shops, sizzling saunas, axe throwing, and more.

Hotels and Holiday Entertainment 101

Local hotels are decked out for the jolly season, and the staycation-centered events inside are traditions in the making.

Stargazer

Rubinski Works

Wayzata wins, page 52

Saturday Dumpling Co.

History

where we’ll be. where we’ve been.

where we’ve been

MN RotY Awards | November 8 |

Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot Mpls.St.Paul Magazine was a proud sponsor of the 28th Annual NARI of MN Remodeler of the Year Awards on November 8 at the Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel. The MN RotY Awards recognize excellence in a variety of categories, including whole house, historical renovation, kitchen, bath, addition, and more. Guests enjoyed a preview party, dinner, and an awards ceremony emceed by Ian Leonard. For more information on the MN RotY Awards, visit narimn.org.

MCAD Fall Art Sale | November 21–23 | MCAD

Holi-Go-Fabulous | Galleria | November 9

At its 27th Art Sale, MCAD celebrated students, alumni, and the wider community. Mpls.St.Paul Magazine was proud to sponsor this one-of-a-kind event that draws thousands of people on campus to hunt for original artwork to directly support the artists. mcad.edu

Mpls.St.Paul Magazine brought “The Holiday Edit” to the Galleria with a fun open house–style mixer celebrating the kickoﬀ to holiday shopping. Guests were able to mingle with our editors while getting the scoop on top holiday gifts to nail the season in style! Tickets included small bites, cocktail sampling, a hot cocoa station, fun photo ops, and more. galleriaedina.com

Editor’s Note

BY JAYNE HAUGEN OLSON

● WITH LOCAL RESTAURANT COVERAGE popping up at nearly every turn, what purpose does our editorial play in a very crowded landscape? When there is food and dining content coming at us almost daily in social media and digital channels (including ours!), what role does a monthly print publication play—let alone an annual Best Restaurants edition? I can sum it up in a few words: trust, expertise, opinion, and context.

First, trust. Ultimately, I think we, as diners, trust ourselves to sift through it all and distinguish what sources are valued and give us confidence in their recommendations and perspectives. When it comes to our brand, I am confident in its trustworthiness. Our work is grounded in journalism, the tenets of our profession, and a commitment to the guidelines of the American Society of Magazine Editors. Each piece of editorial you read in our magazine is created by the writer and then reviewed by an editor, a fact-checker, and a proofreader who reads not only for grammar but also as a fresh set of eyes to confirm clarity and context. And then, when all is said and done, there is a final read. Our digital and social team produces content at

a faster pace but is still guided by this process and moves through a similar cadence that is streamlined and swift before they post their work. As editor in chief, I trust our approach and know we review our process when needed.

Then there is expertise. What makes someone an expert? Malcolm Gladwell, in his book Outliers: The Story of Success, introduces the concept of the “10,000-hour rule”—that to become an “expert” at something, you need to put in the work, the hours of practice, to develop your expertise. Last month, editor Stephanie March referenced the 10,000-hour rule when writing about the expertise of local pastry chef Zoë François. Well, our food writers, Stephanie and Dara Moskowitz Grumdahl, have each assuredly dedicated far more than 10,000 hours to their craft. It’s not just about the eating they do every month. It’s the countless hours of conversation they have with people in the dining, beverage, and food industry. They are immersed in this world, true insiders who are respected by the professionals they cover—even when those same insiders may disagree with what our experts have to say.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Our top-selling food covers from 2022 and 2023.

Which leads me to opinion. It’s said we are all entitled to our own opinion, but what makes the opinions of some rise above the opinions of others? It gets back to that trust and expertise. I would add character to this list as well, along with honesty and authenticity. I am fortunate to work alongside Stephanie and Dara—I know their character. What you see is what you get with these two delightful humans and caring women and mothers. They are passionate about and committed to the food community. This industry is like a family and these two are deeply rooted. Our editors are respected for their honesty and opinions because the local restaurant world understands the importance of the role they play—and the role of local food journalists past and present. Their opinions matter.

Last year I wrote that these MSP 50: Best Restaurants awards are a time capsule of sorts. When we look back at what our dining community has been, and what it has become, these annual features speak to how impressively our community has evolved. How enthusiasts have welcomed new foods from cultures beyond their own. How food celebrates and showcases the heritage of local chefs, and how we can use food to explore and learn about our Cities. We provide that all-important context. Let Steph, Dara, and our team at Mpls.St.Paul be your guides as you discover and enjoy this year’s MSP 50. —Reach Jayne at jolson@mspmag.com.

#1: Dec. 2023 and #4: Dec. 2022

Last year’s Best Restaurants issue was considered a “sellout” by newsstand standards with a 72 percent sell-through. In 2022, Best Restaurants was also a big hit.

#6: Feb. 2023

► In 2023, Local Taste Makers and Food Slayers was very popular on newsstands. I just had to re-share the explosive energy of Zoë François.

#9: Aug. 2023

► Our Asian food scene is so broad and deep it earned a cover. Design director Kelsey Head knocked it out of the park with her composition.

In case you’re curious...

► Our #2 bestseller was June 2023—100 Things to Do Before the State Fair; #3 was March 2022—Ultimate North Shore Adventures; # 5 was July 2023—Top Doctors; #7 was June 2022—The Wild and Wonderful Mississippi; #8 was September 2023— Stillwater & Beyond; and #10 was August 2022— Where to Eat Now!

I finally have a new editor’s photo, thanks to Caitlin Abrams, our staff photographer, who captured this shot in our St. Paul offices and also helped orchestrate this month’s cover story.

talk

● ON A VIDEO CALL FROM HER OFFICE at Universal Studios near her home in L.A., Erin Lee Carr says ﬁlming her latest HBO documentary— I’m Not a Monster: The Lois Riess Murders, about the so-called Killer Grandma of Blooming Prairie—back in Minnesota felt like a homecoming, even though her dad brought her and her twin sister with him to D.C. when they were 8.

“The cool thing about being David Carr’s kid is that he’s around forever,”

conversation

ERIN LEE CARR

The ﬁlmmaker has a surname that precedes her anywhere, but especially back in Minnesota, where her father, the late New York Times giant David Carr, got his start.

BY STEVE MARSH

she says, even though in February it will be 10 years since he passed. “He left so much brilliant material behind,” she says.

“I don’t have a lot of grief anymore; I have a lot of gratitude.”

Now 36, with her wire-rimmed glasses, her faux-leather motorcycle jacket, and her goldenrod beanie, Carr looks like she’s a bassist for an alt-rock band (maybe for an act like Tegan and Sara—the subjects of the other doc she released this fall,

Fanatical: The Catﬁshing of Tegan and Sara ). I’m Not a Monster is her 12th directed feature, with most of her ﬁlms in the so-hot-right-now true crime genre. Her subjects have ranged from Gilberto Valle, the NYPD’s so-called Cannibal Cop, to Dee Dee Blanchard, the Southern mommy dearest murdered by the daughter she abused. Carr is clearly interested in how we channel our darkest impulses through our new media, whether she’s investigating text message–assisted suicide or exploring how the fetish community communicates on the dark web.

I’m Not a Monster exhibits several of Carr’s stylistic calling cards—her psychological grasp of traumatic family dynamics, her empathic take on criminal pathology, and her knack for capturing vivid characters—as she traces Riess’s murderous spree from Blooming Prairie to the heart of snowbird darkness in beach communities in Florida and Texas.

And yet, despite her burgeoning ﬁlmography, in certain media circles back home, Carr will forever be the baby in the snowsuit that her dad left outside of a crack house while he was getting high, which he wrote about in his harrowing 2008 memoir, The Night of the Gun. And she’s cool with this legacy—she traces both her own struggles with substance abuse and her own storytelling gifts back to her father.

“I was uniquely set up to understand moral ambiguity...because it’s part of my origin story.” —

erin lee carr

She’s been in recovery herself for nine years now, and she’s already pushing on her next project, a scripted Hulu series based on the murder of Maggie Murdaugh, with Patricia Arquette portraying Murdaugh.

“I’m living my wildest dreams right now, right here,” she admits. She says she’s trying just to pay attention while

TRIFECTA

Thee things about Erin Lee Carr

they’re happening. “If I stayed here, it would be the best thing in the entire world.”

How did the Lois Riess story come into your consciousness? My development person knew I wanted a Minnesota crime story, because I’m from there, and I think it’s one

Carr is in a relationship with the musician Mal Blum and with Mish Bruton, but her partners are not in a relationship with each other—a situation she deﬁnes as a polycule.

of the most cinematic places on earth. It’s covered in stereotypes, but I think there’s so much dimension to it. At ﬁrst, this felt like an open-and-shut case about a woman murdering her husband, but when you peeked under the lid, it was awash with mental health and obsession and deceit. It had all the things that I like to focus on as a ﬁlmmaker.

Her next project, the scripted series exploring Alex Murdaugh’s role in the 2021 murders of his wife and son, is being produced by the same producers as The Act

Her twin sister, Meagan, is a mental health worker with a PhD in clinical psychology from Eastern Michigan.

You went to college in Madison, and you have family here in Minnesota, but what was it like to be back here working on this film? My whole extended family, besides a couple of uncles, lives in Minnesota. My Grammy from my stepmom’s side lives there. I would go shoot, and then we’d all get together and have dinner. And it was very wholesome and fun and very cold, but the people were very warm.

Southern Minnesota looked so bleak: A murder scene on a snowy wax worm farm, your interviews with all these obese people in their tiny kitchens. Have you had a chance to reﬂect on your portrayal of this place that still feels like home? I’m a student of the ﬁlmmaking of Errol Morris, where you let the character inhabit the scene and you try not to put your opinion on it. I think your reading of it is bleak, but to me it just felt authentic.

I think you captured Blooming Prairie in winter accurately! I didn’t want anybody to think that I was making fun of the people there. I think there is such sadness attached, and that’s a very intense thing when you’re interacting with them— you’re here to talk about something desperately sad.

You’ve been having difficult conversations like this for your entire career, but there’s a visual liveliness to each interview in this movie. Like when you’re interviewing the owner of the shrimp restaurant in South Padre Island, and he’s breading shrimp while talking to you. And it’s so funny because he’s allergic to shrimp, and his hands were freaking out. I was like, “What are you doing? Just put on gloves!” He’s like, “No, we’re getting the shrimp.” This is where documentary is going, right? We don’t have to just be in a sit-down interview the whole time. This film, while very intense, was also about finding those playful elements. And it feels natural—it’s not just a camera staring at you.

Does the presence of a camera help get people to talk to you though? No. Most people have to be talked into appearing on camera. Nobody likes the way that they look, the way they sound—it’s all very vulnerable. There are certain people that are the exceptions to the rule, right? But yeah, I’m so grateful to people that do it.

Counter intelligence.

With more than 300 kitchen and bar stools, you’ll deﬁnitely be sitting pretty after a visit to our showroom.

Were Minnesotans more reticent to talk on camera than the Floridians and the Texans? There was an omertà code amongst the townspeople. “Eff everybody who’s coming into town trying to talk to us about this— Blooming Prairie is not equal to the actions of Lois Riess.” I had conversations with people in bars that had really good stories that were just like, “Yeah, I’m not willing to go against the community.”

Your first movie, Thought Crimes , about Gilberto Valle, the so-called Cannibal Cop, dropped in 2015, right when true crime was becoming a national obsession. In your opinion, what’s driving this phenomenon? True crime is so watchable because the stakes are so high—it’s life and death, it’s perpetrator and victim. There’s always been a genuine big appetite for it—it just was in book form, like In Cold Blood. I hit right around when HBO’s The Jinx was coming out, and that series elevated the fare from pulp to compelling television. And for some women, it’s a matter of protecting themselves: If I can know as much about what happened to this person, I will hear the alarm bells and I will act differently.

One of the reasons your movies are so compelling is because of your sympathy for your villains—they’re all psychologically multidimensional. What drives your curiosity? So, my wonderful dad, David Carr, obviously a very proud Minnesotan, wrote The Night of the Gun. The book is about being the worst person humanly possible: someone who does drugs, hits women, has no moral code whatsoever. It’s an examination: How did that guy become this single parent who took care of his kids, who raised them as feminists? We grew up with this sort of questioning. We talked a lot about forgiveness and bad and good actions. And so, I was uniquely set up to understand moral ambiguity, more so than any of my peers, because it’s part of my origin story. And now it’s become a calling card for my work.

Your memoir, All That You Leave Behind, documents your battles with your own addiction demons. Do you consider yourself part villain? I like to joke that if I was a Harry Potter house, I would be in Slytherin: You can’t spell Slytherin without Erin! I think an evil streak lies in all of us. Now that I’m sober, I deﬁnitely live a very different life where I don’t cheat and lie and steal, but there was

a good amount of time where I did. But as the recovery community says, and as my dad said over and over again, “Addiction explains everything and excuses nothing.” So, do we use our powers for good or evil?

I tend to think that I could have used these analytical skills to have done something very different, but instead I spent it giving voice to the voiceless.

Your memoir is an account of your own transgressions, but it’s also this intimate account of your dad’s mentorship. And you seem to be conscientious of your privilege. I know the term nepo baby is an epithet, but I’ve always thought the Steph Currys and Martin Amises of the world needed their crazy-driven parents. Does the fact that your dad was such an important mentor to writers like Ta-Nehisi Coates, Brett Anderson, and Jelani Cobb alleviate any of your own nepo baby guilt? My dad was a crack addict, and he got sober. We were crack babies. He was an incredible father, but he also relapsed. And my father, unfortunately, only saw one of my ﬁlms, and now I’m on number 12, right? I gained so much being near him and seeing how he interviewed [subjects], but I think after somebody that close to you dies, it’s not like, I’m going to become wildly successful; it’s like, I’m going to try to survive . I think it’s bizarre that I’ve done so well given how he died. I feel like nepo babies are people who get to live when their parents are alive. But maybe that’s not the case—maybe privilege is privilege.

is implicitly in my head. When I’m in the edit room, it’s like, Am I pushing somebody? Am I being truthful to the edit? I’m on the Universal lot right now, working on the Murdaugh Murders, and there’s an adage that we learned like, “Does it need to be said? Does it need to be said by me? Does it need to be said by me right now?” I’m giving a big pitch tomorrow—What would David Carr do?

So, he’s everywhere. I don’t know if I could have found my actual voice if I had him as a safety net. I would give everything in my life for him to be here today, but I could no longer rely on him—I could only rely on my gut instincts.

Embrace winter in style

My dad would always say to us: “You are your own damn thing.” erin lee carr

You showed up in your Tegan and Sara documentary on-screen as a character. How is your voice evolving? Will you be more of a character in your projects going forward? For my ﬁlms, my voice is always in the project. I’m doing scripted stuff now. I’m directing an episode of episodic TV, and so that’s going to be really crazy. So, yeah, my evolution is so wonderful because I’m being given the opportunity to evolve. I don’t know what’s going to happen in 10 years. I would never have imagined myself in this position 10 years after my father died. I can’t even imagine what he would say sometimes because it’s just so crazy, what has happened with my life.

A lot of your stories are about people who feel the burden of family and genetics and legacy. So, I think your dad oﬀered you, like you said, a mixed bag. One time he wrote an email to me where he was like, “I know that you’re going to change the world.” And I read it to my therapist at the time, and my therapist was just like, “That’s a lot of pressure.” And it was so funny because, like, I don’t see it as pressure. I see it as him having conﬁdence in me.

Is he constantly just ﬂowing through your thoughts, or is there some kind of intention with how he shows up in your work? His voice

You’re living in Los Angeles now, and you’ve been open about your two trans boyfriends— your polycule. You said you were once in love with your high school best friend—now you’re fully owning your queerness. What do you think your dad would’ve thought of that? Oh, he’d love it. My dad would be like, Get it.

Has being true to yourself brought you a fuller sense of happiness? Do you think it’s altered your perspective as an artist? I’m very proud to live a very radical life. My dad would always say to us, “You are your own damn thing; don’t become other people.”

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. ■

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The Slowdown

Miracle on the Mall

For the ﬁrst time in more than a decade, Holidazzle will return to Nicollet Mall. Here’s what to expect.

We’ve yet to see A Complete Unknown, but Timothée Chalamet’s high, lonesome nasal whistle is pretty damn convincing. Chalamet is portraying the bard from Hibbing, and his version of “Subterranean Homesick Blues” is out ahead of the movie’s Xmas Day release.

For more than 20 years, Minnesotans unofficially kicked off the holiday season with 21 nights of Holidazzle parades that looked like scenes lifted straight from the Hallmark Channel. Thousands would line Nicollet Mall (though the savviest knew to grab warm skyway-level spots) to watch giant mascots, bands, and floats parade down the street. But in 2013, the tradition abruptly ended. To the chagrin of many, the Holidazzle team hosted a holiday market at Peavey Plaza in 2014 and a festival in Loring Park for a handful of years. Then, last year, the Minneapolis Downtown Council paused Holidazzle altogether in order to rightsize finances and formulate a new plan. “But we didn’t want this celebration to fade away,” insists MDC president and CEO Adam Duininck.

The Reboot

Nicollet Mall’s Holidazzle refresh will be a combination of Holidazzles past while invoking some new traditions. Closed from 6th to 11th Streets, the mall will host food trucks, makers’ markets, roller-skating and mini golf setups, free Santa photos, live music, interactive light shows, and more. The 400pound yeti that used to hang out in Loring Park’s Holidazzles will return, the council promises, but the parade won’t. (Rebooting the parade would take around $12 million the council doesn’t have for equipment updates and upgrades—we checked.)

The Bigger Picture

The council hopes that with ﬁve days of festivals, visitors will stick around downtown. Local bars and restaurants are organizing a bar crawl, and the dates were chosen around active times for nearby concerts, theater productions, and sporting events. “Our goal is for this to become a hallmark for both our city and our entire region,” Duininck says. “People know us for our weather. If we can embrace that and show it oﬀ, we can really have some fun with it.” Now all we need is some holiday magic to make it work—anything’s possible if you just believe, right? Dec. 18–20, 4–9 pm; Dec. 21, 12–9 pm;Dec. 22, 12–6 pm

was in town paying homage to our other legendgod-genius, spending a night at Purple Rain House, the restored home of “The Kid” from the movie, which is available for one-night stands through Airbnb. (And he sat in with the Combo at Bunkers again.)

Kris Lindahl isn’t quite to Dylan/Prince level, but his arms-wideopen real estate signs are iconic enough to help launch the new Call of Duty. A character from the game, The Replacer (portrayed by Fargo’s Peter Stromare), replaced Lindahl on some of the signs.

