Rochester Magazine | April 2025 by Rochester Post Bulletin

The “Poetry Girl”

through words.

+ SPRING SHOWCASE OF HOMES 47 tourable homes. Two weekends.

RESTAURANTS

Poet Laureate Jean Prokott just wants to unite us

DESTINATION Fun

THEOZARKMOUNTAIN DAREDEVILS WITHSPECIALGUESTRAREEARTH

April11

Tickets$29+ RONWHITE FINDINGTHEHUMORINLIFE

April20

Tickets$49+

LITTLERIVERBAND THEHAPPYANNIVERSARYTOUR

May9

Tickets$29+

“IAM,HESAID” ACELEBRATIONOFTHEMUSIC OFNEILDIAMOND

May14

Tickets$30+

26 The “Poetry Girl”

Jean Prokott—a decade-long Century High School English teacher, the city’s third Poet Laureate, a recent recipient of a $50K poetry grant—just wants to bring us together.

34 Best New Restaurants

Steak. Pizza. Kebabs. Birria. Seafood. Five of the city’s best new restaurants. Something for everyone.

58 Showcase of Homes 2025

47 tourable homes. Two weekends. (And 40-plus pages of info!) It’s the ultimate guide to the area’s ultimate home tour.

08 Junk Drawer

10 Shortcuts

Charlie Parr brings his “gritty blend of Delta blues and Depression-era roots music” (that’s a quote from Rolling Stone) to Chateau Theatre: Aviary’s blackened catfish, Shakey’s buffet and more Rochester Restaurant Meals You Miss in Six Words; Three Ways You Can Help ...; more.

12 Oddchester

14 Random Rochesterite

Shelly Kiefer talks about her 40 years in the transportation business, the splurge she doesn’t regret, her love of the Boundary Waters and how she became the “Crazy Flamingo Lady” (“I found these little flamingo headbands at Hobby Lobby and started wearing them to work.”)

23 Three Ways You Can Help

One group doing good in Rochester. And how you can help.

44 Ten (or so) questions

Alexandra Bartoi, violinist and concertmaster at Rochester Symphony Orchestra, talks about the movie that changed her life, her musical mentors, and playing at patient’s bedsides through Mayo’s Center for Humanities in Medicine “Many people are skeptical at the beginning like, ‘Oh, violin. I wish you were like a country singer.’ But then they are really touched.”

56 The Walk Through

Inside one cool home you could own right now.

THE POST BULLETIN COMPANY

Publisher FORUM COMMUNICATIONS CO.

Editor

STEVE LANGE

507-285-7770 slange@rochestermagazine.com

Advertising Director

TESSA OLIVE

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Advertising

MELISSA CHERRY

ADAM GEHLING LISA SCHELL advertising@rochestermagazine.com

Graphic Designers

MOLLIE BURLINGAME BETH KROHN

Contributing Writers

JENNIFER HAUGEN KOSKI

HADLEY LANGE

MEGAN MALUGANI

Photo Supervisor JOE AHLQUIST

Contributing Photographers

MAYA GIRON KEN KLOTZBACH

OLIVE JUICE STUDIOS

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Volume twenty-six I Number four

Rochester Magazine is produced monthly by the Rochester Post Bulletin, and distributed throughout Rochester, MN. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. Editor, Rochester Magazine, 1700 Greenview Dr. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 or SLange@rochestermagazine.com. Call 507-285-7676 for home delivery ($29.95 for 11 issues).

Junk Drawer

Three things you didn’t know about the RAB’s Spring Showcase of Homes. Until now.

The Mother of All Open Houses

1. For two glorious weekends (April 26-27 and May 3-4), the Rochester Area Builders will be holding the ultimate tour for prospective home buyers: The Spring Showcase of Homes. The RAB’s Spring (and Fall) Showcases are The Mother of All Open Houses, with 40-plus tourable homes (from townhomes to duplexes to single-family homes to entire subdivisions, complete with builders onsite to answer questions).

2. This year, that first weekend (April 26-27) will also include RAB’s Remodelers Tour and Outdoor Show, which means EVEN MORE homes to tour, and these will showcase trends in home remodeling. It’s a two-day marathon of inlaid tile and outdoor kitchens and built-in cabinets and sunroom build-outs.

3. And, for the first-time ever, Rochester Magazine is showcasing ALL of the tourable homes in this month’s issue. Our 48-page section (starting on page SS1, just after page 57 of the magazine) includes advice from area builders and remodelers, home design tips and trends, and all 40-plus stops on this year’s Spring Showcase of Homes. Oh, and our first-ever fold-out map.

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shortcuts

T R AV E LIN’ M A N

BY HADLEY LANGE

Charlie Parr brings his neverending tour–and his critically acclaimed songwriting–to the Chateau

Rolling Stone magazine called Charlie Parr the “Blues troubadour who sleeps in his van.” And he’s bringing those Blues–and that van–to Rochester in May. Here are a few facts about the Minnesota classic.

BORN AND RAISED.

Charlie Parr is a Minnesota-born (Austin) and Minnesota-raised (Hollandale and Duluth) blues musician and takes influence (and a 12-string Gretsch guitar) from, among others, Minneapolis’s John “Spider” Koerner (known for mentoring Bob Dylan). Minnesota also finds its way into Parr’s lyrics, particularly his album “Hollandale,” named after the town of less than 1,000 people where he spent a stretch of his childhood.

18 ALBUMS.

Apart from his newest album, Little Sun, Parr’s 17 other studio albums were recorded live, “with few if any overdubs and nearly always the first take—leave all the mistakes, missed lyrics, extraneous noise, and whatever else might happen there for the ages.” Rolling Stone has called his style a “gritty blend of Delta blues and Depression-era roots music.”

GUITAR.

Parr’s instruments include a Mule resonator, National resonator, and 12-string guitars as well as a “fretless open-back banjo.” Mule Resophonic Guitars even produces a specialorder guitar called “The Parr Mule.”

ON THE ROAD (AGAIN).

Parr is a true traveling musician, having “been known to perform up to 275 shows a year.” He’s played all throughout the country and hit international stops including Poland, France, and Denmark.

Charlie Parr is playing at the Historic Chateau Theatre on Saturday, May 3 at 6 pm. This show, hosted by Treedome, features supporting acts Kiernan and Yonder. Tickets start at $25. treedomemn.com, 507-206-3298

Photo courtesy Charlie Parr

Two months. 55 Lean Cuisines.

BY STEVE LANGE

For years, decades maybe, I ate fast-food lunches three or four days per week.

I’m sure others could—still can—relate. Although maybe not to this next part.

There were workdays—and I’m fearful my wife and kids will see this—in which I would DRIVE TO MULTIPLE FASTFOOD PLACES TO MIX AND MATCH ITEMS FOR A SINGLE LUNCH. Say, a roast beef sandwich from Arby’s. Fries from McDonald’s. Frosty from Wendy’s.

No one was sadder than me on the day Rochester lost our Long John Silver’s. No one was sadder than me on the day Rochester lost our Hardee’s.

A year ago—and this is one of those “If I can do it, you can” stories—I started a program I call 5K Every Day, my selfchallenge to walk 5,000 steps per day, every day.

I’m sure there are people openly scoffing as they read this at 7 a.m. having already run three miles while wearing those wristband weights, but still. It was a start.

I also decided I needed to start packing my own lunches. I realized I was in that bad of shape, physically.

My new lunches weren’t great, I figured, but better than sitting in the Silver Lake parking lot eating a burger from Snappy Stop, mashed potatoes from KFC, and a Blizzard from Dairy Queen.

Here was my typical, self-packed lunch: A microwavable container of mac and cheese. A small sleeve of Ritz crackers. A banana. Some cheddar cheese. A handful of pepperoni. Maybe some turkey jerky.

I am sure there are people openly scoffing as they read this while eating organic rice cakes, dehydrated baby carrots, and dry roasted edamame dusted with crushed pita chips, but still. It was a start.

One day, I accidentally left my lunch in the refrigerator at home. I texted my wife, Lindy, and told her she could just take it to work. “Look at me, making lunch for you!” I wrote. “You’re welcome!”

That day, Lindy called me from her school. It was lunch time. Lindy rarely calls me during the work day.

Why, she must be thanking me for making her lunch, I figured! I was wondering—after experiencing my hand-picked menu items—if she was going to ask me to make her lunch every day.

“Please tell me,” Lindy said, as soon as I answered, “that this is not what you eat for lunch everyday.”

“Of course not,” I told her. “I also eat a number of Fun-Size Kit Kats from the candy bowl. And, good reminder: We’re going to need to buy one of those giant bags of Wint-O-Green Lifesaver mints. I literally eat like 30 of those per day from whoever stocks the bowl!”

“You eat 30 Wint-O-Green mints a day?” she asked. “That can’t be good for you on a number of levels. And how many calories are in those mints?”

“I don’t know,” I said. “One?”

I had never counted a calorie in my life. When I got off the phone, I Googled it. Each Lifesaver Wint-O-Green mint contains 15 calories.

I had, for months it turns out, been consuming 400-500 calories per day. In mintflavored Lifesavers.

That was two-plus months ago.

I needed to start my own meal program as well. For work, I decreed, to myself, I would only buy under-300 calorie microwaveable meals from the frozen, mostly “healthy” genre. I’m still working on a name for my program.

I would start a spreadsheet and rate every meal. I would send a photo of my daily meal and its corresponding rating to my family.

Since January 1, I have eaten—and photographed, and rated—55 different meals. I have tried brands from (in order of preference) Healthy Choice to SmartOnes to Marie Callender’s to Lean Cuisine to Stouffer’s to Michelina’s (three for $5!).

Specific shout outs to Steve’s Best Meals, Healthy Choice Beef Chimichurri (9/10) and General Tso’s Spicy Chicken (9/10). And to Steve’s Best Under $2 Meal, Michelina’s Beef & Peppers (8/10).

Also, I have slowly weaned myself down to three Wint-O-Green mints per day. I couldn’t quit cold turkey.

Since January 1, I’ve lost 10 pounds.

I periodically find myself, unsolicited and without warning, attempting to work my new lunch system—coupled with my 5K per day walking regimen—into random conversations.

I literally told this story to a group of co-workers standing around the WintO-Green bowl yesterday.

“When my Lean Cuisine-type meals take more than four minutes to microwave, I use that time to walk around the building to help meet my 5K Per Day challenge.”

Here, I paused for effect.

“During today’s walk, an eagle swooped down and took a fish out of the lake. And get this: When I came back in to get my Healthy Choice Classic meal, I realized today’s under 300-calorie lunch was Lemon Pepper Fish! What are the odds?”

The reactions on their faces made me come back to my desk and write down what I had just said. As a reminder to use it in a column. And as a reminder to keep my Lean Cuisine—and walking—stories to myself.

I did, though, text the story to my family, along with my picture of my Healthy Choice Lemon Pepper Fish, and its overall rating (8.5/10).

YOUR FLOORING FORSPRING.

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RandomRochesterite

One resident, numerous anecdotes |

Name: Shelly Kiefer

Age: 62

Occupation: Bus driver

Where we found her: Driving a bus

How long have you been a bus driver? I’ve been in the transportation business in Rochester for almost 40 years, but I’ve been driving since 1997. I drive hotel routes for Star Transportation.

How did you land in this field? I had taken a college aptitude test after high school, and it said I was best suited for a job in the customer service industry. I thought, “Oh gosh, I’m going to be a waitress for the rest of my life.” I applied for a CSR [customer service representative] position for a cab company, answering phones. And the next thing I know, I thought, “I’d like to drive” and I was getting on the road. Then my boss told me I should get a bus license.

Was it hard to get that license? No. She put me with one of her longtime bus drivers who took me out to Mayo High School, literally for hours, and had me back that bus into a parking space to make sure I could pass that test.

Your bus has something we’ve not seen on a hotel shuttle before. It’s got to be the flamingos! I have a bus literally full of flamingos—mostly from guests.

How did that start? When we started the hotel route, the three routes were color coded. We put a sign on the side of each bus with the color. Then we thought: What if someone is color blind? So my boss said, “We’ll put a picture identifying the color on each bus. I picked pink for our color, so I ended up with a flamingo. I found these little flamingo headbands at Hobby Lobby and started wearing them to work. And then people started buying flamingo stuff for the bus—stuffed animals, coffee cups, ceramic flamingos.

That’s great. I have a sign that says “Crazy Flamingo Lady” that someone gave me. She said, “I hope you’re not offended.” I said, “Offended? If it was smaller, I’d put it on a chain and wear it around my neck!”

By JENNIFER KOSKI Photo by MAYA GIRON

It sounds like you’re made for this job. The biggest thing I want people to know is how much I care about my people. In the mornings, I’m always upbeat and happy. I greet every passenger that way. And it’s all to make them feel good. I don’t have grumpy passengers.

