Rochester Magazine | April 2024

Best New

RESTAURANTS

(Chicken & Waffles. Golden Beets & Danish Donuts. Burritos & 3D-Printed Burrito Holders.)

6 of your new favorites.

The German opera debut.

The Rochester detour.

The longtime love story.

May Fisher Crawford

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8 Junk Drawer

11 Shortcuts

Never been to the Rochester Symphony? 5 reasons to go; 30 Days of April, 30 Things To Do; Visiting an inmate at FMC? Keep your kisses “in good taste”; Three Ways You Can Help ...; more.

12 Oddchester

CONTENTS APRIL 2024

Features

26 Rochester’s Best New Restaurants

Fresh-made focaccia. Golden Beets. A 3D printed burrito holder. A “specially-crafted yuzu rice lager.” Jackfruit “Crab” Cake. Moroccan Eggs Shakshuka. You voted. We ate.

38 The German opera debut. The Rochester detour. The longtime love story.

How May Fisher Crawford—the wife of renowned architect Harold Crawford—left her own legacy in Rochester.

46 Our Ultimate Area Golf Guide

70+ golf course listings. 2024’s best golf deals. More.

65 Area experts, weekend projects.

Add one exterior accent. Redo your utility room. Upgrade that “doesn’t feel quite right” space.

14 Random Rochesterite

Connie White tells us about her first job (at A&W), what she knows about small-town crime (“there’s a tendency in Minnesota to think it’s always someone else”), and meeting her husband in college (“he wrote for that class about how he had met me and was just fascinated with me”).

25 Three Ways You Can Help

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

78 The Walk Through

Inside one cool home you could own right now.

76, 80 Rochester, Retro

82 Ten (or so) questions

Andrew Meissner, the co-owner of Bravo Espresso, talks about coffee he drinks, moving away and getting his own apartment at 16, and what he’s learned after 25 years in the coffee business (“I’ve learned I don’t know what everyone’s going through”).

On the cover: Our Paladar, winner of our Best New Restaurants. Photo by A/B Photography.

Junk Drawer

25 things you didn’t know about this month’s issue. Until now.

THE POST BULLETIN COMPANY

Publisher FORUM COMMUNICATIONS CO.

Editor STEVE LANGE 507-285-7770 slange@rochestermagazine.com

Advertising Director

TESSA OLIVE 507-281-7469 tolive@rochestermagazine.com

Advertising

MELISSA CHERRY

ADAM GEHLING

LISA SCHELL advertising@rochestermagazine.com

Graphic Designers

MOLLIE BURLINGAME

BETH KROHN

Associate Editor

JENNIFER HAUGEN KOSKI

Contributing Writers

ALEXA ANDERSON

HADLEY LANGE

THOMAS WEBER

Photo Supervisor

JOE AHLQUIST

Contributing Photographers

MAYA GIRON

KEN KLOTZBACH

OLIVE JUICE STUDIOS

GET HOME DELIVERY!

For $29.95, you’ll get a year’s subscription to Rochester Magazine. Or $50 for two years. $65 for three years.

Just call 507-285-7676.

Sure, we’ve won our share of editorial awards—for writing and photography and design—in this past year. And we’ve gotten dozens of letters about the stories and photos.

The advertising side gets plenty of positives as well, and contest judges (and letter writers) often go out of their way to mention the quality of the ads in the magazine. Which—and we can tell you this from experience—is because Advertising Director Tessa Olive wants to tell our advertisers’ stories in the best way possible.

Anyway.

Here are five mentions from various judges—and readers—that specifically talk about the quality of the ads in Rochester Magazine.

1. From a Letter to the Editor (from Charles B.): “Everyone writes in to tell you about the great stories and photos, but as a former advertising buyer, I can tell you with some authority about how productive your advertising is for you ad buyers. There are myriad effectual advertisements; I will note just a few from your February issue: Hubbell House (page 47); Olmsted Medical Center (page 33); Pittsburgh Blue (page 3). Please congratulate them on a job well done.

2. This judges’ quote, from the Minnesota Newspaper Association: “This magazine does a better job of making their advertisers stand out than anyone else. They clearly care about their ads, and it shows.”

3. This judges’ quote, from the Society of Professional Journalists: “The stories are compelling, the photography is top-notch, and the layout is clean and very professional. We’re just judging the editorial, but we also noticed how good the ads are.”

4. From a Letter to the Editor (from Kristen L.): “Can you please thank everyone who supports our community by investing in it? My husband and I only frequent businesses that invest in our community, and we use Rochester Magazine as a guide for this. ...”

5. This judges’ quote, from the Minnesota Newspaper Association: “If I’m an advertiser, I know my ads are getting eyes, because the editorial certainly is.”

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shortcuts

5

BY HADLEY LANGE

REASONS TO GO TO

THE SYMPHONY

(ESPECIALLY IF YOU’VE NEVER BEEN BEFORE)

tonight (the five finalists have each conducted a show this season).

The Rochester Symphony presents People of This Land–your last chance to catch the orchestra perform this season–on April 20. The concert’s program, conducted by guest conductor G Phillip Shoultz, III, consists of ColeridgeTaylor’s “Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast” from The Song of Hiawatha and Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9 From the New World. Five more reasons you should go:

1YOU’LL KNOW THE MUSIC! AND MEET THE NEW DIRECTOR!

Not a classical music buff? Well, if you’ve seen Trolls World Tour, Clear and Present Danger, or Ted Lasso then you’ve heard Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 From the New World (or at least part of it). Neil Armstrong also brought a tape of this symphony on the Apollo 11 mission to the moon. Also, the new director of the Rochester Symphony will be announced

2THIS ONE WILL ALSO HAVE LYRICS.

The Rochester Symphony Chorale, with 90 musicians under the direction of Pat Anderson, has you covered. They will be joining the Rochester Symphony Orchestra tonight.

3IT’S VERY MINNESOTAN (OR AT LEAST MIDWESTERN)

Tonight’s concert is a “celebration of our region.” The Song of Hiawatha is based on an epic poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem, set on the shores of Lake Superior, tells the story of an Ojibwe man and a Dakota woman. From the New World was also inspired by Longfellow’s poem and took influence from African-American spirituals. The bulk of the symphony was composed in nearby Iowa.

4YOU CAN BRING YOUR KIDS (AND YOUR COLLEGE KIDS) FOR $5. Children 18 and under and college students–both undergraduates and graduate students–can get tickets to the concert for just $5.

5

THEY’RE AWARD-WINNING.

The Rochester Symphony Orchestra was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame in 2014. The orchestra started all the way back in 1919 and used to provide “background music for silent movies” at Chateau Theatre.

The Rochester Symphony Orchestra and the Rochester Symphony Chorale are performing at Mayo Civic Center on Saturday, April 20th at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $22 ($5 for youth and students); rochestersymphony. org, 507-286-8742

oddchester

In search of solitude. And elk.

BY STEVE LANGE

While no one has ever specifically asked me for any sort of self-help advice, I still find myself doling it out with regularity, and unsolicited.

In 2021, I lost 16 pounds during my 12-week weight training/nutrition program.

During the end of my program, a guy who I hadn’t seen in months said “You don’t look as droopy as the last time I saw you!”

I was wearing a vertically striped shirt, but still. It felt good.

Instead of just saying “Thank you,” I felt the need to explain—in great detail—how I replaced Doritos, Fritos, and Cheetos (“all the ‘tos,’” I said) with strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries. And how I mostly now drink three liquids: water, coffee, and beer.

I also volunteered the name I was workshopping for my revolutionary diet and workout plan: The ELEMentary Workout.

The ELEM, I explained, stands for “Eat Less, Exercise More.”

Sure, those are not the kinds of details that passing acquaintances are expecting you to share when they off-handedly mention your minor weight loss. But it felt like the compliment was his way of asking for advice.

I only wish he would have also asked about my advice for ways to get in better touch with himself, because then I could have told him about what I’m calling Alone Again, Naturally: How To Find Yourself, By Yourself.

I’m still beta testing the name.

I am a big advocate of doing things alone.

I regularly, by myself, attend Rochester Royals baseball games. I take weeklong motorcycle trips and spend nights in my one-person tent. Last summer, I was the only passenger on a horse-drawn carriage tour in the Wisconsin Dells.

In 2022, I drove to St. Louis to see Puddles, the singer described as “the sad, 7-foot-tall clown with the golden voice.”

That night, I slept in a Missouri State Park in my Jeep Commander, which I have outfitted for solo sleeping. I have a roll-out mattress that fits perfectly over the foldeddown seats. I have handmade screens— with attached magnets—that fit perfectly over my rolled-down windows.

In La Crosse, while waiting to pick up my family from a train trip in 2018, I wandered into a small house to get a Psychic Reading by Gina.

In 2017, I won the Never Ending Pasta Pass at Olive Garden, which allowed me to eat as much Olive Garden as I wanted (in-restaurant) for 8 weeks. I ate there by myself so often that all of the servers knew my name, and my order.

I say I like doing things by myself, but there’s this:

Two years ago, I decide, last minute, to take a solo motorcycle trip through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and then down to visit my dad and stepmom.

In the northern Lower Peninsula, while getting coffee at the Big Boy restaurant, someone mentions that the elk herd is on the move. The elk herd! On the move!

If there’s any question whether I should go, I’m given a literal sign: My paper placemat at the Big Boy is a “Where To See Elk” map, with hand-drawn roads and drawings of elk to mark the prime viewing spots!

I tape the map to the top of my motorcycle gas tank. I navigate to those cartoon elk.

I soon find myself alone in the vast and remote State Forests of northern Michigan.

The paved roads turn to packed gravel roads which turn to loose gravel roads which turn to packed dirt roads.

My “Where To See Elk” map does not feature a legend with clearly defined road surfaces. My placemat does not seem to be to scale.

The roads become mostly sand. I have not seen another vehicle for an hour. I have no cell service.

And my Harley is not made for these road conditions. If I drive more than 14 mph, it feels like I’m riding on ice. For some reason, I can’t keep myself from going more than 14.

Then, in the middle of nowhere, I hit a deep spot of sand, and put the motorcycle down.

My left foot and knee are twisted uncomfortably, painfully, under the bike.

If my ankle is broken, I’m thinking, I could be in real trouble. No one knows where I am.

My best bet, I imagine, is to wait for an elk to walk by close enough for me to grab it and have it gently pull me from under the bike.

No elk come by.

Instead, I manage to grab my right pantleg and pull my leg over the bike. Then get up and lift the bike up and off me.

It looks very much like the intro to TV’s “The Incredible Hulk,” in which Bill Bixby turns into Lou Ferrigno and lifts up that car.

Especially if there is an “Incredible Hulk” episode in which he is lifting up a motorcycle while screaming “Daddy! Forgive me! I should just have ridden right to your house without being sidetracked!”

After I get the bike back up, I take off my boot and guess that my ankle is only badly sprained. I down the Tylenol from my first aid kit and manage, after another hour, to find a paved road and get out of there.

I never do see any elk.

shortcuts

RandomRochesterite

One resident, numerous anecdotes |

Name: Connie White

Age: 74

Occupation: Retired

Where we found her: Friend’s dinner party

When did you retire? 2017. It’s nice to not have a schedule after many years of working.

What was your first job? I was a waitress at an A&W Root Beer stand when I was 15. It was one of those that was a restaurant as well as a drive-up. This was in Marion, Iowa.

You eventually left the world of A&W for other jobs? The jobs I’ve held— well, it’s kind of a long answer! I did my undergraduate degrees in sociology and corrections. So in my senior year at Iowa State, I did my internship at the women’s prison in Shakopee. After that, I was a student teacher in a high school in Des Moines. Then Larry and I got married, and I went to work for the fifth judicial district department of court services. I took high-risk felony offenders who were getting out of jail and worked with them to try to get them a job and more security than doing criminal acts. Through the years, I worked in drug treatment programs in prisons—providing treatment alternatives to street crime. I worked in a women’s prison, helping them ease back into the community before being released. I did a lot of counseling.

How did you land in Rochester? My husband is retired from the Federal Bureau of Prisons, so we moved a lot with that. Once we left Iowa, we moved to Tucson. I worked for Catholic Community Services. I had a little office in little Benson, Arizona, and I did everything, counselingwise. I had child protective services kids; I worked with families and with domestic violence; I did social histories for adoptions. We were there for five years, then we moved to Colorado where I worked for a district attorney in juvenile diversion—with kids who had offenses. From Colorado, Larry was transferred to the prison in

By JENNIFER KOSKI Photo by MAYA GIRON

Waseca. There, I worked with the Blandin Foundation Center for reducing rural violence. We’d go into communities and meet with the county attorney, the chief of police, the superintendent of schools, the movers and shakers in that community, and say: What do you want to do about violence in your community?

There was a need? Yes. Here’s how that came about: There was a professor at University of Minnesota. His daughter, Karin, had gone to college at U of M and then come back home to Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and was killed. He said, “You know, there’s a tendency in Minnesota to think it’s always someone else—someone from a bigger city, someone who came from outside—that commit these crimes.” But the two men who killed his daughter were locals. So that’s how that foundation started, and we worked for these communities.

How long have you been in Rochester?

I think we’ve been in Minnesota now for 27 years. Nearly 10 in Waseca and 18 in Rochester, after Larry was transferred to the prison here.

How did you feel about moving so often?

hard at first. But after I learned I could start over in new places easily and still do work that I loved, it was great. I had great experiences.

What might I be surprised to learn about you? That I have six brothers and I was the only girl. I was second to last— the little sister except for one little brother. I didn’t have to do any farm work. I just got to play with my pony and horses!

Five things you love? My husband. My daughter, Stephanie. My two min pins, Spike and Seger. And my friends.

How long have you been married? On April 13 it’s 50 years.

How did you meet Larry? We met at college at Iowa State. His roommate was a good friend of mine, and when I met Larry I thought, “This is a really nice guy.” But I was with somebody else at that time, so it took a while. But he was the one. Our first date was at this BBQ space, Hickory Grove, in Ames, Iowa. He was taking a marriage and family course at Iowa State at the time, and he wrote for that class about how he had met me and was just fascinated with me.