On the border of Tangletown and Lynnhurst, 5005 Lyndale Avenue South is currently an undistinguished stucco home. But it’s about to become the site of an apartment building, the embodiment of Minneapolis’s 2040 plan. Todd Smith, principal at Master Properties, lives in the neighborhood, and the developer bought the house three years ago with an eye to redeveloping it. Market conditions, the on/oﬀ status of the 2040 plan, and the inevitable neighborhood density objections delayed the project, but the 20-unit building should break ground in spring. The new structure will be designed by architect Christian Dean; be clad in brick, stucco, and terra-cotta; and contain mostly two-bedroom units (each with a balcony and two parking spaces) to cater to the neighborhood’s empty nester population. Expect spring 2026 occupancy.

—Adam Platt

And if getting the image of your quiche recipe on cans of Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup doesn’t achieve immortality, what does? A Minnesotan woman named Crystal (one-name status!) won the soup company’s #ShareYourSides holiday side dishes promotion.

Interior design, fine home furnishing, and beautiful men’s and women’s apparel. Experience the classic and contemporary, brought artfully together.

ROHE

field notes

SECOND LIFE

These days, even the most hyper-local, seemingly benign political oﬃces can be pretty darn overwhelming for those inhabiting them. Here’s the unlikely way one Anoka County commissioner found to ground herself amid the increasingly rough seas of modern politics. by drew wood

IT’S 11 DAYS BEFORE THE 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION , and Anoka County Commissioner Mandy Meisner, whose seat is also on the ballot, takes a break from otherwise nonstop campaigning to chat. She sits in a generic officchair in the mainly empty front room of a commercial space in a strip mall–style building that’s situated directly in front of Holman Field, the downtown St. Paul airport most people don’t

even know exists. As she riﬂes through her purse for lip balm, she recalls the profound moment last October when, in front of a crowded women’s leadership luncheon, she ﬁrst shone a light on a side of herself the public didn’t know existed.

“What I’m going to share with you is... my secret life,” confided the first woman to hold the District 7 (Fridley, Hilltop, Columbia Heights) commissioner seat and the first woman of color ever elected to the Anoka County Board.

The group, who’d come to network and hear their county commissioner speak, was likely caught offguard. After all, the speech had begun routinely enough, with the ﬁrstterm commissioner quipping about how her role impacts their daily lives, “through libraries, county parks, public health, housing, workforce, and so much more,” and about the underappreciated stresses of

being an elected officia(“I am discovering the weird thing about being an elected official is that by its very nature of being public facing, it can easily—dare I say unavoidably—seep into your identity because others see you that way and address you that way.… Being a county commissioner is what I do It is not who I am.”) But there was nothing in those opening salvos of the speech that could possibly have prepared them for the fact that Meisner had a secret to share.

“I’ve had a secret life for many years,” she conﬁded to the audience, which likely leaned in for the undoubtedly juicy details to follow. “I graduated from the Perpich Center for Arts Education, where I studied classical music; I played the ﬂute and still do on occasion.” Wait. What? “Although I was devoted to music, even as a young girl, I always wanted to be a ballerina. To me, everything about ballet was beautiful…. It seemed magical, and I wanted to be part of that.”

That’s right: Meisner’s big secret was that when she’s not approving Anoka County Library budgets and ribbon-cutting workforce development centers, she’s a ballerina. And not the sort of ballerina who has been pirouetting her way toward prima status since childhood either.

“When my oldest was born, I decided to take classes at my local dance studio in Fridley to get out of the house and get some exercise,” she continued to the group. “At the time, there were no adult classes, so I took a class with preteens who had been dancing for a long time. Needless to say, I looked a little ridiculous.”

That was 20 years ago. Meisner was a stay-at-home mom with a performing arts itch that needed scratching. Now she’s an empty nester and elected officialand the reason we’re sitting in St. Paul is because shortly after winning her ﬁrst election, the Fridley studio down the street from her house where she’d ﬁrst started dancing—an adult among teens—closed. Meisner, who’d realized early on that time spent at the studio wasn’t just helping her learn to dance but was also helping her overall mental and physical health, momentarily went through withdrawal when the dancing

A week in Anoka County Commissioner Mandy Meisner’s life can include everything from door-knocking to dancing in Nutracker in Wonderland

PHOTO BY ALEX LUND (NUTCRACKER

suddenly stopped. And, with her increasingly busy commissioner schedule, she even considered hanging up her pointe shoes for good. But then a friend told her about Ballet Co.Laboratory, a classical ballet studio just east of downtown St. Paul. One part teaching studio akin to her old one (but with adult classes) and one part professional ballet company, Ballet Co.Laboratory seemed perfect for someone like Meisner. And not coincidentally, there, she’s found a tribe of other secret ballet lifers.

“When I’m here, I’m just myself: No one cares that I’m a commissioner; no one is talking about politics. We’re all trying to learn this art form,” she says. “And that’s really helpful. But I’m not going to lie—as the campaign has progressed and the closer we get to election day, the more intense it gets. So, I have not been able to come to class every week the last couple of weeks. But as soon as November 5th is done—you have no idea how much I’m just looking forward to it.”

The empty room in the shadows of Holman Field that we’ve been sitting in is actually a studio at Ballet Co.Laboratory. And although on the Friday afternoon we’re here BCL is empty save a few quiet staffers, it’s easy to see how the simple act of CONTINUED ON PAGE 127

big picture

The M’s New Wing

“We always say, ‘If you find us, you’ll love us,’” says Kylie Linh Hoang, assistant curator at the Minnesota Museum of American Art, as she strolls through the downtown St. Paul gallery space. It’s notable because being found has been the museum’s biggest problem since moving to downtown St. Paul in 2019. Add in a pandemic, a gigantic construction project, and a decade of fundraising—all of which conspired to momentarily hide one of the state’s largest collections of American art. But all that’s changing. The M finished a years-long renovation of the Pioneer Endicott buildings in October and opened its new wing, which more than triples its gallery space. The wing, now displaying Here, Now: Selections from the M’s Collection, includes paintings, sculptures, photos, tapestry works, and mixed-media collages—works that span more than a century of American artists from a wide swath of backgrounds and speak to the ongoing efforts of M’s team to increase the breadth of the collection in recent years. “We’ve been intent on building the collection in ways it hadn’t been grown before,” guest curator Bob Cozzolino says. “We looked at where the gaps were, who was missing, who was included versus who were people paying attention to decades ago. It’s really wonderful to showcase a bigger part of the community.”

350 N. Robert St., St. Paul, 651-797-2571, mmaa.org

BY MADISON BLOOMQUIST ● PHOTOGRAPH BY CAITLIN ABRAMS

Number of works in the M’s archive by renowned artist George Morrison—the largest collection of his art in the world. Find a selection of the pieces in Morrison’s very own room within the new wing.

6,531

Size of the M’s new wing, in square feet. Since the Pioneer Endicott buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places, the planning and construction teams had to be careful not to change too much of the space’s original footprint. Assistant curator Kylie Linh Hoang sees the process as representative of the M’s intent and impact as a whole: honoring history while bringing in new elements to reﬂect the present day.

5,700

Approximate number of items in the M’s permanent collection—although the museum can only show a couple hundred at a time. The collection boasts all American artists (with a large focus on Minnesotans), from Paul Manship and Joan Mitchell to Ta-coumba T. Aiken and Leslie Barlow.

$14 MILLION+

Cost of the M’s construction and renovation of downtown St. Paul’s Pioneer Endicott buildings.

1894

Year the M was oﬃcially established, originally called the St. Paul School of Fine Arts. In the past 130 years, it’s been an art school, art teachers’ collective, and museum that’s lived in several Twin Cities buildings until ﬁnding its current home in 2019.

6,300

Number of hours it took to restore the original stained glass arcade ceiling, created by Minnesota State Capitol architect Cass Gilbert in 1889. Its 420 windows each contain 100 tiny pieces of glass—not a quick and easy project for a local restoration team.

the method

Bus Start

Paul Wellstone’s iconic green campaign bus spent much of the 20-plus years since the senator’s death out to pasture (literally). That is, until Wellstone’s son Dave decided to get it back on the road again.

by sheila mulrooney eldred

On a Monday morning in midOctober, a group of area bus folks gathers inside a repair bay at Benjamin Bus in Northﬁeld. The people are from diffeent companies and diffeent areas of the state, but they’ve joined forces to help a friend with a project: to make the late Senator Paul Wellstone’s famous green bus ready to roll again.

In true Wellstone fashion, Dave Wellstone—said friend and Paul and Sheila’s son—has the team gathered in a circle. They’re listening to a folksy tune written for a short ﬁlm documenting the bus restoration. Dave pumps his fist when the lyrics remind him of his father’s brand of populism. This would not be at all surprising among a certain brand of die-hard Wellstone fans who admired Paul for his heart-on-his-sleeve liberal politics.

This, however, is not a group of aging hippies. They don’t talk politics, but it seems unlikely that their ballots match. Doug Grisim is a wrestling buddy of Dave’s from Northﬁeld, where Dave grew up while Paul taught political science classes at Carleton College. Grisim’s family owned a bus company. Grisim, who now owns a bus company in Lake City, made several calls to others in the

business. Some were so moved by the project that they are donating labor and time. They’re paying tribute to a man who used a green bus to convene working-class and union people from the Iron Range, rural farming communities, the inner city, and beyond.

And now we are all listening intently to the tinny notes emanating from Dave’s phone:

Wheels hum on the highway Sun’s kiss on my cheek

Mile markers telling tales of dreams yet to be Morning breeze fills the bus with stories untold

In this life we’re given, we all share the road.

After the plane crash that killed Paul and Sheila Wellstone and six others, the bus was brieﬂy on display. Then Dave moved it to his best friend’s farm in Northfield with the intention of restoring it someday. It stayed there until last January, when the Star Tribune ran a Curious Minnesota question about what happened to the bus. The response was too overwhelming for Dave to ignore.

“That story spurred a ton of interest, and it really opened my eyes,” Dave says. He speaks with the same speed and intensity

PHOTO BY SHEILA ELDRED

as Paul. “You know, we’re so hopeless now politically. And wherever we’re so divided, we ﬁgure out what we don’t agree on as opposed to the few things we do. And so, at the moment when I saw all the excitement in a time when there isn’t as much, I thought, What a great time to bring it out and to have it be a symbol of hope.”

Dave plans on driving the bus at parades and events, hoping it will help “people ﬁgure out ways to work together and disagree and agree to disagree.”

Restoring a 1968 bus that seemed to be something of a lemon—a car usually followed to pick up the late senator whenever it inevitably broke down—poses some signiﬁcant challenges. It didn’t help that it spent many years exposed to the elements, first in a lean-to and then entirely outside. So, Dave was surprised when Kevin Daniels, the shop manager at Benjamin Bus, called him within a couple of weeks of receiving the bus to say that the

engine was “purring like a kitten.”

“The wheels are on,” Daniels told Dave. “Let’s take it for a spin.”

So, Dave, who plans on being the main driver, took it on a test run in the driveway. He was soon sweating from making the sweeping turns without power steering.

“I’m just gonna have to build some muscle up” he says, “and get back to my old wrestling days so that I can crank that wheel.”

The project has been a treat for mechan-

ics who like old cars. Isaac Malecha was only 4 years old when the Wellstones’ plane crashed, but the mechanic loves being part of a project that saves a vehicle from the scrapyard or getting crushed for metal. “It’s just cool to see something like this get ﬁxed back up,” he says. “It’s not very often you get to work on something like this.”

The 366 Chevy big block—a heavy-duty engine also used in dump trucks and known for running forever—didn’t need much work. But while the engine hums, Daniels and Malecha aren’t quite ready to declare the bus road-worthy. They changed the oil, added new spark plugs and an ignition system and a carburetor, “and poured some gas down his throat.” Now, they’ve turned their attention to the brake system to ensure it won’t leak or malfunction. They also had the fuel tank refurbished.

When Daniels and Malecha are happy with the mechanical dependability, Tim Schubert, CEO of

Trobec’s Bus Service in St. Joseph, will put it on a ﬂatbed and take it to his bus company, where he’ll get to work on the exterior. The ﬁrst step? Sandblasting the layers of green, baby blue, and ’70s-era school bus yellow. Then he’ll take parts from another 1968 bus he purchased to replace the fenders, grill, and other miscellaneous body parts that got overly worn.

Lastly, he’ll spray the exterior to match the original Wellstone green and staple vinyl reproductions of the “Wellstone!” signs to the sides and an American ﬂag to the front.

Dave, meanwhile, has plans for the interior, which was retroﬁtted like an RV and served as mobile campaign headquarters

on the road. Other than a mouse infestation, which a professional cleaning took care of, everything inside the bus is the same as the last day it was driven. Stepping inside is like stepping into a time capsule. Bumper stickers implore you to “buy American” and to “honk if you can spell potato”—the latter a reference to Dan Quayle’s famous misspelling. Even the lid of the toilet seat sports a Clinton/Gore sticker. Framed pictures of Paul, Sheila, Hubert Humphrey, Roger Moe—the Democratic nominee for governor in 2002—and bus driver Paul Scott hang from the wood paneling. Plaid cushions straight out of the ’80s line the couch and banquette. The ﬁnishing touches will be the bus driver’s tie that hung near the steering wheel and the newspapers from the day of the crash that were left open on the table.

The back of the bus opens onto a platform where Paul gave speeches.

“So, I’m hoping that people will see the bus, will see a loop of a speech,” Dave says, “and then get excited about that public service aspect. And I think this could be a

symbol as it tours around. I’m just hoping it will spark some joy and some hope.”

In fact, he admits, it already has. “This is a big bunch of folks that came together,” Dave says. “We’d never have met each other otherwise, right? Having these guys embrace us like they have, and not really knowing each other—that’s what I’m talking about.”

When they pulled the bus out of the woods in September and drove it through Northfield and onto Highway 3 on a flatbed en route to Benjamin Bus—past Trump lawn signs—car after car flashed its lights in recognition. For the first time in years, Dave broke down in tears.

As the song fades in the bus barn, the work resumes.

Morning mist is lifting

New days to unfold

Chase the painted horizon with stories to be told

Every mile a memory

Laughter in the seats

Unity we travel; we strengthen our dreams. ■

Below: Senator-elect Wellstone, wife Sheila, and daughter Marcia depart from Minnesota for Washington, D.C. aboard his green bus in late 1990. Previous page: Dave Wellstone

Dec 6–Jan 4

GATHER YOUR BEST MATES! It’s time for the annual British Arrows, a celebration of the latest creative trends in UK moving image advertising.

twin citian

MICH BERTHIAUME

The legendary curator breathed life into The Dayton’s Project when she created its holiday market—she even brought Santa Bear back! With the market returning this holiday season, we ﬁgured it was time you met Mich.

OCCUPATION: Retail specialist

TWIN CITIAN SINCE : Born in St. Paul in 1961

What was your firstjob here? Working at Town and Country Club selling hot dogs and beer between the 9th and 10th tees

What do you consider the highest character trait in a Minnesotan? Loyalty

Thelowest character flw? Passive-aggressiveness

Where do you grab a table when you’re celebrating? The Monte Carlo

What about when you need to commiserate over a defeat? Yum! St. Paul

Where do you take out-of-towners to impress them? The Pool and Yacht Club in Lilydale

Where do you lunch while Christmas shopping? Mara

What do you bake for Christmas? Christmas caramels and nut goodies. Old family recipe.

Where do you get your Christmas tree? My daughters and I have terrible allergies, so it’s an artiﬁcial Target tree but decorated to the nines.

Where do you go to Christmas mass? Late afternoon Christmas Eve at Nativity of Our Lord in St. Paul

Favorite Christmas Day tradition? When my daughters were growing up, we would take them to New York to see the Rockettes and have lunch at The Plaza.

Favorite stocking stuffer? Regina’s Fine Chocolates and Lip Smackers

Do you have a favorite Christmas song? “The Christmas Waltz” by Frank Sinatra

Favorite Dayton’s eighth-floo Christmas show of all time? The Velveteen Rabbit

Favorite local body of water? I live on the Mississippi River deliberately, and I’m obsessed. I post a sunset every night on Instagram.

Who’s your favorite Minnesota athlete of all time? Paul Molitor and Patty Berg

Who is the most important artist from Minnesota, and what is their essential work? Charles Schulz, Peanuts

Favorite museum? I love the Walker.

Favorite work? The Siah Armajani Irene Hixon Whitney Bridge. I worked for Barbara Armajani for years—she was my only mentor.

What do you hope Santa brings you this year? He’s already brought me two granddaughters this year, a month apart.

edited by steve marsh . illustration by eric hanson

Culture

cyndi lauper

▲ The 1980s pop star is making one last lap around the country before she oﬃcially hangs up the Aqua Net and stonewashed denim on her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour. Dec. 4. Target Center

merry christmas from josé james

▲ South Minneapolis’s proliﬁc jazz export brings a pair of Christmas gigs home for the holidays. Dec. 13–14. Dakota

Want even more events?

Check out The Scene—your go-to source for what’s going on around town. calendar.mspmag.com

A pair of Mormon missionaries are sent to a far-ﬂung African village to spread their faith, but chaos ensues in this hilarious musical from Matt Stone and Trey Parker (the mildly twisted minds behind in conjunction with playwright and songwriter Robert Lopez, who also worked on the music ﬁlms and co-created the Avenue Q

Dillinger Four and Extreme Noise Records 30th Anniversary Show

The Minnesota punk pioneers celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Twin Cities’ OG punk record shop, Extreme Noise, by blowing some eardrums with their own extreme noise in the Mainroom. Dec. 7. First Avenue

Meter

A Christmas Carol

The most venerable Minneapolis Christmas show this side of CTC’s seemingly everlasting production of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas returns to the house that Sir Tyrone Guthrie built. Through Dec. 29. Guthrie Theater

Cinderella

Marking the Theater Latté Da directorial debut of artistic director Justin Lucero, this modernized take on the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic aspires to be the theater troupe’s new contribution to the Twin Cities’ annual holiday show repertoire. Nov. 20–Jan. 5. Ritz Theater

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy

The most fantastical of all the local Nutcracker productions is also the most enduring, clocking in at 60 years since Houlton ﬁrst put her stamp on the Tchaikovsky masterpiece. Dec. 14–22. State Theatre

Sounds of Blackness The Night Before Christmas

Sounds of Blackness has won three Grammys, one NAACP Image Award, and even a star on the side of First Avenue. Their annual holiday “musical fantasy,” The Night Before Christmas, promises big soul, big fun, and enormous musicality. Dec. 23. Pantages Theatre

WHAT’S GOING ON THIS DECEMBER. by drew wood

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

Cirque du Soleil’s traveling holiday spectacle returns to the Orpheum for another Christmas run. The familyfriendly show is one part death-defying, high-ﬂying circus acrobatics that have made Cirque renowned the world over and one part high-drama Broadway-esque holiday musical.

Dec. 20–22. Orpheum Theatre

e Little Mermaid

Watch the tumult and triumphs of poor Ariel as she goes from mermaid to voiceless pawn in Ursula’s quest for undersea domination to thinking that a fork is a comb.