You must hear a lot of stories. It really does make me feel blessed. I have heard horror stories from people who don’t have the quality of medical care that we do here. And I’ve had people on my bus whose hometown medical facilities told them to get their affairs in order, and thank God they came to Mayo for a second opinion. I had a gentleman who’d been having heart issues—surgeries, a pacemaker. He came to Mayo Clinic and they said, “This is what is wrong. We’re going to fix it.” He came back six months later and said, “Shelly, look at me! I’m feeling great and I’m pacemaker free!”

Are you originally from Rochester? I grew up here, but I was actually born in Roswell, New Mexico. My dad married my mom out of the service there, and, long story short, he got homesick. He came

from this humongous family here, so she said, “OK, John, let’s go to Minnesota.” And they never looked back.

Five things you love? I love my family— my kids and my grandkids and my other half, Mike. I love my job. It doesn’t even feel like a job. When people ask me, “What are you going to do when you retire?” I say, “I’m doing it!” I love camping. We have a permanent campsite down on the Mississippi. And I love my German Shephard, Elsa.

Tell me about your family? Mike and I are kind of like the Brady Bunch. We have five kids—he’s got two, I’ve got two, and we have one together. We have seven grandchildren, and one on the way.

How did you and Mike meet? He was my neighbor and he wore real cute cut-off jeans! Me and another single lady in the neighborhood would talk about him when he was mowing the lawn in his cut-off jeans! I’m from the ‘70s and ‘80s, and he had that real cool ‘70s look. Next thing you know, another neighbor is setting us up.

What’s something I might be surprised to learn about you? I have a love for the Boundary Waters and it came from my dad. When I was younger, he took me on a day portage to a specific place. We always intended to go back and we just never did. And then my dad passed away in 2015. It was his wish to be cremated, so Mike and I and several of my kids and a couple of my daughters’ boyfriends took him up there and I spread some of his ashes. That is probably one of the most heartfelt things I’ve ever done. We spent a week and on the way out, at the lake my dad took me to when I was 13 or 14, I got up on this rock and I was talking to him. My kids know that’s also where I want to go when I’m gone. So they’re going got be making that trek, too.

Best advice you’ve given? It’s not advice, but I’ve always tried to instill in my kids strength and consistency and unconditional love. If they stumble, they know I’m there and I’ll do anything I can to help them.

HOP TO IT. Get pictures with the Easter Bunny, make a spring themed craft, and grab some pancakes at the annual Easter Bunny Pancake Breakfast at the Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern in La Crosse. Make a day of it and stop by Grandad Bluff on your way home! thewaterfrontlacrosse. com, 608-782-5400

FROM THE MIND OF DAVID LYNCH. Pop’s Art Theatre hosts their spring film series: From the Mind of David Lynch. Today you can catch “Inland Empire” or “Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me.” Catch six other David Lynch movies playing through April 16. popsarttheatre.com, 763-489-8365

LET YOUR GEEK FLAG FLY. It’s time for Nerdinout Con at the Graham Arena. This celebration of all things nerdy is complete with Magic the Gathering tournaments, an “arcade alley,” and lots of memorabilia for sale. There will also be guest appearances by Deep Roy (Neverending Story), Leilani Shiu (Star Wars), and The Dudley Boyz (WWE). nerdinoutcomiccon.com

“TWO MEN. ONE DREAM. NO CHANCE.” A musical about the inventor of the printing press ... with no budget ... and the writers playing all the parts... what could go wrong? Find out in the “Gutenberg! The Musical!” presented by That Theatre Company at the Black Box Theatre (located in the Rochester Civic Theatre). thattheatrecompany.org

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SING IN (8 PART) HARMONY. All five Honors Choirs ensembles are featured in their Spring Finale. Held at Bethel Lutheran Church this concert features contemporary and traditional music and a recognition of the graduating seniors. honorschoirs.org, 507-252-0505

GOING THROUGH THE POSES. Join instructor Natalie for a morning of “breathwork with body movement” as part of the Movin’ Monday Yoga series at Peace United Church. This free yoga class is designed to “build physical and mental strength.” peaceunited.us, 507-282-6117

GO TO KELLOGG. FOR A LARK. Glance through the display cases, which feature a collection of 25,000 antique and vintage toys, check out the fun-house mirrors, and ride the hand-carved carousel creatures before shopping for classic, old-school toys. larktoys.com, 507-767-3387

VERSAILLES. Follow the history of the royal palace at Versailles from hunting lodge to a beautiful palace with “enormous grounds studded with sculpture, fountains, and other palaces.” This talk is presented by Kristin Anderson and hosted at the Heintz Center as part of RCTC’s Learning Is ForEver (LIFE) series. learningisforever.net, 507-280-3157

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LAUGH AT THOSE DARN OTTERS. Take that meandering walk past the 17 species that remain active all winter at Zollman Zoo in Byron’s Oxbow Park. Then back to the otters. olmstedcounty.gov, 507-775-2451

8 1 15

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS (IF THAT BUSINESS IS HOUSE PLANTS). Join Master Gardeners to learn more about the care and keeping of houseplants as part of the monthly Olmsted County Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting. Join in person at the Heintz Center or via Zoom. extension.umn.edu, 507-328-6214

ARTS AND CRAFTS. Crafters of all types—from knitters to painters to beaders—are invited to the Rochester Public Library for their weekly Craft & Chat event. Bring some materials and meet some fellow creatives. rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

LITTER BIT BETTER. Help Make Rochester a Litter Bit Better during the city’s annual weeklong cleanup event. Grab some gloves and a trash bag and get to work—we recommend choosing an area and registering online so the city gets an even clean! rneighbors.org, 507-238-2440

GET NORWEGIAN. The Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum is a bit of a drive (Decorah, Iowa) but it’s well worth it! With 24,000 Norwegian-related artifacts in 16 historic buildings, the museum includes Norwegian arts and crafts, a 25-foot wooden sailboat, and a log house. vesterheim.org, 563-382-9681

WEDNESDAY

CREEPY CRAWLIES AND PREHISTORIC STOMPERS. Celebrate spring break with bugs and dinosaurs at the Rochester Public Library! Sing songs, do activities, and listen to songs about some of the smallest animals on the planet then attend a dinosaur dance party (costumes are encouraged!). rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

MUSIC REWIND. From The Rolling Stones to The Beach Boys to Creedence Clearwater Revival and more, SixtiesMania is all things 60s at the Zumbrota State Theatre in their (aptly titled) “A Journey Through the Sixties” concert. sixtiesmania.com

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LOVE AND LOSS. The Cherry Blossoms You Missed is an exhibit by photographer Kathleen Hawkes that explores themes of “grief, regret, and the inherent limitations of personal relationships” through still life photographs. This ode to a “dear friend” is at the Rochester Art Center. rochesterartcenter.org, 507-722-2552

IT’S A HOOT. Learn to “hunt, play, hoot, fly, survive dangers, and raise owlets” just like an owl! Then say hi to a real-life owl from the International Owl Center at the Rochester Public Library. rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

WATERY WINONA. The Minnesota Marine Art Museum’s galleries feature work by Edward Burtynsky, Shelly Mosman, Cole Redhorse Taylor, Benjamin Russell, and more (and Thursdays are free for students). mmam.org, 507-474-6626

HEY BATTER BATTER.

The Century Panthers varsity girls fastpitch softball team takes on the John Marshall Rockets at home. big9conference.org

IT’LL BE A GOOD TIME… NO BULL.

Come one come all to Graham Arena to see which rider can manage to stay on a bucking bull the longest at the weekend-long Rochester Bullriding Challenge! rochesterbullriding.com

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HISTORICAL ARTIFACT CRAWL. Get a tour of Assisi Heights and learn all about its history from key objects including Mother Alfred’s desk, Mother Augustine’s rocking chair, and the shovel used to break ground on the motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Francis. All this and more at the Historical Artifact Crawl. rochesterfranciscan.org, 507-282-7441

“BABY BABY” LET’S SEE AMY. Six Grammys. Thirty million albums sold. Five Billboard Hot 100 top 10 songs. Contemporary Christian singer Amy Grant is the Mayo Civic Center with songs like “Good For Me” and “The Next Time I Fall.” mayociviccenter.com, 507-361-5040

DANCE ... ACOUSTICALLY.

Sawtooth Witch, a Minneapolisbased acoustic dance band, is at Treedome with Mike Munson, a blues musician from Winona, and Josiah Smith, a folk artist from Rochester. downtownrochestermn. com, 507-216-9882

MINNESOTA LEGISLATION.

The 2025 Legislative Update, held at The Hilton Rochester, gives a chance to discuss “issues impacting area businesses and organizations.” business.rochestermnchamber. com, 507-288-1122

FOUR OLD BROADS. When their friends go missing, the “four old broads” are on the case to find out what happened (and take down “nasty nurse Pat”) in time to board the Sassy Seniors Caribbean cruise. See Four Old Broads, a “rib-tickling comedy,” at the Rochester Repertory Theatre. rochesterrep.org, 507-289-1737

GREEN JACKET SOCIAL. It’s the annual Green Jacket Social pickleball tournament. With opportunities for novices and pros, grab a team (or register as a free agent) and try your hand at pickleball for prizes (or bragging rights) at Chip Shots. chipshotsmn.com, 507-361-0401

EGG GATHERING! Come to Red Barn Learning Farm for sunset egg gathering. Kids can also bounce on the jump pad, play in the corn pit, and play barnyard basketball! When you’re done searching, check out the baby animals including goats, lambs, bunnies, and ducklings! redbarnlearningfarm. com, 507-272-7465

TASTE OF THE TOWN. It’s the 39th annual Taste of the Town event put on by The Salvation Army to raise money for the Good Samaritan Health Clinic. This year’s menu includes “feta and spinach pinwheels,” “Black Forest cake,” and “melon bruschetta.” centralusa. salvationarmy.org, 800-725-2769

ROB SCHNEIDER! Rob Schneider is a comedian known for his time as a writer and cast member on SNL, as a lead actor on the sitcom “Men Behaving Badly,” and from his role in “The Benchwarmers.” Tonight he is at the Mayo Civic Center as part of his Rescue Husband tour. mayociviccenter.com, 507-361-5040

TOUR THE “MOTHER OF ALL OPEN HOUSES.” For two weekends (April 26-27 and May 3-4), the Rochester Area Builders will be holding The Spring Showcase of Homes (featuring 40 tourable homes), and this weekend includes the Remodelers Tour and Outdoor Show. rochesterareabuilders. com, 507-282-7698

the local table {where we eat}

507.258.4663 14 Fourth Street SW Rochester bleuduckkitchen.com

Book Your Next Event with Us! An inviting and intimate venue with exposed brick and original hardwood floors set in one of the oldest remaining commercial buildings in Rochester makes this space unique, warm, and welcoming. Our event space can accommodate weddings, reception, cocktails hours or hosting a meeting. And don’t forget about booking the Duck Truck! Voted Best Restaurant 2019-2024.

507.361.3636 300 1st Ave NW Rochester creativecuisineco.com

Tilda’s Pizzeria is a locally owned one-of-a-kind wood-fired pizza restaurant in Downtown Rochester. Unique flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone! We offer dine-in, online ordering, and delivery. Mon-Sun 4 pm - 9 pm.

507.536.4748 212 1st Ave SW Rochester creativecuisineco.com

Voted Rochester’s Best Deli and Sandwiches. A bustling, urban deli set in the heart of downtown Rochester, featuring big New York style sandwiches, filled with large portions of fresh sliced meats, gourmet cheeses, crisp vegetables, and one-of-a-kind spreads on bakeryfresh breads. Signature salads and soups with quick and easy delivery service. Catering as well as box lunch delivery.

507.289.9200 3120 Wellner Drive NE Rochester whistlebinkiespub.com

Locally owned for 22 years tucked in NE Rochester. Providing a pub atmosphere that makes you feel at home with comfort. Awesome summer patio, two private spaces for events, with one of the largest menus and beer selection in all of Rochester. We are happy to be serving you all for years to come.

507.361.1208 10 East Center St Rochester skyway level benedictsrochester.com

Benedict’s is where you’ll find comfort food with a twist and unbeatable morning cocktails because it’s never too early! Why wait until dinner for great food and hospitality? At Benedict’s, we’re all about making mornings special. So, bring the family and become part of ours! Open 6:00am - 3:00pm daily.

South- 1201 S Broadway North- 5231 E Frontage Rd NW Express- Downtown Skyway Apple Valley - 15610 English Ave creativecuisineco.com

A local tradition since 1980, is the only place for great burgers and cold beer. Hand pattied fresh burgers, grilled to perfection, piles of nachos, tasty sandwiches, loaded bloody mary’s and much more!

507.361.5144 3708 N Broadway Ave Rochester creativecuisineco.com

Chef inspired Casual American restaurant that is family friendly. Some menu features include our Rotisserie Chicken, Kranz Smash Burger, Sheet Ton Chicken Nachos, or Chipotle Salmon Rice Bowl. Dine next to our 16 foot fireplace, or on our patio during the summer that includes fire pits, an outdoor bar, kid play area, and yard games. We also feature plenty of screens inside and out to catch your favorite games!