Does your daughter live nearby? She lives in Conway, Arkansas. She’s an assistant professor in audiology at the University of Central Arkansas. She’s a doctor of audiology, and she’s working toward her PhD at the University of Memphis. She has a cochlear implant—has hearing loss—and that’s what she’s doing. Am I proud of her or what?

Advice you give? Always be proud of yourself. Always know that you can work hard. Always know that you can do a variety of different things if you just want to. That’s what I’ve always encouraged all the clients I’ve ever worked with.

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shortcuts

The top No. 2s

BILL BEAN OWNS 45,000 PENCILS. HERE ARE TEN OF HIS FAVORITES. (INCLUDING A LEFT-HANDED PENCIL. REALLY.)

BY STEVE LANGE

Bill Bean, the former president of the American Pencil Collectors Society, has been collecting pencils for 40 years.

“Everywhere we travel, I look for pencils that are souvenirs,” says Bean, who moved to Rochester with his wife Winnie in 2016.

“Some are historical, and you learn things all the time as you collect. You can look at a pencil and remember where you bought it, or where you were visiting.”

We asked him to pick a few of his favorites from the 45,000. Here are 10, and his quick description of each:

#1. Huber Tractor, with steel wheels and steam engine. “Not in good shape but probably my oldest pencil, from about 1900. I saw a real Huber Tractor at House on the Rock in Wisconsin.”

#2. Schwahn Seyberth Saddlery Co., Eau Claire, Wis. “Also old, a friend purchased several of them for me at an auction.”

#3. Sing pencil. “Used by many different companies to humorously urge their customers to be safe on the highways of the 1950s. Sing various hymns depending on your speed At 45 miles per

hour, sing Highways are Happy Ways’; at 55 miles per hour, sing ‘I’m but a Stranger Here, Heaven Is My Home’; at 65 miles per hour, sing ‘Nearer, My God, to Thee’; at 75 miles per hour, sing ‘When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder, I’ll Be There’; at 85 miles per hour, sing ‘Lord, I’m Coming Home.’”

#4. A pencil advertising the book “The Pencil” by Henry Petroski, a civil engineering professor at Duke University. “The book is a wealth of information about the history of pencils and pencil manufacturing.”

#5. Ma’s Old Fashioned Root Beer. “I had heard of Pa’s Old Fashioned Root Beer, but never of Ma’s.”

#6. Jacobsen Hardware, Hastings, Minn. “Part of the Our Own Hardware chain. Has a 3-digit phone number, making it quite old. Given to me by a friend who had worked in the store his father owned.”

#7 Pencil advertising a business located in Oahu, T.H. “’T. H.’ probably stands for Territory of Hawaii, so the pencil is prestatehood, earlier than 1959.”

#8. A sheep shearing a sheep.“What I call a novelty top, it shows a sheep in the process of shearing another sheep. We saw a man doing the shearing on a trip to New Zealand.”

(See bottom middle photo.)

#9. A mechanical pencil (Edgewater Beach Hotel, Chicago). “It was the hangout of celebrities in the 40s. We were there on our honeymoon in 1963. The building was later torn down and the land redeveloped.”

(See second from top photo.)

#10. A left-handed pencil. “Most pencils are designed for the right-handed person, so you read it with the writing from the bottom to the top. So the advertiser, whoever puts the pencil out, wants you to read their message. So they make them right-handed, generally, so that people can read them. The left-handed pencil has the writing from the left-toright, so top to bottom if you hold it in your left hand.”

(See top photo.)

The Rochester owl. The Arizona clone.

HOW THE LIMESTONE OWL ATOP THE OLD ROCHESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY (NOW THE MITCHELL STUDENT CENTER) FOUND A PARTNER IN SCOTTSDALE.

Info provided by Mayo Clinic and from “The Man Who Shaped The City”

Architect Harold Crawford’s distinctive style appears in elegant homes, schools, churches, even commercial buildings all over southeastern Minnesota. His buildings—from Folwell Elementary School to the old Rochester Chick Hatchery to dozens of Pill Hill homes—are still prized for their unique character and sturdy construction.

After graduating from Rochester High School (1908), the newly-established school of architecture at the University of Illinois (1913), and from Harvard’s grad program (1916), Crawford returned to Rochester and opened his own architectural office. He quickly became popular with the new doctors arriving to work at the rapidly-growing Mayo Medical Clinic. Many of them were building new homes on the high ground to the southeast of St. Marys Hospital, the area now known as Pill Hill.

From the 1920s through the 1950s, Crawford designed 40 or so homes in the Pill Hill area and 150 or so homes and buildings across southeastern Minnesota.

In 1936, he designed the Old Rochester Public Library (now the Mitchell Student Center, part of the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine). Crawford’s touch is apparent in the numerous inscriptions and other details on both the inside and outside of the Jacobean-

style building, including the small limestone owl, the symbol of wisdom, which overlooks the entrance.

In 2016, Mayo Clinic dedicated its expanded medical school in Scottsdale, Ariz. And there—at the entrance of Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine in Arizona— is perched a twin to the original owl located on top of the Mitchell Student Center.

Arizona’s owl is a complete replica of Crawford’s, and was created by taking a mold of the original and casting it with 800 pounds of concrete, specially pigmented to match the limestone of the original.

Minnesota’s owl (pictured here) is perched atop the Mitchell Student Center on the corner of Second Street and Third Avenue Southwest in Rochester. Arizona’s owl is located near the entrance to the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine in Arizona in Scottsdale.

APRIL 2024

FATHER AND SON. A.J. Croce is at the Mayo Civic Center For Croce Plays Croce, a tribute to his dad, Jim Croce. A.J. will be playing Croce hits including “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown,” “Time in a Bottle,” and “Walkin’ Back to Georgia,” as well as classic covers and his own music. mayociviccenter.com, 507-361-5050

YOU BETCHA. The Church Basement Ladies are back with “The Last (Potluck) Supper” at the Mantorville Theatre Company. Get ready for heavy Minnesotan accents, passive aggressive niceties, and Tater Tot hotdish! mantorvilletheatrecompany. com, 507-635-5420

GO TO KELLOGG. FOR A LARK.

Glance through the display cases featuring 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 at LARK Toys. larktoys.com, 507-767-3387

PARTIAL ECLIPSE OF THE HEART.

Today is the solar eclipse, which will be visible around 12:45 pm in Rochester. Minneopa State Park will also be hosting an eclipse viewing party for people to gather and learn more about why the phenomenon occurs. No matter where you watch, make sure to use special eclipse glasses so you don’t hurt your eyes. dnr.state.mn.us, 651-296-6157

RING IN THE NEW WEEK.

Every Monday at 7 p.m. (and noon on Tuesdays through Fridays), you can pick a spot by the entrance of the Gonda Building and Kahler, or in Peace Plaza, and listen to the music of the carillon (that’s the bell tower). history.mayoclinic.org

BRICKS GALORE. Kids can celebrate spring break at the Rochester Public Library with a LEGO Party. The library will provide the bricks, you provide the creativity. rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

APRIL SHOWERS... Join Master Gardener Kerin Marek for a talk on planning your summer garden as part of the monthly Olmsted County Extension Master Gardener program. Hosted by 125 LIVE, you can attend the talk online or at the Heintz Center. extension.umn.edu, 612-624-1222

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

TREASURE HUNT. Whether you’re looking for sports cards, old tools, or toys, the Vintage/Antique/Toy Show held at Graham Park has it all. Both Crawford and Floral Hall will be packed with old treasures waiting to be explored (and taken home)! townsendshows.com, 507-269-1473

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

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

HELLO BEAUTIFUL. Join fellow readers at Assisi Heights for a discussion of the book Hello Beautiful, written by Ann Napolitano. The story, reminiscent of Little Women, follows a young man named William Waters and his journey with the Padavano sisters. rochesterfranciscan. org, 507-282-7441

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

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

CRYSTAL CLEAR. Learn about sound bowls—crystal bowls that make gentle sounds when played—at the Rochester Art Center. Natalie Jo Baker will lead you through some guided breathing and then use the singing bowls to lead you deep into relaxation (bring a yoga mat or blanket!). rochesterartcenter.org, 507-722-2552

A LEGENDARY BEGINNING.

It’s the opening night of Peter and the Starcatcher at the Rochester Civic Theatre! The musical, based on the book of the same name, tells the story of how a lonely orphan became the legendary Peter Pan. rochestercivictheatre. org, 507-282-8481

HAVE

A GOOD TIME, NO BULL!

Watch elite athletes compete to see who can stay on a bucking bull the longest as part of the Priority Construction Rochester Bullriding Challenge held at Graham Arena. Young riders can try staying on a sheep in the Mutton Bustin’ challenge. rochesterbullriding.net

GREEN JACKET SOCIAL. In preparation for the Masters next week, Chip Shots is hosting their own Masters of sorts. It’s the 4th annual Green Jacket Social with golf, cornhole, and pickleball tournaments. With opportunities for novices and pros. chipshotsmn.com, 507-361-0401

THE WONDERFUL WORLD TOUR. Blippi—from the TV show of the same name—comes to Mayo Civic Center as part of Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour! Join Blippi and his friend Meekah as they learn about how cities work, sing about garbage trucks, and do the OJ Twist— one of Blippi’s signature dances. mayociviccenter.com, 507-328-2220

LOVE AND LIGHT. The Mayo Civic Center hosts The Love & Light Tour featuring Christian artists Jordan Feliz (“The River,” “180”) and Colton Dixon (“Build a Boat,” “Miracles”). This family-friendly show is sponsored by Compassion International. mayociviccenter.com, 507-328-2220

SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A (NEIL)

DIAMOND. Join Matt Vee & The Killer Vees for I Am, He Said, a night of music celebrating the work of Neil Diamond. The band will be playing Diamond classics like “Sweet Caroline,” “Girl, You’ll Be A Woman Soon,” and “Cracklin’ Rosie” at Treasure Island. ticasino.com, 800-222-7077

SNAP, CRACKLE, POP. Head to the Historic Chateau Theatre for Lunchtime Stretch and Flow. Here you’ll be run through 30 minutes of guided stretching meant to relax and renew. yourchateau.org, 507-218-7214

ART LIVES HERE. It’s the last week of Chris Allen’s Art Lives Here exhibit at the Rochester Art Center. This series of installations features rocks that were covered in beads hand-sewn around them by members of the community. rochesterartcenter.org, 507-722-2552

HEATHER, HEATHER, AND, YES, HEATHER. The Heathers are the It girls of Westerberg High. Veronica Sawyer is desperate to join the clique and will do anything to make it happen, anything. Heathers: The Musical, a “darkly delicious musical comedy” playing at the Rochester Repertory Theatre. rochesterrep.org, 507-289-1737

ON TOUR. John Crist is a comedian known for his podcast Net Positive, specials including What Are We Doing?, and his book “Delete That.” He is at the Mayo Civic Center tonight at part of his Emotional Support Tour. mayociviccenter.com, 507-361-5050

BRUNCH AND A SHOW! The D’Sievers, a Rochester based jazz quartet will be at Bleu Duck brunch playing originals off of their album “Trombots and Mermaids” and covers. bleuduckkitchen.com, 507-258-4663

TASTE OF THE TOWN. It’s the 38th 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 theme is “Comfort Food,” with classic dishes reimagined. centralusa. salvationarmy.org, 800-725-2769

FUNNY MAN. Dave Attell is a comedian known for the TV show “Insomniac with Dave Attell,” the documentary series “Bumping Mics with Jeff Ross & Dave Attell,” and for being the host of “The Gong Show with Dave Attell.” He will be performing tonight at Treasure Island. ticasino.com, 800-222-7077

THIS LAND. The Rochester Symphony is at the Mayo Civic Center for People of this Land, led by guest conductor G. Phillip Shoultz III. The orchestra is joined by the Rochester Symphony Chorale for a program of songs by Coleridge-Taylor and Dvorak. The Rochester Symphony’s new Artistic Director will also be announced! rochestersymphony.org, 507-286-8742

RUN FAST, DO GOOD. Get your blood pumping and spread awareness for organ donation at Silver Lake Park. It’s the 10th annual 5k run (or walk) in support of the Tim Rasmusson Foundation to raise money for the Gift of Life Transplant House. timrasmussonfoundation.com minnesotasrochester.com

Sponsored by

the local table {where we eat}

PROUD SPONSOR OF LOCAL TABLE— SUPPORTING LOCAL RESTAURANTS.

Locally Owned. Locally Managed. Local Decisions.

Rochester Main 507.280.0621 Stewartville 507.504.1060

EAGLEROCK.BANK

507.281.2978, 300 1st Ave NW Rochester creativecuisineco.com

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.

244 Soldiers Field Dr SW 507.516.1050

towniesubs.com

Best 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 Best Sandwich Place 2023 & 2024.

507.258.4663

14 Fourth Street SW Rochester bleuduckkitchen.com

Treat the most important woman in your life to Mother’s Day Brunch at Bleu Duck Kitchen Sunday, May 12th from 10am-2pm Make your reservation today at www.bleuduckkitchen.com or call 507-258-4663

Ristorante & Wine Bar

507.280.6232

7 1st Ave SW, Rochester victoriasmn.com

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.

507.258.4550

1635 Highway 52 N Rochester

PappysPlaceRochester.com

Locally owned by the Pappas family; same family as former owners of Michaels and Hubbel House. Whether it’s our salad bar, onion ring appetizer, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, steaks ribs, seafood, cocktails or craft beers there’s something for everyone. Daily lunch and dinner specials on Facebook or PappysPlaceRochester.com. Now serving brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-2pm.

the local table {where we eat}

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.

507.361.7910

217 14th Ave SW Rochester redcowmn.com/rochester

Red Cow’s founder and owner, Luke Shimp, was born and raised in Lake City, MN! Family owned and locally operated, Red Cow provides a modern tavern feel and celebrates finally crafted eats and drinks with a focus on gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, wine & beer. #Followtheherd to Red Cow!

507.226.8146

4 third St SW Rochester

thaipopmn.com

Lunch + Dinner + Happy Hour + Event Space. Voted Minnesota’s Best Thai Restaurant 2023, Rochester Magazine’s Best Ethnic Restaurant 2023 + Best New Restaurant 2022. We serve unique cocktails and cuisine on historic 3rd Street in downtown Rochester. Open Monday - Saturday.