Dec. 3–29. Ordway

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Face-melting, pyrotechnic-laced orchestral Christmas rock FTW. Always. Dec. 21. Xcel Energy Center

Big Christmas Energy

An evening of improv-based holiday songs and sketches that promise to bring the BCE in a way that only the brainchild of dearly departed improv pioneer Dudley Riggs can. Through Jan. 31. Dudley Riggs Theatre

Penumbra’s gift to the Twin Cities holiday show diaspora is its poignant staging of the Langston Hughes version of the nativity story. Dec. 3–22. Penumbra Theatre

The Bad Plus

Not to be confused with fellow all-star jazz quartet, The Good Minus. Dec. 25–28. Dakota

Wilco

Jeﬀ Tweedy’s genre-deﬁning alt-country rock band leaves Chicago for its home away from home. Dec. 13–15. Palace Theatre

Brother Ali with Ant

After a seemingly lengthy hiatus from the stage, the Minneapolis MC drops in on First Ave with Atmosphere DJ Ant dropping his beats. Dec. 15. First Avenue

The New Standards Holiday Show

Built using equal parts of Twin Cities rock bands The Suburbs (pianist Chan Poling), Semisonic (bassist John Munson), and Billy Goat (vibraphonist Steve Roehm), the jazz super trio’s annual holiday variety show and its inevitable cast of surprise guests have become something of a wholesome holiday can’tmiss for Twin Cities concert-goers.

Dec. 6–7. State Theatre

elf in concert with the minnesota orchestra

▲ Watch Will Ferrell eat/ drink insane amounts of maple syrup while trying to convince the world he’s an actual elf from the North Pole as the orchestra plays the score live along with it. Dec. 20–22. Orchestra Hall

THE COHEN REPORT

Musings on life in the city and other important matters.

by burt cohen

● THE LETTER I RECEIVED from Nelson’s lawyer wasn’t exactly threatening, but it did say his client was considering his next step, which my gut instinct tells me is sort of ominous. The problem is Nelson, longtime undisputed King of Commercial Real Estate Gurus and part-time banana wholesaler, is upset because his name has never appeared in the Birthday Wishes. He claims that month after month, year after year, for almost 40 years, he has turned to the Birthday Wishes, only to be disappointed yet again. The cumulative stress of this continuing problem has resulted

Guess whose birthday is sometime this year?

in sleepless nights and a recurring twitch in his left ear, not to mention basic humiliation. So just to slow things down, and on the urgent advice of my own lawyer, who thankfully just passed his bar exam on his fifth try, we want to wish Russ Nelson a very happy birthday, sometime this year.

CORRECTIONS: Awkward grammatical construction in last month’s column may have left some readers with the impression Karen Bachman had signed on to become defensive coach for the Detroit Lions. That is not correct. Also, David Lebedoff did not win the coveted Athlete of the Year Award

as previously reported here. The award’s longtime sponsor, Barney’s Fitness Center and Orthopedic Shoes, cancelled the award ceremony following the embarrassing raid by the Coon Rapids police.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, sometime this year, to Mike Snow, Neil Keane, Don Mains, BruceGleason, Toni Cady, Tres Lund, Rachel Hollstadt, Ruth Huss, Willard Hunnewell , Margie Zats , and Doug Flanders.

UPDATE: Ford Bell wishes to thank the three people who wrote in his name on their ballots in the recent election. “I didn’t really want to be president anyway,” he said. ■

Columnist extraordinaire Burt Cohen is the founding publisher of Mpls.St.Paul Magazine.

DRINK BETTER DO BETTER

Prairie Organic Vodka starts with organic corn grown in Minnesota and is distilled in small batches with pure Minnesota water. Each batch is distilled to taste instead of a set number of times, ensuring every top-shelf sip saves water and energy.

JUST THE SPOT TO BRING THE PEOPLE WHO LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE.

Mara Private Dining

taste

HOT BLOCK

● THE FORMER ERTÉ BUILDING in Northeast Minneapolis has been transformed. With bricks painted black and the bar painted red, it’s begun a new life as Minari. Chef Jeff Watson wanted to bring something new to the neighborhood, which already has hot spots like Oro by Nixta, Young Joni, Vinai, and Diane’s Place, so he and Daniel del Prado created an alluring, sophisticated restaurant offering Korean and East Asian dishes, rendered through a dual lens of heritage and the experience Watson has garnered cooking in local

top kitchens. Carts wheel around the room nightly, loaded with traditional and modern versions of Chinese dim sum and Korean banchan, like chicken and foie gras dumplings, fried oysters with gochujang yogurt, and shrimp shumai. A live-ﬁre grill cooks Korean barbecue, while larger plates feature innovative takes, such as carbonara udon and mushroom jook with porcini butter. It all happens in a room bathed in a warm glow from all that luck the Chinese believe the color red brings. 323 13th Ave. NE, Mpls., 612-259-8914 —Stephanie March

small bite

Minari joins top chefs in Northeast and brings something new to the party.

cravings

Sipping Snacks

At Stargazer by Travail, it’s less about a meal and more about a moment.

When Travail took over the small slip of a space that once was Dangerous Man Brewing’s growler bar in Northeast Minneapolis, the team knew they wanted to do something

THE BEST CINNAMON

Maybe you can’t gild your cookies with actual gold this year, but you can spend $15 on organic pure Vietnamese cinnamon from Here’s the Deal Spice Co. to level up to luxury. Ground and bottled locally, this variety of cinnamon has a higher concentration of essential oil, which punches the ﬂavor up. Meaning you need less of it for impact, so the cinnamony good stuﬀ can carry you all the way through baking season—taking your holiday cookies and hot cocoa to new and fancier heights. heresthedeal.co

special. Not just another restaurant with a cocktail menu, Stargazer, opening this month, will be a true cocktail bar. Joining forces with Robb Jones, of Meteor Bar fame, the team endeavored to stock the back bar with unique and underused spirits while focusing on building drinks to order in front of guests.

As for food, the team has their eye on snacks for sips: a brief menu of around a dozen or so items that are meant to be ordered as a buffer to drinking, not as a full meal. The hope is people will stop at the bar for a drink and a snack while waiting for a table at one of the neighborhood’s other restaurants, or maybe on the way to or from an event.

There’s no silverware. Everything is meant to be eaten with your hands, from the Wagyu scallion kushiyaki skewers to the beef tartare burger, jicama salad tacos, or asparagus fries. It’s all about having a few bites with one drink, then maybe switching it up again for the next round.

Big ﬂavors, low commitment. 1304 NE 2nd St., Mpls.

raves & rants

JINGLE BARS

’Tis the season for gathering with your friends, often before a festive event or after a day of hitting the local makers’ markets for gifting. The perfect place to carry on the season’s greetings is a jingle bar. Settling into a booth with a Santa glass filled with holiday grog as Christmas lights and baubles drip from every possible surface, jolly tunes play ad nauseam, and tinsel infects your hair and clothes—it’s fun! And given the new proliferation of jingle bars, and the fact that some of them started during the first week of November, it’s profitable. So why not give us a full calendar of holiday bar hijinks? Where are the love bars for February with pink and red glitter-bombing hearts? Can we have Easter bars with bunnies and little Peeps stapled to the wall in spring? Mother’s Day, everyone gets a cardigan with a drink! Father’s Day, you have to wear oversize basketball shorts for shots! Every day in July, you have to light off a sparkler before you sing your drink order to the tune of “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy!” In August, we rest. Too much?

Want newsy treats to come to your inbox? Get The Feed every Friday by subscribing to Daily Edit at mspmag. com/newsletters!

PHOTO

YJWhen you put as much food on as many tables as we do, you learn a thing or two about giving thanks.

Thanks to our customers for choosing us.

Thanks to our employees for sharing your talents with us.

Thanks to our partners for producing amazing products for us to sell.

Thanks to all for your friendship and loyalty. It is an honor to be your grocer at this time of year and all year long.

In all the ways that you make us part of your lives, thank you.

May your holiday season be full of happiness, kindness and, most of all, the joy of good food.

state of the plate

HOW TO OPEN A RESTAURANT

Why we followed the journey of Peter Bian and Linda Cao as they opened their ﬁrst restaurant. by stephanie march

● SOMETIMES I WONDER why anyone on earth would choose to open a restaurant. It’s not a thing I utter often, for fear of putting myself out of a gig. But the oft-trottedout banker’s admonition that 50 percent of all restaurants fail, the slim margins, and the whims of weather and contagions controlling the cadence of business make

And yet, there’s something that draws good humans into the dream. You don’t need a college degree, you can start small and grow huge, it’s one of the surest paths to generational wealth for immigrant Americans, and much of the time it’s fun. Not all the time, but the industry has its moments, ones that will never arrive if you’re sitting in a cubicle in the basement of Big Insurance.

Perhaps too much of social media hype the shiny plates and sexy aprons of the dining scene, though you can argue it’s what keeps your favorites open so that you can have your grilled cheese and eat it too. It’s not that the hype is not real; it’s just that it’s not the whole picture.

So, when Peter Bian and Linda Cao of Saturday Dumpling Co. said they’d be game for talking about their journey to open a restaurant, genuinely and openly, I felt like it was a chance to show the fuller picture. The series, which plays out on mspmag. com, started with the duo talking through the struggle to ﬁnd the perfect space and their fears about how it would change their business if they settled. They’ve been selling dumplings for four years, but have never opened an actual restaurant, so this part of the process was totally new, and they came to it with open minds.

Over the weeks, we talked about how they decided to ﬁnance the project with their life savings because of all the strings that came with bank loans. We spoke about

contractors and construction issues they had no idea would be part of their timeline. But most importantly, we talked about their mental health. Bian opened up about panic attacks he’d had, turning a plane back to the terminal once, which only started when they began this journey. Cao admitted that it was hard to deal with that plus her own fears while they managed to keep the catering and production side of the business going during construction.

All of these things are as important as the ingredients that go into any dumpling. Most restaurant owners don’t know how to share this behind-the-scenes stuff, mainly because of the fear that it will turn guests away. “No one wants to hang with a bummer” is a notion I hear often.

And yet, so many small business owners reached out to say how much they saw themselves in the process we’ve been spooling out. Besides bakers and small coffee shop owners, I heard from ﬂ shop owners, a dance studio owner, and a retired cabinetmaker. All sent notes with stories of their own, thanking us for digging a little deeper to show what it’s like and what it takes to get to the pretty pictures.

As I write this, the Saturday Dumpling Co. restaurant, which will live in Northeast Minneapolis in the former Glam Doll Donuts spot, has pushed back its opening date. It was supposed to be November 16, but due to a few calendar fluctuations with hiring and inspections, they decided to push the open until after Thanksgiving. This means they will be paying employees and rent on the space before a single dumpling is served, but they decided to dedicate more time to making sure the staff was well trained on the equipment and that they had their bearings. They’re also crossing fingers that the shipping container filled with their tables and chairs makes it before open, but they have no way of knowing for sure, so they have a plan B and C, just in case.

It’s not as easy as everyone thinks. Following dreams, I mean. ■

Peter Bian and Linda Cao stand in their nearly opened Saturday Dumpling Co. restaurant. Is it a winning gamble? Time will tell.

Hope Butter

“Local butter was all about skill and scale,” explains Hope Creamery owner Victor Mrotz, who took over the century-old Minnesota creamery in 2001 and now runs it with his family. “The old-fashioned way of making butter was: Get fresh milk straight from a farm, lowheat pasteurize, separate the cream, constantly agitate to churn, culture at a controlled temperature, and the next day: butter.” That’s how Hope still does it. “I counted once—hand labor ‘touches’ a pound of Hope Butter a dozen times before it reaches you,” says Mrotz. “‘Don’t screw it up,’ that’s what I hear all the time from people who used Hope butter their whole lives. I’m trying.” Hope, Minnesota, hopecreamery.com —Dara Moskowitz Grumdahl

Fresh Churned

Hope can make three batches a week, using 600 gallons of cream. “A big dairy plant today has just about zero human hand labor, and they can make a million pounds a day while we make a million pounds a year,” owner Victor Mrotz says. The Hope team drives the butter to every store and restaurant themselves.

Cultured Butter Trend

Mrotz remembers when small creameries used to make “sour butter” in the same way that cultured butter is made today. “It doesn’t taste sour, so I can see why the ‘sour butter’ name fell away.”

Steele County

Hope butter is made in what was once called the butter capital of the world due to its two dozen butterspecialist creameries. “Four or ﬁve dairy farmers would make a little co-op together. It wasn’t worth it for a big dairy to send a whole milk truck to one little farm,” Mrotz says.

Past Craft

“In the old, old days, you could get woodbarrel butter, all kinds of different butters with different flavors because of different starters and different tanks, just like cheese has different flavors, but that was a different world,” Mrotz says. “We’re the last from that different world.”

Professional Fans

Chocolat Céleste, Honey and Rye Bakehouse, and even some food critics ﬁnd Hope butter to be lighter, sweeter, and fresher than any other butter in the world. You’ll also ﬁnd the butter behind the line at Hyacinth, Spoon and Stable, Young Joni, and Alma, to name a few.

PHOTO

see the difference.

This isn’t just a cookie. It’s a Linzer Cookie, made with almond ﬂour, a dusting of snowy powdered sugar on top, and our sweet L&B Triple Berry Jam. All available in our stores. It’s the perfect treat to plate for family, friends, and maybe even that big guy who goes down chimneys. Better in Every Sense

trend

CLASSICS, REINVENTED

All eyes are on wearable pieces of art oﬀering just the right amount of edge to timeless designs and silhouettes. Statements from ﬁne jewelry retailers—bold bangles, eye-catching earrings, and craft-inspired pendants—represent a shift to a trend in maximalism. Because sometimes, more is more. BY MADELINE

PHOTOGRAPHS BY CAITLIN ABRAMS

NACHBAR

► Pieces shown here from R.F. Moeller Jeweler, Max’s, Patrick Mohs Jewelry, LeoDaniels, and The Loupe. See page 48 for details.

► Pieces shown here from Patrick Mohs Jewelry, Max’s, and The Loupe. See page 48 for details.

BEACHY AND BOHO

Shells, stone beads, and modern pearls add interest to the neckline and oﬀer imaginative ways to stack up eclectic texture.

Statement charm necklaces bring a

ONE AND DONE

A hero bangle comes in handy, providing a one-piece arm party.

► Pieces shown here from Max’s, any and Co., Patrick Mohs Jewelry, and LeoDaniels. See page 48 for details.

CUFFING SEASON

Amp up your wrist with stacked statement bracelets.

FROM PAGE 45: Marco Bicego Lunaria 18-karat yellow-gold double drop turquoise earrings ($2,950), from R.F. Moeller Jeweler, Highland Park and 50th & France, rfmoeller.com; Ray Griﬃths 18-karat yellow-gold medium hoop earrings ($4,390), from Max’s, 3826 Grand Way, St. Louis Park, 952-922-8364; 18-karat yellowgold diamond and baroque pearl drop earrings ($6,500), by Patrick Mohs Jewelry, 240 Minnetonka Ave. S., Wayzata, 612-481-6647; yellow-gold-plated brushed pearl dangle earrings ($120), by LeoDaniels, 4110 Minnetonka Blvd., Mpls., 952-214-0747; Silvia Furmanovich 18-karat yellow-gold ﬂoral octagonal earrings ($9,240) and Vram gold Chrona chandelier earrings ($12,800), both from The Loupe, 212 3rd Ave. N., Mpls., 612-339-1588

FROM PAGE 46: 18-karat yellowgold, black tourmaline, and diamond necklace ($7,500) and 18-karat yellow-gold and diamond Skipping Stone pendant with Big Dipper constellation ($4,800), both also by Patrick Mohs Jewelry; Dezso by Sara Beltran crystal quartz puka necklace ($10,000), Dezco leather cord necklace with rose gold shark ﬁn clasp ($800), Harwell Godfrey Tequila Lovers charm necklace ($16,250), Dezso by Sara Beltran brown shell charm with aquamarine ($1,700), and onyx shell charm with citrine ($2,500), all also from The Loupe; White/ Space double baroque pearl pendant necklace ($1,500), Erica Molinari 14-karat open-end paper clip chain ($3,760), 18-karat diamond charm holder ($1,170), oxidized silver and 18-karat dagger pendant ($1,170), 18-karat diamond crescent moon pendant ($4,015), and oxidized silver and 18-karat diamond ﬂower pendant ($4,015), all also from Max’s

FROM PAGE 47: Paul Morelli 18-karat gold cuff bracelet with black acrylic and white and yellow diamonds ($14,600), Sarah Graham cobalt chrome and 18-karat gold pebble link bracelet ($8,315), Pat Flynn iron and 22-karat diamond nail collar bracelet ($2,730), and iron, 18-karat, and 22-karat diamond bracelet ($5,200), all also from Max’s; 14-karat gold spear cuff ($7,500), from JB Hudson, Galleria, 612-274-7181; Elsa Peretti sterling-silver cuff ($2,000), from Tiffany and Co., Galleria, 952-922-0066; 18-karat gold and diamond cuff bracelet ($15,500), also by Patrick Mohs Jewelry; 14-karat white-gold diamond mesh cuff bracelet ($4,865), also by LeoDaniels

This holiday season, Explore Edina! Treat yourself to upscale shopping, savor festive fine dining, and relax in luxurious comfort. Your perfect holiday escape awaits.

Meow Say hello to your new evening bag. Staud bag ($360), from Requisite, 211 Washington Ave. N., Mpls., 612-259-7387

Pick of the Litter

We’re smitten with this brown and black spotted topper. Zadig and Voltaire blazer ($648), from Equation, 50th & France and Excelsior, equationmn.com

scouted

roundup

Call of the Wild

Fierce Feet

Keep toes toasty and on trend.

Dolce Vita calf-hair sneakers ($150), from Evereve, evereve.com

Hit the spot in modern takes on the classic cat motif—because leopard print never really goes out of style.

LODGE TWENTY FIVE

Discover chic chalet vibes at Lodge Twenty Five, a seasonal pop-up at Galleria. The space sparkles with gear for a stylish winter season: festive home décor, jewelry, clothing, and accessories. The concept comes from Becky Leffler, owner of fashion boutique Sweet Ivy and its childfocused offspring, Littles by Sweet Ivy. The temporary satellite shop is filled with best-selling Sweet Ivy brands: Pendleton, Barefoot Dreams, and luxe faux fur line Donna Salyers Fabulous Furs (featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things!).

LE LABO LANDS IN NOLO

Do you smell that? It’s NYC-based perfumery Le Labo making its North Loop debut. The luxury fragrance brand’s scents began in Grasse, France, the perfume capital of the world, before exploding in New York City. Le Labo, which means “the lab” in French, creates unique sensorial experiences in its boutiques with hand-blended-toorder perfumes. After discovering and sampling from its collection of fragrances, customers choose their scent, watch as it’s made, and then customize a personalized bottle label with their message of choice. In addition to perfume, Le Labo’s boutiques also sell products for both the home and body— candles, soaps, lotions, hair care, and more—in its gender-neutral fragrances, including the iconic spicy Santal 33 and ﬂoral Rose 31, two of the brand’s fan favorites. Find Le Labo in the space next to Sweetgreen, previously occupied by Outdoor Voices, the Austinbased activewear brand that closed all of its retail stores this year to become an onlineonly business.