Rustic comfort food, hand-crafted cocktails, and an intimate, romantic ambiance define this hidden gem of a restaurant. Live local music every night makes this a top-notch date night spot for any day of the week. Make the Redwood Room your new go-to! Voted Most Romantic Ambiance and finalist for Best Fine Dining.

507.281.2978, 300 1st Ave NW Rochester creativecuisineco.com Visit Four Daughters Winery, Loon Juice Cider, and The Traditionalist Bourbon Distillery in one spot! Wine, cider and bourbon flights available 7 days a week, plus wines by the glass/bottle, a full cocktail bar, and a restaurant. Spend time inside the spacious tasting room or outside on the large patio bordering the vineyard at the largest winery and cidery in Minnesota. Rated as the #2 Winery Restaurant in the country by USA Today!

507.346.7300 78757 State Highway 16 Spring Valley fourdaughtersvineyard.com

Locally owned by the Pappas family;

507.226.8146 4 3rd St SW Rochester thaipopmn.com

Lunch + Dinner + Event Space. Voted Minnesota’s Best Thai restaurant 2023, 2024 + Rochester Magazine’s Best Asian restaurant 2024 and 2025 and voted Best Dessert (Annie’s Toast) 2025. ThaiPop serves unique cocktails and cuisine on historic 3rd Street in downtown Rochester. Open Monday 4-9pm, Tuesday-Thursday 11-9pm, Friday & Saturday 11-10pm

507.424.7800 130 5th St SW Rochester pnpizza.com

Chef Pasquale Presa is serving the food he grew up with....authentic NY style pizza along with simple, traditional Italian food including fresh salads and amazing desserts. Daily lunch and dinner specials. Dine-in or carry out. Voted Best Pizza Place 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 by Rochester Magazine readers.

507-322-5041 161 13th Ave SW Rochester Saintson2nd.com

Mardi Gras all month long at Saints on second! We are located in the Courtyard by Marriott across from Saint Mary’s Hospital. Whether you are a visitor or a lifelong resident of the city, we hope to embody everything that Rochester has to offer, enjoy our “Minnesota Nice” hospitality while eating breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Chef Lela Tweed has crafted a menu sure to please - try our legendary sticky chicken sandwich!

Celebrating 40 years! Since 1984, the Powers family and the Canadian Honker Restaurant have taken great pride in serving fresh, home-cooked meals to you and your family. Whether you enjoy our award winning Eggs Benedict, Walleye Sandwich, or Filet Mignon, one thing is for sure, you will not leave hungry! Stop by today, and don't forget to order a piece of our world famous Bunnie Cake.

507.258.7555 187 16th Ave SW Rochester jerseyjos.com

For 10 years, we have been offering Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks, but did you know that we also offer Chicken? We have the Biggest, Tastiest Chicken Sandwiches and Wings in Rochester! At Jersey Jo’s, we believe that it all starts with Great Service and Ends with you wanting to come back for more! Come in and try some of our delicious food for Lunch or Dinner Monday - Saturday from 11am - 9pm. We also Deliver!

Philly in Rochester! Stop in for our signature Grill’d Philly, a Grill’d Bowl or one of our delicious Smash’d Burgers. There is something for everyone to enjoy. We are open year-round at Soldiers Field Golf Course. Dine in or carry out. Voted

Ristorante & Wine Bar

507.280.6232 7 1st Ave SW, Rochester victoriasmn.com

Victoria’s Caters Everywhere! Locally owned for 25 years. Specializing in traditional Italian. All sauces are scratch made. Victoria’s has four private dining rooms for all your events. Looking for a quick lunch? Victoria’s Express (Grab and Go) is adjacent to the restaurant and is open Mon through Fri from 10 am to 1:30 pm. Join us Wednesdays for Bottomless Wine.

507.635.2331

502 N Main St Mantorville hubbellhouserestaurant.com

The Hubbell House has been Rochester Magazine’s Best Restaurant within 30 minutes for the past fifteen years. Our extensive menu includes appetizers, salads, sandwiches, choice steaks, prime rib every day, chops, & seafood. Just a short drive from Rochester, whether you’re looking for a formal experience in one of our dining rooms, or a more relaxed setting like the Stagecoach Bar, the Hubbell House is the place for you.

507.286.1101 706 Broadway Ave. N.

507.258.5300 2483 Commerce Drive, Rochester greatharvestrochester.com

Dedicated to the traditional ways of bread making we are a ‘low tech,’ old fashioned, scratch bakery & cafe. We use pure, wholesome ingredients, add no fats, oils or preservatives. Each loaf is kneaded by hand. We grind high protein Montana spring wheat into the freshest flour possible. This is the magic of our whole grain breads and sweets. Where the “outside” of a sandwich is as good as the inside!

507.285.9229 1654 US-52 Rochester, MN 55901 charlieseateryandpub.com

A ROCHESTER FAVORITE. If you’re looking for a great time in a fun atmosphere with friendly staff, look no further. Charlies Eatery & Pub is locally owned and is located in the Hillcrest Shopping Center next to the Indoor Golf Center. Enjoy a meal in our restaurant with live Bluegrass music on Wednesdays or visit our pub for food, drinks, entertainment, music and games. We serve breakfast all day long.

Specialty Coffee| Breakfast Lunch | Wine | Small Plates

507.285.2516 120 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester

FOLLOW US @novioscafe on Instagram and Novios Cafe on Facebook. Use your phone camera to scan the QR code and order online now!

507.424.7800 130 5th St SW Rochester pnpizza.com

Little Italy Marketplace. Shop Pasquale’s quality Italian Ingredients direct from Italy. Everything from frozen meals, amazing sauces, scratch-made pasta, and our farm-to-table Olive Oil. Our products are available at Pasquale’s or Hyvee Stores.

3 Ways YOU CAN HELP

The creation of Community Food Response (CFR) 32 years ago epitomizes the resourcefulness and generosity that are hallmarks of Rochester.

In 1993, restaurateur Joe Powers and other community members recognized that local restaurants were throwing away food, yet there were hungry people in the city.

“The thought was, ‘how do we bring these things together so food doesn’t go in the incinerator?’” says Pernell Meier, Site Coordinator for CFR.

Community Food Response was born as a response, and has steadily grown over the years from a small operation to a major presence in the community. CFR provided 180,000 meals to food insecure people in 2024, using donations from local hospitals, restaurants, caterers, and grocery stores. CFR is open three times a week for people to pick up prepared fresh or frozen breakfasts, lunches, and dinners to take home or eat elsewhere.

Meier, who has a background in sustainability, notes that roughly 40 to 60 percent of food produced in this country is wasted, causing environmental problems. “Through the CFR program, we can take care of people and the environment at the same time. That’s a win-win for all!”

3 WAYS YOU CAN HELP IS SPONSORED BY:

BY MEGAN MALUGANI

HERE’S

HOW YOU CAN HELP COMMUNITY FOOD RESPONSE

1. DONATE MONEY:

Your donations will be used for operational costs like paying the drivers who pick up food, paying the rent for CFR facilities, purchasing food containers and other supplies, and more.

2. VOLUNTEER:

Nine volunteers are needed each day to keep CFR running smoothly. Opportunities include helping to prepare coolers for drivers, sorting food, distributing prepared food to clients, and more.

3. APPLY TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS: CFR is seeking a few new, hands-on Board members to serve two-year terms. The Board’s specific needs include: Marketing/ Social media expertise; IT support; and board secretary duties. Email Ash Gupta at Ashgupta1021@gmail.com for more information.

AT A GLANCE

• Mission: “CFR believes that overcoming hunger is an issue of social justice. We also believe that environmental stewardship is a community responsibility. To those ends, our Mission is to rescue edible food from local food vendors, distribute it to food insecure families in Rochester and thereby prevent that food from entering our waste stream.”

• Provides approximately 500 to 700 meals each day it is open. Hours are 4 pm to 6 pm each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

• Located at The Salvation Army Campus in downtown Rochester, 120 First St. NE.

• For more info: communityfoodresponse.org, 612-789-2449, communityfoodresponse@gmail.com

At Eagle Rock Bank, formerly ONB Bank, we’re proud to give back to our community. As a locally owned and managed bank, it is so important to us to support our local non-profit organizations through sponsorships and hundreds of volunteer hours through our employee volunteers.

6WORDS (or Less)

We asked: Rochester restaurant meal you miss

most.

Buffalo chicken wrap at John Barleycorn. Shane B.

Grouper at City Market was tasty. Don V.

Lillian’s Veggie pizza from Waldo’s.

Kathy F.

Cajun Popcorn from Aviary. Brian N.

Micheal’s shrimp dinner. Kimberly J. K. T.

Gondola sandwich at Golden George’s.

Renee M.

Pepperoni and onion pizza from Shakey’s.

Susan L.

Baker’s Square grilled cheese and pie.

Jane S.

The Ranch salad bar. Jenni C.

Shakey’s buffet. Chicken, mojos, skilletti, pizza...

— Shannon H.

The Lost Cajun’s jambalaya & beignets. Maura Mc.

Bilotti’s Pizza: Best fresh pepperoni and cheese ever. — Cindy D.

Aviary’s blackened catfish. Marie M.

The Porch all menu items. Jacob D.

John Barleycorn: salad bar and baked potato Stephanie E. M.

Chicken tenders at McMurphys. Shelley K. M.

Tootsie rolls at Whiskey Creek. Christian C.

John Barleycorn: Steak, baked potato, salad (pewter bowl)! — Kathryn H.

Broadstreet Cafe White Chocolate Mousse. Beth C.

Oh, man, all this stuff. Here’s my idea: One Rochester restaurant that specializes in the city’s best, now-defunct meals. Who’s investing with me? (Steve).

Former Shakey’s Pizza owner (and Rochester mayor) Chuck Canfield holds Shakey’s pizzas. Contributed

Rochester Poet Laureate Jean Prokott is pictured at Cafe Aqui, one of her “go to” spots for writing.

photo By joe ahlquist

The“Poetry Girl”

Jean Prokott—a decade-long Century High School English teacher, the city’s third Poet Laureate, a recent recipient of a $50K poetry grant—just wants to bring us together.

By Melissa Brandt

Jean Prokott is afraid of the moon. There’s a word for it, she says: selenophobia. An intense fear of the moon or moonlight. “I know what it is … I know very much how the moon does its thing, but it’s beautiful and it’s scary. Sometimes it’s bigger, sometimes it’s smaller,” she says with a laugh. “I know why it is, but I don’t really, and that’s awesome.”

For Prokott, the fear started with a documentary she watched many years ago. The film demonstrated what might happen to the Earth if the moon didn’t exist. (Imagine our planet as a wobbly top of splashing oceans and organic bits of space junk falling from the sky.)

While she doesn’t necessarily walk around and look over her shoulder for falling moon chunks, she does spend a lot of time writing about outer space in her poetry. Prolific in her output, Prokott also writes about politics, mental health, her pets, her husband, and her formative years in central Minnesota.

Prokott grew up in the Minnesota towns of Maple Grove and Albertsville. “Before the construction of the outlet mall,” she emphasizes, “It was just farm fields at the time.” She graduated in a class of about 150 students and credits high school as the start of her desire to be the “poetry girl.”

“Music was part of it. I used to write little song lyrics and stuff,” she says. “They were not good, and then in high school, we started reading formal poetry, like Dickinson and Maya Angelou, and it was more like I wanted to be a poetry kid more than I actually wanted to understand poetry. I felt like I should like it … and then it just kind of evolved,” she says. “You know how in high school there’s sort of the English girl, and there’s the horse girl, and the words girl, and the Honor Society girl? There’s the poetry girl, and I just wanted to fit that mold and so I sort of forced myself into it and then actually did like it.”

Although her reflective experience as the high school poetry girl is a fond one, it probably isn’t a label that fits Prokott anymore. Instead, Prokott has become the poet laureate of Rochester (the third poet laureate for the city, which created the role in 2012) and a 2024 Academy of American Poets Laureate Fellow.

She is the author of the poetry collection The Second Longest Day of the Year, which won the Howling Bird Press Book Prize and was published with Howling Bird Press in November 2021, and of the chapbook The Birthday Effect.

She is a recipient of the AWP Intro Journals Award and the John Calvin Rezmerski Memorial Grand Prize with the League of Minnesota Poets, and she has poetry and nonfiction published in Verse Daily, Rattle, Arts & Letters, Great Lakes Review, RHINO, Red Wheelbarrow, and Sierra Nevada Review, among other journals.

That’s a lot of labels and offers just a peek into her impressive ability as a poet and writer. To get an insight into the mind of a poet laureate, Rochester Magazine sat down with Prokott and asked her about space, teaching, and other inspirations.