507.258.4184

332 Broadway Ave S Rochester marrowmn.com

Marrow offers a seasonal, ingredient and chef-driven menu - utilizing classic French technique, with a touch of humor and fun. Stop by to enjoy a quick bite and a drink or stay longer to visit with friends and family over dinner and wine. Scan the QR Code to make a reservation or just come on through. Walk-ins are always welcome! We are open Tuesday - Saturday from 5 - 10 pm. Happy Hour at the Bar Tuesday - Friday from 4 - 6 pm.

2043 Superior Dr NW

Rochester

507.288.5283 zenfusionmn.com

Zen presents a globally accented American, Mexican, Asian, and Sushi menu that draws upon the vibrancy and culinary genius of all of its chefs, creating a menu as culturally diverse as Rochester itself. Our live Hibachii chefs give the flare to any meal, creating a fun, entertaining dining experience for everyone. Voted Best Place For Seafood 2024 by Rochester Magazine Readers!

507.288.0206

401 6th St SW Rochester

twigstavernandgrille.com

After many months and many trials and errors, we finally mastered our Gluten-Free Chicken & Waffles recipe! I’ll bet you can’t even tell that it’s gluten-free! In addition, come try our Waffles & an Omelet, Waffle Sandwiches, and Melts. WE GET IT. BECAUSE WE LIVE IT. Rochester’s only restaurant with a separate dedicated GLUTEN-FREE kitchen. Seasonal Cocktails & Desserts | Small Plates | Bowls.

the local table {where we eat}

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!

507.226.8885

2280 Superior Dr NW

507.206.6799

4576 Maine Ave SE Rochester roostersbarngrill.com

Swing by Rooster’s for a delicious breakfast 7 days a week starting at 7am. Try our daily lunch specials or order off our great menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, wraps, broasted chicken and so much more. Weekday happy hour 11 am to 6 pm. We’re home of the GOLIATH 34 oz. draft beer mug on special every weekend.

Green-n-Fresh

507-512-3419

20 1st St SW (Peace Plaza) Rochester

Discover the diverse menu at Green-n-Fresh, located in Rochester, MN Peace Plaza. We specialize in salads but also offer delectable fried southern chicken. Our chicken and waffles dish is a must-try, with its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Enjoy it with our fluffy signature waffles and choose from refreshing beverages like fresh fruit smoothies or Greek yogurt parfaits. If you prefer lighter options, our salads are made with only the freshest ingredients, including classic Caesar salads and seasonal creations. Whether you need a quick bite, a healthy meal, or a satisfying indulgence, Green-n-Fresh is ready to serve you. Experience our fresh and delicious cuisine today.

507.285.2516

120 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester blueplatedinermn.com

Day-Brightening Eats, Smooth Brew. Serving fresh, locally sourced comfort food favorites: quesadillas, sandwiches, soups, salads, and all-day breakfast. Dine-in, drive thru, order online, delivery by Door Dash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. Catering by Waiter Express. Visit blueplatedinermn.com to order online.

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 fourteen 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) 289-9200

3120 Wellner Drive NE Rochester

www.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.

the local table {where we eat}

507.361.1208

10 East Center St Rochester skyway level benedictsrochester.com

Benedict’s is the place for warm, approachable food with new takes on familiar dishes and killer morning cocktails (it’s never too early). Great food and hospitality shouldn’t be relegated to dinnertime, and at Benedict’s, we are ready to champion the morning. Bring your family, become a part of ours. Open 6:00am - 3:00pm daily.

507.346.7300

fourdaughtersvineyard.com

78757 State Highway 16 Spring Valley

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!

507.361.5144

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!

507.424.1227

247 Woodlake Drive SE Rochester whistlebinkiespub.com

Situated in a business district on a small lake with beautiful patio views, two private dining spaces, a large dining room, and an extensive menu with something for everyone, and a beer list to impress. WBOTL is thankful for their guests, friends, and family that make us a destination that all love and enjoy.

507-322-5041

161 13th Ave SW Rochester Saintson2nd.com

We are located in the Courtyard by Marriott across from Saint Marys 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!

RESTAURANTS FAVORITE 2024 magazine

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. To place orders call 507.424.7800. Voted Best Pizza Place 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 by Rochester Magazine readers.

the local table {where we eat}

507.206.3019

1625 South Broadway Ave Rochester

crookedpint.com/rochester

Crooked Pint Ale House is a nouveau urban pub with the feel of a local neighborhood restaurant. The menu includes classic pub fare with nearly 60 choices for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch as well as kids’ menu selections. We feature the best Lucys in town and you will be back again and again for our Pub Pot Pies, Pub Tacos, and our Jumbo Tator Tots. At Crooked Pint, we are known for our beer list, but we don’t forget about the wine and spirits! Open Monday - Sunday!

507.361.3636

300 1st Ave NW Rochester

TildasPizzeria.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.

507.258.9064

808 Broadway Ave S Rochester

TacoJed.com

Voted Best Taco 2020 & 2021! Live Music Fridays & Saturdays. Brunch served Sat. & Sun 9:30-3. We believe that good food and friendly faces bring a community together. We are locally owned and love living in Rochester!

Hours: Wed. & Thurs. 11 am-1:30 pm, 5-7:30 pm, Friday 11 am-1:30 pm, 5-9 pm, Sat. 9:30 am-9 pm, Sun 9:30 am-7:30 pm. Closed Mon. & Tues.

1155 16th St SW, Rochester

507.516.0641

Sorellinasmn.com

Open Mon-Sat at 11AM

Open Sunday at 10:30AM

Cousins Nadia Victoria and Jordan Victoria are excited to introduce you to: Sorellina’s Italian by Victoria’s. The latest Italian kitchen next to Apache Mall. You will find classic Victoria’s Italian dishes, as well as a few modern takes. Scratch pizzas, our famous sauces, cheesecakes and craft cocktails. Enjoy dining on the pizza counter side, the enclosed four-season patio, the swanky dining room, or sit at the bar and enjoy the view!

507.282.6572

1203 2nd St SW

Across from St Marys Hospital Rochester

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.

507.424.7800

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

Bear Creek Services

BY ALEXA ANDERSON

Bear Creek Services is a nonprofit organization that supports people with disabilities and brain injuries. The organization strives to help people with disabilities lead empowered lives.

“We have 13 group homes in the community and dozens of other people are supported in the Bear Creek Independent Living Services (BCILS) program,” explains Brian Hale. “BCILS helps people who have disabilities learn the life skills needed to live independently. You can find people we support at the grocery store, at church, riding the city bus, or at various other places in our community.”

Visiting a prisoner at FMC?

Keep your kisses “in good taste.” Don’t wear anything that “looks like inmate clothing.”

Here’s how you, too, can help Bear Creek Services:

ATTEND THE WINES OF THE WORLD EVENT.

Bear Creek Services invites you to join them on Friday, May 17 at the Rochester International Event Center for an exciting evening. Enjoy wines, beers, and spirits from around the world and ask the knowledgeable distributors any wine-related questions. To accompany your tasting, you’ll find a delicious food menu of shrimp cocktail, prime rib, and much more. The event will also feature an online auction with fun packages, raffles, and live entertainment. General admission is $100 with all proceeds supporting Bear Creek Services.

GIVE YOUR TIME. The organization relies on volunteers to keep their programs going. There are many opportunities for volunteering with Bear Creek Services, including companionship, playing board games, baking cookies, cleaning, and landscaping. You’re sure to find an activity that interests you.

HELP THE CAUSE. Your generous donations will help Bear Creek Services further pursue their mission in helping those who have disabilities. As a nonprofit organization, Bear Creek Services relies on donations to keep their programs up and running. Donations can be made on their website or in person at 3108 Highway 52 N.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: To support Bear Creek Services in any of the ways listed above, visit bearcreekservices.org.

3 WAYS YOU CAN HELP IS SPONSORED BY:

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.

Three rules regarding visits to Rochester’s Federal Medical Center, the federal prison that holds an estimated 700 male inmates (of all security classifications) who require specialized or long-term medical or mental health care:

1By law, an inmate gets at least four hours of visiting time per month, but usually the prison can provide more.

2In most cases, handshakes, hugs, and kisses (in good taste) are allowed at the beginning and end of a visit. Staff may limit contact for security reasons (to prevent people from trying to introduce contraband) and to keep the visiting area orderly. The Federal Bureau of Prisons does not permit conjugal visits.

3Wear clothing that is appropriate for a large gathering of men, women, and young children. The following clothing items are generally not permitted: bathing suits, seethrough garments of any type, crop tops, spandex, miniskirts, hats or caps, or any clothing that looks like inmate clothing (khaki or green military-type clothing).

—source: Culled from the FMC’s “Visiting Regulations, RCH5267.08.”

Submitted photo.

FOCACCIA.

Fresh-made GOLDEN BEETS. A 3D PRINTED BURRITO HOLDER.

Six of the city’s best new restaurants

by Hadley Lange

Photos by Joe Ahlquist and maya giron (excepT where noted) (Our paladar photo, here, by AB-Photography)

Best New Restaurants: Our Winner

Our Paladar

20 4th Street SE ourpaladar.com

507-206-0483

A FITTING NAME.

Paladar, from the Spanish for “palate,” is used in Cuba to refer to a family-owned restaurant often run out of a home. Our Paladar is no exception: It started in chef Nick Diaz’s house serving just eight guests at a time. This intimate dining experience continues at the more permanent location with a new downstairs dining area available for private events.

FRESH AND LOCAL.

Our Paladar makes bread in-house daily, including focaccia with herbed butter and polenta bread–which is served alongside their burrata. Their pastas, including their Gnudi—a gnocchi-like pasta which was a runner up in our Best Italian Dish category–are also made fresh in-house.

ALL IN THE FAMILY.

The Croquetas are one of Our P aladar’s most popular dishes. They are made according to Chef Nick’s grandmother’s recipe, all the way from Cuba, which calls for a mixture of chicken and rice to be “formed into balls, breaded, fried, and served with an avocado cream.”

ATTENTION TO DETAIL.

Our Paladar prides itself on providing great food and great atmosphere, paying attention to “the music, the lighting, [and] the flowers on the table.”

Best New Restaurants Marrow

332 Broadway Ave S marrowmn.com

507-258-4184

WINE NOT.

Voted one of our Best Places for Wine, Marrow offers a wide selection, from bubbles (Jacques Chaput Champagne) to whites (Oro de Castilla Verdejo) to pinks (Ostatu Rosado) to reds (Aia Vecchia “Sor Ugo”). Looking for something different? They also offer an orange wine from Germany called Fio “Glou Glou” Orange. Unlike its name suggests, the wine contains no orange. Instead it gets its color from leaving the skin and seeds on the grapes while they ferment.

CAN’T DECIDE WHAT TO GET?

Marrow has a tasting menu that offers five courses (including dessert!) for $75. Current options include Golden Beets (served with brown butter, pomegranate, and goat cheese), Danish Donuts with hazelnuts and foie-tella (a foie gras and chocolate spread), and Pork Coppa (served with white hominy grits, rock shrimp, and molasses). Guests can also add a wine pairing with a wine specially chosen to complement each course.

EXTEND THE NIGHT.

With a full after dinner drinks menu of digestifs, coffee, and hot tea it’s easy to keep the night going. House-made Limoncello, coffee from Colorway (a Rochester-based company), and Henriques and Henriques are all on offer.

A LOCATION WITH A LONG HISTORY.

Rochester’s oldest brick building, built in 1858 by Dr. Lewis Halsey Kelly, still stands today. And houses Marrow. In 1858, Kelley spent $5,000 on the bricks alone, which were baked in a kiln on the east side of town. Dr. Kelley, one of Rochester’s first doctors, lived in the upstairs of the original building and practiced medicine there.

Best New Restaurants

Boxcar Hippie

1190 16th St SW

boxcarhippie.com

507-258-4463

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.

Boxcar Hippie also secured the honor of being voted Rochester Magazine’s Best Place for Vegetarian Food. Alongside traditional protein options like carnitas and steak, they offer four vegetarian protein options: Chili Lime Vegan Chicken, Vegan Barbacoa Pulled Oats, Plant-Based Chorizo, and Peppers & Onions, all of which are also vegan and gluten friendly.

(UN)OFFICIAL MASCOTS.

If you’re not up to date on your ‘70s and ‘80s pop culture you may be wondering “Who are those two guys whose pictures are everywhere?” (on the website, on their menu). Those guys are legendary hippie comedy duo Cheech and Chong. Real fans (of Boxcar Hippie or Cheech and Chong) will also note their influence on the menu (“My dog ate my stash, man”) and a website design credit.

CHAMPIONS.

What do Boxcar Hippie, Hot Chip Burger Bar, and North Mr. Pizza have in common? They’re all part of Championship Dining, established in 2016 and run by Lindsay Zubay and Justin Schoville. Championship Dining even has its own TikTok (a video sharing platform for anyone not part of Gen Z) where Zubay frequently stars in videos.

THEY HAVE A 3D PRINTED BURRITO HOLDER.

Seriously, how cool is that? Plus it’ll keep your hands free for eating some of their “Churro Chips” or scooping up some house-made salsa with tortilla chips.

Best New Restaurants

Bebap Korean Eats

216 1st Ave SW

bebapmn.com

507-206-3009

CHINESE ZODIAC.

The Year of the Dragon is the perfect time to try Dragon Peace. This “specially-crafted yuzu rice lager” was designed and produced in collaboration with Little Thistle.

Everything about this drink was crafted with care, including the label, designed by local artist and Bebap’s creative director Tiffany Alexandria (aka choochoocachew). The label features a yellow Yuzu fruit, dragon, and grains of rice designed to look like raindrops. It’s available at Bebap Korean Eats as well as Ootori Sushi and 1928 Cocktails and Bites, two of owner Sammi Loo’s other restaurants.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Here, quite a lot. The restaurant’s name, Bebap is actually pronounced “be-bop.” The name, they say, “can be read as both onomatopoeia and bi-lingual pun; bibimbap is a Korean mixed rice dish.”

INSPIRED BY TV.