212 3rd Ave. N., lelabofragrances.com

good stuff

Eye on Design

Something for them, something for you. Plan a holiday shopping attack and hit the nine boutiques within Wayzata’s Design District. —M.N.

Check all nine stops oﬀ your list on December 7th at the Design District’s holiday

6 4 3

Postmodern Vibes

Channel Miami in Minny. Jonathan Adler pedestal bowl ($195), from Julia Moss Designs, 647 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 612-444-8682

Materials

Room Refresh

When in doubt, add a throw pillow. Navy swan pillow ($185), by Lucy Penﬁeld, from Lucy Interiors, 755 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 612-339-2225

Just the accent piece your room— and drink—needs. Made Goods drink table ($1,042), from Timber and Tulip, 714 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 612-916-7465

dachshunds. Antique brass dogs ($118, set of two), from Grace Hill Design, 785 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-476-2406

Host with the Most

Master the art of drink making. The NoMad Cocktail Book ($30), from Brick and Linen, 401 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-444-6255

Check, Mate!

Seville-Inspired

We found your holiday cocktail party plates. Juliska scalloped-side cocktail plates ($125, set of four), from Five Swans, 315 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-473-4685 from Fox and Willow, 701 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 612-494-4800

A warm update to your reading nook. Streicher Goods lamp ($750), from Henri Home, 879 N. Lake St., Wayzata, 612-468-2985

Vilhelm Parfumerie perfume ($195), from Highcroft, 770 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-746-5826

DESIGN BY LEGACY

A local artist specializes in metalsmithing and beadwork to create works inspired by her ancestry.

MADISON HOLLER GREW UP SURROUNDED BY A FAMILY OF ARTISANS. “When I was a little kid, I just assumed everyone had a craft,” she says. “My mom, dad, aunts, and uncles all had studios where they practiced their passions—like re-caning chairs, stained glass work, antique furniture restoration, moccasin making, beading, what have you. I just thought that when you grew up, you had a day job, and you had art on the side.”

Holler would go on to dabble in myriad mediums, including painting, woodworking, graphic design, photography, and ceramics, and use art therapy and repetitive crafts as treatment and meditation to calm her ADHD and OCD. “I never stopped,” she says.

Today, while she says she’ll never really pick a lane, she’s made a name for herself through the business she runs under the moniker Rubinski Works. Her bread and butter is one-of-a-kind glass and metal seed bead art and jewelry that blends her Anishinaabe, Scandinavian, and Dutch heritages.

So many of her experiences are informed by her cultural background and what her family instilled in her. “Both sides of my family crossed over a lot, learning each other’s trades and creating a beautiful cultural mix of my Indigenous, European, and Scandi DNA,” says Holler, who draws on the synchronicities found in traditional Scandinavian embroidery and Native Ojibwe beading techniques to inform her folklore designs. “It’s a really cool exchange.”

Nature is also an important driving muse. Motifs ingrained in her work nod to the landscapes, ﬂora, and fauna found in both central Minnesota’s Wahpekute and Anishinabewaki lands (where Holler grew up) and scenes from her cabin in Ontario.

Through each collection, which can take several weeks to complete, Holler believes there should be an energetic exchange between the creator and the person who gets the beadwork. “I always say there’s prayer in every bead,” she says. “I mean that on a spiritual level—I’m putting prayer and hopes for the wearer in every stitch, hopefully resulting in a piece that will last a lifetime.”

A forewarning: Holler’s creations sell incredibly fast. She feels fortunate to have the camaraderie and community of people who have shown up to support her. “That’s the way it’s always been in Indigenous circles,” she notes. “I always think about the aunties and uncles that I had on the powwow circuits who always knew their customers. I feel like I have that but on an internet level.”

Keep your eyes peeled for new collection announcements and drops on her Instagram and website. rubinskiworks.com, @rubinskiworks —M.N. ■

Frasier Fir

Felt Trees

Advent Calendar Pop Culture Ornaments

Nora Fleming Christopher Radko

Personalized Ornaments

Personalized Free!

GIFT GUIDE

EVERTHINE JEWELRY

Tiny Message Rings are stamped with funny, sweet, and empowering messages only the wearer will know are there. Made from recycled sterling silver, and available in sizes 5-10. Shop online at everthinejewelry.com

COMBINE

Explore our holiday gifts featuring unisex Miracle Icons bracelets by Mary Jo Pane. Another popular option: Antipast socks from Japan for both men and women. Come visit us! 1609 West Lake Street, Minneapolis 612.353.5163; combinegetdressed.com

BIG STICK STUDIO

Hello! Hygge! Scandinavian inspired wooden puzzles in unique boxes are fun, functional and fabulous! MN puzzle ($75) plus other themes. Minnesota made. bigstickstudio.com

STUDIO CASWELL

Capture your pet’s unique personality with a custom portrait! Playful, regal or silly, we’ll create an image you’ll cherish forever. In-studio packages start at $350 for a 1-hour session. Book today at pets@studiocaswell.com or visit studiocaswell.com for more information.

Photography by Studio Caswell. Photographer Lars Thomson, Stylist Karin Martinson

KEEPER’S HEART WHISKEY

The perfect gift for the whiskey lover in your life? Gift Keeper’s Heart. Locally made and winner of over 150 awards since launch. Make it personal with a free customized label. 600 Malcolm Ave SE, Minneapolis; (763) 338-0914; keepersheartwhiskey.com

EVERTHINE JEWELRY

It’s fun getting permanent jewelry with a loved one. Everthine Jewelry offers solid 14K gold permanent bracelets, with natural gemstones and diamond links, and charms. Book your appointment at everthinejewelry.com

ADVANCED SKIN THERAPEUTICS

Nutrafol supplemen to promote hair hea hair thinning. Formu women provide 3-6 months. ($69/m 6525 Barrie Road, Edin SkinTherapy.com 952.915.60 0

GENERAL STORE OF MINNETONKA

Stackable stretch bracelets made for real, everyday wear! Create your own stack, starting at $36. Necklaces, earrings and rings are also available from enewton. 14401 Hwy 7, Minnetonka; 952-935-7131; generalstoreofminnetonka.com

B FRIENDLY

Small Batch Craft Artisan Cocktail Mixers that bring the bar experience into your life and home. Find us at the Mall of America, Kiosk on the East Side, Third Floor. 612-979-3909; bfriendly.com

Be Re aurants

OUR 2024 PICKS FOR THE BEST NEW RESTAURANTS, PLACES THAT ARE SETTING THE TONE, NOTABLE HOT SPOTS, AND THIS YEAR’S HALL OF FAME.

BY STEPHANIE MARCH AND DARA MOSKOWITZ GRUMDAHL

PHOTOGRAPHS BY CAITLIN ABRAMS

TheMSP 50

This has been quite a year. Due to our press cycles, I am writing this before Election Day. At this moment, we have no idea what the next four years will look like. If we cast back four years, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the world were much different places. Maybe that’s the lesson we need to focus on.

In the 2024 edition of The MSP 50, we ﬁnd a few spots that have been toiling for four years to make their dreams come true. New ideas germinated in a time of uncertainty have finally bloomed this year, proving how resilient the hospitality industry can be.

At the same time, we see some signiﬁcant anniversaries for a number of our foundational restaurants. Having weathered the tough times, they have found their groove and act as incubators for the next generation of hospitalitarians. Last year, we created the Hall of Fame category to highlight those who have paved the way and have so many Golden Forks they might need to annex the dry cleaner next door just to hang them.

As I’ve said before, if you want to move forward, you have to look back to know where you’ve been. The Hall of Fame group harbors this history, and we will celebrate a new group each year as they move on from The MSP 50 to live among other Hall of Fame restaurants henceforth. The Class of ’23 included some stalwarts, as does this year’s Class of ’24: historic Italian and heritage Mexican among them.

So whatever world you’re in, as you’re reading this, remember that you can ﬁnd comfort in the fact that the Twin Cities restaurant world will survive, and thrive. —Stephanie March

A complete list of The MSP 50 Best Restaurants appears on page 79 with addresses, phone numbers, and websites.

Buzzy nights are still the norm at Spoon and Stable in North Loop.

IN 2024 New

OPENINGS THIS YEAR.

Bûcheron

▪ KINGFIELD, MINNEAPOLIS

Everyone dreams of a luxurious seafood platter with elegant oysters and shrimp arranged before you on sparkling icebut no one wants to shell out a car payment to order one! Enter Bûcheron, where all the fine French-influenced foods thread the needle of affordable luxury within a comfortable neighborhood space. Dont miss the rare wines by the glass, the pastas as exactingly handmade as pocket watches, and the elevated Midwestern dishes, such as venison tartare, that deliver humble elegance.

Clockwise from top: The kitchen team prepping for the night; spaghetti with anchovy tartine and Wild Acres pheasant; a coveted walk-in seat at the bar.

Diane’s Place

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS

The first solo spot by seven-time James Beard Awardnominated chef Diane Moua is what happens when a pastry chef enlarges her world with savory dishes but keeps her pastry habits of paying careful attention to every tiny detail. The khao piak chicken soup looks as pretty as a plated dessert, with a bouquet of curly scallion ribbons and a soft-boiled egg so elegantly sliced it could be an ivory and gold medallion made of porcelain. What does a soup have in common with a dessert? Just the understanding that excellence is all in the details.

Starling

▪ EDINA

The Edina set could not have been more excited for the old Perkins on Highway 100 to come down and make way for Starling. Carved out of a vanilla shell, the space has been given so much attention by its owners, Jester Concepts, that it breathes green and light. For a company that does big restaurants with big personalities, its nice to see something smaller and more intimate, especially when you can get butter chicken tacos, green curry walleye, or a slow-roasted pork bo ssam feast to order for your friends.

If youre that gal who leaves a restaurant when the guitar player in the corner starts strumming, hear us out. Its not that you hate music in restaurants; you just havent had it good, like we do at Berlin. Here, its ridiculously easy to slip into the bar for happy hour, have your most intense conversations while snacking on salmon crudo or a fried chicken katsu sandwich, and sip swell drinks. When the music kicks in, you can hang back and still have a light chat or get another drink and relax into the city moment.

Dario

▪ NORTH LOOP, MINNEAPOLIS

When customers express joy for Darios exquisite pastas, such as the fat little purses of buttery doppio stuffed with sunchoke and sparkling with honey or the rustic ecstasy of rigatoni alla vodka, it may sound as if your fellow diners are speaking of something other than pasta. So, if you hear squeals from the next booth along the lines of, Amazing! Oh my God!just know that the conversation is in fact about pasta, and you should simply quote the line from When Harry Met Sally and tell your server: Ill have what shes having. Then you, too, can enjoy ecstasy-provoking pasta.

Mainstreet eating has never looked better. Michael and Viorica Shaughnessy opened their restaurant amid the sports bars and antiques shops of Hopkins, and it has been a good bet. Locals love the vibe, which gives just enough elegance to be cool but not uncomfortable, and the plates are bright, with a new vision: mussels with lobster butter, chicken bacon meatballs, seasonal roasted squash with salsa verde. And lunch! Actual hot-cooked new American lunch for the WFH set is a gift to any street.

Black Duck

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS

Jason Sawicki casts a spell at his new spot in Northeast Minneapolis. He takes bits of everything he learned from cooking in great kitchens all over town and brings them to the fire. To this he adds perseverance, the kind it takes to buy a building and work on it for years to get it right. And while paying homage to history with pierogi, he forges his own path forward with a standard-setting duck burger, whole-fish tacos, and so many more bright plates.

Picnic

▪ LINDEN HILLS, MINNEAPOLIS

Is it a mom bar? Well, what if it is? Proprietress E Kitzenberg knows that moms like whiskey and a killer hot dog, too. So yeah, its a mom bar. And it has quickly become a cornerstone of the neighborhood, during a summer when few were visiting due to road construction. But locals showed upwine fans, tooand so did visiting chefs, who kept the menu fresh for people who now treat it like a clubhouse.

The Camden Social

▪ CAMDEN, MINNEAPOLIS

Not enough destination restaurants open in historically Black, historically underrestaurant-supplied north Minneapolis. If you havent been to The Camden Social, you need to go, because chef Gerard Klass and crew are doing important things, like bringing the historical Shorty and Wags wings into a present-day vitality and serving both a blackened catfish and a caramel cake for the ages. Go for brunch and enjoy the peach cobbler French toast and textbook shrimp and grits that routinely tempt people from all over the Cities.

Wells Roadside

▪ ST. LOUIS PARK

Theres a risk when you bring back a beloved neighborhood haunt: If you dont do it right, the loyalists might revolt. For the Craft and Crew guys, it was a risk worth taking to bring life back to the old Wagners Drive-In spot. By keeping it simple with fresh burgers and fries and giving it a zhuzh with full liquor and using Wagyu beef but keeping it crazy affordable, theyve won the drive-in game.

Lynette

▪ LONGFELLOW, MINNEAPOLIS

All hail the all-day café. Since the pandemic, weve definitely seen a rollout of more hours and days of service, but we still havent had the luxury of an all-day eatery renaissance. Lynette is currently flying this flag for us as a neighborhood coffee spot in the morning, a lunch and patio hang space in the afternoon, and a full-service dinner restaurant for dates and families alike. From quiche to wild mushroom pizza to a grilled rib eye with béarnaise, you can be wowed from morning to night.

Parcelle

▪ OLD TOWN, MINNEAPOLIS

Let's not overlook the fast-casual coffee cafés working hard to keep it fresh, keep it clean. Kamal Mohamed is best known for his splashier restaurants, like nearby StepChld, but this year he opened this organic counter café, offering generous smoothies, house-made sourdough egg toasts, balanced and delicious macro bowls with only wild-caught salmon, and sandwiches free from seed oils and preservatives. Good eateries with great ingredients should not only be for the wellness set.

Gia

▪ ARMATAGE, MINNEAPOLIS

The eternal dream is having a friend down the street who always has an open door, offers a plate of something simple and wonderful and fun new wines to try, and waves from the kitchen when you arrive. Co-chefs and co-owners Jo Seddon and Lisa Wengler have made this dream a reality for everyone in southwestern Minneapolis at Gia by creating beautiful, simple pastas and salads in an environment where the vibe is a very strong welcome, friend

Vinai

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS

Chef Yia Vang’s long-awaited Vinai is the biggest restaurant news of Minnesota’s 2024 for his translation of traditional Hmong food into present-day restaurant vernacular. Don’t miss the smoky, well-charred double-cut pork chop, the ultra-umami braised beef, or the inventive cocktails made with ice carved to resemble traditional Hmong needlework. The ice speaks to unity, and as you look out over the buzzing, center-of-the-world feeling in this dining room, consider how much that unity depends on survival and how much it depends on joy.

SETTING THE Tone

CERTAIN RESTAURANTS AREN’T HERE JUST TO COOK GOOD FOOD. THEY’RE HERE TO CHANGE THE GAME.

Oro by Nixta

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS

Dining here is really like taking a senior seminar in our continents most important native grain, corn. Try it in fresh-made tortillas that might smell oaky or even meaty, depending on the corn variety. Try it in one tamale stuffed with confit rabbit or in another tamale with strawberries and rhubarb. Try it next to top-shelf agave spirits, such as tequila and mezcal. All offer a taste of our hemispheres original and ancient foods, made glorious by Gustavo and Kate Romero.

Krewe

▪ ST. JOSEPH

Mateo Mackbee and Erin Lucas have worked hard to build community, promote diversity, and teach people about food outside the metro. The Nawlins flavors that permeate the menu are a beacon of friendship and good eating in the Northland at a restaurant that offers drive-worthy gumbo, étouffée, and bread pudding made from day-old baguettes baked in their neighboring Flour and Flower Bakery. They are about to launch a new concept, Joetown Smashburger, which will live in St. Josephs first food hall.

Mother Dough

▪ DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS

Why arent there more chef-driven coffee shops? This French-leaning one from David Fhima is really more of a caféyou cant deny the power of what his great-great-grandmothers 130-year-old starter will do for a menu. You may stop in for a latte, but youll undoubtedly leave with a prosciutto and butter baguette or an éclair, and for sure, at some point, a grilled cheese. Starting in an office building, Mother Dough is now in the Mill District, with plans to open more in the city this year.

LORING PARK, MINNEAPOLIS

Ann Ahmeds multilevel Loring Park playhouse is a smash hit because of seemingly rare qualities, such as affordability (think $14 pad Thai and weekday happy hour bargains) and variety (so many gluten-free, vegan, and paleo options). And theres Ahmed-specific magic, such as irresistible flavors that call to you at all times, especially those curries that are big-tasting and fragrant or that Lao sausage that is so terrifically herbal and zesty. Plus, it has the ability to seat scores of your friends, no reservations needed.

Clockwise from top: Squash nogada y más; huarache with mushrooms; Kate and Gustavo Romero.

Keefer Court

▪ EDEN PRAIRIE

When this small shopa Seven Corners institution feeding warm buns to generations of college students for 40 yearsannounced it would close in 2022, it was no surprise to see the outpouring of sadness. The partners of Asia Mall took heed and decided to bring it back this year. Though it has a shinier storefront and a few more Vietnamese offerings, the family-recipe Chinese buns, barbecue buns, and Lotus cakes are as great as ever.

Porzana

▪ NORTH LOOP, MINNEAPOLIS

Cooking food over fire has been happening for, oh, 8,000 years, give or take. More recently, one of the newest and best developments in fire cooking has been flame-focused Porzana. Top-shelf steaks, like the domestic Wagyu tomahawk, a kojiinoculated steak with a little umami oomph, bring innovation to what has been a pinkno pink tradition in town. But its not just meat that meets the grill: prawns, bread, broccolieven pasta comes with char in the modern world of fire tamers.

A Bar of Their Own

▪ SEWARD, MINNEAPOLIS

Now that were all caught up with the fact that everyone watches womens sports, it seems like our favorite local ladies league bar is, shall we say, ahead of the game? And yes, we love the Lynx fans who pack it for games, and the USWNT soccer fandom has a place for World Cup matches, but you know what else? The totchos are fire, the Tracys dry rub wings kill it every time, and the kimchi carnitas sandwich is, as the bar is, a game changer.

Saturday Dumpling Co.

▪ OLD TOWN, MINNEAPOLIS

Its been quite a year for Peter Bian and Linda Cao. The duo launched their online dumpling business during the pandemic and became a cult favorite for their collaboration dumplings with other chefs and the scallion pancake breakfast burrito people clamored for at pickup. Now, with their new fast-casual space in Old Town and more potential projects (like a concessions gig at Timberwolves games) on the way, theyre poised to be local dumpling royalty.