On Space, Art, and Humanity

In addition to her fear of the moon, Prokott has thoughts on outer space in general and in particular NASA’s Voyager spacecrafts–which Jimmy Carter launched in 1977, five years before Prokott was born.

For readers unfamiliar with Voyager 1 and 2, the twin crafts have currently reached interstellar space, more than 15 billion miles and 13 billion miles from Earth, respectively. President Carter created a Golden Record for Voyager 1, a vinyl record containing voices, languages, and electronic images of Earth for any interstellar beings who might happen upon the spacecraft. The

thought of its existence inspires both poetry and panic in Prokott.

The inspiration, she feels, is represented in the recently published poem,“Voyager,” which she wrote, celebrating Carter’s life.

The poem includes lines like, “I consider the void,/I consider America, and I would like/ to blast our failures into space,/but Jimmy Carter sent good will,/because only some of us can see/a burden as a blessing…do you know/how lucky we are to have sent/the best of us into the stars?”

The commonality between Carter and Prokott’s desire to do good work is more evident than Prokott admits, but is apparent

First-grader Jean Prokott with her Clifford The Big Red Dog stuffed animal. Contributed

“Now more than ever,” Prokott says, “artists have a job to do. The world needs us. Sometimes I think, ‘it’s just a poem. It doesn’t matter.’ But the world is falling apart, and it matters. Art matters.”

Jean Prokott

when she talks about her role as a poet: “Now more than ever,” Prokott says, “artists have a job to do. The world needs us. Sometimes I think, ‘it’s just a poem. It doesn’t matter.’ But the world is falling apart, and it matters. Art matters,” she says.

The space metaphor she thinks is probably too obvious, and she understands the cliche of poets and the moon, but there’s inspiration to be mined there, too, in all of our manmade space junk. “We just throw our sh#@ in space, because we can’t deal with it. What a human thing to do,” she says.

Rather than just throwing her own struggles into space, she puts them on paper and is using her talents to bring an event to Rochester to support mental health.

On The American Academy of Poet’s Grant and Mental Health

The “Trust the Hours” event, for which Prokott received a $50,000 American Academy of Poet’s grant, will “explore how

diverse voices of poets and artists can help heal and create empathy in Rochester regarding mental health.”

The project involves a multidisciplinary exhibition of poetry and artwork to be hosted at the Historic Chateau Theater in Peace Plaza, downtown Rochester, as well as citywide distribution of Broadsides, including an additional take-home poetry magnet that lists mental health resources.

The goal is to bring in diverse voices and examine how mental health can impact groups differently, including youth, BIPOC communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and underserved populations. The exhibit will open, with a reading, on Saturday, April 26, and will stay open, free to the public, until the first weekend of June.

While the conversation has slightly shifted on the stigma of mental illness, the reality is the struggle still persists, and

many suffer alone or feel lost in helping their loved ones. Prokott hopes this project is a way to bring people together, to celebrate survival, to find that poetry and art are, as Nietzsche believed, the highest form of self-expression when it can otherwise feel impossible.

Like art, Prokott believes visibility matters, and the event is one way to destigmatize mental illness and advocate for loved ones.

On Poetry, Teaching, and Her Students

Prokott remembers a class in college with a professor who would give student poems a check minus, check, or a check plus: “I remember it got very competitive, like, ooooh, you got a check plus. But I wrote a prose poem in that class about a fire drill, and he liked it. I thought that was interesting and contemporary, and so I experimented with forms a little bit more. That was sort of a pinnacle for me, because it was finally pushing what I knew poetry was.”

Now Prokott uses her own experiences to help expose her Century High School students do something a little different: “I read a lot. I consume a lot of media. I can remember reading a book in high school, Catcher in the Rye. Life changing, but not a poem. I want to show my students, like, you guys, look at the poet, Rudy Francisco. This is someone that writes something that you might be thinking,” she says.

When she transitions to discussing her students’ writing, she gets a little teary, “There’s a student who used an allegory recently of being in the woods and picking mushrooms. It’s the most beautiful student essay, and I was like, did Annie Dillard write this? It was so good, and I’m going to submit it into some contests for (the student) ... If that kid doesn’t write for a living, I will be legit angry.”

Jean Prokott and husband Brian Dean with dogs Pepper and Beaker. Contributed

The Second-Largest Ear of Corn in the World

by Jean Prokott

We can see it from our kitchen window, and I know you’re thinking my God, you’re lucky!

At night, it’s lit from the bottom —a rocket ready to leave this world behind— and some nights I crawl out the window and board. I climb its spindly legs, pass the green husk, and hike the yellow skull teeth, which are painted with Ls in the corner to mimic the kernels’ gleam. Maybe I’ll dive inside, swim in the 50,000 gallons of water meant for all the city.

Maize God!

The unanswered Google question asks: what is starting wage?

The city wants to tear it down, and I wish we’d eat it instead so we could see its raw gums rather than empty space. I bought a shirt with its picture on the front. It says Eat Local.

The Second-Largest Ear of Corn in the World has 4.3 stars on Google. The one star review: it’s not real corn.

The five star: I expected nothing, and it gave me everything.

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I Ask My Students If They Have Any Questions

by Jean Prokott

Charlie wants to know if time moves slower or faster when you’re older.

define time by variables: is my yogurt expired? do I love this job? have I already watched this episode of Antiques Roadshow? how many dogs have I counted today, heads out car windows, tongues licking spring?

when Sophie asks how do you do taxes / how do you buy a house? I explain the Big Tax™ lobby, then how banks move into bodies & mine mortgages from spleens.

Catherine asks: if penultimate is your favorite word then what is your second favorite? & I award her eight million extra credit points for remembering my favorite word, since I shared it four months ago.

my mind spins with candidates. there’s flabbergasted, the b bubble in the middle & the gasp that follows; or nuance hiding in every pressed shirt and poem.

maybe antagonist is my second-favorite. sometimes I call myself an Architect of Chaos, so those words too, as I’ve failed inspection.

grass might be a candidate, but I’m not sure if it’s because I prefer the mouthfeel or the feetfeel.

Grace wants to know if I’m a hard grader, & Connor wants to know the meaning of life, which depends on the number of unfilled Gratitude Journals on your shelf. I keep winning them in teaching contests. clean inside, noteless musical staffs, no time signatures.

should I ever need one. every once in a while transpose the key, since I love the slanted aggression of a natural, how it sits with intent.

you know what’s so great about penultimate? its forever anticipation— plus, it’s two words in one— and who doesn’t love the penfeel of an ultimate pen?

bring us back to Time, the second-to-last something, dal segno, most savory Eve. 70 degrees, later. fat peony buds in green raincoats, one morning from breaking free. we are desperate to see the final pop. tomorrow, see feather-petaled showgirls— but today, find sticky ant homes & split floral pistachio. clusters of curled butterfly berries. right now, words

of the city’s

Best New RESTAURANTS

by Jennifer Koski

The five restaurants on these pages—all new to Rochester in the last year—offer something, literally, for everyone.

No, really. Steak. Pizza. Kebabs. Birria. Seafood.

Dress up or dress down.

Drive up (Red’s Savoy) or dine in (all of them … including Red’s Savoy).

The common denominator? They’ve each been voted as a “Best New Restaurant” in Rochester Magazine’s annual Best Restaurants poll.

And also? We already have a favorite meal at them all.

Photos by Joe Ahlquist and maya giron (excepT where noted)

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

20 2nd Ave. SW 507-246-2344

m.ruthschris.com/home/ rochester/7384

OPENED: June 2024 in the historic Kahler Hotel.

THEY’VE GOT REACH.

You can find Ruth’s Chris Steak Houses all over the world, with 150 total from Tokyo to Toronto to Tulsa. But there are only two in Minnesota: In Rochester and in Minneapolis.

THEY BRING THE HEAT

From a filet to a ribeye, all Ruth’s Chris steaks are seared to perfection, finished with butter and freshly chopped parsley, then served sizzling on a 500-degree plate.

THIS ISN’T FAST FOOD.

Sit back and enjoy your meal. You can expect a multi-course dinner at Ruth’s Chris to last a little less than two hours. (In a hurry? No problem— they’ll accommodate that, too.)

FORGOT TO MAKE A RESERVATION?

Reservations for the Ruth’s Chris main dining room are recommended—you’ll likely need them to get a table. But reservations aren’t required at the bar, where you can enjoy the full menu.

Red’s Savoy Pizza

2550 Broadway Ave. S. 507-206-3031

savoypizza.com/location/ minnesota/rochester/

OPENED: February 2024 (on Valentine’s Day, no less).

MINNESOTA MAINSTAY.

Red’s Savoy has been a Minnesota favorite since 1965, when Earl “Red” Schoenheider opened “The Original Red’s Savoy Pizza” in St. Paul. The 6-foot-4-inch Schoenheider was easy to remember, especially since he could be found behind the counter seven days a week until he passed away in 2017.

THEY HEAP ON THE TOPPINGS. Expect extra toppings and cheese on every square-shaped slice—a Red’s Savoy trademark.

PERSONAL

HISTORY.

Owners Shawn Weinke and Lisa Proulx moved to Rochester from the Twin Cities to open Red’s Savoy Pizza. The couple grew up with the original Red’s Savoy in their St. Paul neighborhood. “We love sharing the recipe and everything that Red stood for,” says Shawn. “We use the same pizza recipe, the sausage is the same, the crust, the cheese. It’s all proprietary to Savoy.”

HAPPY HOUR IS APPY HOUR.

From 2-5 p.m. daily, rewards members get a free appetizer when they buy a large pizza. (To become a rewards member, download the mobile app, which also offers a $5 welcome reward.)

Lumi

255 1st Ave. SW

507-206-0433

lumimn.com

OPENED: November 2024 in the former The Well (and even more former Dooley’s) location.

WELCOME TO ROCHESTER.

Lumi brought their Turkish and international cuisine to Rochester after opening their first location, on Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis, earlier in 2024.

“FOOD FOR EVERYONE.”

It’s not only their motto. Lumi offers flavors from more than a dozen cuisines around the world, including Turkish, American, Greek, Italian, French, Swedish, Mexican, German, Russian, Egyptian, Lebanese, Indian, and Chinese.

NO, REALLY.

There’s something for everyone. Have a picky eater in your midst? This is your spot. Pizza? Yes. Burger? Yes. Pasta? Yes. But also: Babaganoush. Chicken curry. Baklava. Schnitzel. Kebabs. (Including the Lumi Special Kebab, a shish kebab of beef and chicken wrapped in lavash, mozzarella, and butter sauce.) And much more.

THEY HAVEN’T FORGOTTEN THEIR VEGETARIAN FRIENDS. Lumi caters to vegetarians with a selection of housemade vegetarian meals, including a veggie casserole and veggie kabob.

Eddie’s Rey de la Birria

1201 S. Broadway Ste. 80 507-226-8001 reydebirria.com

OPENED: April 2024 in the former Prescott’s location at Crossroads Center.

NEW RESTAURANT, FAMILIAR FLAVORS.

After two years behind the wheel of his popular Eddie Rey de la Birria food truck, owner Eddie Campos Galindo expanded into a fullservice restaurant. You may also know Campos Galindo from his El Carambas or OPA! OPA!! restaurants.

BIRRIA BACKGROUNDER.

Birria is a traditional Mexican meat dish—slow cooked in a consommé broth and used as a base for tacos, burritos, pizzas, nachos and more. “We use it in anything!” says Campos Galindo. “But the most popular are our quesabirrias.”

THERE’S A REASON THE QUESABIRRIAS ARE POPULAR.

For these grilled tacos, Eddie’s Rey de la Birria slow-roasts the meat the day before, keeping it in the consommé so the flavors sear into the meat. Then they wrap the shredded beef, mozzarella, diced onions and cilantro (if you choose) in a tortilla before dipping the tacos into the consommé and grilling it until crispy. And, of course, your meal comes with a cup of consommé for dipping.

READY FOR DESSERT?

The restaurant offers a variety of fresh (and authentic) Mexican bakery products, from sweet conchas to savory bolillos.

Mill KitchenValley

150 Broadway Ave. S. 507-741-6222

millvalleykitchen.com/ location/rochester-mn/

OPENED: August 2024 in the former Pescara location in downtown Rochester.

TRIED AND TRUE. Husband and wife team Mike and Abby Rakun opened the original Mill Valley Kitchen in St. Louis Park 13 years ago. It’s where they first honed the seafood-forward menu that features sustainable and locally sourced meats and produce, signature cocktails, and a robust wine selection.

A NOD TO CALIFORNIA. The restaurant name is a tribute to the Mill Valley Region, a Northern California community famous for its thoughtfully crafted food and credited with the birth of the slow food movement and sustainable farming.

IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR. The Rakuns aren’t the only husband/ wife duo responsible for the success of Mill Valley Kitchen. Restaurant manager Jenna Kappers and her husband, executive chef Lucas Kappers, also call MVK home.