Sammi Loo attributes the creation of Bebap Korean Eats to K-dramas of all things. While watching these shows she would find herself craving Korean food and with no Korean restaurants in Rochester, she did what anyone would do… start a Korean restaurant of her own.

POPULAR CHOICE.

Kimchi is the national dish of South Korea and Bebap gives diners several ways to enjoy it. Options include Kimchi Pajeon, a kimchi pancake, Gimbap, a sushi-like dish filled with kimchi and vegetables, and Kimchi-Jjigae, a stew made with kimchi and pork.

Tiffany Alexandria | CHOOCHOO-ca-CHEW

Tiffany Alexandria | CHOOCHOO-ca-CHEW

Best New Restaurants Latitude 44

121 N Broadway Ave

latitude44mn.com

507-718-4371

CASTLE DINING.

Latitude 44 is housed in The Castle, which ser ved as Rochester’s armory from 1916 to 1970. The building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, was bought by owner David Arnett in 2023. Arnett’s wife, Aynsley, helped bring light and energy into the space without getting rid of its historic charm adding chandeliers, new flooring, and a neon Latitude 44 sign. They were runners up for the Coolest Looking Restaurant in Rochester, so the hard work definitely paid off!

ROLLED FRESH.

Every day. The homemade gnocchi, one of L atitude 44’s most popular items, is rolled fresh every day.

THE LONG-AWAITED BRUNCH!

Brunch-newly offered as of February–is available every Saturday from 10am-2pm. Food options include Deep Fried French Toast, Chilaquiles, and an Espresso Brulee. And what brunch menu would be complete without cocktails? Options include the Breakfast Club (bourbon, maple syrup, black walnut bitters) House Bloody (vodka, house made bloody mix, and a beer back), and Carajillo (Reposado tequila, espresso, Licor 43).

SEAFOOD DIET.

Latitude 44 has several great seafood options including their Crab Salad (with jumbo lump blue crab), Skuna Bay Salmon (with a panko pecan crust), and Scallops (served with cheesy polenta). Don’t eat seafood? Try their Jackfruit “Crab” Cakes–one of their best sellers.

Submitted photos.

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Best New Restaurants

507 Pub(lic) House

304 1st Ave SW

507publichouse.com

507-206-3716

AROUND THE WORLD.

Part American food and part just about everything else, 507 Pub(lic) House’s current menu features dishes from Irish Meatloaf to wings with sticky Korean sauce to Chicken Tikka Masala. They’re also not afraid to mix cuisines, serving French Croquettes with the not-so-typical Yum Yum and Thai peanut sauces. “About 50% of the menu will be American comfort food and the other 50% will be a variety of dishes from around the world,” owner Tim Ross said just before opening. “There will be something for everyone.”

THAT NAME SOUNDS FAMILIAR.

Chef Youness Bojji (and his wife Amber) were the minds behind Casablanca and Chez Bojji, and now Bojji brings his talent to 507 Pub(lic) House. Bojji brings experience and a diverse culinary background from his time spent in Morocco, France, Spain, and the US.

SHARING IS CARING.

Every weekday between 3:30 and 6:30pm, 507 Pub(lic) House offers guests the choice of California Chardonnay or Cabernet, an appetizer to share, and two entreès for just $65.

ALL DAY EVERY (WEEKEND) DAY. Join 507 Pub(lic) house for brunch with options ranging from traditional (Farmers Omelet, Steak and Eggs) to the more adventurous (Moroccan Eggs Shakshuka, Crab Fritters Benedict).

122:

104:

28:

293:

507-280-0621:

THE GERMAN OPERA DEBUT.

THE ROCHESTER DETOUR. THE LONGTIME LOVE STORY.

How May Fisher Crawford made her mark on Rochester

by Thomas Weber

May Fisher, pursuing her opera career in Berlin in 1914.

The love story of May Fisher and Harold Crawford survived World War I, chronic illness, long periods of separation, the Great Depression, and the whispers of nosy neighbors.

“Harold was very dedicated to May, that’s for sure,” says Ken Allsen, who has written a biography of Crawford, the highly regarded Rochester architect. And May, Allsen says, obviously had the same feelings for Crawford.

Theirs was a strong partnership that proved adept at overcoming steep odds.

And it all began, in a roundabout way, in 1914, with one of that year’s more intriguing spectacles. That’s when Dr. Georgine M. Luden, a physician from The Netherlands, disembarked from a train in Rochester, and with her retinue of dogs and Bavarian servants, established herself in rooms at the Zumbro Hotel.

Luden, a noted cancer researcher who had come to Rochester to do research at Mayo Clinic, made quite an impression. “The natives had never seen anything like it,” Harold Crawford later recalled.

It was to be a fortuitous arrival as far as Crawford was concerned. For soon included as a regular member of Luden’s circle was May Fisher, a German-trained opera singer from Kentucky.

Photos thanks to Ken Allsen, History Center of Olmsted County, and Post Bulletin archives

May Fisher, 1919.

Harold Crawford, in his World War I uniform, circa 1918.

“IT WAS SUGGESTED TO MAY THAT A CAREER AS AN OPERA STAR WOULD BE BETTER IN AMERICA AT THIS TIME.”

—Harold Crawford

The opera debut, and the detour to Rochester

May Fisher was born June 10, 1886, in Newport, Kentucky, in a family of six children. As a child, she resided with an aunt and uncle who had no children of her own.

“There has never been any mention of what happened to her parents,” Allsen says.

Young May liked to sing and expressed a desire to become a stage professional. A lot of people have the same wish, but May had something more: musical talent. Her mezzosoprano singing voice came to the attention of professionals in nearby Cincinnati who recommended European training, according to a short biographical sketch written years later by Harold Crawford.

A wealthy family arranged May’s move to Europe and sent along a young family member as a companion.

Once in Europe, the two women attended music festivals and concerts. After interviews with prospective tutors, it was eventually agreed that May would stay in Germany and study with Eva Hiedler, an Austrian opera singer of some renown.

“Fraulein’s presence was commanding,” Harold Crawford said of Hiedler, who often signed her first name as “Ida.” “She was ruthless in her demands.”

The tough training, though, paid dividends. In January 1914, May made her debut singing one of the title roles in Richard Wagner’s “Tristan and Isolde,” at the Berlin Opera House. The prospect of a career in opera now lay before her.

However, with the threat of what would become World War I looming ever stronger, her European training came to a sudden halt.

“It was suggested to May that a career as an opera star would be better in America at this time,” Crawford later wrote. In addition, May was showing signs of the poor health that would affect her for the rest of her life.

May Fisher, pictured here in 1913.

In fact, aboard a ship on the way back to America, May was largely confined to her stateroom by an apparent gallbladder attack. It just so happened that also on board was Dr. Luden, who was on her way to Rochester.

When she heard of May’s distress, Luden paid a visit to the patient. Luden suggested that May would benefit from a visit to Mayo, where physicians could better assess the nature of her frequent bouts of illness.

May had intended to take a teaching position in Cincinnati. But her health crisis caused a change in plans. Soon enough, she was on her way to Rochester, where she took up residence in Luden’s home at 618 Third St. SW.

Once settled, Luden began hosting European-style gatherings on Sunday

evenings. Her home, according to historian Virginia Wright-Peterson, “became a salon for those interested in the arts and for many international visitors.“ At these gatherings, May entertained by singing.

But with America having now entered the European war against Germany, Luden, her German servants and the Germantrained opera singer in her household were regarded with suspicion by some in the city.

“Others suggested that they might be spies planted in the United States to gather information relative to the war effort,” Harold Crawford wrote.

Never mind that May sang patriotic songs at public gatherings and was active in efforts to sell war bonds, as WrightPeterson noted.

Harold Crawford returns to Rochester

“Young Architect Will Locate in City,” read a headline from the March 16, 1916, issue of the Rochester Daily Bulletin. Harold Crawford—the 1908 Rochester High grad, fresh off his Masters of Architecture from Harvard and a mentorship with noted Boston architect Frank Brown—could have gone anywhere.

But Crawford, the up-and-coming architect, the guy who yearned to travel the world to study the great buildings, left Harvard and came home to Rochester to take care of his mom.

Not long after his return, in early 1917, Crawford—while doing some architectural work for a garage for Dr. Luden—first met May.

“It was a case of love at first sight,” Crawford said of meeting Fisher at Luden’s home, where May resided while seeking medical care at Mayo.

“She was a pretty woman, and Harold was a handsome devil,” Allsen says.

Harold and May began keeping company in the courting style of that time. Crawford, who had moved back to Rochester after graduating from Harvard, was a known commodity locally.

But who, gossipers might have wondered, was this classy young woman with the beautiful singing voice?

A romance quickly blossomed, although, as Allsen says, Harold “was not a bold suitor.”

Everything changed when, with the United States in the war, Crawford was called to military duty.

Before leaving, Allsen says, “Harold finally mustered his courage and proposed to May, who gladly accepted him.”

Sometime in 1919, May became director of the choir at Calvary Episcopal Church. A 1960 history of the church said of

In 1913, Eva Hiedler (left), an Austrian opera singer, was hired as May’s singing coach and tutor.

May, “She possessed a beautiful and welltrained soprano voice and rendered most of the solo work. Calvary Church again had a dependable choir and one of which they were justly proud.”

In June of 1918, May became a caretaker to an infant girl, named Margaret, whose mother had died of cancer shortly after giving birth. Dr. Luden had cared for the mother, and with May, nursed the baby girl, named Margaret, through the crises of her early months and years.

Shortly after the war ended in November 1918, Harold—who had spent his two-year Army stint stateside—was released from military service.

He and May were married on Sept. 10, 1919 in the front room of Luden’s home.

And suddenly, they were a ready-made family. “Margaret came with May to be a member of the family,” Crawford wrote. Their legal adoption of the girl became official in November 1920.

A fixture on the city’s music scene

In the ensuing years, May Fisher became a fixture on the Rochester music scene.

Although she gave up directorship of the Calvary choir in 1921, she continued to sing with the chorus. She performed with the Rochester Symphony and other ensembles, and often gave solo recitals.

Harold, meanwhile, maintained a busy and successful architecture practice. He designed five Pill Hill homes—including a carriage house for Dr. Luden and a home for Dr. Edward C. Kendall (the eventual Nobel prizewinner)—in 1919 alone.

And so it went over the next 30 years, with Harold designing and building anywhere from two (in 1923) to a dozen (in 1928) homes and buildings per year. In all, Crawford designed 40 or so homes in the Pill Hill area and 150 or so homes and buildings across southeastern Minnesota, including Folwell School, Holland’s Cafeteria (what was the downtown Newt’s), and the old Rochester Public Library on the corner of Third Avenue and Second Street Southwest (now the Mitchell Center).

“IN JUNE OF 1918, MAY BECAME A CARETAKER TO AN INFANT GIRL, NAMED MARGARET, WHOSE MOTHER HAD DIED OF CANCER SHORTLY AFTER GIVING BIRTH.”

May feeds Margaret in this photo from 1918. May and Harold would adopt Margaret in 1920.

Christmas of 1927, with May, 9-year-old Margaret, and Harold.

“I VISUALIZE HER AS A STATELY LADY. AND SHE HAD A WARM HEART.”

—Ken Allsen

Dr. Luden left Mayo in 1929 and moved to Canada.

Margaret, initially a frail child, attended Rochester public schools before graduating from high school at St. Mary’s Hall in Faribault. The family was expanded when, in 1936, Harold and May took in 15-year-old Leo Dale Corfits as a foster son.

Through these years, May’s health continued to deteriorate. She suffered from arthritis, a broken hip, and respiratory issues, and gradually became wheelchair-bound. In the late 1930s, she began spending her winters in the California desert, where Margaret attended a nearby college. After undergoing back surgery in 1943, Harold also recuperated in southern California.

Margaret married a California man, Leland Stanford Roache, in 1940. She died in 1970. In 1942, Dale entered the Army to serve in World War II. He died in 2019 at age 88.

May Crawford was back home in Rochester when, on May 3, 1945, she died at age 59 after suffering a stroke. She was buried in Oakwood Cemetery.

Harold Crawford died in Rochester on May 8, 1981, at age 93. He was buried next to his wife in a quiet corner of Oakwood Cemetery under one of his last architectural designs—a simple rectangular headstone.

As is so typical for women of her time, especially those with famous husbands, May Fisher Crawford often fades into the background of society’s history. To learn about her, though, is to encounter a hauntingly lovely and kind soul.

“I visualize her as a stately lady,” Allsen says. “And she had a warm heart.”

May with daughter Margaret in 1938.

Beginning in the late 1930s, due to health issues, May spent summers in California, and she is pictured there in 1940.

2024 THE ULTIMATE AREA

70+

Golf course listings

The Area’s

Best Golf Deals

BEST TIMES TO TEE OFF ON LOCAL COURSES

ROCHESTER GOLF, BY THE NUMBERS

AREA

GOLF, BY THE NUMBERS

8 MILES

The radius for which Rochester City golf courses halt play if lightning strikes.

50 CENTS

Green fees for Soldiers Field Golf Course in 1926.

Number of golf carts the City of Rochester operates, with 50 at Eastwood, 40 at Northern Hills, 27 at Soldier Field and 22 at Hadley Creek.

139 $1,635

Cost of a family season pass (for all four city courses).

3

Number of minutes you can now spend looking for a lost ball (it was 5).

TOP CITY COURSE FOR ROUNDS PLAYED?

Soldiers Field (23,382). Eastwood (22,778) and Northern Hills (22,450) were close behind. Hadley Creek saw 16,520 rounds in 2021.

$250, $480, $740, $1090, $950

Cost of a season pass (for all four city courses) for ages 8-18 ($250); 19-25 ($480); 26-30 ($740); 31-61 ($1,090); and 62 and older ($950). (2024 edition)

Year the first organized round of golf is played at the 6-hole Soldiers Field Golf Course.

$22 (AND $14.25)

17,729 1926 5TH 1977

Cost of an adult 9-hole greens fee at Soldiers Field, Eastwood, and Northern Hills (and $15 at Hadley Creek).

Estimated number of golfers in Olmsted County.