B-52 Burgers and Brew

▪ INVER GROVE HEIGHTS AND LAKEVILLE

Forepaugh’s

▪ IRVINE PARK, ST. PAUL

Who doesnt love a good resurrection? The stately mansion-restaurant came back to life thanks to owner Bruce Taher, who brought on Tim McKee to revive the menu. It feels familiar from when you went to a wedding there in the past, but theres new energy and a lovely sense of hospitality. Its here for you with classics like cioppino, beef Wellington, and brick-roasted half chicken (also having a revival in town).

Sanjusan

▪ NORTH LOOP, MINNEAPOLIS

When it opened in 2021, Sanjusan redefined how this Italian foodloving metro looked at pasta. With the introduction of Itameshi cuisine, Japanese and Italian fusion, we learned the beauty of ahi on pizza and nori on spaghetti. These days, chef Peter Thillen is taking it up a notch with Monday omakase dinners, creating smaller but more impactful small plates.

Cooks

Bellecour

▪ THREE METRO LOCATIONS

Out in suburbia, theres a local chain that debunks the myth that multi-unit means cookie-cutter cardboard boredom. Burgers here are award-winning. This crew was the first to take top honors at the Twin Cities Burger Battle for good reason: They think creatively, use great, fresh ingredients, and dont take themselves too seriously. Please enjoy their periodic table of wing seasonings and dips, which allows for 26 versions of wings, and thats even before you get experimental with mixing and matching.

The catering menu for big and small groups at Cooks Bellecour is the greatest thing to emerge from our back-to-theoffice culture change. Be a good boss and order in lunch while you take advantage of the fact that anyone would drop everything for one of Bellecours legendary flaky, lush, buttery, truly perfect ham and cheese croissants or gluten-free carrot muffins or a Bellecour salad. Court your workers back appropriately.

SPOTS Hot

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A NEW SPOT TO HAVE A BUZZY VIBE AND A PACKED DINING ROOM.

Myriel

▪ MAC-GROVELAND, ST. PAUL

When local chef hero Karyn Tomlinson popped up on CBS Mornings, they said shes making grandma chic cool. Grandmas rule! But also: How have we gotten so lost as a culture that handmade pie crust is breaking news? Just know that Myriels fame is unquestionably growing, Tomlinsons skills are undeniable, and if national media ever finds a way to accurately convey whats going on here, none of us will ever get a seat again. So get in while the gettings good!

Clockwise from top: A table crowded with duck breast and crab apple, lamb with delicata squash, lentils, pain perdu, and pie; the front corner table is the best seat in the house; Karyn Tomlinson.

Red PizzaWagon

▪ ARMATAGE, MINNEAPOLIS

Not many restaurant owners live in the same neighborhood as their restaurant. Peter and Jacquie Campbell live around the block from their pizza place, which gives them a unique insight into how to best serve the eaters who walk over for dinner. It also gives them the opportunity to bring work home, which, when its pizza, is a good thing. The duo have begun offering private gatherings and chef collaborations in their home, where theyve installed an oven like the one at the restaurant.

So Yen

▪ LOWERTOWN, ST. PAUL

Follow the line until you reach the donut counter at one of the most exciting bakeries in St. Paul. So Yen doesnt do too many thingsnot fancy croissants, not crazy tartsit just does lovely and creative hand-rolled and filled brioche donuts. The flavors rotate each month, and theres usually a seasonal treat like the pumpkin pie delight donut in November, but the best ones are the savory flavors, like an everything donut filled with sun-dried tomato cream cheese.

Bina’s

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS

Its no small feat to create a new bar that from the start feels, instead, like a classic, comfortable, time-worn small-town watering hole. With dreams of crafting this kind of place in the city, owner Jami Olson brought pieces of her own smalltown past to the walls of this good-time bar, which instantly had a following. And the menu, while never taking itself too seriously, delivers what you want to eat when you drink: dill pickle chips and dip, mozz sticks, a Wagyu butter burger, and high-class Jell-O shots.

Jellybean and Julia’s

▪ COON RAPIDS

Longtime fans will tell you they are OG supporters from the days when J&J was a food truck. That was before it become a cult burger spot with its first location in Anoka. Since fans will fan, the restaurant had to move to a bigger location in Coon Rapids this year, and the barbecue, burgers, and beef tallowfried fries are worth following. If you havent had the iconic PB&J brisket sandwichwith crunchy peanut butter, strawberry habanero jam, and pickled onions on the house-smoked brisketyet, just get in your car and go.

Paris Dining Club

▪ NORTH LOOP, MINNEAPOLIS

Its no small thing that Jamie Malone only just created a Grand Cafe signature meal box for the first time this past December for her Paris Dining Club. It calls back to that delightfully sophisticated pink room with dishes we remember: the pike quenelles, the carrots in carrot butter, that gilded foie gras egg that became an icon. But the team knows, while its good to look back and rekindle some fond memories, PDC is all about the future of restaurants one thats less hemmed in by tradition and more excited by possibilities.

My Burger

▪ TEN METRO LOCATIONS

The local burger chain hit a big mark this year. Far from the 10 billion sold of other fast food spots, this Abdo family project hit 10 locations with the opening of the Eagan store this year. Its a feat worth mentioning because it remains a Minnesota brand, using locally grown ingredients when able, and can deliver a fresh and flavorful griddle-cooked burger and fries for $10. And its rotation of Burger of the Month creative specials slaps.

Chimborazo

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS AND HIGHLAND PARK, ST. PAUL

The little Ecuadorian restaurant that has countless loyal fans did a surprising thing this year: It grew. Since 2009, people in Northeast have been stopping by for llapingachos empanadas, lomo saltado, and plantains aplenty, and now, after 15 years, people in the Highland Park neighborhood can learn the habit. The new shop is modern and bright, but it carries all the warmth and all the South American flavors of the original.

Burger Daddies

▪ FOOD TRUCK/VARIOUS LOCATIONS

If theres a harder-working food couple in the Twin Cities, we defy you to name them. Nikki and Brian Podgorski, the duo behind The Salsa Collaborative, have spent the last few years on the grind, defining themselves in the market with pop-ups, market stalls, and residencies. Theyve finally found a home for their award-winning burgers. Find Betty, the Burger Daddies truck, all over town with lacy-edged smash burgers and a line. Never count these two as done. Look for more innovations this year.

Marty’s Deli

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS

In a city that deserves more independent, dedicated sandwich shops, Martys is the template. Fresh-made focaccia is, yes, the secret foundation, but the sauce has to be the team inside. The crew putting up solid stacks, like the legendary Pool and Yacht chicken salad or the newest Gigi turkey sandwich with garden giardiniera, are friendly and helpful, seem to be having fun, and give off the great vibes you need as a side to your meal.

Bar Brava

▪ NEAR NORTH, MINNEAPOLIS

Bar Brava has made itself the center of the local natural wine scene since opening in 2019. These days, its also the go-to spot for up-and-coming culinarians who want to test the waters with a pop-up or residency. Whether its Khues Kitchen bewitching us with chicken sandwiches or Torsk with a beautifully Nordic pork schnitzel, our future food landscape is being sorted out at this bar. Watch the socials to know, truly, whats next.

HALL OF

Fame

THESE INSTITUTIONS ARE THE BEDROCK OF OUR EATING LANDSCAPE. ONCE HOT, STILL HOT.

Spoon and Stable

▪ NORTH LOOP, MINNEAPOLIS

Jet-setters know that theres only one restaurant in the Twin Cities the glamorous folk abroad are going to ask you about: Spoon and Stable. Gavin Kaysens first just hit a decade of influence. Its the home of the famous midnight-black Spaghetti Nero and the land of the arancini bar snack that impels North Loop creatives to wait outside for a bar seat. And, of course, we cant forget the sloppy, glorious Dirty French burger at brunch. Theres no question: Spoon has made its mark on our towns.

Owamni

▪

MILL

DISTRICT, MINNEAPOLIS

Owamni has been leading the global conversation about decolonized foods right from the downtown Minneapolis riverfront since it opened in 2021. But do we talk enough about the sensory pleasure of eating Indigenous cuisine? The wild gamey opulence of smoked elk, the rare pleasure of layers of sour sumac, the intensity of a berry cobbler where you can really taste the berries, not just the corn syrup. Food thats at once meaningful, healthy, and indulgent, with downtowns greatest river views.

Quang

▪ EAT STREET, MINNEAPOLIS

Yes, Quangs pho broth is deserving of foodie rhapsodyso lemongrass tangy! Yes, the pork chop brokenrice platters are the contemporary equivalent of our grandparents blue plates of yoreso filling, so tasty, so generous. But beyond any culinary feat of derring-do at this busy-all-day and busy-all-night restaurant, the wildly consistent and remarkably affordable Quang is us. The Seinfeld characters had their diner, the Gilmore girls had their spot, and all of Minneapolis has Quang.

Matts has gone full Eiffel Tower as the sort of city-defining tourist destination that gets filled to the brim in advance of every Twins or Vikings game. Lets not complain. Lets celebrate that the originator of the cheese-stuffed burger, the iconic Jucy Lucy, is getting ever more famous. Because then, when we sneak in on a random evening and score a prime booth for our own extra-griddled, extra-oniony, extra-Minneapolis-tasting Jucy Lucy, it feels downright glorious.

Clockwise from top: Roasted pork chop with delicata squash, mustard greens, embered squash puree, and crab apples; Gavin Kaysen at the pass; indoor/outdoor bar seating at the restaurant.

Yum! Kitchen and Bakery

▪ FOUR METRO LOCATIONS

Patti Soskin is not shy about mentioning that she might be the only woman in her 60s still opening new restaurants. And why shouldnt she shout that out? Her Yum! Kitchen and Bakery helped define the high-quality fast-casual sector, with the OG opening in 2005. She went farther west with Minnetonka and now heads east to St. Paul and Woodbury with her grilled chicken club, Fancy Schmancy tuna salad, and those killer fries. The Patticake will not be stopped, nor should it.

Billy Su i

▪ NORTH LOOP, MINNEAPOLIS

Visiting celebs must get a secret hotline number when deplaning their jets, one that gets them squired away to Billy Sushi. And yet, while it may be North Loops hottest fish shop for the glitterati, plenty of normal humans sit at the counter grabbing bites of the freshest-cut tuna, and tables of finance bros from Wayzata drink the most exclusive Japanese whiskeys next to a group of moms out for a night of sake bombs and Silly Billy rolls. Thats the gift: Everyone feels like a celeb at Billys.

El Burrito Mercado

▪ WEST SIDE, ST. PAUL

Heres one way to lead the good life: Put a cooler in your trunk and drive to El Burrito Mercado. Load up your shopping cart with pints of guacamole, pico de gallo, salsas, ready-to-heat guisados, tamales, and all the good stuff you need to feed yourself well for a month. Pack your haul into your cooler for safekeeping. Now head back into the restaurant for its famous quesabirria tacos, so big-tasting, so smoky and rich. Congratulations: You won life.

Mancini’s Char House

▪ WEST SEVENTH, ST. PAUL

Not all of the good old spots are going the way of the condo. Hopefully, we can count on the Mancini family, which some say is the real heart of hospitality in Capitol City, to hold strong. Well never be ready to say goodbye to deeply red high-backed booths, Wisconsin-grade Old Fashioneds with a cherry and orange slice, live-band dancing in the bar, and the baked potato thats always on the side. Some things cant change, ever. So, move along, developers. Keep eating, diners.

Sea Salt

Eatery

▪ MINNEHAHA PARK, MINNEAPOLIS

Who knew, way back in 2005, that a park concession stand serving ocean fish (not just lake fish!) in a park would still be courting huge lines nearly 20 years later? Whats the secret sauce? Is it the clam fries; the mahi tacos; the oil pan of oysters, shrimp, and pickled herring that feels so right next to the fast water of Minnehaha Falls? Or is it the limited season, which causes us to rejoice at the spring opening like we, too, are coming back to life? Or, honestly, is it the clam fries? You decide.

Alma

▪ MARCY-HOLMES, MINNEAPOLIS

Happy 25th anniversary! Through all those years, the good and the bad, the James Beard Awardwinning Alma has been setting beautifully prepared plates in front of appreciative diners. Check in on a classic that has been on and off the menu for 25 years: Wild Acres duck two ways, with the leg confit and the duck breast seared. Or check out something new, like the takeaway-for-two menu that means Alma can meet you where you are, even at home.

WEST SEVENTH, ST. PAUL

Since 1911, Cossetta has defined the Italian American food experience for the metro. Whether you go for the groaningly gargantuan ultra-cheesy pizza slices on a busy Friday night or you grab a box of cannoli and a coffee to enjoy while you do paperwork on a Tuesday morning, you know that two things are going to happen as soon as you tug open the heavy doors. Youre in step with the old country, yet tuned in to the new glory of abundance.

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS

That crust! Light as a feather, crisp as a bubble of dough sealed in the wood-fired inferno that makes every Young Joni pie so craveable. Get the pickle pie or the famed Korean pie with beef short ribs, add the chewy rice cakes and cheese (like an ultra-creamy mac and cheese), throw some pork spare ribs on the table, and ask yourself: Is there a better pizza dinner to be had in North America? Probably not.

Hai Hai

▪ NORTHEAST, MINNEAPOLIS

On a late night when youve been so busy, dash into Hai Hai. Get a cocktailmaybe the Calamansi Reviver, with its banana-vanilla-musky-undefinable flavors made even more intriguing with gin? Get a banana blossom Cobb salad and a coconut milk shrimp and grits. Then plunge into a world where each flavor is both distinct from the next and as harmonious as the elements in a quilt. How lucky are we to have Christina Nguyens James Beard Awardwinning food whenever we want?

As our Hall of Fame grows, year after year, we’ll bump honorees oﬀ The MSP 50 so as to keep room for the growing number of great restaurants in our midst. You’ll be able to ﬁnd them online in our Best Restaurants: Hall of Fame. Check out last year’s Class of ’23 before we add this year’s Class of ’24.

T M H S E P 50

Alma

528 University Ave. SE, Mpls., 612-379-4909, almampls.com

B-52 Burgers and Brew

5639 Bishop Ave., Inver Grove Heights, and 20751 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville, b52burgersandbrew.com

Bar Brava

The Camden Social

4601 Lyndale Ave. N., Mpls., 612-489-8073, thecamdensocial.com

Chimborazo

2851 Central Ave. NE, Mpls., 612-788-1328, and 508 Lexington Pkwy. S., St. Paul, 651-728-1483, chimborazorestaurant.com

Hai Hai

2121 University Ave. NE, Mpls., 612-223-8640, haihaimpls.com

Jellybean and Julia’s 2501 Coon Rapids Blvd. NW, Coon Rapids, 763-421-6119, jellybeanandjulias.com

Keefer Court

Asia Mall, 12160 Technology Dr., Eden Prairie, 952-600-5477, keefercourt.com

Krewe

24 College Ave. N., St. Joseph, 320-557-0083, krewemn.com

Lynette 3753 42nd Ave. S., Mpls., 612-223-8060, lynettemn.com

Mancini’s Char House 531 W. 7th St., St. Paul, 651-224-7345, mancinis.com

Marty’s Deli

400 Lowry Ave. NE, Mpls., 612-886-3952, martysdeli.com

Matt’s Bar 3500 Cedar Ave. S., Mpls., 612-722-7072, mattsbar.com

Picnic

4307 Upton Ave. S., Mpls., 612-505-0785, picniclindenhills.com

Pink Ivy

712 Mainstreet, Hopkins, 952-600-7290, pinkivymn.com

Porzana

200 N. 1st St., Mpls., 612-489-6174, porzanampls.com

Quang

2719 Nicollet Ave., Mpls., 612-870-4739, quang-restaurant.com

Red Wagon Pizza

5416 Penn Ave. S., Mpls., 612-259-7147, redwagon-mpls.com

Sanjusan

33 1st Ave. N., Mpls., 612-354-7763, sanjusanrestaurant.com

Saturday Dumpling Co. 519 Central Ave. NE, Mpls. saturdaydumpling.com

1914 Washington Ave. N., Mpls., 612-208-1270, barbravamn.com

A Bar of Their Own

2207 Franklin Ave. E., Mpls., 612-540-2574, abaroftheirown.com

Berlin

204 N. 1st St., Mpls., berlinmpls.com

Billy Sushi

116 1st Ave. N., Mpls., 612-886-1783, billysushi.net

Bina’s

1404 NE Quincy St., Mpls., 612-315-5540, binasbar.com

Black Duck

2900 NE Johnson St., Mpls., 612-331-1421, blackduckmpls.com

Bûcheron

4257 Nicollet Ave., Mpls., 612-255-5632, bucheronrestaurant.com

Burger Daddies

Food truck/various locations, @eatburgerdaddies, facebook. com/thesalsacollaborative, thesalsacollaborative.com

Cooks Bellecour Edina, Minneapolis, and St. Paul, cooksbellecour.com

Cossetta

211 W. 7th St., St. Paul, 651-222-3476, cossettas.com

Dario

323 Washington Ave. N., Mpls., 612-614-2560, dariorestaurant.com

Diane’s Place

117 14th Ave. NE, Mpls., 612-489-8012, dianesplacemn.com

El Burrito Mercado

175 Cesar Chavez St., St. Paul, 651-227-2192, elburritomercado.com

Forepaugh’s

276 S. Exchange St., St. Paul, 651-666-3636, forepaughs.com

Gai Noi

1610 Harmon Pl., Mpls., gainoimpls.com

Gia

5555 Xerxes Ave. S., Mpls., 612-274-7163, giampls.com

Mother Dough Bakery Two Capella Tower locations and Mill District, Mpls., 612-354-2025, motherdoughbakery.com

My Burger Ten metro locations, myburgerusa.com

Myriel

470 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul, 651-340-3568, myrielmn.com

Oro by Nixta

1222 NE 2nd St., Mpls., 612-200-8087, nixtampls.com/oro

Owamni

420 S. 1st St., Mpls., 612-444-1846, owamni.com

Parcelle 233 Hennepin Ave. E., Mpls., 612-875-7345, parcelleorganics.com

Paris Dining Club North Loop, Mpls. parisdiningclub.com

Sea Salt Eatery 4825 Minnehaha Ave., Mpls., 612-721-8990, seasaltmpls.com

So Yen

275 E. 4th St., St. Paul, 651-219-5175, soyendesserts.com

Spoon and Stable

211 N. 1st St., Mpls., 612-224-9850, spoonandstable.com

Starling

4925 Eden Ave., Edina, 952-295-8180, starlingmn.com

Vinai

1300 NE 2nd St., Mpls., 612-749-6051, vinai.com

Wells Roadside

3712 Quebec Ave. S., St. Louis Park, 952-277-7777, wellsroadside.com

Young Joni

165 13th Ave. NE, Mpls., 612-345-5719, youngjoni.com

Yum! Kitchen and Bakery Minnetonka, St. Louis Park, St. Paul, and Woodbury, yumkitchen.com

GET WARMED UP

by Studio MSP Editors

Whether it’s cradling a cup at a buzzy coffee shop in Nisswa, browsing an independent bookstore in Mankato, romancing in a remote cabin in Lutsen, swinging a golf club at a cool new brewery in Alexandria, or bellying up to an ice bar in Rochester— we’ve rounded up all the ways to winter in style.