TOTAL TRANSPARENCY. Mill Valley wants you to know exactly what you’re eating—and proves it by putting nutrition facts right on the menu next to every option. Expect to see calories, fat, carbohydrate, protein and fiber breakdowns for every menu item.

MARKETPLACE a selection of shops & services

DINING

the local table {where we eat}

Looking for one of the region’s best restaurants? Local Table, our guide to some of the city’s best places to eat, offers options from burgers to bar food, buffets to breakfasts. In search of a romantic hotspot? Some of the city’s best Buffalo Wings? A happenin’ happy hour? The Local Table is your guide to where locals eat. (Pages 18-22)

SPECIALTY STORES

Galleria. 111 Broadway S. Shoppers will find a range of unique gift items, home decor, housewares, men’s apparel, games, and fashions for all ages. Clothing stores include: Hers, Poppi, Counterpoint, The Nordic Shop, and others. Gift items and housewares can be found at The Nordic Shop, Counterpoint Home, and Games by James.

Garten Marketplatz. Located six miles SW of Rochester on Olmsted Co. 15, this Civil-War era farm has beautiful display gardens, a great selection of Minnesotagrown perennials and garden art. The vintage brick “Garten Haus” is filled with gifts and home decor that changes with the season. The European-inspired carriage house is ready to host your meeting or special event year-round. 5225 Co. Rd. 15 SW Byron. 507-365-8891. gartenmarketplatz.com

Tyrol Ski & Sports. 1923 Second St SW. Selling quality outdoor gear since 1965. Featuring patio furniture, kayaks, canoes, camping gear, outdoor apparael, footwear. Online at tyrolskishop.com. Open Mon & Thurs 10-8; Tues, Wed, Fri 10-6; Sat 9:30-5:30. 507-288-1683.

ENTERTAINMENT

Rochester Civic Theatre. 20 Civic Center Dr SE.

Just off Broadway in downtown Rochester, the Civic Theatre delivers a year-round slate of musical, drama, comedy, and young people’s theater productions. For a schedule of events, go to rochestercivictheatre.org, or call the box office at 507-282-8481.

Treasure Island.

Just minutes north of Red Wing. Whether you’re looking for great food and drink, big cash drawings, a new car or free weekend entertainment—odds are you’ll find it at The Island. For more information call 800-222-7077. treasureislandcasino. com. The Island is calling! (See ad page 5)

BANKING

Mayo Employees

Federal Credit Union. We are dedicated to helping members achieve their financial goals. 100% financing to qualified borrowers, first-time home buyer programs, fixed rate conventional mortgages, FHA and VA financing, competitive rates and fair fees, up to 100% home equity financing, residential loan program. Apply at mayocreditunion.org. 507-535-1460. (See ad page 25)

Eagle Rock Bank. Formerly ONB Bank. Where community banking means more than a new account; we build relationships! Offering a wide variety of banking products for both your personal and business needs. Two convenient locations with experienced bankers to assist you with your financial journey. Call us today at 507-280-0621! www.eaglerock.bank. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. (See ad page SS 34)

WHERE TO WORSHIP

First Presbyterian Church.

512 Third St SW. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. Fellowship, 9-10 a.m. Christian Education, 10:15 a.m. worship. First Presbyterian Church is an inclusive community celebrating God with Energy, Intelligence, Imagination, and Love. Call 507-282-1618 or e-mail office@fpcrochester.org for information. May the Peace of Christ be with you!

Grace Lutheran Church. LCMS 800 East Silver Lake Dr NE. Worship services: Sunday 9 a.m. Sunday School and Bible Class 10:30 a.m. “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith...” Eph.2:8 NIV. We welcome you by God’s grace, will help you grow with God’s love, and prepare you to do His work. In addition to many mission projects in Rochester, Grace supports Lutheran Hour Ministries and is a member of Rochester Central Lutheran School Association. 507-289-7833, gracebythelake.org. Email: office@gracebythelake.org.

Redeemer

Lutheran Church.

869 7th Ave SE. Saturday: Worship 5:30 p.m. Sunday: Worship 8 and 10:40 a.m. Sunday School & Education Hour: 9:20 a.m. Welcome to Redeemer Lutheran Church where you’ll find a small neighborhood church atmosphere of friendship and fellowship. Our members are dedicated to doing the Lord’s work. Our mission and purpose at Redeemer are to glorify God through the gifts of the Holy Spirit and to provide opportunities for spiritual growth. 507-289-5147, redeemer-rochester.com. Email: office@redeemer-rochester.com.

10 (or so) questions with ... Alexandra Bartoi,

violinist and concertmaster at Rochester Symphony Orchestra | Photo courtesy Alexandra Bartoi

Rochester Magazine: At what age did you really realize that this— being a professional violinist— was a calling for you?

Alexandra Bartoi: So this was when I fell in love with Mozart, the first man I ever wanted to marry. That was at the age of six. I watched the movie Amadeus, and I totally fell in love with this guy. Then I read a book about him, and I found out his birthday is on the same day as mine. I wanted to play the violin, to be like him.

RM: You started performing for your parents.

AB: I was staging The Magic Flute [the Mozart opera]. I loved The Magic Flute so much. I loved all the roles. I did onewoman operas for my parents. So I played all the roles. I did the tickets, the costumes, and then I did performances for them.

RM: You were born in Bucharest. But this was when your family had moved to Hamburg, Germany?

AB: I was born in Romania, and lived there until I was two-and-a-half. I spent summers in Romania with my grandparents, and those are my fondest memories. Actually, in my heart, I’m very patriotic. This is why I also do Romanian music. But yes, I was raised in Germany, in Hamburg. I lived there until I was 24, when I moved to the States.

RM: You clearly feel strongly about your Romanian roots.

AB: I speak better German than Romanian, and I have a German accent when I speak Romanian. So maybe I’m like a tree that has been planted somewhere else. So it has roots at that other place, but maybe I have no real roots anywhere. This is why it’s easy for me to move. It was easy for me to leave Germany behind and come here.

RM: You moved here for your husband’s job at Mayo Clinic.

Felix [Knauf] is a nephrologist, which means he works with kidneys. We came for his job but also for the life here, and to see what opportunities would be here for my career also. I really liked what I saw when I came to Rochester. We lived in Berlin before, which is a super cool place when you’re young and have no kids. Now we have two young children.

RM: What’s your most embarrassing hobby?

AB: Cleaning. I’m obsessed.

RM: Really? Are you a neat freak?

AB: I have three vacuum robots.

RM: Do those really work?

AB: So much better than me. Because one bad thing about me is I’m not patient, but they are really patient. They take three or four hours to clean one floor while I’m doing other stuff. It’s my comforting background noise.

RM: Was there an early break that really told you that violin was the right choice?

AB: No, it was rather like Mount Everest. You have to climb. And you start when you’re six or seven years old. And you really have to have lots of setbacks, and then you have little successes, and then you just go step by step.

RM: And you have had a lot of successes. I’ll give you some names and butcher the pronunciation. Albrecht Breuninger and Christoph Schickedanz.

AB: My first violin teacher was Albrecht Breuninger. He’s more like a mentor. It was a very close one-to-one relationship that goes far beyond just playing the violin, because you can only play as good as you are as a human being. You have to mature as a whole person. And both of these teachers came to me at a

very fragile and important point of my life. So I owe so much to them.

RM: You’ve played a lot of big shows. But now you’re also part of the Humanities for Mayo Program, in which you play one-onone for Mayo patients.

AB: I’m hired through Mayo’s Center for Humanities in Medicine department, and there is a program called Arts at the Bedside. I just go there and play whatever they want me to play if I can fulfill their needs. Sometimes they ask me for bluegrass. I can’t do that. I have to disappoint them. But they’re fine with some Mozart too, most of the time.

RM: Can you feel it makes a difference?

AB: Yes, I can feel it. They also tell me it. Just yesterday, I had someone who said “Oh, my muscles were clenching, and now that you played, I relaxed for the first time in months.” People cry, but good tears afterwards. Many people are skeptical at the beginning like, “Oh, violin. I wish you were like a country singer.” But then they are really touched and say that it was so beautiful. Well, of course, sometimes it’s also people who are like, “Okay. Thank you. Now I can finally watch TV again.” But that’s very rare.

RM: What’s the biggest request you get?

AB: Amazing Grace. Although I do get a lot of requests for country songs, though many times I don’t even know who the singer is. I really want to order a book with the 100 most popular American songs so I can look them up. Usually I just say “I can play some Beethoven if you like.”

RM: What is your plan for the rest of today?

AB: So normally, I would have practiced by now, but that’s okay. I will blame it on you if I make a mistake.

RM: Yes, you can blame me. When I leave, you can turn on your three robot vacuums and then practice.

AB: That is often my day.

HOME PROJECTS FOR 2025 Must-do

Area experts share their advice on home projects

GET THAT RADON TEST the project:

LINCOLN STELLNER, Field Inspector and Certified Radon Specialist, All-Star Basements

“One home project people should consider in 2025 is getting their homes tested for radon.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is the second leading cause of lung cancer. The only way to know if radon is in your house is to test for it. There are several ways to test your home for radon, which include buying your own test kit and sending it into a lab, testing through the county, or testing to a company. Short-term tests typically take 48 hours to complete. If your results come back at 4 pCi/L or higher, the EPA recommends you take action to lower the radon levels in your home.”

UPDATE THAT FLOORING WITH WARM TONES. the project:

KAILYN DAHL, Sales Consultant, Carpet One of Rochester

“Updating your carpet is a great way to refresh your space. There are so many soft, stylish, and stain-resistant options that make a room feel cozy while still being easy to maintain—perfect for busy homes!

Light floors are still in, with white oak LVP being one of the most asked-for options. But more people are also choosing warm, medium-light beige tones. They add warmth, hide dirt better, and still keep spaces feeling bright and open.”

The (big) project:

CHOOSING A BUILDER

You will want to choose a professional home builder because:

• Building professionals believe that homes should be well-designed, well-constructed, and well-located, with accessible educational, recreational, religious, and shopping facilities.

• Building professionals have a strong responsibility to their customers and to their community.

• Building professionals have honesty as their guiding business policy and believe in dealing fairly with their customers, employees, and suppliers.

• Building professionals try to build high standards of health and safety into every home.

• Building professionals receive continuing education every year on the newest building techniques, assuring you the best possible quality of construction.

How to find that professional builder:

Check to see if the contractor belongs to a builders association.

Becoming a dues-paying members of such a group usually means that a builder is an established member of the community. Associations care about the image of their industry, so builders who belong will have a greater incentive to conduct business in a professional manner.

Why Hire a Member of Rochester Area Builders?

When you work with a member of our Association you can be assured that the company is:

• Licensed as necessary with the state of Minnesota

• Insured

• Compliant with our Code of Ethics

Our Association will also help you resolve disputes if they should occur as you work with our members.

Choose a builder with whom you feel comfortable.

You will be in frequent communication with your builder during the construction process and after you move into your home. You must find someone you can talk to comfortably about the building process.

Talk to 3-4 recent customers of the builders you are considering.

Try to visit some of the previous homes and ask the residents about their experiences. Don’t be shy about approaching people. In most cases, they will be quite open with you. If they are unhappy, they will let you know, and if they are happy, they will want to give the builder more business!

“New construction: You have the opportunity to personalize your home from the ground up, selecting everything from floor plans to finishes. This ensures your home meets your exact needs and preferences.

Remodel: Grow with your home to better fit your lifestyle and preferences without having to move. Use this to enjoy the latest in-home technology, design and energy efficiency.”

the project:

UPGRADE TO THAT QUARTZ COUNTERTOP

TONY BIGELOW, Vice President, Bigelow Homes

“We are seeing customers choose quartz countertops over granite due to the ability to get solid colors. Granite is a great kitchen countertop and is very heat resistant. However, granite does need to be sealed and is susceptible to staining. Quartz is not as porous and requires less maintenance than granite. While granite remains very popular, quartz is another option to spruce up your kitchen and bathroom counters. Quartz does tend to be more expensive than granite, but with the kitchen being one of the most important rooms in any home, people are making the switch.”

the project:

GIVE YOUR MASTER BATH A SERIOUS GLOW-UP

ANGELA BOWMAN-MALLOY, Owner, Midwest Floor Solutions

“Alright, homeowners—2025 is the year to give your master bath a serious glow-up!

We’re seeing a big trend in bathroom remodels with high-end flooring that turns your space into a daily spa retreat. Think sleek, oversized porcelain tiles for a modern, seamless look; heated floors to keep your toes cozy; and maybe even a statement tile wall in the shower for that extra wow factor.

And if you’re still rocking old-school linoleum or dated tile—it’s time. Let it go.

Upgrading your master bath isn’t just about looks (though, trust us, it helps). It’s about low-maintenance, high-durability flooring that makes mornings feel less like a chore and more like a luxury experience. Plus, with the right choices, you get timeless style that boosts home value.”