First reported sighting of Bogey, the reportedly “huge” Northern Hills snapping turtle, who has been spotted a dozen or so times a year for the past four-plus decades.

Last hole you could be on—and still get a 9-hole raincheck—during a 9-hole round at the Rochester City golf courses. (It’s the 14th hole for an 18-hole round).

THE COURSES:

Eastwood, Hadley Creek, Northern Hills, Soldiers Field (all Rochester City Courses)

THE EXPERT:

Jeff Gorman, PGA-Professional and Lead Golf Pro for the City of Rochester

BEST DEALS:

The best deal we have for the 2024 Golf Season is two golfers for 18 Holes with a golf cart for $70 (or $35 each). It is time restricted. But we also offer the Rochester Park & Recreation City Golf Pass. The uniqueness of the City Golf Pass is it encompasses all four golf facilities under one fee (and these season passes range from $250-$1,090 for individuals). Each facility has its own schedule of events, tournaments, and groups. Hadley Creek Golf Learning Center also hosts one of the finest Nationally recognized Junior Programs called “First Tee of Rochester.”

BEST MEALS:

The name of the Food and Beverage operation at Northern Hills is Northern 19. They are known for their Northern 19 Burger (two 1/4-pound patties, bacon, and special sauce on a brioche bun), and the beverage of choice at Northern 19 is the Huxden Old Fashion. Eastwood and Soldier’s Field food and beverage operations are run by Townies Grill’D Philly Subs and More. Townies is well known for their Philly Sub with drink specials daily at both locations (and they were a recent winner of Rochester Magazine’s Best New Restaurant)!

BEST TIME TO TEE OFF:

It’s difficult to tell you the best time to play at each of our four facilities, but each course has their own unique schedule. We do our best to not overlap schedules or events where two facilities are closed at the same time. The Golf Boom has continued and the competition for tee-times is greater than ever. My advice to the Rochester golfer would be to try and plan in advance when you would like to play. We take tee times five days in advance, and if you call the day you would like to play, often we are full.

Rochester City Golf

THE COURSE:

Willow Creek Golf Course in Rochester

THE EXPERT:

Andy Black

PGA Owner/Operator

BEST DEALS:

Our Morning Special runs Monday-Friday before noon (not valid on Holidays) and gets you 18 holes and 1/2 cart for $33 per person. Our Twilight Special runs Saturdays and Sundays after 3 p.m. and gets you 18 Holes & 1/2 cart for $38 per person (must book online).

BEST MEAL:

You can’t go wrong with a delicious quarter pound hot dog, chips, and an ice cold beverage of choice.

BEST TIME TO TEE OFF:

The best time to play is Monday-Friday before noon to take advantage of our morning special! And Kids play free on Sundays after 2 p.m. on Little Willow.

THE COURSE:

Lake City Golf Club

THE EXPERT:

Travis Heitman, General Manager

BEST DEAL:

Unlimited Golf on Wednesday for just $35. This rate includes cart! Also, check out the Twilight Rate, anytime after 2 p.m. for $32 seven days a week.

BEST DRINK:

Bloody Mary (housemade mix with the perfect amount of spice).

BEST TIME TO TEE OFF:

Dew Sweeper! Nothing like a summer sunrise at the golf course!

THE COURSE:

The Jewel Golf Club in Lake City

THE EXPERT:

Paul Byron, General Manager

BEST DEAL:

Monday-Thursday you can play 36 holes for $121 plus tax including cart.

BEST MEAL:

The Chicken and Pecan Salad Sandwich (on cranberry wild rice bread) with a Transfusion (our signature cocktail, a vodka drink featuring a special blend of grape juice and ginger ale that hits the spot on a hot day) on the Bluffside Bar and Grill patio overlooking the best golf course in SE Minnesota.

BEST TIME TO TEE OFF:

Weekday afternoons. Not as busy as the weekends, reasonable rates, and a great way to finish the work day.

THE COURSE:

Mount Frontenac Golf Course in Frontenac

BEST DEALS:

Weekday Golf Special: Enjoy 18 Holes of Golf with Cart and Lunch (Lunch Includes Hamburger, Cheeseburger, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Pulled Pork Sandwich or Bratwurst).Only $49 per person. (Valid Sunday-Friday.)

Unlimited Golf Special: Enjoy Unlimited Golf All Day Long!! Play hooky from work and come and see us at Mount Frontenac! Golf All Day with Cart & Lunch (see above). Only $69 per person. (Valid Sunday-Friday.)

Twilight Golf: After 3 p.m. daily. Only $32 per person, (Valid all week long.)

100-plus years of area golf. 60-plus memorable moments.

1915:

Rochester’s only golf facility is a 6-hole course, Silver Creek Golf Club, on a leased piece of land east of town. The greens are handtrimmed circles, and the “grounds crew” consists of a flock of sheep and a few goats.

1915:

Two Mayo physicians, Edward Starr Judd and Donald C. Balfour, buy 100 acres of farmland on what’s now the Rochester Golf and Country Club to lease for use as a golf course.

1916:

A group of avid golfers takes up the lease and forms the Rochester Golf Club, which features a 6-hole course.

1916:

The Rochester Golf Club buys the land outright and hires Red Wing Golf Club pro Harry Turpie to design a 9-hole course of 3,285 yards.

1920:

Designed by Rochester architect Harold Crawford, Rochester Country Club clubhouse opens at a cost of $12,000. (See photo, top of page)

1925:

At age 17, Gertrude Dansingburg (then Boothby)—who plays out of the Rochester Golf and Country Club—becomes the first (and youngest) golfer outside the Twin Cities to win the Minnesota Women’s State Amateur championship.

1926:

Rochester Golf Club becomes incorporated and changes its name to Rochester Country Club.

1926:

The 6-hole Soldiers Field Golf Course hosts its first organized round of golf.

1927:

The now 9-hole Soldiers Field Golf Course reopens on May 8. Green fees are 50 cents.

1927:

The new 18-hole Rochester Country Club course, designed by noted golf architect A. W. Tillinghast, opens.

1930s:

Walter D. (Pop) Shelden buys 5,000 pine seedlings and starts a nursery at the southwest corner of the Rochester Country Club. He eventually plants 30,000 trees on the course.

1934:

Herbert Griffin of Rochester High School wins the State High School Boys’ Golf Championship.

1945:

While visiting Mayo Clinic for shoulder massage treatments, legendary golfer Byron Nelson, 33 and at the height of his career, plays 18 holes at the Rochester Golf and Country Club. He shoots a record 66.

1946:

Bobby Jones—the only person to win golf’s Grand Slam in one year—the U.S. Open, British Open, U.S. Amateur, and British Open—golfs at RG&CC.

1959:

Rochester’s Kathy Reichert wins the Minnesota Women’s Golf Association medal play tournament.

1961:

Rochester’s Lynn Esau Zmistowski wins her first of what will be seven Minnesota state titles in a nine-year span (1961-’69).

1963:

Tom Dickie of Rochester High School ties for first at the State High School Boys’ Golf Championship.

1964:

Maple Valley Golf Club opens. Memberships sell for $35, and those charter members—just a few are left—still pay just $35 per year in 2019.

1965

Eastwood opens with 9 holes.

1967:

Luis Alvarez—the 1928 Rochester High grad who co-discovered tritium, worked on the Manhattan Project, and came up with the theory that a meteor killed the dinosaurs—patents the ORDCO range finder that allows golfers to measure distances from 6 feet to as far as the eye can see over rough terrain. (It sells for $18.90.)

1968:

RG&CC hosts its first Minnesota PGA event.

1968:

23,070 rounds are played at Eastwood.

1969:

After becoming a nun and taking six years off from golf, former top women’s golfer Sister Kathy Reichert (center) shoots an 86 (and finishes second) in the Soldiers Field Women’s Invitational. “The habits we wore made it almost impossible to play,” she tells the Post Bulletin regarding her time off. “Then they were modernized, and that allowed me to return to golf.”

1978:

Tom Murphy begins coaching at Lourdes in 1978 at age 26 and goes on to coach there until 2006. In those 29 years, his teams win six state championships.

1982:

Longtime local golfer Les Fields shoots a 1-under-par round of 70 at RG&CC. Which is pretty good, especially for a 54-year-old. Fields, though, carries just three clubs: a 4-wood, a 6-iron and his putter.

1985:

Mount Frontenac, one of the highest-elevation courses in southeastern Minnesota, opens atop the Mississippi River Bluffs.

1989:

The Rochester Park board considers buying Willow Creek as a fourth municipal course. The deal never happens.

1990:

1969:

Eastwood hires its first full-time PGA professional/manager. That pro, Frank Taylor, serves until 2002.

1975: Willow Creek Golf Club opens.

1976:

Northern Hills opens.

1977:

First reported sighting of Bogey, the “huge” Northern Hills snapping turtle who will be spotted a dozen or so times a year for the next four decades.

Gertrude Dansingburg (see 1925 entry) is posthumously inducted into the Minnesota PGA Hall of Fame.

1990:

Alfonso Carvajal, a foreign exchange student from Madrid, Spain, wins the State High School Boys’ Golf Championship while playing for Lourdes.

1992:

Oak Summit opens.

1994:

Russ Higgins beats Glenn Alexander in a playoff to win the first Rochester Men’s All-City Golf Championship. Cheryl Jones wins the Women’s Division.

1995:

In its second year, the Rochesterfest Treasure Hunt features a clue that it hidden at a “T,” and dozens of searchers— believing it may be a “tee”—show up at Soldiers Field Golf Course to search. During play. Ever since, each year has included the disclaimer that the Treasure “is not on a golf course!”

1995:

Lynn Esau Zmistowski (left) is first woman inducted into the Rochester Quarterbacks Club Hall of Fame.

1995:

Lourdes wins the State High School Boys’ Golf Championship in Class A (the first Rochester team to win a state title in golf). Russ Higgins wins the State High School Boys’ Golf Championship while playing for Lourdes.

1996:

Hank and Pueblo, two llama caddies—yes, llama caddies— begin carrying golf clubs (strapped to their backs) at the Elmdale Hills Golf Course in Miesville. The llama caddies are “discontinued” in 2002.

1996:

Greg Peterson wins the first of what will be five straight Rochester Men’s All-City Golf Championships.

1997:

Riverview Greens in Stewartville opens with 9 holes and adds 9 more the following year.

1997:

Kathy Reichert is inducted into the Rochester Quarterbacks Club Hall of Fame.

1997:

Meadow Lakes opens.

1998:

Rochester’s first golf dome—called the Airena Golf Center—opens.

1999:

Golf headquarters installs Full Swing Golf, a full-swing golf simulator.

1999:

Kim Banfield wins the first of what will be three straight (and five out of six) Rochester Women’s All-City Golf Championships.

2000:

The Lourdes boys, under the coaching of Tom Murphy, capture the first of what will be four straight Class A state championships.

2000:

Little Willow Executive 9 Hole Golf Course opens.

2000:

Meadow Lakes Golf Course opens for the season on Feb. 28. “We had two of the busiest days in our history,” says their manager. “It was mayhem, actually.”

2001:

Pine Island and Zumbrota Golf Clubs both open new back nines. Summit Golf Club in Cannon Falls opens.

2001:

Both the Class A (Lourdes) and AA (Century) boys win High School State Golf Championships. Staci Smoot wins the State High School Girls’ Championship (Class A) while playing for Lourdes.

2002:

Eric Deutsch wins the State High School Boys’ Golf Championship (Class A) while playing for Lourdes.

2003:

Staci Smoot wins the State High School Girls’ Golf Championship (Class A) while playing for Lourdes.

2004:

Somerby Golf Club in Byron, designed by Minnesota golf legend Tom Lehman and PGA Tour player John Fought, opens to rave reviews in 2004.

2005:

The Hale Irwin-designed The Jewel opens in Lake City.

2005:

Lourdes wins the State High School Boys’ Golf Championship in Class A. Andrew Alexander wins the State High School Boys’ Championship (Class A) while playing for Lourdes.

2006:

Rochester’s Lee Eischen records his seventh—seventh!—hole-inone. That’s more, from what we can find, than any other golfer in the area. He has also eagled 16 of the 18 holes at Rochester’s Northern Hills.

2006:

Somerby hosts its first of two back-to-back Nationwide Tour events.

2007:

Hawthorn Hills Golf Learning Center, the Rochester city-owned practice facility, shuts down in August to begin work on a new 9-hole executive course, which will become Hadley Creek.

2008:

Eastwood opens its new back nine. (What was the back nine became the front nine.)

2009:

Hadley Creek Golf Learning Center—a 9-hole, par-32 layout, with multiple practice areas— opens.

2011:

The First Tee of Rochester introduces the National School Program to the first school in the Rochester area, Lincoln Choice K-8.

2012:

After 14 years, Meadow Lakes closes for good. “In a nutshell, the land it sits on is worth more than the business,” says the Meadow Lakes’ GM.

2018:

Rochester’s Gene Campbell, using a 5-iron, fires a hole-in-one on the 125-yard first hole at Hadley Creek. Then next day, Campbell hits another hole-in-one, this time using a 5-wood on the 149-yard fourth hole at Hadley Creek.

2014: Lynn Esau Zmistowski is elected to the Minnesota Golf Hall of Fame.

2014:

Century’s Chris Captain wins the State High School Boys’ Golf Championship (Class AAA).

2014:

Willow Creek’s Little Willow Course begins offering Footgolf, a golf-soccer hybrid.

2015: Frank Taylor is elected into the Minnesota Golf Hall of Fame.

2016:

2018:

90-year-old R.J. Smith of Rochester puts his collection of 70,000 golf balls— collected from the rough, ponds, and woods of area courses over 80 years—up for sale. He plans to donate the money to charity. Smith, though, dies a few months later.

2018:

Longtime PGA professional Patrick “Jake” Manahan is inducted into the 2018 Rochester Quarterbacks Club Hall of Fame. He’s also the 12th recipient (and first golf-related winner) of the Ben Sternberg Award, presented for sports contributions within the Rochester Community.

2019:

To ward off the now-nesting goose population, Soldiers Field buys and strategically places “dog silhouettes that bounce on a spring” across the course.

Old clubhouse is torn down at Northern Hills. Construction of a new, 4,000-square-foot clubhouse is completed the same year.

