5120 Restaurant boasts the finest in American cuisine and atmosphere. Guests dine under a white onyx ceiling backlit with blue lights that imitate the night sky and the walls feature aged mahogany woodwork reclaimed from a historic hotel in downtown Minneapolis. Imported marble flooring and an oversized marble fireplace add touches of elegance. We take reservations and can easily accommodate groups. The Onyx Bar is ideal for meeting with clients or friends for a drink in a comfortable, luxurious atmosphere.

DINKYTOWN. Al's greasy-spoon decor has been preserved for many years, along with a classic breakfast menu. Located near the university, the place attracts students and alums who are thrilled to return and find Al's just as they remember it. Deemed by some folks as the best breakfast place in the Twin Cities, Al's is known for blueberry and blackberry buttermilk pancakes as well as for omelets and eggs Benedict. They only take cash, and if you're in the door before 1pm, they'll happily serve you. A small place, so don't be surprised by waits.

EDEN PRAIRIE. Just how authentic is Baker's? Try this on for size: It's the only one of nine locations not in the Lone Star State. Folksy and casual, they've built their rep on stick-to-your-ribs, hickory-smoked meats. In fact, their dishes have been called "tall food" thanks to their hefty sandwiches (chicken is the most popular). Of course, there's a wide selection of barbecue options too ­ pulled pork, beef brisket, and ribs, for example. You can order a sandwich, a plate, or take something home by the pound.

DOWNTOWN. One of Minneapolis's most evocative dining rooms, BANK occupies the former space of the Farmers and Mechanics Bank. Its thoughtful design is a true feast for the senses ­ a sleek bar in the center, soaring ceilings and windows, a vault-turned-wine cellar, and beautiful early 20th century millwork. Representative mains include seared walleye with butter-poached lobster, 8-oz. beef fillet with mashed red potatoes and garlic-scented spinach, and short-rib lollipop with sweet potato hash.

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. Just because you need a quick bite for lunch doesn't mean you can't treat yourself. Be'wiched touts itself as one of the few chef-driven delis in the Midwest, and it certainly lives up to the billing. Classics like pastrami on rye or roast beef on ciabatta are crafted with artisan-like dedication and filled with exquisite flavors. A bevy of salads and soups round out the menu.

SEWARD. Smartly decorated Birchwood is a coffee shop and cafe that also moonlights as an art gallery. Food offerings have a strong vegetarian slant and are prepared using fresh, locally grown, organic ingredients. Menu items range from pizzas and sandwiches to tofu curry and a quiche of the day. Birchwood also serves non-vegetarian items, including salmon cakes and turkey burgers. Breakfast and weekend brunch are popular with locals, too.

One of the best restaurants in Bloomington, the Bloomington ChopHouse serves tender steaks and fresh seafood. Whether you prefer your steak Oscar style or with béarnaise sauce, the menu has exactly what you're looking for. Tempting sides like lobster macaroni and cheese provide the perfect accompaniments to your entrée, creating a flavorful, satisfying meal. Much more than the typical steakhouse, the restaurant is also open for breakfast, brunch and lunch, serving everything from oatmeal to burgers. The Bloomington ChopHouse offers some of the best dining in the Minneapolis area and is not to be missed!

BLOOMINGTON. Perfectly charred and beautifully presented, the Bloomington ChopHouse's succulent steaks and chops more than make up for its location outside of Minneapolis proper. The muted green walls and and red-orange booths combine with lively clientele to produce an invigorating dining experience.

DOWNTOWN. The buzz is all about The Butcher and the Boar, where chef and owner, Jack Riebel, helms a kitchen that will delight your inner carnivore. The menu offers wild boar hot links, rooster terrine with pickled vegetables, and flatiron steaks. For those seeking lighter fare, there are Maine blue mussels and Hawaiian tuna.