Silvae Spiritus

ROMANTIC RETREATS

Seven dreamy stays to book right now.

By Jamie Korf

At Maplelag Resort, love ﬁnds its rhythm in the quiet moments, whether you’re cozying up by the crackling ﬁre, sharing a moonlit snowshoe trek, or slipping into the warmth of the hot tub beneath a retractable roof (perfect views for a snowfall!). Enjoy 24/7 coffee and homemade cookies, vintage décor, and repurposed train car cabins. Callaway, 218-375-4466, maplelag.com

Housed in a restored 1880s brewery, Fitger’s Inn weaves whimsy into every detail—exposed brick, antique furnishings, and original woodwork echo the building’s storied past. Each room feels like a step back in time with touches like claw-foot tubs and iron bedsteads while large windows ﬂood the space with sweeping views of Lake Superior. Stroll hand-inhand through the historic corridors, enjoy a glow-lit dinner at Fitger’s Brewhouse, or steal a quiet moment by the lake’s edge. Duluth, 218-722-8826, ﬁtgers.com

On the shores of Lake Koronis, Hive Resort transforms into a homey, snow-kissed retreat in the wintertime. Cut some figure eights across the frozen lake, carve trails on a fat bike, or savor twilight moments fireside. Just beyond the resort, get your hygge on at Millner Heritage Winery and Cidery, or sing along with the Beer Choir at Goat Ridge Brewing (or test your wits at Trivia Mafia). Paynesville, 218722-8826, bugbeehiveresort.com

If an actual visit to the City of Love isn’t in the cards, the Moulin Rouge House Bed and Breakfast in Mankato is your next best French-inspired bet—and it’s a sight for the senses. Picture this: rooms draped in Parisian ﬂair, a spiral staircase in the turret, fireplace-warmed rooms, and decadent pastries in the am. On the National Register of Historic Places, the inn dates back to 1886, when it was purchased by Lewis P. Hunt, owner of Mankato’s daily newspaper, Free Press Mankato, 507-5193400, moulinrougehouse.com

stately rooms to a grand staircase. Indulge at the on-site Scarlet Kitchen and Bar (the bacon and beer mac is a hearty respite in a bowl!); relax with a small-batch bourbon in The Port, on the hotel’s lower level; or unwind with a couple’s massage at the on-site spa, River Blu Salon DaySpa. Red Wing, 651-388-2846, st-james-hotel.com

from the on-site distillery, or partake in a free yoga class at the in-house studio. Rainy Lake, a heartbeat away from the hotel, ers stunning winter sunsets, starﬁlled skies, and an ideal backdrop for the Northern Lights. Ranier, 218-540-1932, cantileverdistillery.com

Bold red brick frames the St. James Hotel, a historic gem in Red Wing over-

Cantilever Hotel offers a chic boutique experience near Voyageurs National Park where couples can enjoy the rooftop hot tub and sauna, swill handcrafted spirits

Think of Ski Hill Cabins and Saunas as part rustic escape, part thermal oasis, and all architectural spectacle. Lovebirds can unwind in private Nordic saunas, cozy up by a personal outdoor hearth, or explore nearby ski slopes. It’s the perfect balance of style and seclusion. Lutsen, 218-248-5137, skihillcabins.com

PHOTO BY SPACECRAFTING PHOTOGRAPHY (SKI HILL CABINS); COURTESY OF KELLY FRANZ (CANTILEVER HOTEL)

Ski Hill Cabins

Cantilever Hotel

HOT SAUNA SPOTS

Sweat out the winter chills at these rejuvenating group experiences.

By Lindsey Scharold

Silvae Spiritus sizzles with wood-fired saunas and hot tubs (along with cold plunge, of course)—but forest bathing is what brings its offerings to another level of zen. Start your weekend of communal chill with full-moon forest bathing, then book a private guided sauna session. You and your squad can pool your resources and book a group stay at the luxurious guesthouse or the super-cute tiny house on the grounds, available through Airbnb. Finlayson, 323-929-7971, silvaespiritus.com

Ely Steam Sauna is a truly rustic experience. It’s Minnesota’s oldest public sauna (established in 1915), after all! Unwind in this traditional Finnish steamer after crossing these off vacay itinerary: morning coffee at Northern Grounds, shopping for new winter boots at Steger Mukluks, a visit to the International Wolf Center, and dinner at Boathouse Brewpub. Ely, 218-365-2984, elysteamsauna.net

Sisu and Löyly facilitates winter sauna excursions in downtown Grand Marais year-round and in Lutsen from November through April. Option A: Book a signature sauna sesh for you and

your friends in Grand Marais, or join the community sauna on a Wednesday night. Option B: Hang at North Shore Winery and groove to live music while sipping locally produced vino, then bop over to the mobile sauna with up to ﬁve pals and rotate between the chill-out tent, bonﬁre, and super-steamy sauna. Grand Marais, Lutsen, sisuandloyly.com

Silvae Spiritus

Sisu and Löyly

we don’t hibernate

During the long winter months, we don’t hibernate - and you shouldn’t, either! In the mood for outdoor adventures? Take to the snowy trails on a fat tire bike, hit the slopes of Mount Kato for some fast downhill fun, enjoy cross country skiing or snowshoeing on our miles of groomed trails and so much more. Looking for a cozy getaway? Indulge in some retail therapy and ﬁne dining topped off with a visit to one of the area’s award-winning wineries or breweries. In Mankato, you’ll ﬁnd plenty to do to chase the winter blues away.

SCAN TO SEE WHAT’S HOT THIS WINTER IN GREATER MANKATO

BEAN THERE?

A map to buzzy caffeination stations around the state.

By Natalie Larsen

Bemidji

From Red Bull drinks to jazzy coffee combos, such as banana split cold brew and blackberry white mocha, The Coffee District is a modern haven with punchy paint, velvet sofas, and plants to remind you it won’t always be winter. Six ﬂavors of grilled cheese and a maple sea salt latte are calling our names. 218-444-5252, thecoff eedistrict.squarespace.com

Two Harbors

Newly relocated into a very cutesy, very demure blue cabin snuggled off

Scenic Highway 61, Dream Cloud Coffee Roasters feels like a warm hug. The “Folktails” menu rotates seasonally, but if the fall feature cherry cardamom latte is there, just get it (trust us). dreamcloudcoffeeroasters.com

Walker

With textured tile ceiling and wood-paneled walls, Walker Bay Coffee Co gives vintage diner vibes—and the food might even live up to Mom’s cooking. 218-547-1183, walkerbaycoffee.com

Nisswa

Famous for its scones, StoneHouse Coffee and Roastery boasts two Nisswa locations and one Baxter shop. If your fave ﬂavors are more froo-froo, it also has ice cream drinks (’cause it’s always ice cream weather in the Bold North). 218-961-2326, stonehousecoffee.com

Brainerd

Forget Red Bull wings; Loco Espress Coffee House and Boutique offers your daily boost in a flight. 218-330-4335, locoespress.com

Alexandria

Half mod coffee shop, half boho boutique, The Edge Company ’s sip ’n’ shop experience is just what our snowy Saturdays have been craving. 320-4608880, shoptheedgeco.com

PHOTO BY EMILY COMNICK

(DREAM CLOUD COFFEE); RIVER ROCK COFFEE AND TEA

Dream Cloud

River Rock Coffee and Tea

St. Cloud

Cement floors, white walls, colorful murals, and spunky neon signs, all doused in natural light—Kinder Coffee Lab loves its cuppa almost (almost!) as much as Lorelai Gilmore. 320-330-9807, kindercoffeelab.com

Big Lake

Ember Coffee Co. is open all dang day on weekends and makes almost everything in store, from syrups to chai to house-roasted

Glide and Glow

Use the darkest months of the year to your advantage and navigate the trails by candlelight. —N.L.

Put your date night on ice thanks to Afton State Park’s Candlelight Walk The 3-mile loop trail is lined with thousands of candlelit luminaries. Though we love a good layeredup look, nothing fuels the warm, fuzzy feelings quite

beans. Psst, don’t sleep on the ceremonial matcha—it’s the real deal. 612-416-2588, embercoffee.co

Stillwater

Tucked into downtown Stillwater’s Main Street, Mon Petit Chéri is a portal to a Parisian café, complete with citrus ricotta pancakes, beignets, ham and brie baguettes, and soothing sips surrounded by kitschy vintage décor. 651-342-1528, mpcstillwater.com

Montevideo

Java River Coffee Shop has been around since 1998, ﬂanked in storied brick. The shop showcases local art, dishes up hometown desserts (thanks to Taterpie’s Sweet Treats), and crafts coffee—as only a small-town haunt can. 320-321-1555, javarivercoffeeshop.square.site

Mankato

That froth + espresso swirl has never looked so good as at River Rock Coffee and Tea,

quaint sister coffee shops (in Mankato and St. Peter) that go coffee-forward by using a smidge less milk in their drinks. Check the sourdough schedule for which artisan crust creation is in stock each day (rosemary cornmeal feels like a must). rrcoffee.com

Rochester

Forager Brewery takes its beverage offerings to the next level, combining craft cocktails, house-made juices, and an extensive beer list with their coffee specialties. foragerbrewery.com

Get yourself aquí—here. Merging two of our deepest obsessions, plants and coffee, Café Aquí is a mod, geometric oasis within Sargent’s Gardens. 507-884-8376, aqui.coffee

Café Steam melds warm brick with creamy coffee at its main location, where plants and artwork grace the walls, awash in waning winter sunlight. Get the cookie butter latte—thank us later. ordersteam.com

Dec. 28 | Candlelight Walk Sherburne History Center, Becker, 763-261-4433, sherburnehistorycenter.org

OLNH ERQÀUHV DW WKH WUDLO·V halfway point and at the visitor center—where the route starts and ends. Psst, even Fido (leashed!) is welcome on this cool winter walk. Feb. 1. Hastings, 651231-6968, dnr.state.mn.us

Dec. 31 | New Year’s Eve Party Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Eagan, 952-891-7000, co.dakota.mn.us

Jan. 3 | Luce Line State Trail Candlelight Walk Plymouth, 651-231-6968, dnr.state.mn.us

Jan. 24 | Gateway State Trail Candlelight Walk Stillwater, 651-231-6968, dnr.state.mn.us

Jan. 25 | Candlelight Hike Blue Mounds State Park, Luverne, 507-283-6051, dnr.state.mn.us

Jan. 25 | Lantern Loppet Mora, moraskiclub.org

Feb. 8 | Candlelight Event Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, Onamia, 320-532-3269, dnr.state. mn.us

Feb. 8 | Luminary Loppet Mpls., 612-604-5330, loppet.org

Feb. 15 | Candlelight Event Ney Nature Center, Henderson, 507-357-8580, neycenter.org

Feb. 22 | Winter’s Glow Candlelight Snowshoe Big Bog State Recreation Area, Waskish, 218-308-2328, dnr.state.mn.us

▲ More candlelit trails and treks

Café Aquí

At the core of your Duluth retreat, Pier B beckons with family-friendly amenities – play on the Sport Court, unwind in the outdoor hot tub, and WEZSV LEVFSV ZMI[W F] SYV ǻVI TMXW [MXL E HVMRO JVSQ MPSW 7IWXEYVERX

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Duluth, MN

BREAKING FOR

With golf simulators and axe throwing, these hop spots raise the bar on your typical bar. —N.L.

Blacklist Brewing Co. drops all kinds of unexpected in its brews to create a roster worthy of a road trip: a Belgianstyle ale brewed with cranberries; a hazy peachy beer that brings you a mouthful of late August; a mango Hefeweizen; and Spruce, an imperial IPA that “floats like a butterfly, smells like a tree.” Beyond breaking our taste buds with crazy combos, Blacklist is the first axe-throwing establishment in Duluth, offering three lanes of hatchet hurling. Duluth, 218-606-1610, blacklistbeer.com

Wear your best flannel and bring your Babe for full MN immersion at Roundhouse Brewery’s Wreck Room, with six lanes of axe throwing. Downstairs, the slew of suds sports transportationthemed names such as Juice Train, Angel Seat, and Night Shift—inspired by the train-

tracked history of the brewery. Nisswa, 218-963-2739, roundhousebrew.com

Green on the scene, Hook and Slice opened in February with golf simulators and club rentals (you can bring your own, too!), plus oven-ﬁred pizzas, apps, and cocktails. Call it an adult swing set. Alexandria, 320-391-5353, hookandslicemn.com

No wood-chopping experience needed at The Lumberjack , whose historic brick walls house axe-throwing lanes and a moody bar, complete with a patio in the alley for the real cold-hearted snow lovers. Stillwater, 651-705-6005, thelumberjackmn.com

In case you’ve forgotten what summer feels like—cold can in hand as you hit the front nine— Hackamore Brewing Company is here to remind you. In the outer burbs, golf simulators meet liquid gold in this more than 10,000-squarefoot space. Psst, in the year of Taylor, it feels like we gotta have a Swiftie hard slushy: pink lemonade, pineapple juice, raspberry sorbet—what’s not to love? Chanhassen, hackamore brewing.com

Axe throwing just makes sense somewhere with this much timber. From barn doors and brick walls to wooden tables and a chevron wood ﬂoor, Farm Town Brew Hall channels country vibes. And the beer list pours in from across the country—Florida to Oregon, plus a sprinkling of hometown treasures such as Indeed’s Pistachio Cream Ale and Pryes’s The Butcher’s Ale, a collab only available here and at neighboring Bourbon Butcher. Farmington, 651-3447600, farmtownbrewhall.com

Nothing too high-Brau here: , the newly opened Brau Cave is your neighborhood he shed, outﬁtted with two golf simulators, pool tables, darts, and TVs (no FOMO here), and of course there’s beer that’s been perfected over 25 years of brewing experience. Marshall, 507-929-2337, braubeer.com

Hackamore Brewing

The Lumberjack

Blacklist Brewing

SPLURGE ON Your self-care menu for pampering this season.

—L.S.

Darling ReﬂectionsSpa at Arrowwood Resort has a list of dreamy services for head-to-toe pampering. Choose from nail care and waxing to manuka honey facials, champagne and rose body exfoliation, and, of course, massages. Alexandria, 320-7595003, arrowwoodresort.com

Grand View Lodge

Copper Door Spa

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See their journey, get itineraries and #OnlyinMN insider tips at exploreminnesota.com

The Spa at Madden’s treat yourself to a seasonal special (like a pumpkin spice pedi), a Himalayan salt stone massage, or a CBD body wrap—or all three. Brainerd, 218-855-5917, maddens.com

Choose from a luxurious selection of services at Glacial Waters Spa at Grand View Lodge, including specialty areas like Ashiatsu massage, cupping, and neuromuscular therapy. Nisswa, 218-963-8700, grandviewlodge.com

The tailored options from Copper Door Spa at Chase on the Lake Resort mean getting a tried-and-true spa experience of the highest caliber. Narrow solely in on a foot-focused massage for your tired tootsies, or treat yourself to a new do, cut by an Aveda stylist. Walker, 218-547-8517, chaseonthelake.com

Copper Door Spa

ARCHITECTURE TO ADMIRE

Take a tour (or stay the night!) at one of these noteworthy Minnesota masterpieces.

—L.S.

Visit the lavish Victorian Foley Mansion for its exquisite interiors. Think: elaborate woodwork, breathtaking stained glass, and incredible light ﬁxtures. We dare you not to feel inspired after a one-hour tour. Immerse yourself in the elegant vibes of this historic home with a coffee and tea seating—or take a candlelit evening tour rounded out with champagne and treats. St. Cloud, 218-8494650, foleymansion.com

Time-travel with a unique Scandinavian heritage excursion at the site of a traditional Norwegian stave church—or at least a fullscale replica of one. The Moorhead Stave Church looks straight out of the Viking age (as does the Hjemkomst Center’s Viking ship!). The picture-perfect reproduction of the 12th-century structure, complete with 24,000 cedar shingles, is open for guided tours until December 31. Moorhead, hcscconline.org

House is available for tours—but only if you book an overnight stay. This is a total gem for anyone seriously interested in Midwestern art or midcentury architecture. Design highlights include the more than 100 windows, which pour natural light into the space; three ﬂoor-to-ceiling ﬁreplaces; and beautiful stone and woodwork. Experience Wright’s utopian vision of what a home should be and stay awhile! Austin, 507-438-9503, theelamhouse.com

Get a dose of Minnesota’s history and architecture with an indoor tour this season. The Mayowood Mansion in Rochester is the historic home of Dr. Charles Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic for which Rochester is so well known. Peek inside the estate’s expansive 38-room interior, where the family’s history and legacy are archived within the walls. Guided tours are about an hour long, and special Christmas tours are offered in November and December. Rochester, 507-282-9447, olmstedhistory.com

When in Rochester, stop by another historic offering from The Mayo Clinic: the Plummer Building. Marvel at this National Historic Landmark’s ornate relief carvings, tiling on the building’s exterior, and elegant marble in the lobby. Visit the third-ﬂ suite to see medical artifacts from Mayo’s history—including a Nobel Prize awarded in 1950 for the discovery of cortisone. Open for self-guided tours Monday–Friday from 9 am to 4 pm. Rochester, 507-284-2585, history.mayoclinic.org

The Frank Lloyd Wright–designed

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The Mayowood Mansion

Foley Mansion

Land in Proctor

Create your adventureowntoday!

BROWSE-WORTHY BOOKSTORES

These independent gems shine in towns near you. —L.S.