Often positioned near the primary point of entry, mudrooms are a popular addition to many family homes. These organizational dynamos are the perfect place to catch muddy boots, backpacks, sports equipment and dirty paws before they make it all the way into the main living areas.

Luxurious mudrooms in high-end homes can sometimes boast custom cabinetry, full bathrooms, laundry facilities, showers for pets and direct pantry access.

Regardless of whether your mudroom is an actual room or just a small space near the front door to hang bags and jackets, the organizational basics are the same:

Corral Clutter: One of the most important items in any mudroom is storage for shoes, pet supplies, backpacks, sporting equipment and other items. If built-in storage isn’t in your budget, put up a sturdy shelving unit with a bin or basket for each family member.

Get Hooked: Securely anchor a row of strong hooks along the wall for coats, hats, scarves or other seasonal accessories that may otherwise find themselves dropped on the floor upon arriving home.

Mud Happens: Mudrooms are meant to handle dirt so nix the carpet and lay down tile or hardwood flooring. Pick a stylish rug to catch dirt in its tracks while also adding a design element to the space.

Shoe Space: Place a wooden bench or sturdy coffee table near the door so everyone has a place to sit while removing shoes. Slide a few baskets or bins underneath as an alternate location for storing backpacks and other gear when not in use.

Take Command: Create a family command center by adding a small cabinet or desk with a corkboard above. It makes for a perfect spot to stash keys, charge cell phones, open mail, sort school papers and post the family calendar.

from Family Features

FIRST-TIMER’S GUIDE TO KITCHEN REMODELING the project:

What to know before you begin

Kitchen upgrades are among the most common renovation projects homeowners tackle. Even so, it’s a big project for a first-time renovation, and the final results are sure to be stronger with some detailed planning from the start.

Take into account these five tips from the experts at Wellborn Cabinet to help first-time kitchen remodelers achieve the kitchens of their dreams:

1. Plan Your Budget

Establish a clear and realistic budget. Factor in costs for materials, labor and some extra for unexpected expenses. Sticking to your budget can help ensure you enjoy the outcome of the project while avoiding financial stress. Your contractor can help you strike a balance between your vision and financial resources. You may also find it helpful to consult with a real estate professional who can ensure your plans are in line with the overall value of your home and neighborhood.

2.

Prioritize Functionality

Design with practicality in mind. Ensure there’s enough counter space and storage to create an efficient workflow. Consider the kitchen work triangle; that is, be conscious of the travel pattern among the sink, stove and refrigerator.

Additionally, look for opportunities to incorporate functional storage in unexpected places. One example is the exposed end of a cabinet run or side of the refrigerator, where there is often wasted space.

One example is a shallow cleaning utility cabinet from Wellborn Cabinet that fits a broom, dustpan and everyday cleaning supplies neatly, giving you practical access to frequently used supplies. A variation on this cabinet

offers a spice rack designed for easy access to cooking essentials. Other options in the line include an over-fridge cabinet with a combination of shelves, sheet pan or cutting board storage and a trash can-cutting board combination.

3. Choose Quality Materials

Design with practicality in mind.

Consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements and compatibility with your design aesthetic when selecting materials for your kitchen. You may be tempted to cut corners and stretch your money further, but quality materials are a critical element of successful renovations. Prioritize high-quality materials that stand the test of time. Durable countertops, solid cabinetry and reliable appliances typically save money in the long run, and they’ll enhance the overall look and value of your kitchen.

4. Hire Professionals

Work with experienced contractors and designers. Their expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your remodel meets all safety and building codes. What’s more, these professionals have likely encountered and overcome all kinds of challenges, which means they’ll be wellprepared to help you navigate unexpected obstacles and provide a wealth of knowledge from previous clients to help make recommendations for the perfect finished space.

5. Stay Flexible

Be prepared for unexpected challenges and delays. Stay adaptable and open to changes and remember patience is key to achieving the kitchen of your dreams. Materials go on backorder and paperwork gets misplaced all the time. Set a realistic timeline for your project that allows for some hiccups and try to avoid becoming too rigidly attached to any single element of the design, so if you have to make a modification, it doesn’t feel like a monumental sacrifice. rm

The Walk-Through:

INSIDE PRIVATE CABIN ON MORCOM LAKE IN COTTON, MN

The home: 3.6 acres, 385 feet of shoreline 2,279 square feet, 3 BED/ 3 BATH

The info: A woodworker’s own private cabin on Morcom Lake, nestled between Duluth and Virginia. The private lot offers gorgeous sunset views and a walk-in swimming shoreline. Built in 2006, the home features a glass front great room with natural

light offering beautiful lake views, and a glass door that opens to the lakefront wrap-around deck. The Hickory kitchen with leathered granite counters and island opens to the great room and dining room, all lakeside. Luxurious main floor suite with French doors open to a spa bath. Main floor guest bedroom and bath. Walkout lower level with bedroom, sauna bath, rec room, bar and fireplace front gas stove. Completing the property is a 60’

Local Professional Expertise

Global Network | Unrivaled Personal Service | Ethics Committee Member

We listen to our clients and make buying or selling a straight-forward, transparent experience. Give us a call or send us an email and let’s get started today!

Two Big Weekends! April 26~27 & May 3~4 | 12~4pm

Austin Ryan

President, Rochester Area Builders

I am delighted to welcome you to the 2025 Spring Showcase of Homes, an event that highlights the incredible talent and dedication of our local builders. This year’s showcase is a testament to the hard work, craftsmanship, and innovative spirit that define the Rochester area’s construction industry.

As you explore the stunning homes featured in this showcase, please make full use of the Tour Magazine Guide. This comprehensive guide is designed to enhance your experience, providing detailed information about each home, including the unique features and design elements that make them stand out. The guide also includes insights into the builders’ visions and the meticulous processes they followed to bring these homes to life.

Our builders have poured their hearts and souls into creating these beautiful homes, and it is their unwavering commitment to excellence that makes this event possible. Their expertise and creativity are evident in every detail, from the architectural designs to the high-quality finishes. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and grateful for their contributions to our community.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the builders for their exceptional work and dedication. Your efforts not only enhance the quality of life in our community but also inspire future generations of builders to strive for greatness.

Thank you for participating in the 2025 Showcase of Homes. I hope you enjoy this opportunity to witness firsthand the remarkable craftsmanship and innovation that our builders bring to the Rochester area.

Warm regards,

Austin Ryan

2025 President, Rochester Area Builders

Ryan Windows & Siding

Showcase Committe Members

Cari Humphrey ..................................... Countryside Builders, LLC

Kathy Einck ......................................... Maplewood Custom Homes

Colton Hill ...................................................... The Design Connection

Madison Pearson ...................................................................... Cambria

Jaden Miller Weller Brothers Landscaping

Kirk Olson Weller Brothers Landscaping

Melissa Cherry Post-Bulletin Company, LLC

Chris Hus RE/MAX Results

Hannah Lacina ........................... Lacina Siding & Windows, Inc.

Mark Hanson ................................... R&M Development Company

Sarah Hamzagic ........................... Thimijan Custom Homes, LLC

Katie Geddes ................................................................................... Lennar

Remodelers Council

Madison Pearson........................................................................ Cambria

Jennifer Ferraro ....................... Hamernick’s Flooring Solutions

Michelle Vogl Interiors by J.Curry, LLC

Seth Hander Valor Mechanical, Inc.

Cory Squier Warners’ Stellian Appliance Company

Troy Brenhaug Premier Bank

Jessica Markley .......................................... Elias Construction, LLC

MAKE YOUR HOMEOWNERSHIP DREAM A REALITY! A REALITY!

The Parade of Homes is proud to continue its mission of helping Minnesotans achieve the dream of homeownership. The Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway is here to help more first-time buyers take that life-changing step into owning their very first home!

Over the years, this giveaway has made a real difference for hardworking Minnesotans who are so close to buying a home but face challenges saving for that all-important down payment. Now, it’s your turn! With our $10,000 down payment assistance drawing and giveaway, this could be the year you unlock the door to homeownership.

DO YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW QUALIFY?

First-time homebuyers, step right up! This means you have not owned a home or residential property in the last five years.

You meet the $10K Giveaway household income requirements. For details, visit ParadeofHomesRochester.org.

You are planning to purchase your first home in the next 12 months.

TO ENTER SWEEPSTAKES AND FOR COMPLETE DETAILS, VISIT PARADEOFHOMESROCHESTER.ORG

Thank you to our generous donors.

1 913 8th St. SW • Pine Island

$89,000-$158,000

Subdivision: Windmill Woods 2nd

Description: Located 20 minutes from downtown Rochester, this highly sought-after property is in one of the best school districts in the state. This property features beautifully designed lots, breathtaking views, and abundant wildlife. Reserve your lot today!

Home style: Development

Exterior: Development

2

Derby Builders (507) 421-6396

Derby.Builders.com Contractor License #BC528487

This company has been a member since 2007.

2210 Elk Run Dr. SE • Pine Island

Subdivision: Pine Prairie Second

Description: Don’t miss this stunning split-level home in a growing neighborhood! Close to an elementary school, walking trails, and Highway 52. Features include a gourmet kitchen, primary suite with walk-in closet, unfinished lower level with family room, and a spacious 3-car garage. A must-see home!

Home style: Split-level

Exterior: Vinyl

3 1713 Boelter Estates Dr. NW • Rochester

$1,375,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Subdivision: Boelter Estates

Description: Contemporary designed 5-bedroom home with main floor office on a 2.03 acre lot with thoughtful design & craftsmanship. Features include gourmet kitchen, walk-in pantry, wet bar, covered screened deck, patio with fire pit ring, heated garage with epoxy floor, large exercise room, lawn sprinklers.

Home style: One-story with full basement

Exterior: LP Smart trim

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) .................. 4018

Total SqFt (Including garage) ................................... 4998

Garage SqFt ............................................................................ 980

Number of Bedrooms ........................................................ 5

4

$1,450,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Exclusive Home Builders (507) 319-9912

facebook.com/p/Exclusive-Home-Builders-LLC-100065353086348/ Contractor License #BC717275

Number of Baths 3 This company has been a member since 2019.

1629 Boelter Estates Dr. NW • Rochester

Exclusive Home Builders (507) 319-9912

Subdivision: Boelter Estates

Description: Majestic 2-story home located on a 2.44acre lot. From the minute you walk in the front doors and see the 9 ft linear fireplace in the living room with 12 ft ceiling as large windows on both sides or the well laid out gourmet kitchen dining on the other side, you will know you found your next home.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: LP SmartSide siding & stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 3467 Total SqFt (Including garage) ..................................... 4379 Garage SqFt ............................................................................... 912 Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 5

of Baths ................................................................... 3.5

facebook.com/p/Exclusive-Home-Builders-LLC-100065353086348/ Contractor License #BC717275 This company has been a member since 2019.

6313 Merilane Place NW • Rochester

$1,595,000 LOT PRICE NOT INCLUDED

6

$389,900 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Derby Builders (507) 421-6396

Derby.Builders.com

Contractor License #BC528487

Subdivision: Friederichs Forest

Description: This beautiful craftsman home is a must-see! With its custom design and unique materials, it is sure to please. This home offers a large open concept with many customized details, including a screen porch with a woodburning stove and stunning views.

Home style: Walkout Ranch w/finished lower level & bonus room

Exterior: LP Siding, stone, cedar accents

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 5246

Total SqFt (Including garage) ................................... 6568

Garage SqFt .......................................................................... 1322

Number of Bedrooms ........................................................ 5

Number of Baths 6 This company has been a member since 2007.

5362 Solstice Place NW • Rochester

Bigelow Homes (507) 529-1161

bigelowhomes.net

Contractor License #BC431673

Subdivision: Harvestview 3rd

Description: Slab on grade Villa in Harvestview 3rd offering 2-bedrooms, 2-baths, 2-car garage with open floor plan. Many great amenities throughout to include, fireplace, open living space, covered patio, walk-in pantry and more. Simplify your living with a managed association that offers lawn care, snow removal and sanitation.

Home style: Slab-on-grade

Exterior: Vinyl, cement board

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................... 1272

Total SqFt (Including garage) ...................................... 1848

Garage SqFt .............................................................................. 576

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 2

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 2

This company has been a member since 1984.

License #BC001413

Subdivision: Ponds of Highland Hills

Description: The Lewis showcases striking curb appeal and designer finishes. The main level boasts a gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, gas cooktop, wall oven, and an island overlooking the dining and great room. Upstairs, an owner’s suite with spa-like bath, three bedrooms, a loft, and laundry provide comfort and convenience.

Home style: Two-story Exterior: Front LP SmartSide, vinyl and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 2692 Total SqFt (Including garage) 4131 Garage SqFt ............................................................................. 648 Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 4

of Baths ........................................................................ 3 This company has been a member since 2024.

Subdivision: The Ponds of Highland Hills

Description: This luxury 4-story modern 4-bedroom, 4-bath villa offers an open floor plan, custom cabinetry, stone countertops, and an upgraded appliance package. Enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop patio. With an elevator and hardboard siding, this home is the perfect blend of style and convenience.