GRAND AVENUE. The long tradition of scrumptious food creation on Grand Avenue continues with the Butter Bakery Café. Whether taking a leisurely stroll down Grand Avenue or heading to work, you'll find Butter Bakery Café to be a quick and convenient stop where you can satisfy your cravings. If you're stopping in for breakfast, try the huevos burrito with scrambled eggs, cheese, potatoes and salsa or the omelet with potatoes. For an early lunch, try the fresh Patsy's BLT or Roast Beef sandwich. This popular Minneapolis breakfast restaurant and bakery also offers free high-speed, wireless Internet access for added convenience.

Cadillac Ranch is the All American Bar and Grill specializing in steaks, chops, BBQ, burgers, cocktails and even bull rides! Our 39 TV's are visible from every seat in the house for sports enthusiasts. Looking for a fun atmosphere of people watching, dine out our mall patio. Perhaps you need a room for a private event or meeting, our private guest room will accommodate 50 and offers AV compatibility.

LORING PARK. This chic cafe's spare, geometric design perfectly offsets views of Loring Park visible through floor-to-ceiling windows that line one side of the restaurant. Fresh takes on traditional American dishes populate the menu; double-cut Berkshire pork chops with apple chutney and game hen with sage and prosciutto stuffing are characteristic of the cuisine served. Live, international music enhances dinner and can be heard nightly. The lively Bar Lurcat is perfect for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail or glass of wine from the superb list.

Chili's is fired up about food! From fresh, hand-prepared salads to mouthwatering burgers, Chili's is sure to please the whole family. The casual fare and genuine service will make you come back for more!

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. A five-spot will get you a canned soda and a loaded, Chicago-style dog at this beyond-casual spot, where every table sports red and white checkered tablecloths and a roll of paper towels. If you're brave, attempt the house specialty: a Vienna Beef dog served on a poppy seed bun and smothered in mustard, "nuclear relish," onions, and celery salt. Juicy and sure to satisfy, it's a taste straight from the South Side. Other choices ­ including pizzas, Italian beef sandwiches, Maxwell Street Polishes, and meatball sandwiches ­ are equally tempting and grease-laden. NB Formerly called Joey D's.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. Corner Table places a premium on serving up dishes that incorporate locally-grown ingredients, particularly meat and produce from small, family-owned farms. Though the digs are snug, guests are made to feel right at home by the calm vibe. The dining room's capacity for comfort only deepens when waitstaff delivers dishes like braised beef shank with whipped parsnip and broccolini, pan-roasted trout with Brussels sprout leaves and roasted potato, and pappardelle pasta with lamb ragout.

DOWNTOWN. Keeping pace with the sleek, sexy aesthetics of the Graves 601 Hotel requires a restaurant designer's A-game, and that's just what happened when the plans were drawn up for Cosmos. Modern and cool, the space features furniture with low-profiles and clean, distinct lines, giving it a dramatic vibe that suits the downtown Theater District just right. The dinner menu lists inventive numbers like celery root tart and vanilla-butter poached lobster with sweet onion curry. Sunday "blunch," meanwhile, includes tasty benedicts, corned beef hash, and after 11am, even grilled pork loin and grass-fed Minnesota rib-eye.

Cowboy Jack's in Bloomington offers an awesome menu consisting of burgers, wraps, steaks, braised chicken, ribs, pan fried sunnies and more! The atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or family. We feature live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Check out our website for upcoming events.

Living up to its motto, Fresh, Vibrant, American, CRAVE uses only natural and free range meats, as well as organic and local produce, dairy items and coffee. The freshness of the ingredients, and the careful preparation at CRAVE, has resulted in a menu of diverse, delicious items. Pastas, seafood dishes, chicken, steaks, pizzas and sandwiches provide something for everyone. An innovative sushi menu is also available, and the happy hour menu features an assortment of bite-sized items. The great food is highlighted by a warm, inviting interior featuring earth tones and a cozy fireplace.

"Fresh, Vibrant, American" sum up your dining experience at the CRAVE Mall of America. CRAVE uses only natural and free range meats, as well as organic and local produce, dairy items and coffee. The freshness of the ingredients, and the careful preparation at CRAVE, has resulted in a menu of diverse, delicious items. Pastas, seafood dishes, chicken, steaks, pizzas and sandwiches provide something for everyone. An innovative sushi menu is also available, and the happy hour menu features an assortment of bite-sized items. The great food is highlighted by a chic, casual, and vibrant atmosphere.