Why not pick up the latest Sally Rooney or the next book in your favorite series from an indie bookshop? Valley Bookseller is a veritable emporium for books and more in Stillwater. Its calendar is stacked with events, like mystery author cocktail hours, monthly book clubs, and writer talks, and there’s an on-site café if you want to crack that spine right away. Stillwater, 651-430-3385, valleybookseller.com

Get lost on a snowy afternoon in a labyrinth of shelves at Scout and Morgan Books . The independent bookstore is a staple in the community and stocks thousands of books for every kind of

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Scout and Morgan Books

reader (plus notebooks and stationery, of course). Make a day out of it and stop by City Center Cafe for an afternoon pickme-up, then hit the City Center Market’s deli for a bite. Cambridge, 763-689-2474, scoutandmorganbooks.com

Alongside Hearthside Books and nonﬁction, you’ll ﬁnd locally crafted gifts and goodies. From card-making classes to book clubs to author talks, the quaint shop is a champion of the hobby, and owner Char Klimek is keen on making reading recommendations. Stop by to pick up the latest romance title, and leave with a candle to smolder while you dig into your next page-turner. Watertown, 952-491-6010, hearthsidebooksmn.com

Once Read is exactly what you want from a used bookstore. Nestled in historic downtown Mankato, this little shop is packed ﬂoor-to-ceiling with printed matter. Pick up a tried-and-true classic (or ﬁve) you’ve been meaning to read, and check them off your winter reading list. Mankato, 507-388-8144

Valley Bookseller

FEBRUARY 8, 2025

11am-3pm

Downtown Buffalo

See large professionally flown kites color the winter sky. Free kites for kids, dogsled rides, ice games, food trucks and more! Bu ff aloChamber.org

Happenings

These cool events are a sure cure for winter blues. Call it your Minnesota advent(ure) calendar. By Lisa Rounds

Dec. 5 & 12 | Date Nights at Winter Lights

Stroll the Arboretum with your favorite person on a romantic evening under the stars as you soak in the light displays, listen to live music, and twirl the night away at a ballroom dance class. Reservations required. Chaska, 612-624-2200, arb.umn.edu

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Jan. 10–12 | Sandstone Ice Festival

Home to one of only a few ice climbing farms in the country, Sandstone leans into the season at its annual fest. Watch climbers strap on their crampons and come to grips with the old quarry walls in

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Robinson Park. For those interested in getting vertical, climbing clinics are offered, covering safety, equipment, swinging tools, and more. Sandstone, sandstoneicefest.com

Jan. 30 – Feb. 2 | Winona Ice Fest

For a southern Minnesota ice climbing experience, head to Winona for its second annual event, featuring climbing clinics, equipment demos, social events, and live music downtown. Winona, visitwinona.com

Feb. 7– 8 | Social-Ice

Downtown Rochester is THE place to be this winter weekend as it transforms into an icy oasis for the city’s signature February fête. Themed bars, signature drinks, and full-scale ice sculptures light up the night as DJs keep the beats pumping. Rochester, downtownrochestermn.com

Feb. 14–15 | Big Turn Music Fest

Discover up-and-coming local musicians from around the area and Midwest region. Pack your parka as you navigate from underground taverns to chapels, braving the outdoors and music genres along the way. Red Wing, bigturnmusicfest.com

YOU THINK #GULLLAKE IS COOL IN THE SUMMER? WAIT ‘TIL YOU SEE WHAT WE DO IN THE WINTER.

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The guides make room for stops along the way for scenic views and photo ops. Brainerd, 218-325-6411, SRZHUORGJHEUDLQHUG FRP

STAYCATION SEASON

By Natalie Larsen

We’re not ones to shy away when the weather turns frightful. From makers’ markets that level up your gifting game to festive bars that put the cheers in holiday cheer, these local hotels have decked their halls and rostered a lineup of events that feel like traditions waiting to happen. Go ahead, shed your layers and stay awhile.

Hewing Hotel

Holiday Afternoon Tea

Point those pinkies high (and channel your best Ted Lasso impressions) for high tea with festive ﬂair throughout December. These dates sell out quickly, so nab your seats now. Ongoing. The Saint Paul Hotel, St. Paul, 651-292-9292, saintpaulhotel.com

Reel & Relax: Minnetonka Ice Fishing Experience

Gain true Minnesotan points with a guided ice ﬁshing excursion on Lake Minnetonka, complete with a hotel stay and dinner at The Hotel Landing’s ground-ﬂoor restaurant, Ninetwentyfive, where chefs turn your fresh catch into a delicious meal. Ongoing. The Hotel Landing, Wayzata, 952-777-7900, thehotellanding.com

Lady Landing’s Holiday High Tea

Chase the chill out with a warm-up cup of tea, complemented by—of course—savory sandwiches and seasonal sweets. Through Mar. 31. The Hotel Landing, Wayzata, 952-777-7900, thehotellanding.com

Special Wine Dinner

The season’s candy cane stripe is reﬂected in a stellar lineup of reds and whites at

this winter wine dinner. Date TBD. JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, Bloomington, 612-615-0100, marriott.com

Nordic Village

This scandi celly offers the same cozy cabins you’ve enjoyed (or coveted!) in year’s past, dressed to the nines by MartinPatrick3. With a four-course meal and optional wine pairings, we can call this the full experience. Seating 24, The Lodge offerscocktails and is outﬁtted with a TV for game days and movie nights. New this year, Nordic Village apparel and accessories are part of a collab with luxe brands such as Faribault Woolen Mill. Nov. 1–Mar. 30. Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, Mpls., 612895-5700, fourseasons.com/minneapolis

Down Through the Chimney

Tucked into the vault level of the plantlittered oasis that is Hotel Emery in winter, this holiday pop-up bar complete with all the trimmings is Santa’s beverage workshop: from Java Jingle, Emery’s take on an espresso martini, to Xmas Cloud, a vodka drink garnished with a cotton candy cloud. The 21-plus libation lair is also partnering with Twin Cities Toy Drive—channel your

inner Santa. Nov. 21–Dec. 29. Hotel Emery, Mpls., 612-340-2000, hotelemery.com

The Naughty List Holiday Pop-Up Bar

Canopy by Hilton’s house restaurant, Umbra, is getting in the holiday spirits, shaking up festive cocktails that are just a little mischievous, like an eggnog-infused bourbon cocktail. Nov. 24–Dec. 31. Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District, Mpls., 612-332-0696, hilton.com

Northern Starlight Express

Pining for the Polar Express? All aboard this immersive culinary experience, where a prix ﬁxe menu of cocktails and small plates is served within a re-creation of a vintage train dining car, backdropped by an imaginative snow-laden landscape. Nov. 29–Jan. 4. Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot, Mpls., 612-375-1700, thedepotminneapolis.com

Sing-Along With Sister Celeste!

Whether your name is Carol or not, get your seasonal songs ready while learning about the history of popular holiday tunes and playing bingo. Nov. 29–Dec. 22.

Four Seasons

Nordic Village at the Four Seasons

Celeste Hotel, St. Paul, 651-243-1707, celestial-tours.com

Holiday Displays

Festive frills abound at Mall of America, and on Fridays and Saturdays in December, local high school choirs perform jolly jingles, alongside other weekend holiday happenings. Fri. and Sat. in Dec. Radisson Blu Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-314-5116, mallofamerica.com

Lobby Carolers

Sweater weather means crooning tunes in the decked-out lobby of The Saint Paul Hotel on Friday and Saturday evenings until Christmas. Fri. and Sat. in Dec. The Saint Paul Hotel, St. Paul, 651-292-9292, saintpaulhotel.com

Winter Markets

Browse baubles for everyone on your list at an outdoor market Saturdays and Sundays until Christmas. Bonus points for every layer you wear. Weekends through Dec. 22. Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, Mpls., 612-895-5700, fourseasons.com/minneapolis

12 Days of FireLake Cocktails

Offered through December, a 12 Days of Cocktails–themed menu includes a Candy Cane Martini; the Sugar Plum Fairy with gin, violet cream liquor, and edible glitter; and a Gingerbread White Russian. Through Dec. 25. Radisson Blu Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-314-5116, ﬁrelakerestaurant.com

Advent Cocktail Calendar

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Celebrate the shrinking number of days between us and the jingly holiday with an advent calendar of cocktails. With decked halls and walls, on-site restaurant, Twin Cities 400 Tavern, features a different seasonally inspired libation each day until December 25. Beginning Dec. 1. Delta Hotels by Marriott Minneapolis Northeast, Mpls., 612-331-1900, marriott.com

Brunch with Santa at Mara

Mara’s festive feast includes a live carving station; a small-bites selection; breakfast classics such as pancakes, waffles, and eggs; and a dessert buffet. Plus, gingerbread cookies are begging to be decorated. Dec. 1 and 8. Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, Mpls., 612-895-5700, fourseasons.com/minneapolis

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Winter Village

’Tis the season when The Westin transforms into its Winter Village, a seasonal snapshot of the Swiss Alps (sans the plane ride). A luxury log lodge becomes the Après Chalet Cabin, and the house restaurant offers gondolastyle dining, plus horse-drawn carriage rides, afternoon tea, festive cocktails, live music, and clinking champagne glasses. The afternoon of December 4, the season starts with a grand opening, for which reservations are required. Beginning Dec. 4. The Westin Edina Galleria, Edina, 952-567-5000, edinaweekendwonders.com/wintervillage

Chalet Dining

The Swiss ski village vibes are strong with a heated courtyard chalet, where the fondue is ﬂowing and the bubbly is frosty— all that’s missing is you in your finest fur hat. Beginning Dec. 4. The Westin Edina Galleria, Edina, 952-567-5000, edinaweekendwonders.com/wintervillage

The Westin Edina Galleria’s Winter Village

celebration of Saint Nicholas Day. Dec. 6. Radisson Blu Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-314-5116, ﬁrelakerestaurant.com

Reindeer Games

Calling all dancers and prancers—get your ruby-nosed pics with a pair of reindeer on this pre-holiday afternoon. Dec. 7. Radisson Blu Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-314-5116, ﬁrelakerestaurant.com

It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play

Returning to this St. Paul sentry for its 18th season, the live radio rendition of It’s a Wonderful Life recounts the classic ﬁlm during a three-course lunch or dinner. Psst, this year, premium ﬁrst- and second-row seating is available. Dec. 13–15, 19–24. The Saint Paul Hotel, St. Paul, 651-292-9292, saintpaulhotel.com

Gingerbread Decorating

The icing on your holiday season: piping the sweet stuff onto gingerbread shapes in the JW Marriott’s lobby lounge. Dec. 14. JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, Bloomington, 612-615-0100, marriott.com

Brunch with Santa at FireLake

There’s more than milk and cookies at this jolly feast featuring the big guy. Bring a donation for Radisson’s Toys for Tots drive and get a free snapshot with Santa. Dec. 15. Radisson Blu Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-314-5116, ﬁrelakerestaurant.com

Holiday Market Pop-Up

Check your list twice before hitting this wrapping-ready pop-up, stuffed with locally made goods, artisan treats, and unique gifts, slated to set up shop on a Saturday afternoon this month.

15. Hewing Hotel, Mpls., 651-468-0400, hewinghotel.com

Windows at Marquette Skyline Brunch

With 360-degree views of downtown Minneapolis from the 50th floor of the IDS Center, Skyline Brunch might be the coolest place to take in the snowscape.

15. Marquette Hotel, Mpls., 612-333-4545, skylinebrunch.com

Marquette Lounge

The hotel’s lounge brings the merrymint the weekend preceding Christmas with a holiday peppermint drink special. Dec. 18–22. Marquette Hotel, Mpls., 612-333-4545, themarquettehotel.com

Christmas Eve at

The St. Paul Grill

Plan an unforgettable event at Smash Park!

We provide endless fun including pickleball, axe throwing, duckpin bowling, an arcade and more. Planning is easy with customizable packages, and our delicious food, drinks, and vibrant atmosphere.

1721 County Rd C West, Roseville smashpark.com/roseville/

Right off the twinkling glow of Rice Park, The St. Paul Grill has a special menu for Christmas Eve. Talk about merry and bright. Dec. 24. The Saint Paul Hotel, St. Paul, 651-292-9292, stpaulgrill.com

Christmas Dinner at FireLake

Ditch the apron and treat your peeps to a special Christmas menu at Radisson Blu’s FireLake, including pan-seared sea scallops with garlic lemon butter; prime rib with parsnip mash, roasted tomato,

Host an event as magical as our natural setting.

Plan an event to remember at one of the many beautiful event spaces at the Minnesota Zoo. From private parties to corporate meetings, our event planners are ready to make your day remarkable. Explore your options at MNZoo.org/private-events

and whipped horseradish; and midnight chocolate cake with cappuccino mousse. Dec. 24–25. Radisson Blu Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-314-5116, ﬁrelakerestaurant.com

Christmas Day Buffet at Mara Your feast just got a bit more festive thanks to Mara’s live carving station and Mediterranean appetizer selection, with hummus and baba ghanoush, plus cocktail creations with house-made eggnog. Dec. 25. Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, Mpls., 612-895-5700, fourseasons.com/minneapolis

Christmas Dinner at Cedar and Stone

JW Marriott’s house restaurant dishes up delicious with an exclusive Christmas Day menu, featuring celeriac bisque, rosemary roasted prime rib, and white chocolate raspberry pavlova. Dec. 25. JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, Bloomington, 612-615-0100, marriott.com

Reindeer Games at Radisson Blu Mall of America

"F*ck It, We Ball" Pre-NYE Party

Savor the ﬁnal Friday of 2024 with DJs, dancing, signature cocktails, and a free digital selﬁe booth to capture the evening. Dec. 27. Hewing Hotel, Mpls., 651-4680400, hewinghotel.com

A Very Vikings Viewing Party Purple people, get your party pants to Aloft in downtown Minneapolis for the ﬁnal Vikings–Packers game of the year with drink specials and a (ﬁngers crossed) Vikings win. Dec. 29. Aloft Minneapolis, Mpls., 612-455-8400, marriott.com

The Crystal Ball New Year’s Eve Crown your year at the tippy top of the IDS Center. Windows at Marquette offers panoramic views of the lightstudded downtown skyline, plus four rooms of entertainment, bars, and seating and a complimentary glass of champagne. Dec. 31. Marquette Hotel, Mpls., 612-333-4545, crystalballmpls.com

Saint Paul Hotel

the best BBQ in Minneapolis

NYE at the Hewing

Don’t drop the ball on your New Year’s plans—do the midnight mamba at the Hewing’s bar and lounge with a DJ turning tunes and a champagne toast with the countdown. Dec. 31. Hewing Hotel, Mpls., 651-468-0400, hewinghotel.com

New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu

For the early(ish) birds, Mara serves up a four-course tasting menu ( psst , add the wine pairings—you know you want to) from 5 to 9:30 pm that’ll keep you full until 2025. Dec. 31. Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, Mpls., 612-895-5700, fourseasons.com/minneapolis

New Year’s Eve Party

We’re in our midnights era, and the Four Seasons knows it: Mara’s celebration spills into the lobby with a champagne bar and DJ to cap the night. Dec. 31. Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, Mpls., 612-895-5700, fourseasons.com/minneapolis

Mara at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

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2024 MINNEAPOLIS SAINT PAUL

DR. GERVAIS, DR. GARRETT GRIFFIN, AMY HENDEL , RICK HENDEL, DR. AMY E. GARRETT GRIFFIN, AMY HENDEL,

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HUGHES, DR. MAHMOUD KABALAN, DANNY KING, KENNY KING, KATIE KLUG, GARY HES, GA KING HE J. KRAEMER, JEFF D. KRAEMER, JOHN R. KRAEMER, DR. ALEXIS LIPPE, MINNETONKA

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DR. DAVID SCHULTZ, JIM SLATER, STANDARD HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, DR. . DAVID D JIM AI . DA

SCOTT STAYNER, DR. STEFANO M. SINICROPI, DR. LARRY STUDT, DR. CHRISTOPHER COTT STU

Whether keeping us warm or helping our community’s well-being, we want to introduce you to the exceptional people behind some of the Twin Cities most successful businesses. The faces on the following pages help us all to live our best lives.

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TOLAN, DR. ANNA BAKEMAN, DR. ERIN BETTENDORF, DR. ZACHARY FARHOOD, ZACHA DR TONY FERRARO, DR. CODY FOSTER, DR. GERVAIS, DR. GARRETT GRIFFIN, AMY GRIF FOSTER, G

HENDEL RICK HENDEL, DR. AMY E. HUGHES, DR. MAHMOUD KABALAN, DANNY KABALAN, D MAHM KING, KENNY KING, KATIE KLUG, GARY J. KRAEMER, JEFF D. KRAEMER, JOHN R. KATIE KLUG, JEF KRAEMER, DR. ALEXIS LIPPE, MINNETONKA PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NICK PLACE, DR. RAEMER, D SC

PETER SCHULTZ, DR. SEBASTIAN SCIEGIENKA, DR. DAVID SCHULTZ, JIM SLATER, TER DAVID SCHULTZ, SLATER DR. DAV SE STANDARD HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, DR. SCOTT STAYNER, DR. STEFANO M.

NDARD HEATING & NDARD HEATING & A SINICROPI, DR. LARRY STUDT, DR. CHRISTOPHER TOLAN, DR. ANNA BAKEMAN, DR. CROPI, NICROPI, TOLA DR. S ERIN BETTENDORF, DR. ZACHARY FARHOOD, TONY FERRARO, DR. CODY FOSTER, ZACHARY FOSTER, N F

DR. GERVAIS, DR. GARRETT GRIFFIN, AMY HENDEL , RICK HENDEL, DR. AMY E. DR. GARRETT GRIFFIN, AMY HENDEL , RICK HENDEL, AMY E. RVAIS, GARRETT AMY HUGHES, DR. MAHMOUD KABALAN, DANNY KING, KENNY KING, KATIE KLUG, GARY MOUD KING, NY K J. KRAEMER, JEFF D. KRAEMER, JOHN R. KRAEMER, DR. ALEXIS LIPPE, MINNETONKA D. RAEMER, D

PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NICK PLACE, DR. PETER SCHULTZ, DR. SEBASTIAN SCIEGIENKA, S, NICK PLACE, SEBASTIAN SCIEGIENKA, R SCHUL

DR. DAVID SCHULTZ, JIM SLATER, STANDARD HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, DR. ULTZ, DR LATER, HE DA SCOTT STAYNER, DR. STEFANO M. SINICROPI, DR. LARRY STUDT, DR. CHRISTOPHER ER, STEFANO M. CHRISTOPHE FANO D . TOLAN, DR. ANNA BAKEMAN, DR. ERIN BETTENDORF, DR. ZACHARY FARHOOD, FARHO EMAN, DR. BETT R. ERIN BETT TONY FERRARO, DR. CODY FOSTER, DR. GERVAIS, DR. GARRETT GRIFFIN, AMY ODY G TER,

SLATER REALTY GROUPCOLDWELL BANKER REALTY’S

Jim Slater

The FACE of High Net Worth Real Estate

Jim Slater is a high net worth luxury agent with over 30 years of experience, operating in both the Twin Cities and Southwest Florida. He has built a distinguished career serving celebrities, rock stars, pro athletes, and top executives. Jim prides himself in selling more than just homes—he sells lifestyles and memorable experiences; a carefully curated journey that embodies the sophistication, exclusivity, and prestige associated with the homes themselves. “The Slater Way” is Jim’s signature customer experience, elevating how the wealth advisory experience is backed by a brand that represents more than just a name—it is a promise—a guarantee of unparalleled service, discretion, and distinction. This brand stands for more than luxury real estate, but a commitment of preeminence, greatness, and a level of service that their clients will get nowhere else. Jim’s high level of concierge service, dubbed the “I got you service,” fosters enthusiasm and transforms clients into loyal ambassadors. Through this dedication, he doesn’t just create satisfied customers; he cultivates raving fans of the SRG luxury brand.

slaterrealtygroup.com jim@slaterrealtygroup.com 612-590-1802

Jim Slater, President & CEO

STANDARD HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING’S

Wesley, Alex & Jon

The FACE of Duct Cleaning

When was the last time you considered what’s lurking within your home’s hidden passageways? If it’s been a minute, you’re not alone—most of us don’t. But the reality is that these pathways can collect dust, debris, and allergens over time, affecting your indoor air quality more than you realize.