2021-2:

Rochester City Council hires the National Golf Foundation to “evaluate the current condition and future market potential of the four City golf facilities.”

WORTH THE DRIVE

DODGE CENTER

DODGE COUNTRY CLUB

18187 County Rd. 34, Dodge Center | 507-374-2374 | dodgecountryclub.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,151-6,176; Green fees: $20-$35; add cart for $15

About the course: The Dodge Country Club is a fantastic mix of scenic views, challenging holes, and a relaxed atmosphere that golfers often seek but rarely find. A player’s course, the Dodge Country Club will reward you on good shots and penalize you on those notso-good shots.

Our favorite hole: Number 18 is the longest hole (at 501 yards) and the toughest (number one handicap), and a great way to finish a round.

19th hole: A full-service bar and grill (with some of the best burgers and cheese curds around) greets you before or after your round.

Top 2024 specials: Burger Basket and Golf Special; on Mon.-Fri. tee off before noon for a flat rate of $55.

FRONTENAC

MOUNT FR0NTENAC GOLF COURSE

HAYFIELD

THE OAKS GOLF CLUB

LAKE CITY

LAKE CITY GOLF CLUB

32420 Ski Rd., Frontenac | 651-388-5826 | mountfrontenac.com

Par: 71 Yardage: 4,982-6,226 Green fees: $17-$37.25

About the course: Mount Frontenac Golf Course is a full-service, 18-hole course offering unforgettable vistas of the beautiful Mississippi River Valley, as well as numerous wildlife sightings. Excellent practice facility, putting green, fully staffed pro shop, restaurant, and banquet facility.

Our favorite hole: Hole #7 (a 388-yard par 4) is beautiful from tee to green.

The view is sure to take your breath away—you can literally see miles down the Mississippi River Valley.

Top 2024 specials: Weekday special includes 18 holes of golf with cart and lunch for only $37.25 per person (valid daily except Saturday).

73671 170th Ave., Hayfield | 507-477-3233 | oaksinhayfield.com

Par: 72 Yardage: 5,525-6,500 Green Fees: $15-$45

About the course: Established in 1977, The Oaks is known for its scenic, rolling fairways, meandering creek, friendly staff, and the best golf values in the area. Just a short drive from Austin, Rochester, or Owatonna.

Our favorite hole: Hole #13 (a 374-yard par 4). A solid drive down the middle leaves a short to middle iron into a green, nestled into a stand of oak trees.

19th hole: The Oaks Bar & Grille is open daily and offers a fully stocked bar and a variety of menu items, with excellent Friday Night Dinner specials.

Top 2024 specials: Be sure to check out the website to see the latest golf and food specials!

33587 Lakeview Dr., Lake City | 651-345-3221 | lakecitygolf.com

Par: 71. Yardage: 5,004-6,410. Green fees: $15 for 9 weekdays; ($22 for weekends). $25 for 18 weekdays; ($35 for weekends).

About the course: Lake City Golf Club is a championship, 18-hole golf course, par 71. A well-groomed, fully watered golf course set back in the bluff country of the Mississippi River valley, LCGC offers four sets of tees to accommodate every ability, from novice to experienced golfer. The course also features a driving range to warm up, and a bar to relax after the game.

Our favorite hole: The 18th hole is a demanding par-5, 523 yards long with a creek down the left side and out of bounds on the right. A straight drive at 180 yards to 240 yards will put you short of the creek and let you hit an iron to a landing area at 130 yards from the green. The 18th hole is a very scenic hole with an occasional deer crossing or trout swimming in the creek.

Top 2024 specials: Unlimited golf with cart on Wednesdays for $35 all summer long.

LAKE CITY

LAKE PEPIN GOLF COURSE

LAKE CITY

70895 260th Ave., Lake City | 651-345-5768 | lakepepingolf.com

Par: 72 Yardage: 6,752

Green fees: Weekdays 9/18 : $31/$40; Weekends 9/18: $34/$43

About the course: Lake Pepin Golf Course is owned and operated by the Schmidt Family in Lake City, Minn. Our course sits high atop the bluffs of the Mississippi River Valley, overlooking Lake Pepin. Designed by Gordon Emerson, this remarkable course stretches to 6,752 yards and features breathtaking views of the lake on 12 holes.

Our favorite holes: Hole #2, #4, #11... after holing out, step beyond the greens for great views of Lake Pepin and the valley

Top 2024 Special: Wednesdays 18 holes w/cart for $25; Mondays 18 holes w/ cart for $30

THE JEWEL GOLF CLUB 1900 Clubhouse Dr., Lake City | jewelgolfclub.com

Par: 71 Yardage: 4,907-7,050

Green Fees: $62-$103

About the course: Nestled in the Mississippi River valley grand bluffs of Lake City. Designed by three time US Open Winner, Hale Irwin, the course winds throughout 800 acres of the river valley. Routed through a variety of terrain, the course was designed with five sets of tee boxes in order to accommodate golfers of any ability.

Our favorite hole: Hole 11, Pictured here. 209 yards from the back tee, this par 3 is

a forced carry-over water with beautiful views of the Mississippi River valley bluffs.

19th hole: Bluffside Grill & Bar is tucked away in a setting that offers panoramic views of manicured greens and lush fairways surrounded by the Mississippi River bluffs. Whether it’s a burger, or one of our signature dinner entrees, you’ll be delighted by the talents of our culinary team and warm service of our wait staff.

Top 2024 specials: Monday-Thursday you can play 36 holes for $121 plus tax including cart.

1311 W Sixth St., Red Wing | 651-388-9524 | redwinggolfcourse.com

Par: 71. Yardage: 6,206.

Green fees: 18 Holes with cart: M-F $44pp; Weekends $52pp.

About our course: Open to the public since 2017, this former private course is one fantastic layout. Superintendent Brent Doerhoefer has been taking super care of the best greens in the state year in and year out. Terrific assortment of holes with some incredible elevation changes on both nines. Come check out our views from the bluffs overlooking our course.

19th Hole: Nineteen Bar+Grill offers the public a wonderful dining experience with top-notch homemade pizza, burgers, salads and sandwiches. The Friday night fish fry features haddock, walleye and jumbo shrimp. (Reservations are appreciated for the fish fry—please call 651-388-9524.) The bar & grill features both indoor and outdoor seating for guests to enjoy.

RED WING

RED WING GOLF COURSE

PINE ISLAND

PINE ISLAND GOLF COURSE

ROCHESTER

EASTWOOD GOLF COURSE

ROCHESTER

HADLEY CREEK GOLF COURSE/ LEARNING CENTER

920 8th St. SE, Pine Island | 507-356-8252 | pineislandgolf.com

Par: 71 Yardage: 4,946-6,563 Green fees: $20-$28

About the course: 18 holes built on 140 acres. Fairways are wide with multiple tees, greens are huge, and there are tree, water, sand, and rock hazards. The course is challenging for the advanced, the beginner, the young and the old. Full driving range and putting practice facilities.

Favorite hole: Hole #14 is a risk-reward par 5 measuring 519 yards. This dogleg

left requires a well-placed tee shot. Longer hitters can try to cut the corner—over trees and prairie grasses.

Top 2024 specials: Morning Special: Monday through Friday (no holidays), tee off before 11am and play 18 holes for the price of 9. Twilight Golf: Wednesday through Sunday, tee off after 4 p.m. and play 18 holes for the price of 9.

3505 Eastwood Rd. SE, Rochester | 507-281-6173 | rochestermngolf.com

Par: 71 Yardage: 4,779-6,631 Green fees: 9 holes: $22/Adult. $20/ Senior. $12/Junior. 18 holes: $37/Adult. $33/Senior. $24/Junior.

About the course: One course, two personalities. The original 18-hole layout at Eastwood was designed by Rochester golf legend Ray Keller. The old front nine was scrapped in 2007. What was the back nine became the front nine, and the new back opened for play in 2008. The new back nine is longer, but offers multiple tee boxes so golfers of any level can play to their game. Eastwood’s challenging and beautiful back nine is a

bargain, playing like a high-end course for the price of a municipal course (its front nine isn’t anything to scoff at either).

Our favorite hole: Hole #14 has been called “the toughest par 5 in the area.” This monster dogleg right (607 yards from the black tees) begins with a challenging tee shot over water to a fairway lined with brush to the left and woods to the right.

Top 2024 Special: Two for $70 Special includes 18 hole green fees and cart at select times daily.

2390 Hadley Hills Dr. NE, Rochester | 507-529-4119 | rochestermngolf.com

Par: 32 Yardage: 1,600-2,300 Green fees: $15 for 9 holes. Junior 18 & under $10 for 9 holes.

About the course: Hadley Creek is a 9-hole, par 32 layout with multiple practice areas. The creek flows through the middle of the course, accompanied by several ponds, and a beautiful, natural nine holes at the base of Hawthorne Hills bluffs.

Our favorite hole: The “critter” hole #7, a 350-yard, par 4. A tee shot over a pond to a generous fairway, creek right, bluffs left, with a great chance to view deer, beaver, turkey, fox, or eagles flying overhead.

WORTH THE DRIVE 13 COURSES CALLING YOUR NAME

ROCHESTER

NORTHERN HILLS GOLF COURSE

4721 West Circle Dr. NW, Rochester | 507-281-6170 | rochestermngolf.com

ROCHESTER

WILLOW CREEK GOLF COURSE

Par: 72 Yardage: 5,398-6,271

Green fees: 9 holes: $22/Adult. $20/ Senior. $12/Junior. 18 holes: $37/Adult. $33/Senior. $24/Junior.

About the course: A lot has changed in the city of Rochester since Northern Hills opened for play back in the summer of 1976, when it quickly leapt to the top of the city courses. That top-tier rating, though, hasn’t changed. Area golf experts regularly rank Northern Hills in the top two for area courses. Northern Hills has a good mixture of rolling hills and trees, not to mention an abundance of wildflowers.

Its short par 4s make long hitters question keeping their driver in the bag on several holes. The sloped greens provide many tough wedge shots and putts.

Our favorite hole: Hole #6 (504-yard, par 5 from the championship tees). A par 5 with eagle potential, this is a classic risk-reward hole. Even after the recent redesign, it’s still one of the toughest tee shots in town.

Top 2024 special: Two for $70 Special includes 18 hole green fees and cart at select times daily.

Par: 70/71 Yardage: 5,003-5,769 Green fees: 9 holes: $22/Adult. $20/ Senior. $12/Junior. 18 holes: $37/Adult. $33/Senior. $24/Junior.

About the course: A classic (opened in 1927), Soldiers Field’s flat, short design makes it great for beginners, but its top-notch smallish, quick greens and abundance of trees still test the experienced player, and golfers of any caliber will appreciate the views of the Zumbro River.

Two classic threes: They say that par 3s define a course, and Soldiers has two classics. The signature hole—hole #5, the elevated tee-to-elevated green, 165-yarder—has been redesigned twice since 1960 and your tee shot travels over and along the Zumbro. Also, SF’s eighth hole may be the city’s toughest par 3.

Top 2024 special: Two for $70 Special includes 18 hole green fees and cart at select times daily.

1700 48th St. SW, Rochester | 507-285-0305 | willowcreekgolfmn.com

Par: 70 for Willow Creek

Green Fees: $18-$34 for Willow Creek; $7-$12 for Little Willow

About the course: Willow Creek Golf Course opened in 1976 and has been a “gem” in Rochester golf ever since. With 27 beautiful holes, Willow Creek offers both an 18-hole regulation course and also a 9-hole executive course. In addition, Willow Creek has four sets of tee boxes to accommodate all ability levels with ease.

Favorite hole: Hole #9 is an amazing

par 3 that plays between 150-170 yards. Your tee shot sails from an elevated tee box, over a valley to an elevated green with two tiers.

Top 2024 specials: Morning Special runs Monday-Friday before noon (not valid on holidays) and gets you 18 holes and 1/2 cart for $33 per person. Twilight Special runs Saturdays and Sundays after 3 p.m. and gets you 18 Holes & 1/2 cart for $38.00 per person (must book online). Kids play free on Sundays after 2 p.m. on Little Willow.

244 Soldiers Field Dr. SW, Rochester |

ROCHESTER SOLDIERS FIELD GOLF COURSE

Here’s a few comments from the judges:

“What followed was pure amazement with article after article that grabbed my attention.”

“The photos catch your eye immediately.”

“Engaging and interesting ...”

“Colorful, well-placed artwork {in the advertising}.”

“This publication has it all!”

(That heading isn’t us talking about ourselves. It’s a comment from the judges at the recent Minnesota Newspaper Association Page One Awards, where Rochester Magazine took home two first place awards and five plaques overall.)

THE AWARDS

BEST MAGAZINE ARTICLE (First Place)

Steve Lange, “The World’s Sweetest Fortuneteller”

BEST MAGAZINE PHOTOGRAPHY (First Place)

Joe Ahlquist’s “Coffee and Donuts”

BEST MAGAZINE GENERAL REPORTING (Second Place)

Steve Lange, Jennifer Haugen Koski, Tom Weber, Abby Ashbacher, Hadley Lange for the September 2022 issue

BEST MAGAZINE PHOTOGRAPHY (Second Place)

Joe Ahlquist’s photos of bartender Jade Brady of the Purple Goat

BEST SPECIAL SECTION (Third Place)

The Ultimate Golf Guide by Rochester Magazine and the Post Bulletin

They’re talking about us. And they could be talking about you, too.

To partner with Rochester Magazine, contact Tessa Olive at tolive@RochesterMagazine.com or 507-281-7469

COURSE CATALOG The most complete area course list we could create.

ADAMS

CEDAR RIVER GOLF COURSE

14927 Minnesota 56, Adams; 507-582-3595; cedarrivercountryclub.com

Par: 72/74; Yardage: 5,580-6,288 Cedar River is a member-owned public golf course.

ALBERT LEA

GREEN LEA GOLF COURSE

101 Richway Dr., Albert Lea; 507-373-1061; greenlea.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,049-6,213

18-hole course features mature trees and water on nine holes.