Home style: Multi-story

Exterior: LP SmartSide

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 2846 Total SqFt (Including garage) ..................................... 3420

SqFt .............................................................................. 574

of Bedrooms .......................................................... 4

of Baths ........................................................................ 4 This company has been a member since 2016. $814,900

9 4933 Noble Dr. NW • Rochester

company has been a member since 2024. $578,230

(507) 229-4756

Subdivision: Ponds of Highland Hills

Description: The Sinclair's open layout includes a great room with fireplace, light-filled dining area, and a kitchen with a large quartz island. A front office or flex room adds versatility. Upstairs, the owner's suite features a freestanding-tub and separate shower, along with three additional bedrooms, a shared bath, and a laundry room.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: Front LP SmartSide, vinyl and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ..................

10

$542,880

914 Milborne Ln. NW• Rochester

Lennar (507) 229-4756 Lennar.com

Contractor License #BC001413

Subdivision: Essex Estates

Description: Set on a walkout homesite, the Vanderbilt’s open layout includes a stylish kitchen with quartz countertops and tile backsplash, great room with sleek fireplace, flex room, and convenient storage throughout. Upstairs features a generous owner’s suite with en suite bath, three bedrooms, shared bath, and convenient laundry room.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: Front LP SmartSide, vinyl and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 2271

SqFt (Including garage) 3804

11 899 Londonderry Dr. NW • Rochester

12

(507) 229-4756

License #BC001413

Subdivision: Essex Estates

Description: The Sinclair offers modern living with an open layout showcasing a kitchen with large pantry, great room with fireplace and a front office/flex room. Upstairs is an owner’s suite with a spa-like bath, plus three bedrooms, a full bath, and laundry. Set on a walkout homesite in Essex Estates, enjoy living near parks and trails.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: Front LP SmartSide, vinyl and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) .................. 2487

SqFt (Including garage) .....................................

company has been a member since 2024.

2444 Hadley Hills Dr. NE • Rochester

Lennar (507) 229-4756 Lennar.com Contractor License #BC001413

Subdivision: Hadley Hills

Description: The Vanderbilt’s main level features a convenient flex room, spacious great room with gas fireplace, and kitchen with quartz countertops, black hardware, and a corner pantry. Upstairs includes an owner’s suite, three additional bedrooms, and laundry room. The walkout lower level adds a recreation room, 5th bedroom, and 4th bath.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: Front LP SmartSide, vinyl and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 3126

SqFt (Including garage) 3804

13

$925,000

Cassidy Ridge Dr. NE • Rochester

Kevin Berge Builders (507) 273-6437 bergebuilders.com

Contractor License #BC442709

Subdivision: Cassidy Ridge 4th

Description: Welcome to this stunning new custom twostory home in NE Rochester, offering 3,600+ sq. ft. of luxury. The chef’s kitchen boasts quartz counter tops, a tiled back splash, a walk-in pantry, and high-end appliances. LVP flooring extends through key living areas, with tile in the baths, mudroom, and laundry. Enjoy a screened deck, LP smart siding, a full irrigation system, and heated garage with epoxy flooring.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: Painted LP and vinyl siding

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 3607

SqFt (Including garage) ..................................... 4487

SqFt ............................................................................. 880

This company has been a member since 2004.

14 Cassidy Farms Development • Rochester

$99,900 LOT PRICE ONLY

Meier Companies (507) 696-8899 meiercompanies.com

Contractor License BC698206

Subdivision: Cassidy Farms

Description: Presenting Cassidy Farms neighborhood located in NE Rochester. Featuring 53 single family lots nestled on the edge of town with rolling hills and wooded backdrops. This neighborhood is ideally located near top schools, shopping, theaters, Mayo Clinic NE, dining, and easy access to the heart of the city. NOW Taking reservations for lots to be ready late summer/fall. Stop at any of our model homes on the showcase to get more information.

Home style: Development

Exterior: Development

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 0

SqFt (Including garage) 0

SqFt ...................................................................................... 0 Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 0 Number of Baths ......................................................................... 0

This company has been a member since 2002.

15 3180 Bella Terra Ln. NE • Rochester

Subdivision: Century Valley

Description: Stunning new construction rambler features 5BR/3BA with soaring captain’s ceilings in living room & cozy gas fireplace. Gourmet kitchen boasts Cambria counters & hidden walk-in pantry. Relax in screened porch. Lower level wet bar perfect for entertaining. Premium finishes throughout this exceptional home.

Home style: Rambler

Exterior: LP SmartSide siding

16 3533 Bella Terra Rd. NE • Rochester

R. Fleming Construction (507) 933-0290 rflemingconstruction.com

Subdivision: Century Valley Fourth

Description: Century Valley Subdivision offers scenic living minutes from Mayo Clinic. This established neighborhood features spacious lots, mature trees, and well-maintained homes. With easy access to shopping, schools, and parks. Century Valley combines peaceful suburban charm with urban convenience.

Homestyle: Development

Exterior: Development

17 1085 Century Village Ln. NE • Rochester

18

Subdivision: Century Village

Description: Modern living meets convenience in this 2BR/1.5BA home. Featuring sleek design, gas fireplace & private patio. Option to finish basement for additional living space/bedroom & bath. Worry-free living with snow, lawn & garbage services included. Rochester’s newest townhome community offers style & ease.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: Vinyl Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................... 1755

2951 Lake Vista Dr. NW • Rochester

DeWitz Home Builders (507) 282-4624 dewitz.com Contractor License #BC431716

Subdivision: Manorwood Lakes Seventh

Description: This Ranch style home features 5-bedrooms, with 3 bedrooms on the main level, 3-bathrooms including a tile shower and jetted tub in the Owner’s Suite! 9 ft. walls with vaulted ceilings throughout Kitchen/Living/Dining area. Main level Laundry and Office. Lower level features a Wet Bar and Exercise Room!

Home style: Ranch

Exterior: LP SmartSide and vinyl siding

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 2926

19

$1,850,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

4921 8th St. SW • Rochester

20

$1,128,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Subdivision: Lilly Farms 3rd

Description: Make your dreams reality! All of your expectations are met in this beautifully designed home where modern elegance meets loving craftsmanship. This home shows off 6-bedrooms, 5-bathrooms and 3- car heated garage with 5175 square feet of space. Enjoy the views and serenity of the rolling, wooded Lily Farm countryside.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: James Hardie cement board siding

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................... 5175

Total SqFt (Including garage) ..................................... 6025

Garage SqFt ............................................................................. 850

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 6

Number of Baths 5

Distinguished Homes by Mitch Hagen (507) 951-1962

distinguishedhomesmn.com

Contractor License #BC638927

This company has been a member since 2014.

1814 Mayowood Ct. SW • Rochester

Mayowood Homes (507) 281-9800

preserveofmayowood.com

Contractor License #BC807380

Subdivision: Preserve of Mayowood

Description: Welcome to The Preserve of Mayowood, Rochester’s only private, gated community in a premier southwest location. This 4-bed, 3-bath luxury home offers a 3-car garage, covered porch, walk-in pantry, and high-end finishes. Enjoy a spa-like primary suite, open design, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Experience luxury, nature, and exclusivity—your dream home awaits!

Home style: Slab-on-grade

Exterior: LP Smartside and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 2687

Total SqFt (Including garage) 3547

Garage SqFt 860

Number of Bedrooms 4

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 3

This company has been a member since 2023.

21 4994 Mayo River Ln. SW • Rochester

$1,100,000

Derby Builders (507) 421-6396

Derby.Builders.com

Contractor License #BC582487

Subdivision: Mayo Woodlands

Description: This home, with stunning wooded views and design at its finest, is a must-see! It offers a large kitchen with a walk-through pantry, a screen porch with a wood-burning fireplace, a Sauna, and so much more! With many custom ceiling and wall details, Cabinetry, and Flooring, this home is sure to please!

Home style: Single-family home

Exterior: LP, stone, white oak accents

This company has been a member since 2007.

22 2727 Mayo Praire Ln. SW • Rochester

$1,499,900

Maplewood Custom Homes (507) 273-4275

maplewoodcustomhomes.com

Contractor License #BC296720

Subdivision: Mayo Woodlands 3rd

Description: Welcome to your finished dream home in Mayo Woodlands. We invite you to experience sophistication and elegance of the meticulous craftsmanship. Thoughtfully designed spaces on all three levels. White oak hardwood flooring throughout the main level highlights the gourmet kitchen, pantry, oversized great room, dining and sunroom.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: LP SmartSide, prefinished engineered hardboard

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 4699

23 2762 Mayo Prairie Ln. SW • Rochester

$975,000

Meier Companies (507) 696-8899 meiercompanies.com

Contractor License #BC698206

Subdivision: Mayo Woodlands

Description: ‘The Timber’ is a stunning home that offers the perfect blend of modern design and timeless elegance. With an open lofty layout, the home features spacious living areas filled with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The gourmet kitchen with stonework, sleek countertops, custom cabinetry, and built-in butler pantry are a must see. Large family room and an oversized flex room to be used as large fitness center, art/music studio, crafting, or playroom for the kids.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: LP SmartSide and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 4368 Total SqFt (Including garage) ...................................... 5168 Garage SqFt ............................................................................. 800 Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 4

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 4

This company has been a member since 2002.

24 2875 Wildflower Ln. SW • Rochester

$1,040,000 LOT PRICE NOT INCLUDED

Meier Companies (507) 696-8899

meiercompanies.com

Contractor License #BC698206

Subdivision: Mayo Woodlands

Description: ‘The Oakley’ offers charm and character blended with a modern design. An open floor plan with large windows to fill the space with natural light. This home features a gourmet chef’s kitchen, a main floor guest suite with private bath, home office, a planned fitness center, interior stonework, beams, urban/paneled walls, wet bar, jack-n-jill bath, his/hers closets, elegant owner’s suite to name a few. Come meet the builder and tour three homes in one stop!

Home style: Ranch

Exterior: LP SmartSide and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 4548

Total SqFt (Including garage) 5550

Garage SqFt .......................................................................... 1002

Number of Bedrooms ........................................................ 4

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 5

This company has been a member since 2002.

25 2876 Wildflower Ln. SW • Rochester

$675,000

Meier Companies (507) 696-8899 meiercompanies.com

Contractor License #BC698206

Subdivision: Mayo Woodlands

Description: ‘The Juniper’ is one of our favorites with its beautiful display of craftsmanship and charm. This custom home features a new twist to the classic two-story with the open floor plans boasting features – “Zoom Room” office space overlooking the backyard space, a large screened covered deck, elegant kitchen loaded with charm and functionality, & a custom laundry to make life a little easier. Come meet the builder & tour three homes in one stop!

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: LP siding and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 3433

Total SqFt (Including garage) ...................................... 4261

Garage SqFt .............................................................................. 828

Number of Bedrooms 3 Number of Baths 3

This company has been a member since 2002.

26 4980 Royal Oaks Circle SW • Rochester

$1,525,900 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Kevin Berge Builders (507) 273-6437 bergebuilders.com

Contractor License #BC442709

Subdivision: Royal Oaks Farm

Description: Absolutely stunning ranch style home. As you drive up you will be struck by the elegant curb appeal. Then step in and see the tall beamed ceilings, large beautiful windows with fantastic unobstructed views. The main floor offers a beautiful owner's suite with gorgeous views, 3-plus added bedrooms, and a fantastic main floor office, all on 3.51 acres.

Home style: Rambler

Exterior: Painted LP and natural stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 4802

Total SqFt (Including garage) 5926

Garage SqFt 1066

Number of Bedrooms 4

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 3

This company has been a member since 2004.

27 4629 Royal Oaks Circle SW • Rochester

$1,359,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

$2,179,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Kevin Berge Builders (507) 273-6437

bergebuilders.com

Contractor License #BC442709

Subdivision: Royal Oaks Farm

Description: Stunning custom 2-story home located on 2.24 acres in a gorgeous SW development, Royal Oaks Farm. This home offers all 3-levels finished, including two striking great rooms with large windows to capture the outstanding views. Beautiful white oak floors and welcoming covered deck. 5-bedrooms plus a striking main floor office/den.

Home style: Single-family home

Exterior: Painted LP and natural stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 4411

Total SqFt (Including garage) 5535 Garage SqFt ............................................................................. 1124

of Bedrooms .......................................................... 5

of Baths ................................................................... 4.5

This company has been a member since 2004.

5010 Millie Rd. SW • Rochester

Zen Custom Homes (507) 319-3464

zencustom.net

Contractor License #BC663670

Subdivision: Millie Meadows

Description: This new-construction home in the coveted Millie Meadows neighborhood sits on two wooded acres at the end of a cul-de-sac! The home offers exquisite two-story living with a finished walkout basement and boasts many luxury amenities. The spacious rooms include 5-bedrooms, an office, theater, great room, infrared sauna, fabulous kitchen with a scullery, and 2nd-floor.