According to the EPA, Americans on average spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, where the concentrations of some pollutants are often two to five times higher than typical outdoor concentrations.

When SHAC cleans your ducts, it’s not just about what’s in the air, but what’s safely removed from it. Certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA)—a credential that ensures technicians use proven methods to target allergens, improve air quality, and enhance overall efficiency—the duct cleaning team captures debris in a large balloon (peep the photo!), keeping dust and allergens from making their way back into your living space.

Besides promoting healthier air, regular whole-home air duct cleaning can extend your HVAC’s lifespan and banish stubborn smells. With Wesley, Alex, and Jon leading the charge, Standard’s duct cleaning is more than just routine maintenance; it’s a thorough, NADCA-certified process that elevates the air you breathe.

standardheating.com 612-824-2656

Wesley, lead duct cleaner; Alex, lead duct cleaner; Jon, lead duct cleaner, certified ventilation inspector (CVI), air system cleaning specialist (ASCS)

MIDWEST FACIAL

PLASTIC SURGERY’S

Dr. Sebastian Sciegienka, Dr. Christopher Tolan, Dr. Zachary Farhood, Dr. Garrett Gri ffi n, Dr. Anna Bakeman

The FACE of Aging Gracefully

Dr. Sebastian Sciegienka; Dr. Christopher Tolan; Dr. Zachary Farhood; Dr. Garrett Griffin; Dr. Anna Bakeman

JOHN KRAEMER & SONS’

Jeff . Kraemer,

Gary J. Kraemer, John R. Kraemer

The FACE of Luxury Home Building

Founded in 1978 by current president Gary Kraemer and his late father, John, John Kraemer & Sons has become renowned for custom luxury homebuilding and remodeling. Their forty-six-year history, built upon a foundation of ethics and integrity, has been rewarded with being named Builder of the Year five times, making them the only five-time winner of the award in its history. They work individually with each of their clients on a 100-percent open-book basis, where every invoice, receipt, bid, and discount is disclosed to their clients at all times. Gary is not only proud of John Kraemer & Sons’ fortysix-year past, but is even more excited for the future. With two of his three sons, John & Jeff, in the business, their clients can take comfort in knowing that John Kraemer & Sons will be around well into the future to build, remodel, and most importantly, service their homes.

Jeff Kraemer, VP , Gary Kraemer, President; and John Kraemer, VP

HUGHES DENTAL’S

Dr. Amy E. Hughes

The FACE of Creating the Smile You Want

Hughes Dental is a comprehensive dental clinic with a focus on smile makeovers. They believe that getting the smile that you want can change your entire outlook on life. When you love how your teeth look, you smile more, which makes you appear happier and more confident. Confidence gives you a boost to try new things and be more resilient to stress. Dr. Hughes is accredited in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and is also a graduate of the Kois Center (over 70 post-graduate credits in comprehensive dentistry). She is also the past president of the Minnesota Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. During her more than 20 years in practice she has been passionate about helping her patients get the smile they want. Dr. Hughes offers free virtual smile makeover consults as well as financing options.

Hughes-dental.com 952.936.2206

Amy Hughes, Dentist and Founder

MINNEAPOLIS PLASTIC SURGERY’S

Dr. Gervais

The FACE of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Whether you are younger, older, female or male—Dr. Gervais has received extensive training in all aspects of plastic and reconstructive surgery, and has over 30 years of experience in performing these procedures. He began his education with a degree in biology from the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul. He earned his medical degree at the University of Minnesota. His seven years of post-graduate surgical training included five years at Boston University and two years of specialist training at Vanderbilt University. Dr. Gervais has performed more than 12,000 breast, body and facial cosmetic procedures in his fully equipped and accredited on-site surgery center. Patients have traveled from all over the U.S., Canada, Europe, Asia and South America to see Dr. Gervais.

Dr. Gervais has built a strong reputation as a caring and highly skilled physician. Trust your body to no one else!

mpsmn.com

763-545-0443

Douglas L. Gervais, M.D., F.A.C.S.

The Gorman Center for Fine Dentistry’s Dr. Alexis Lippe The FACE of Cosmetic and Complete Health Dentistry

Dr. Lexi Lippe is an aesthetic prosthodontist recruited from Long Island, New York. She is recognized for her cosmetic smile design and problem solving ability. With her specialty in prosthodontics, she has the ability to expand her expertise to include replacement of missing teeth, full arch restorations, and complex care management.

Dr. Lippe is carrying on the tradition of excellence in cosmetic dentistry at The Gorman Center for Fine Dentistry, as she is perfecting her abilities in aesthetic prosthodontics and general cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Lippe believes in always putting her patients first – that means not just treating the symptom, but also making sure to listen, hear and value her patients’ input. She is sought out by those seeking a natural looking cosmetic result and patients trust her expertise and knowledge.

With her taking over leadership at The Gorman Center, Dr. Lippe’s expertise and skills elevate the practice’s ability to provide highquality dental care. Whether you’re looking for cosmetic enhancements or require complex dental solutions, Dr. Lippe is ready to meet your needs.

Call Dr. Lippe’s team today for a complimentary consultation or second opinion. They welcome patients of all ages! For further convenience, refer to her website or instagram bio for a virtual consult that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Follow Dr. Lippe: @drlexilippe

Dr. Alexis Lippe

Hendel Home’s Amy & Rick Hendel

The FACE of Architectural Custom Homes & Renovations

Hendel Homes fosters meaningful partnerships among clients, architects, designers, and tradespeople. Rick and Amy Hendel have an innate ability to implement a personal, designstyle approach. They take time to understand each client’s style and desires, as well as what is necessary to build notable projects. They do not focus merely on the final outcome of a building project, but on every detail along the way. “A service mindset means we listen to more than just our clients’ words,” Rick said. “It is the essence of our entire consultative and collaborative style. We approach each task with humility, honoring the wisdom and solutions of our collaborators.

Our clients have confidence and trust in us because they see we always have their best interests in mind. As builders with decades of experience, we deliver architecturally intricate homes with uncompromising quality. Through careful project planning and materials selection, we construct sound structures.

Our work is more than project management—we infuse everything we do with a high level of industry and design expertise and respect for our clients.” To recognize their engagement with their clients, work with partners, and commitment to customer satisfaction, Amy and Rick, and the Hendel Homes team were awarded Builder of the Year 2014 and 2022 by Housing First Minnesota, along with many other local and national achievement and design awards.

hendelhomes.com 952-404-7204

Amy & Rick Hendel Owners

HYPERCHARGE CLINIC’S

Stefano M. Sinicropi M.D.

The FACE of Integrative Solutions to Restore Health and Wellbeing

Stefano M. Sinicropi M.D., Founder / Chairman

KING BROTHERS CLOTHIERS

Kenny King, Danny King

The FACE of Custom Suits

Twin brothers and business partners, Kenny and Danny King, bring an unapologetically luxury bespoke suiting experience and product to the Midwest. The King Brothers’ expertise, sensibility, and tightly tailored process makes them highly sought after for high net worth individuals, professional athletes, executives, and people getting married alike. Their specialty is perfectly fitting even tough-to-fit bodies and making their clients look and feel great. The King Brothers pride themselves on running a custom-only, appointment-only shop you’d be most likely to find in New York City’s Upper East Side or SoHo neighborhoods, but located in Northeast Minneapolis. If you’re interested in working with King Brothers Clothiers, it will require you make an appointment, and have a general sense of what you’re looking to purchase. Once you’ve decided to work with them, you can rest assured you will be in highly experienced and impeccably dressed hands.

kingbrosclothiers.com

Kenny King and Danny King, Founders and Master Bespoke Clothiers

UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS’ Dr. Mahmoud Kabalan

The FACE of Grid Resiliency Research

Dr. Mahmoud Kabalan is a professor of electrical engineering and founding director of the Center for Microgrid Research at the University of St. Thomas School of Engineering in St. Paul, Minnesota.

A leader in power engineering, Kabalan has secured over $22.6 million in grants for electric grid resiliency research, including the prestigious NSF CAREER grant. His work has received support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Minnesota Department of Commerce, and National Science Foundation. Microgrids improve grid resiliency by providing localized, independent energy generation and storage, enabling continued operation during outages and reducing reliance on the central grid.

As one of the few centers of its kind in North America offering hands-on education and training, St. Thomas students and professionals engage in groundbreaking projects, gaining practical experience developing microgrid technologies impacting climate change and sustainable energy solutions. Kabalan is committed to addressing energy needs now and in the future.

engineering.stthomas.edu/ centers/microgrid-research/ 651-962-5598

Mahmoud Kabalan, PhD, PE, Professor and Founding Director of the Center for Microgrid Research

NURA PAIN CLINICS’

Dr. Scott Stayner, Dr. Erin Bettendorf

Dr. Larry Studt, Dr. Cody Foster, Dr. Peter Schultz, Dr. David Schultz, The FACE of Pain Relief

BRIDGEWATER BANK’S

Tony Ferraro, Katie Klug, Nick Place

The FACE of Local Business Banking for Entrepreneurs

As an entrepreneur, you’re boldly pursuing your vision, breaking down barriers, and seizing opportunities to shape the future. To support that journey, you need a local banking partner who is a catalyst for your success—one who truly understands the Twin Cities market and the unique opportunities and challenges you face.

At Bridgewater Bank, we understand entrepreneurs because we were founded by local entrepreneurs. We’re on a mission to equip fellow Twin Cities business owners, like you, with the responsive support and simple solutions you need to succeed at each stage of your entrepreneurial journey.

From connecting you to our robust network of industry leaders to offering flexible lending options and treasury management solutions, we provide the tools you need to thrive. We’re nimble, responsive, and just as invested in your growth as you are. With Bridgewater, you’re gaining more than a bank—you’re gaining a true partner in your success.

BWBMN.com 952-893-6868

Tony Ferraro, Managing Director Commercial Banking; Katie Klug, Managing Director Deposits and Treasury Management; Nick Place, Chief Banking Officer

MINNETONKA PUBLIC SCHOOLS’ MOMENTUM Aviation Program

The FACE of Educational Excellence

Minnetonka Schools is a leader in providing innovative, personalized opportunities for students across Minnesota. MOMENTUM, Minnetonka’s reimagined technical education program, offers a variety of hands-on pathways for students to pursue potential careers in the skilled trades, from construction and manufacturing to automotive and aviation. As part of the MOMENTUM Aviation program, students learn to fly with stateof-the-art flight simulators, gain hands-on experience with drone piloting and even engage in realworld flying experiences. Shown here, an MHS student takes part in her first flight. The program teaches students the skills they need to soar to new heights in their future careers.

“We’re committed to supporting each student in discovering their passions and reaching their potential,” said Minnetonka High School Principal Jeff Erickson. “Opportunities for experiential learning are key in helping students to explore their interests, apply learning in realworld contexts and prepare for critical roles in the workforce.”

minnetonkaschools.org 952.401.5000

Camille P., Minnetonka Schools MOMENTUM Aviation Student

SECOND LIFE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

being in the space, even in street clothes and without her dance mates around, puts Meisner at ease.

“There are plenty of days when I’m just like, ‘Man, I’m so tired; I’ve had such a rough week,’” she says of waking up for her early Saturday morning pilgrimages from Fridley to St. Paul for class. “But every time I leave, I am always so happy that I came. I’ve never once said, ‘Gosh, I wish I would’ve stayed home.’”

Best yet, at Ballet Co.Laboratory, Meisner got more than just a new dancing world where she can escape politics; she got the opportunity to do something she never imagined she would: audition for a professional production. It’s something she initially balked at, but then she thought about women like Georgia O’Keeff, who she tells me prove that you “can start a career at any age or just out of curiosity

and out of just learning something.”

Her tryout wasn’t perfect. Far from it. But the instructor saw something special in Meisner’s performance. Here was a person who made up for her lack of technical prowess with her unmistakable passion for the craft. Moved, her instructor punched Meisner’s ticket to join the ensemble.

“As women, we often tuck our own dreams away and lift up the dreams of others: spouses, partners, friends, and children,” Meisner said last year as she concluded her “Secret Life” speech. “It is never too late or impossible for you to live out your dream. I tell you this because even though I really did have a horrendous audition, I made the cut. I went back to my teacher and said, ‘Uh, were we at the same audition?’ She told me that even though my technique was far from perfect, she could see I had a lot of heart and great potential.”

Making the cut earned Meisner a spot onstage last Christmas in Ballet Co.Laboratory’s production of Nutcracker

in Wonderland at the now-shuttered Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts. And the only reason the self-described “oldest ballerina you know” (she’s only in her early 50s, by the way) won’t be dancing in this Christmas’s production is because her intense campaign and work schedule didn’t allow for it.

“Thank you so much for listening to my story,” she concluded her speech that day. “I’m Mandy Meisner, Anoka County commissioner.”

Then again, we think she really meant to say, “I’m Mandy Meisner, ballerina.” ■

Mpls.St.Paul, The Magazine of the Twin Cities, incorporating Twin Cities and MPLS. Magazine, Volume 52, Number 12. © 2024 MSP Communications. All rights reserved. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork; they will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Send materials to Mpls.St.Paul, 953 Westgate Drive, Suite 107, St. Paul, MN 55114. Telephone 612-3397571. Mpls.St.Paul (USPS 132510) is published monthly by MSP Communications, 953 Westgate Drive, Suite 107, St. Paul, MN 55114. Subscriptions are available for $19.95 per year; outside Minnesota and Wisconsin, $19.95 plus $4 postage. Periodicals’ postage paid at Saint Paul, MN, and additional mailing oﬃces. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (see DMM 507.1.5.2); NONPOSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: Send address corrections to Mpls.St.Paul, P.O. Box 6194, Harlan, IA 51593.

1996

Blane David Nordahl, son of acclaimed Albert Lea painter David Nordahl, is arrested outside of a Wisconsin Walmart. Nordahl pleads guilty to a string of daring cat burglaries and goes to prison. Ivana Trump is among his wealthy victims (he stole $50K worth of saltshakers).

2018

The Cafe Meow opens on Hennepin Avenue. When they lose their street parking, the owners decide to close the original location, but they ﬁnd a new life in Roseville. A second location is now open in New Hope.

2019

Cats

According to the Chinese zodiac, technically, 2024 belongs to the dragon, but with all the talk about lynx, tigers, and cat ladies, you’re forgiven if you assumed it was the year of the cat. And looking back on Minnesota’s long history with the feline, you deﬁnitely weren’t the ﬁrst.

by steve marsh

1886

Eccentric ﬁshmonger Robert “Fish” Jones imports a herd of exotic animals, including lions and jaguars, and brings them to his three-acre farm in Minneapolis. His prized lion, Hiawatha, is named after the poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

1984

With the number of Canada lynx—along with the bobcat, another one of three wildcat species native to Minnesota—in rapid decline, Minnesota makes trapping the cat illegal.

1999

The Women’s National Basketball Association expands to two markets: Minneapolis and Orlando. More than 12,000 fans see the Minnesota Lynx defeat the Detroit Shock 68–51 at Target Center.

2017

Cat lover and podcaster John Edwards organizes his ﬁrst cat tour in the Wedge. He leads a small group around his neighborhood, pointing out 20 of his favorite cats. The Cat Tour now draws hundreds of attendees and makes national news.

The greatest Lynx player of all time, Maya Moore, steps away from basketball at the height of her career to free Jonathan Irons, a man unjustly imprisoned in her hometown. They fall in love and, after she helps to free him, marry and have children. Moore never returns.

1928

New Ulm’s Wanda Gág, working as an illustrator in New York, publishes Millions of Cats, one of the oldest children’s books in print today. The story is about an old man who struggles to choose just one cat to bring home for his wife.

1958

Como Zoo, an institution with 19th-century roots, appoints its ﬁrst director, John A. Fletcher, who makes wildlife conservation the focus of Como’s new mission. It becomes the ﬁrst zoo in the U.S. to successfully hand-raise Siberian tigers.

1982

Mia acquires Sir Edwin Henry Landseer’s The Cat’s Paw. Depicting a fable where a monkey tricks a cat into pulling chestnuts from a stove, the painting is out of character for the animal-loving Landseer, who also sculpted the four bronze lions guarding Trafalgar Square.

2005

1977

Cat Stevens records part of his Izitso, at Sound 80 in Minneapolis. Stevens leans deep into Minneapolis’s electronic synth sound, but “Was Dog a Doughnut?”—the most futuristic track—is actually recorded in Denmark.

1960 Pioneer of the snowmobile Edgar Hetteen leaves Polaris Industries, the Roseau snowmobile company he co-founded. He opens a new snowmobile company in Thief River Falls and calls his brand Arctic Cat. It becomes Polaris’s main competition. Cat ﬁght!

2011

Brian Setzer, lead singer and guitarist of the rockabilly band the Stray Cats, follows Julie Reiten home to her native Minnesota. The two move into a North Loop condo, and Setzer poses with his guitar on their rooftop for the cover of Songs from Lonely Avenue.

2012

More than 10,000 people—and celebricats like Grumpy Cat— show up for the Walker’s ﬁrst InternetCat Video Festival. It gives awards in several categories, and the Golden Kitty award is presented to Will Braden’s Henri 2: Paw de Deux.

2023

Minnesota’s ﬁrst feline, Afton Walz, slips his AirTag collar and disappears from Eastcliﬀ the University of Minnesota mansion the governor and his family are temporarily making their residence. The Walzes adopt a new cat, Honey, at Christmas.

2024

The Minnesota Zoo welcomes two Amur tiger cubs—one male and one female—when their mother, Sundari, gives birth in the springtime. The two adorable cubs are introduced to the public in the summer.

The Minnesota Lynx win their ﬁrst championship. Over the next six years, the core of the squad— Seimone Augustus, Lindsay Whalen, Maya Moore, and Rebekkah Brunson—become a dynasty, also winning championships in 2013, 2015, and 2017.

2024

The Lynx fall short of their ﬁfth title at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Napheesa Collier and company lose in overtime when the New York Liberty beneﬁt from the most egregiously blown traveling call in WNBA history. Now that’s cat burglary.

life. at your summit.

At the core of our care lies the profound understanding that you are on a journey to reach your full potential, to realize your goals and dreams, to reach your summit—no matter what that summit may be. It is this understanding that drives us to provide the highest standard of excellence through every injury or aching joint and muscle that may stand in your way.

IMMEDIATE CARE AT OUR ORTHOPEDIC URGENT CARE LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE METRO