AUSTIN

MEADOW GREENS

GOLF COURSE

25238 540th Ave., Austin; 507-433-4878; meadowgreensgc.com

Par: 69; Yardage: 1,930-4,790

The 27-hole course has three contrasting nines.

AUSTIN COUNTRY CLUB

1202 28th St. NE, Austin; 507-437-7631; austincountryclub.net

Par: 72; Yardage: 3,047-6,520

Built in 1919, course features 45 bunkers and water on seven holes.

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

BLOOMING PRAIRIE COUNTRY CLUB

7701 118th St. SE, Blooming Prairie; 507-583-2887; bpcountryclub.com

Par: 36/37; Yardage: 2,554-3,026

This wide-open, nine-hole course has numerous trees.

BYRON

SOMERBY GOLF CLUB

975 Somerby Pkwy. NE, Byron; 507-775-3700; somerby.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,160-7,209

World-class golf on a links-style course.

CALEDONIA MA CAL GROVE

COUNTRY CLUB

15939 State Hwy. 76, Caledonia; 507-725-2733; macalgrove.com

Par: 36/38; Yardage: 2,842-3,213

Many trees and rolling hills.

CANNON FALLS

CANNON GOLF CLUB

8606 295th St. E, Cannon Falls; 507-263-3126; cannongolfclub.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,119-6,581

Relatively flat layout and elevated tees.

GOPHER HILLS GOLF COURSE

26155 Nicolai Ave., Cannon Falls; 507-263-2507; gopherhills.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 4,913-6,355

Tree-lined fairways and numerous elevation changes.

THE SUMMIT GOLF CLUB

31286 Hwy. 19 Blvd., Cannon Falls; 507-263-4648; summitgolfclub.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,165-7,025

Bentgrass fairways, tees and greens with elevation changes.

CHATFIELD CHOSEN VALLEY GOLF CLUB

1801 Main St. S, Chatfield; 507-867-4305; chosenvalleygolfclub.com

Par: 34/35; Yardage: 2,570-2,933

This 9-hole course offers a rolling terrain on a couple of holes.

DODGE CENTER DODGE COUNTRY CLUB

18187 County Rd. 34, Dodge Center; 507-374-2374; dodgecountryclub.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,151-6,176

Scenic views, challenging holes, relaxed atmosphere.

FARIBAULT

FARIBAULT GOLF CLUB

1700 17th St. NW, Faribault; 507-334-3810; faribaultgolf.com

Par: 72/73; Yardage: 5,468-6,447

Many trees, medium-sized greens. Wildlife often visits the course.

LEGACY GOLF COURSE

1515 Shumway Ave., Faribault; 507-332-7177; legacygcmn.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,031-6,416

Noted golf architect Garrett Gill designed the course.

FARMINGTON

SOUTHERN HILLS

18950 Chippendale Ave., Farmington; 651-463-4653; southernhillsgolfcourse.com

Par: 70/72; Yardage: 4,970-6,343 A challenge for all skill levels.

FRONTENAC MOUNT FRONTENAC GOLF COURSE

32420 Ski Rd., Frontenac; 651-388-5826, 800-488-5826; mountfrontenac.com

Par: 71; Yardage: 4,982-6,226 Unforgettable Mississippi River views (and numerous wildlife sightings).

HARMONY HARMONY GOLF CLUB

535 4th St. NE, Harmony; 507-886-5622; harmonygolfclub.com

Par: 36; Yardage: 2,452-3,018 Gently rolling hills and narrow fairways, and one water hazard in play.

HAYFIELD

THE OAKS GOLF CLUB

73671 170th Ave., Hayfield; 507-477-3233; oaksinhayfield.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,525-6,500 Scenic rolling fairways and one of the best golf values in the area.

HOUSTON

VALLEY HIGH GOLF CLUB

9203 Mound Prairie Dr., Houston; 507-894-4444, valleyhighgolfclub.com

Par: 71/72; Yardage: 4,796-6,157 Tree-lined fairways with mid-sized greens.

KENYON

KENYON COUNTRY CLUB

45986 Hwy. 56, Kenyon; 507-789-6307; kenyoncountryclub.com

Par: 34/36; Yardage: 2,470-2,656 Features big oak trees, small greens, and a few sand traps.

LA CRESCENT

PINE CREEK GOLF COURSE

3815 N. Pine Creek Rd., La Crescent; 507-895-2410; cityoflacrescent-mn.gov

Par: 35; Yardage: 2,352-3,009 Course offers three different tee-off locations on each hole.

LAKE CITY

LAKE CITY GOLF COURSE

33587 Lakeview Dr., Lake City; 651-345-3221; lakecitygolf.com

Par: 71/72; Yardage: 5,028-6,410 A well-groomed course set in the Mississippi River valley.

LAKE PEPIN GOLF COURSE

70895 260th Ave., Lake City; 651-345-5768; lakepepingolf.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,242-6,752 Scottish-feel course perched atop bluffs overlooking Lake Pepin.

THE JEWEL GOLF CLUB

1900 Clubhouse Dr., Lake City; 651-345-2672; jewelgolfclub.com

Par: 71; Yardage: 4,907-7,050

Nestled in the bluffs and designed by three-time U.S. Open winner Hale Irwin.

LANESBORO

LANESBORO GOLF CLUB

900 Parkway Ave. S, Lanesboro; 507-467-3742; lanesborogolfcourse.com

Par: 27; Yardage: 2,482-2,729

It’s a long, narrow, and hilly course with few, if any, even lies.

LEWISTON HEARTLAND COUNTRY CLUB

19917 Hwy. 14, Lewiston; 507-523-2060; heartland-cc.com/

Par: 36; Yardage: 2,598-3,164

Gently rolling, wide-open fairways. Also features a par-27 executive course.

MANTORVILLE

ZUMBRO VALLEY GOLF COURSE

25202 615th St., Mantorville; 507-635-2821; zvrc.com

Par: 36/37; Yardage: 2,592-2,755

The Zumbro River meanders across four of the holes.

MONTGOMERY

MONTGOMERY NATIONAL G.C.

900 Rodgers Dr., Montgomery; 507-364-5602; montgomerynationalgolf.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 4,984-6,563

This music-themed course features water hazards on eight holes.

NEW RICHLAND

RIVERVIEW GOLF COURSE

15590 240th Ave., New Richland; 507-465-3516

Par: 36; Yardage: 2,771-3,075

The Le Sueur River runs through the course.

NORTHFIELD

WILLINGERS GOLF CLUB

6797 Canby Trail, Northfield; 952-652-2500; willingersgc.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,166-6,809

Offers significant elevation and topography changes.

NORTHFIELD GOLF CLUB

707 Prairie St., Northfield; 507-645-4026; northfieldgolfclub.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,208-6,728

A combination of old and new holes.

OWATONNA

BROOKTREE GOLF COURSE

1369 Cherry St., Owatonna; 507-444-2467; brooktreegolfcourse.com

Par: 71; Yardage: 5,534-6,684

One of the best municipal courses in the area.

HAVANA HILLS

2213 NE 34th Ave., Owatonna; 507-571-0249; havanahillsgolf.com

Par: 27; Yardage: 1,140

Great course for working on short game.

OWATONNA COUNTRY CLUB

1991 Lemond Rd., Owatonna; 507-451-6120; owatonnacc.com

Par: 71/72; Yardage: 5,251-6,323

Straight River comes into play on several holes of this private course.

PINE ISLAND

PINE ISLAND GOLF COURSE

920 8th St. SE, Pine Island; 507-356-8252; pineislandgolf.com

–: 71; Yardage: 4,946-6,563

Wide fairways, huge greens, and clever and cool hazards.

PLAINVIEW

PIPER HILLS GOLF COURSE

25233 534th St., Plainview; 507-534-2613; piperhillsgolfcourse.com

Par: 36; Yardage: 2,792-3,086 Great greens in the countryside.

PRESTON

PRESTON GOLF COURSE

27486 Hwy. 16 W., Preston; 507-765-4485; prestongolfcourse.com

Par: 35; Yardage: 2,983

This 1930 course was built on hilly terrain and has no sand bunkers.

RIVERS’ BEND

24461 Heron Rd., Preston; 507-467-2512; barnresort.com

Par: 70; Yardage: 4,923-6,000

Several holes are carved out of the surrounding woodlands.

RED WING MISSISSIPPI NATIONAL

409 Golf Links Dr., Red Wing; 651-388-1874; golfredwing.com

Par: 71; Yardage: 5,002-6,489

Two unique 18 hole courses offer differing golf experiences.

RED WING GOLF COURSE

1311 W. 6th St., Red Wing; 651-388-9524; redwinggolfcourse.com

Par: 71; Yardage: 4,831-6,206

Nestled in the sand bluffs of Red Wing.

ROCHESTER

EASTWOOD GOLF COURSE

3505 Eastwood Rd. SE, Rochester; 507-281-6173; rochestermngolf.com

Par: 71; Yardage 4,779-6,631

One course, two personalities. A longtime Rochester favorite made even better.

HADLEY CREEK GOLF COURSE/ LEARNING CENTER

2427 Hadley Hills Dr. NE, Rochester; 507-529-4119; rochestermngolf.com

Par: 32; Yardage: 1,600-2,300

The place to practice and learn on a natural nine-holer.

MAPLE VALLEY GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

8600 Maple Valley Rd. SE, Rochester; 507-285-9100; maplevalleygolf.com

Par: 71; Yardage: 5,057-5,906

This course follows the Root River and limestone bluffs.

NORTHERN HILLS GOLF COURSE

4721 West Circle Dr. NW, Rochester; 507-281-6170; rochestermngolf.com

Par: 72; Yardage: 5,398-6,271

Rolling hills, mature trees, and wildflowers.

OAK SUMMIT GOLF COURSE

2751 Co. Rd. 16 SW, Rochester; 507-252-1808; oaksummitgolf.com

Par: 70; Yardage: 5,080-6,434

One of the area’s more scenic courses with plenty of challenge.

ROCHESTER GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

3100 Country Club Rd. SW, Rochester; 507-282-2708; rgcc.org

Par: 70/72; Yardage: 5,298-6,469

Rolling terrain with lots of pine trees and changes in elevation.

SOLDIERS FIELD GOLF COURSE

244 Soldiers Field Dr. SW, Rochester; 507-281-6176; rochestermngolf.com

Par: 70/71; Yardage: 5,003-5,769

The Rochester classic (opened in 1927) features two classic par-3s.

WILLOW CREEK GOLF COURSE

1700 48th St. SW, Rochester; 507-285-0305; willowcreekgc.com

Par: 70; Yardage: 5,293-6,053 Fairly wide open, some challenging holes. Also offers Little Willow Executive Golf Course.

RUSHFORD

FERNDALE GOLF COURSE

23239 Hwy. 16, Rushford; 507-864-7626; ferndalegolfcourse.com

Par: 36/38; Yardage: 2,756-3,354 Solid nine-hole course, easy to walk.

ST. CHARLES

ST. CHARLES GOLF CLUB

1920 Gladiola Dr., St. Charles; 507-932-5444; stcharlesgolfclub.com

Par: 71; Yardage: 5,023-6,237 Nestled in rolling hills and valleys.

STEWARTVILLE

RIVERVIEW GREENS

1800 Clubhouse Dr. NE, Stewartville; 507-533-9393; riverviewgreens.com

Par: 70; Yardage 5,108 Course winds along the Root River.

WABASHA

THE BLUFFS AT COFFEE MILL

180 Coffee Mill Dr., Wabasha; 651-565-4332; coffeemillgolf.com

Par: 71/72; Yardage: 5,091-6,515

The scenic course features long and challenging par-4s.

WINONA

THE BRIDGES GOLF COURSE

22852 County Rd. 17, Winona; 507-452-3535; winonagolf.com

Par: 71; Yardage: 5,091-6,778

A true test of golf with plenty of elevation changes.

CEDAR VALLEY

GOLF COURSE

25019 County Rd. 9, Winona; 507-457-3129; cedarvalleymn.com

Par: 36; Yardage: 4,959-6,505

Many long holes, a variety of slopes, and several water features.

WESTFIELD GOLF CLUB

1460 W. 5th St., Winona; 507-452-6901; westfieldgolfclub.com

Par: 36; Yardage: 5,620-6,656

The course is walker-friendly due to the relatively flat terrain.

ZUMBRO FALLS

ZUMBRO FALLS

GOLF CLUB

60146 Hwy. 63, Zumbro Falls; 507-753-3131; zumbrofallsgolfclub.com

Par: 36; Yardage: 3,268 Scenic and challenging with rolling hills.

ZUMBROTA

ZUMBROTA GOLF CLUB

80 Golf Links Ave., Zumbrota; 507-732-5817; zumbrotagolfclub.com

Par: 69; Yardage: 4,532-5,875

A classic design front-nine followed by a links-style back.

ROCHESTER, RETRO

The “famed flapper” Clara Bow

THE WALK-THROUGH

Inside a $1.9M home in Ely, MN

TRAVEL | FOOD | ADVENTURE

ADD ONE EXTERIOR ACCENT.

REDO YOUR UTILITY ROOM.

UPGRADE THAT “DOESN’T FEEL QUITE RIGHT” SPACE.

Area experts, weekend projects.

Add one exterior accent.

REDO THOSE UNDERUTILIZED UTILITY ROOMS.

UPGRADE THAT SPACE THAT “DOESN’T FEEL QUITE RIGHT.”

AREA HOME EXPERTS PASS ALONG THEIR PROJECTS THAT YOU SHOULD TACKLE THIS WEEKEND.

HOME PROJECTS

“Mudrooms and laundry rooms seem to be more in focus now than ever! ”

- Jessica Markley

THE PROJECT: Redo those underutilized utility rooms.

THE LOCAL EXPERT:

Jessica Markley, Interior Designer, Elias Construction

“Mudrooms and laundry rooms seem to be more in focus now than ever!

Often these areas of the home are overlooked and utilized as catch-all for clutter and segue to other areas. Consider better storage solutions such as mudroom lockers and custom closet storage to house your outerwear and gear.

Create some joy in these purposeful rooms by adding wallpaper you love or a beautiful durable brick paver floor.

These are rooms you use every day, so take a chance on a happy color, a new door, rug or even colored laundry units that resonate with you!”