Home style: Transitional

Exterior: James Hardie siding

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 6739

Total SqFt (Including garage) 8136

Garage SqFt 1021

Number of Bedrooms 5

This company has been a member since 2016.

29 4163 Christopherson Ln. SW • Rochester

$2,150,000

Subdivision: Millie Meadow Estates

Description: This stunning home offers over 5,800 sq. ft. of modern living on a 2-acre wooded lot. The open-concept main floor features a striking custom floating staircase, office, gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, and a great room with a fireplace and screened porch. Upstairs boasts four bedrooms, including a luxurious owner’s suite. The lower level is built for entertaining!

Home style: Two-story with finished basement

Exterior: LP SmartSide

Legacy Homes Of Rochester (507) 281-9800

legacyhomesofrochester.com

Contractor License #BC769454

This company has been a member since 2022.

30 2643 Timber Oaks Rd. SW • Rochester

$1,320,000

Subdivision: Scenic Oaks West 1st

Description: This classic two-story showcases elevated finishes throughout. With a spacious kitchen and dining area leading to a back screen porch, hosting gatherings is effortless. Large windows, a dedicated office, and large walk-in pantry add to the allure.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: James Hardie cement board

Distinguished Homes by Mitch Hagen (507) 951-1962 distinguishedhomesmn.com

Contractor License #BC638927

31 2656 Scenic Point Dr. SW • Rochester

$1,328,286 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

32

$1,290,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Wayne Thimijan (507) 358-5490 thimijan.com

Contractor License #BC503319

Subdivision: Scenic Oaks West

Description: Imagine stepping into a home where every detail is crafted for comfort and functionality. Designed with practicality in mind, there are 4-bedrooms on the upper level, one on the main floor, and one in the lower level, offering a welcoming retreat where families can gather, grow, and create cherished memories together.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: LP SmartSide and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 4923

Total SqFt (Including garage) ..................................... 5835

Garage SqFt ............................................................................... 912

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 6

Number of Baths 6

This company has been a member since 2005.

4902 Riley Ln. SW • Rochester

RyMark Homes (507) 281-9800 rymarkhomes.com

Contractor License #BC683403

Subdivision: Scenic Oaks West

Description: Welcome to your dream home in Scenic Oaks West! Nestled along a wooded tree line, this stunning residence features an end-load garage and sunlit interiors with western sunset views. Enjoy an open floor plan, a spacious walk-in pantry, and a grand mudroom. The upper level offers a serene primary suite, three additional bedrooms, and a convenient laundry room. A bright, finished lower level maximizes the gorgeous corner lot.

Home style: Two-story with finished basement

Exterior: LP SmartSide and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) .................. 4818

Total SqFt (Including garage) ..................................... 5702

Garage SqFt ............................................................................. 884

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 5

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 5

This company has been a member since 2015.

Wedon’tjustbuildhouses;wecrafthomesofenduringquality. Beyondconstruction,ourcommitmenttoyourhappinesslastsalifetime. Trustustobethereforyoueverystepoftheprocess—evenafterwards.

Cty. Rd. 15 • Byron

Derby Builders (507) 421-6396

Derby.Builders.com

Contractor License #BC528487

Subdivision: Rural

Description: From the gorgeous stone curb appeal to the spacious custom details inside, this home is sure to make you smile! It offers an open concept design with a roomy kitchen and great room, plus a comfy den just off the great room—perfect for relaxing. The Lower Level includes a bar & billiards, Upper level includes a Secret Bonus Room!

Home style: Two-story/finished lower level & bonus room

Exterior: Stone, LP siding

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 6250

Total SqFt (Including garage) 7806

Garage SqFt ........................................................................... 1556

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 4

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 5

This company has been a member since 2007.

14 Tyrol Dr. SE • Rochester

$549,900 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Platinum Roofing & Construction (507) 951-1465

4dcompaniesllc.com

Contractor License #BC675858

Subdivision: Tyrol Hills

Description: Beautiful New Construction Home is located on a wooded lot south of Rochester. This custom-designed home features an open kitchen concept with custom cabinets, quartz countertops, LVP flooring, and walk-in pantry to meet your needs. Enjoy the cozy main level featuring a gas fireplace with a large master bedroom with walk-in tile shower. The lower level features a spacious family room with a gas fireplace for your comfort as well as a large laundry room to meet your family’s needs.

Home style: Split-level w/walkout

Exterior: Vinyl siding/vertical LP SmartSide and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 2889

Total SqFt (Including garage) 3760

Garage SqFt ............................................................................... 871

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 5

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 3

This company has been a member since 2025.

$389,900

Platinum Roofing & Construction (507) 951-1465 4dcompaniesllc.com

License #BC675858

Dr. NW • Eyota

Subdivision: Stone Garden Estates

Description: Beautiful New Construction Townhome in the Eyota community. Welcome home to this modern design that makes you feel right at home as you enter. This custom townhome features one level living with a beautiful open floor plan that includes a luxurious walk-in shower. This modern design with quartz & granite countertops, custom cabinets with premium features such as soft-close doors and drawers, walk in pantry, floor-ceiling fireplace, and covered patio will make you feel right at home.

Home style: Townhome

Exterior: LP SmartSide and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................... 1757

SqFt (Including garage) ...................................... 2257

SqFt ............................................................................. 500

of Bedrooms .......................................................... 3

of Baths ........................................................................ 2

This company has been a member since 2025.

Sweetwater Ct. • St. Charles

$579,900 LOT PRICE INCLUDED Pearson Builders (507) 932-5852 pearsonbuilders.net Contractor License #BC007603

Subdivision: Pine Ridge 1st Subdivision

Description: 4-beds, 3-bath home on a cul-de-sac lot. Approximately 3200 sq. ft. Private primary suite with walk in shower and dual sinks. All appliances included. Custom cabinets, 9’ ceilings, main floor laundry, wet bar, and 3-stall heated garage. Gas fireplace, large storage room, steel siding, covered porch in front and back.

Home style: Rambler

Exterior: Steel and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 3200 Total SqFt (Including garage) .................................... 4060 Garage SqFt ............................................................................. 860

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 4 Number of Baths ........................................................................ 3

This company has been a member since 2007.

$725,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

6554 Morgan Dr. NW • Byron

$434,900 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Cravath Homes, LLC (507) 254-5359

cravathhomes.com

Contractor License #BC508258

Subdivision: Montgomery Meadows

Description: Enjoy maintenance free living with this modern standalone villa overlooking the meadows and valleys. Main floor living with a private primary suite, a 2nd bedroom and laundry are all key features along with zero entry. Tall ceilings, and open floor plan and beautiful views provide great entertaining space. The fully finished walkout lower level is set up with another living room, 2 more bedrooms and a full bath.

Home style: Rambler Villa with fully finished lower level

Exterior: LP SmartSide, vinyl and stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 3202

Total SqFt (Including garage) ..................................... 3922

Garage SqFt .............................................................................. 720

Number of Bedrooms 4

Number of Baths 3

This company has been a member since 2005.

1582 Brandt Dr. NE • Byron

Bigelow Homes (507) 529-1161

bigelowhomes.net

Contractor License #BC431673

Subdivision: The East Village

Description: New 3-bed, 3-bath townhomes with unique designs. Main floor includes a cozy living room, laundry room, and large kitchen with center island. Upstairs, the owner’s suite has a private bath and walk-in closet. Two more bedrooms, a full bath, back patio, front deck, and ample storage complete the home.

Home style: Townhome

Exterior: Vinyl, brick/stone

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 2336

Total SqFt (Including garage) ..................................... 3303

Garage SqFt .............................................................................. 528

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 3

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 3

This company has been a member since 1984.

1824 Brandt NE Dr. • Byron

Subdivision: East Village III

Description: The Ironwood is an impressive gem featuring a luxurious feel loaded with charm and character. Our inhouse designer has hand selected the vision of this home to showcase some of the lifestyle features and modern trends. One of three homes we have located in Byron along with several building lots available make this a great stop to discuss building your next home. Come meet the building team we are eager to earn your business.

Home style: Ranch

Exterior: Vinyl and stone

This company has been a member since 2002.

1920 10th Ave. NE • Byron

Subdivision: Timberview First Subdivision

Description: Discover Timberview, a serene new community nestled in the trees with a country feel, just minutes from the prestigious Somerby Golf Course. Phase one offers spacious homesites on larger lots, blending nature with modern living. Enjoy the perfect balance of peace and prestige in this growing development.

Home style: Development

Exterior: Development

$389,000 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

1001 11th Place NW • Kasson

$869,900 LOT PRICE INCLUDED

Bigelow Homes (507) 529-1161 bigelowhomes.net

Contractor License #BC431673

Subdivision: Bigelow Voigt Eighth

Description: No snow shoveling or lawn mowing? Check out new townhomes in Kasson, located in private culde-sacs. Features: white cabinets, granite counters, 5x8 pantry, living room fireplace, primary bath with double sink & walk-in shower, walk-in closet, mudroom, and 24x24 garage. Come see the options!

Home style: Townhome side-by-side

Exterior: Vinyl

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) .................. 1638

Total SqFt (Including garage) ...................................... 2214

Garage SqFt .............................................................................. 576

Number of Bedrooms .......................................................... 2

Number of Baths 2

This company has been a member since 1984.

516 Somerby Parkway NE • Byron

Kevin Berge Builders (507) 261-4030

somerby.com

Contractor License #BC442709

Subdivision: Somerby Golf Community

Description: Stunning 2-story in the new West Phase offering 4-bedrooms 3-baths, office and 3-car heated garage. Great open floor plan showing cozy a gas fireplace, large kitchen w/custom cabinets, natural quartz tops, walk-in pantry & great dining area next to covered deck. Spacious primary suite w/impressive 3/4 bath. Lots of amenities & social membership.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: LP SmartSide, stone and vinyl

Finished SqFt (Not including garage) 4001

Total SqFt (Including garage) 4885

Garage SqFt 884

Number of Bedrooms 4

Number of Baths ........................................................................ 3

This company has been a member since 2004.

$924,900

6352 Paint Rd. NW • Byron

Pederson Homes (507) 287-7722 pederson-homes.com

License #BC775967

Subdivision: Montgomery Meadows

Description: This walk-out rambler features 5-bedrooms and 4-bathrooms. The main floor includes a home office, living room with gas fireplace, custom kitchen, and primary bedroom with ensuite. The lower-level includes a family room with wet-bar and three additional bedrooms, including a second ensuite.

Home style: Rambler

Exterior: LP SmartSide, vinyl

44 6410 Paint Rd. NW • Byron

$1,295,000

Subdivision: Montgomery Meadows

Description: This two-story home features 5-bedrooms and 5-bathrooms. The main floor includes a home office, living room with gas fireplace, and a custom kitchen. Upstairs you will find 4-bedrooms, including a primary bedroom with ensuite and two walk-in closets. The lower level includes a family room with wet bar.

Home style: Two-story

Exterior: LP SmartSide, vinyl Finished SqFt (Not including garage) ................. 4698

SqFt (Including garage) ...................................... 5681

SqFt ............................................................................. 983

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April 26~27 | 12~4pm

7835 Cedar Crest Ln. NW • Rochester

Description:

This home had wonderful features that the clients wanted to update! Painting of the maple trim and refinishing the hardwood floors provided a whole new color palette that provides a perfect backdrop for the large stunning granite island and custom cabinetry. A horizontal modern rail system, custom office cabinetry, dining room built-ins and smart mudroom storage make this remodel a standout!

Project Goals:

• To modernize and lighten up the main floor.

• To create a chic office space with storage.

• Create a mudroom with a dog wash station.

• To install a custom modern iron stair rail system.

943 Stone Slope Ln. SW • Rochester

Description:

This lovely home was updated with modern walnut custom cabinetry in the kitchen, highlighting the large island cooktop and built-in refrigerator. The coffee bar is a well-designed beverage center with unique tile. Upstairs in the primary bath, large format porcelain tiles create a stunning backdrop to a larger shower and vanity area. This light and bright bathroom is a spacious and lux must-see!

Project Goals:

• To update the kitchen with a modern aesthetic.

• To create a chic coffee bar.

• To create a larger tiled shower.

• Replace the built-in tub with a freestanding tub.

2736 Headland Ct. SW • Rochester

Description:

Welcome to a complete remodel of a 20+ year old spacious Southwest Rochester home. New exterior roof, siding, stone, windows, and doors. Redesigned kitchen and five bathroom remodels. New fireplaces, custom cabinetry, Cambria countertops, interior doors, custom woodwork, and hardwood flooring throughout the entire home. High end finishes and attention to detail make this home a must see!

Project Goals:

• Exterior updates: New roof, siding, windows, doors.

• Redesign kitchen to include an 11’ center island.

• Custom cabinetry & Cambria Countertop throughout.

• Remodel all five bathrooms on all levels.