THE TREND: Get safe with flooring upgrades.

THE LOCAL EXPERT: Joe Elder, Owner/President Hiller ’s Flooring America/ Hiller Commercial Floors

“Floors are always a good safe improvement project.

You would be very surprised how much a new floor can change the look and outlook for your house, especially if you are looking to sell your house in the near future.

What you have always loved in your home may not be what the buyer would like and by freshening up the floors you can attract more buyers and bigger sales.”

THE PROJECT:

“I think everyone should consider adding an accent to the exterior of their home.”

- Hans Hottel

Mix exterior textures and colors.

THE LOCAL EXPERT:

Hans Hottel, President, H & H Construction LLC

“I think everyone should consider adding an accent to the exterior of their home.

There are tons of options for creating a refreshed look, all without having to take on a large exterior renovation project.

Homeowners can choose to add a focal point to their home by wrapping posts in stone or adding a textured siding to a gable or bump-out. Black trim is starting to become popular, and it is another way for homeowners to create a contrasting accent on their home.”

THE PROJECT:

Make your flooring eco-friendly.

THE LOCAL EXPERT:

Jenna Gillund, Sales Associate, Carpet One Floor & Home of Rochester

“In 2024, a noteworthy home project to consider could be the installation of sustainable and eco-friendly flooring options.

Embracing environmentally conscious materials not only aligns with the growing trend of sustainability but also contributes to a healthier home environment.

Opting for flooring choices made from recycled or renewable materials can enhance both the aesthetic appeal and ecological footprint of a living space!”

HOME PROJECTS

THE PROJECT:

Replace that limitedlifespan flooring.

THE LOCAL EXPERT: Ron Wightman, Real Estate Broker, WightmanBrock Real Estate Advisors

“One home project that people should consider for 2024?

New floor coverings should be evaluated every 5 to 10 years.

Replacing flooring is a commitment. It can be perceived as expensive, somewhat invasive, and often an overlooked project.

Just like any other component of our homes, flooring has a limited lifespan. Old floor coverings become worn, damaged, soiled, and outdated. New flooring can instantly enhance the appearance and comfort of your home.

Whether you choose hardwood, laminate, tile, carpet, or another material, updated flooring can transform the look and feel of a room or the entire home.

New flooring will add value to your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.”

“New flooring can instantly enhance the appearance and comfort of your home.”

-

Ron Wightman

THE TREND: Get your foundation inspected.

THE LOCAL EXPERT: Jeff Beck, General Manager, All-Star Basements

“One project homeowners should consider is a full foundation inspection.

Have trained inspectors meet with you and go over a few questions before inspecting the inside and outside of your home foundation—checking mainly for bowing walls, cracks, any signs of water intrusion, and the grading around the exterior perimeter. Radon testing can be included in this as well as an option.”

THE PROJECT: Refinish—and maybe restain—your wood floors.

THE LOCAL EXPERT:

Tony Horsman, President, Creative Hardwood Floors

HOME PROJECTS

“This process allows homeowners to choose a new stain color that aligns with modern trends, such as light, natural tones or a matte finish for a contemporary feel.”

- Tony Horsman

“For 2024, one home project to consider regarding hardwood floors is the sanding and refinishing of your existing wood flooring.

This project not only refreshes your home, but refinishing hardwood floors can dramatically update the appearance

of your home’s interior without the need for a complete overhaul. This process allows homeowners to choose a new stain color that aligns with modern trends, such as light, natural tones or a matte finish for a contemporary feel.

Additionally, refinishing can address any wear and tear, scratches, or dents, enhancing the durability and longevity of the floors. This project not only increases the aesthetic appeal of your home but also adds to its market value.”

HOME PROJECTS

THE PROJECT:

Pick something budget friendly.

THE LOCAL EXPERT:

Nita Khosla, Realtor, Edina Realty

“There are several remodeling projects to consider, but it depends on the financial budget. Remodeling bathrooms and kitchens are very desirable and impactful, but they are high-budget projects. There are several other remodeling projects that produce high impact for smaller financial investments. All new interior paint in fresh new colors with all new light fixtures can transform the interior of a property for a smaller investment.

Painting the front door and shutters in a fresh new color and replacing all the exterior light fixtures can make a big difference on an even smaller budget.”

of Presented By:

Sponsored By:

April

THE PROJECT:

Install new windows.

THE LOCAL EXPERT:

Noah Lacina, Sales Manager, L acina Siding and Windows Inc.

“One of the most important home improvement projects you can accomplish in 2024 is windows.

Installing new, energy efficient windows in your home that not only improve the energy efficiency of your home, but also add a heightened look to your existing home, is key. Not to mention, you see a return on your investment. The average window replacement increases the value of your home by 65%-68% of initial investment.

The right window replacement for your home can not only improve the energy efficiency, look, and feel of your home, but the value as well.”

Enhance the look and feel of your home with Infinity® from Marvin®. Made of Ultrex® fiberglass, Infinity windows are 8x stronger than vinyl. Ultrex® offers a superior bend and flex resistance to protect the integrity of your home.

Take it a step further with the EverWood® product. EverWood® is an engineered wood grain interior finish that looks, feels, paints, and stains like real wood but without the maintenance.

ROCHESTER RETRO

(ONE IMAGE, ONE MOMENT IN THE CITY’S HISTORY)

The Woman Who Was Almost Mayor

In 1977, Jessie Howard—a 51-year-old stay-at-home mother of four—ran for mayor against a legendary and popular incumbent, Alex Smekta, who had never lost an election.

Howard sent a wakeup call in February of 1977 when she finished ahead of Smekta in a five-person primary. Howard, the city’s first female mayoral candidate, outpolled the incumbent 2,192 to 1,529.

A political unknown, Howard—whose husband

Frank was a longtime Mayo physician—had become a close follower of local politics, attending numerous county board, city council, and zoning meetings. And she didn’t like what she saw.

“There were things going on (in city and county government) that the people in city government weren’t getting called on,” Howard told us in a 2007 telephone interview from her home in Palm Desert, Calif.

“The mayor wasn’t doing

enough for the people. He was working for the king makers.”

After mostly ignoring Howard before the primary, Smekta and his supporters stepped up the campaign in the weeks leading up to the general election.

Smekta won by the razor thin margin of 31 votes out of more than 11,000 cast. Howard opted not to request a recount and never ran for political office again.

Jessie Howard died on Sept. 6, 2014 in Brainerd. She was 88.

The Walk-Through:

The home: 19.7 acres, 1,240 feet lakeshore

3,710 SF, 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom

The info: This is a secluded estate on coveted Burntside Lake. It offers ultimate privacy in a sheltered bay and features epic views through the towering pines with the opposite shoreline being pristine wilderness. The estate is ideally located between the main body of the lake and the North Arm.

This property boasts 19 acres and 1,240 feet of lakeshore. Structures on the property include an immaculate cedar sided home, a water’s edge guest cabin, a sauna, a boathouse, and a two-stall garage. The home features a two-story great room with a stone fireplace and glass doors to the lakefront deck. A stainless and granite Wolf kitchen with an island opens to the great room, dining, and deck, all are lakeside. Upstairs there is a luxurious lakeside primary suite, two guest bedrooms, each with a private deck, a guest bath, and a reading area with water views. Amenities include in-floor heat, A/C, central vacuum, and a backup generator.

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!

ROCHESTER RETRO

(ONE IMAGE, ONE MOMENT IN THE CITY’S HISTORY)

The “famed flapper” and the Clinic visit

In December of 1939, Clara Bow— “famed flapper and original ‘It’ girl,”; one of Hollywood’s biggest stars— was experiencing claustrophobia and panic attacks and days of insomnia while at her home in Nevada.

So Bow, 34, and her husband Rex Bell, an actor and politician, boarded a train from Nevada to Rochester, in hopes that Mayo Clinic doctors could find a cure. Bow stayed for three weeks of tests and observations.

She was dismissed from Saint Marys Hospital on New Year’s Day of 1940 and the couple stayed on at the Kahler Hotel. She told the Post-

Bulletin that they planned to remain in town for another 10 days. No diagnosis or treatment was publicly reported.

“Much like her mother, Bow struggled with her mental health, and in 1944 she attempted suicide,” according to her bio in the Smithsonian Museum. “A few years later she checked herself into another psychiatric institution where she received shock treatments and various psychological tests. Bow was diagnosed with schizophrenia, and never returned home to her family. Instead, she lived out the rest of her days alone in a bungalow in Los Angeles until her death in 1965.”

MARKETPLACE a selection of shops & services

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.

DELI & SANDWICH SHOPS

Jimmy John’s

Gourmet Sandwiches. The Kahler Inn & Suites, 9 Third Ave. NW; Marketplace Mall, 2986 41st St NW; Crossroads Plaza, 90 14th St SW. Jimmy John’s is unlike any sub shop in the industry; no games or gimmicks, just old-fashioned, homemade sandwiches made from fresh-baked bread, all-natural meats and vegetables that are sliced daily. Downtown hours: 10:30-8; 507-289-9900. NW hours: 10:30-10; 507-424-0100. SW hours: 10:30-10; 507-424-2000. Catering and delivery available. Order online at jimmyjohns.com. V, M, D, and AE accepted.

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

Home Federal Savings Bank.

When it comes to your personal, everyday banking needs, Home Federal has you covered. Ask us about the great advantages of our personal checking accounts. Start saving smart with a savings account, IRA, CDs, and more. Finance any of the larger purchases in your life with a customized personal loan. Manage your accounts at any of the four convenient locations in Rochester or in the comfort of you own home via your smartphone or computer—24 hours a day, 7 days a week—with Home Federal’s mobile banking. All of the amenities of a national chain, along with the personalized, friendly service you expect from a community bank. Local bankers. Local service. Local decisions. Bring your banking home. Find out more at JustCallHome.com. Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC.

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 33)

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 20, 37)

WHERE TO WORSHIP

First Presbyterian Church.

512 Third St SW. Worship Sunday: 10 a.m., 507-282-1618, fpcrochester.org. Please visit our website for up to date information.

Grace Lutheran Church. LCMS 800 East Silver Lake Dr NE. Worship services: Wednesday 6 p.m.; Saturday 6 p.m.; 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. Redeemer’s 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.

BY STEVE LANGE

10 (or so) questions with ... Andrew Meissner, co-owner of Bravo

Espresso

Rochester Magazine: This “rapidly adaptive receptor” is a type of nerve ending in the skin that is responsible for sensitivity to pressure. It’s most concentrated in thick, hairless skin, especially on the finger pads. What is it?

Andrew Meissner: What is it? I don’t know.

RM: It’s the Meissner corpuscle.

AM: Oh, that’s interesting. I did not know that.

RM: Would you consider yourself to be a rapidly adaptive receptor?

AM: No, I would not. I don’t think I want to be like that. I like a little time to step back and look at and assess and look at different angles. I mean, I am adaptive, but not “rapidly adaptive.”

RM: And do you have thick, hairless skin, especially on the finger pads?

AM: No, I do not.

RM: So how jazzed up on coffee are you right now?

AM: What I do is have a 20-ounce coffee with two shots of espresso in the morning. And then throughout the day, I just keep throwing extra shots in there. So I probably have had three or four of those today.

RM: I pride myself on doing my research for these, on finding info about people. I honestly had a hard time finding stuff about you as a kid.

AM: I like to say I’m kind of like a mutt, but I grew up until middle school age in Roseville, Minn. And then we moved to rural Wisconsin to Centuria, and that’s where I finished middle school and started high school. I was in a bad home situation in Wisconsin ... and I moved out of

I love doing stuff with my kids. I love spending time with my family.

there at 16. I moved to Little Canada [a Minneapolis suburb] and went to the Roseville ALC.

RM: Who did you live with?

AM: I lived by myself. I rented an apartment and worked.

RM: As a 16-year-old kid?

AM: I tried to live with other families for a while so I could still go to school. But I would always feel like I was intruding. So I worked at Cheapo Records in Uptown. Got an apartment. Then I decided, “You know what? I’m just going to go get my GED.” I regret getting the GED, but I had to work.

RM: Wow. So then you just worked your way through?

AM: I ended up as an assistant at Journeys Shoe Store at Rosedale Mall. They wanted to move to Rochester to open my own store. I was probably 19 or 20. I wasn’t familiar with

Rochester at all. But I moved here, opened that store, and shortly after that, I found out I wasn’t for corporate America. I really didn’t like being at the mall. I didn’t like the structure. Then I met the guys from Bravo, Jay Johnson and Mike Haydon.

RM: And you got hired at Bravo?

AM: They had a kiosk and I asked if they were hiring. They said no. I went into the Gap and got an application. I filled it out, and I gave it to the Bravo guys and said, “Call me when you’re ready.” When they bought the Bravo Espresso location here at the Galleria, almost 25 years ago, they called me.

RM: And now you’re the owner.

AM: Jay Johnson and I always had a handshake agreement, a verbal agreement that when he would retire I would buy him out. We’ve always been a small, tight-knit, almost family-like

business. It has worked out great.

RM: Tell me about your family.

AM: My older set of twins are going to be 20 in April. Ansley and Elaina will be 20. Years later, I met my wife, Emily. This March will be our 10th year anniversary. We have Penelope, who just turned nine. We have London and Violet, twins who will be eight in July. Silas just turned five a week and a half ago. I love spending time with my family.

RM: So how did you and Emily meet?

AM: I gave her a banana.

RM: That was your line? That was your go-to?

AM: She’s always worked for Talbots. She worked at the Rochester store, and she would get coffee from me, and sit out and eat her lunch on break. One day, I just invited her in the shop, and offered her a banana, and that was it.

RM: You’re wearing a Thai Pop shirt, a Thesis Brewery hat ...

AM: The majority of my clothes now are from local places. Especially for those of us that are in the industry, we have to support each other.

RM: You’ve been doing this for 25 years. What have you learned?

AM: I’ve learned a lot of things. I’ve been super humbled by it all, by all the support, by all the people I meet. I’ve learned just try to be positive and kind. I’ve learned I don’t know what everyone’s going through. I’ve learned I like meeting new people. I like to hear people’s stories. It makes me think about life. You know what I mean?

Photo courtesy Andrew Meissner.