BLOOMINGTON. A pleasing mix of Cantonese dishes and American favorites can be had at this Bloomington mainstay. Hot and spicy beef, moo goo gai pan, and shrimp with snow peas tempt Chinese-food devotees, while filet mignon, broiled lobster tails, and fried jumbo shrimp entice those looking for a steakhouse experience. An array of soups, noodle dishes, and fried rice is also on offer. Dinner specials are permanent and nightly, often featuring entrees that blend the kitchen's Cantonese and American sensibilities. A kid's menu and a take-out menu win points with families and diners on the run, respectively.

Great family fun at Dick's Last Resort! This casual-dining restaurant located in the Mall of America, serves up good food with a lot of wise-cracks. Known for a staff full of sarcasm, Dick's provides on-going entertainment for the whole family and offers buckets o' good grub!

UPTOWN. Looking to drop the meat-n-potatoes gig and start eating much healthier? If so, look to this vegan paradise, where all the fare's organically grown, plant-based, and uncooked. Enjoy tasty zucchini and cashew-tahini cream lasagna, raw zucchini pasta topped with strawberry marinara, or spicy Thai noodles and rest assured that it's probably the healthiest you'll eat all day. Other perks of dining at Ecopolitan: purified water, fresh-squeezed juices, awesome air quality, an oxygen bar and, of course, Minnesota's largest selection of organic, sulfite-free wine!

NORTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS. Hints of Art Deco style can be found in Erté's playful decor, which features seat covers fashioned from black button-down shirts, leopard-print patterns, and prints of the namesake artist's elegant, linear works. The wallet-pleasing steakhouse not only serves affordable cuts of meat, but it also offers superb fresh seafood. Prime sirloin and a petite filet are highlights of the beef selection, while halibut, trout, and scallops are representative of the seafood options. Even with stiff steakhouse competition nearby, Erté's lighthearted atmosphere and varied menu set it apart.

Perfecting America's favorite style of barbeque for the last 25 years, Famous Dave's creates mouthwatering Smokin' Good sandwiches, burgers, and of course hickory - smoked ribs and Georgia chopped pork slathered with the award winning Rich & Sassy BBQ sauce. Take your family to this casual, down-home atmosphere - they'll thank you!

Serving up Minnesota-centric fare, FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar goes above and beyond a typical hotel restaurant, offering modern yet comfortable décor, a chic bar area, a craft cocktail list, and deluxe desserts.

UPTOWN. At French Meadow, one of the most popular Minneapolis bakeries, patrons savor exceptional scratch-made pastries, yeast-free organic breads and satisfying meals made from fresh, local and organic ingredients. In addition to their signature crab cakes and organic eggs Benedict with Black Forest ham, the bakery's bountiful menu includes an alluring array of vegan and gluten-free delights, including a grilled tempeh Reuben, Peruvian quinoa salad and black bean chili. Stop by for breakfast, lunch or dinner!

WAYZATA. Gianni's atmosphere is sophisticated for a traditional steakhouse, but you should feel no need to dress up. Getting lots of attention is the Delmonico rib-eye, which is actually big enough for two. Diners who don't have a taste for steak can indulge in Gianni's pork, chicken, and seafood dishes. Side orders, too, are well-portioned, and Gianni's cheese-stuffed hash browns are a \\"must-try.\\" On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday a magician performs.

EDINA. Wholesome morsels and casual digs are always on the docket at this Edina eatery, where the emphasis is on fresh organic ingredients and healthy preps. This is an espcially good choice for breakfast, as the kitchen cooks up ditties like Ten Grain Hotcakes, cinnamon-challah French toast, and an omelet stuffed with wok-seared Asian veggies then flavored with seasoned tamari and sesame oil.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. This understated yet classy spot in South Minneapolis gets high marks for its intimate tables and wallet-friendly prices. But that doesn't mean the one-time bakery doesn't turn out creative fare ­ they do, in fact, and manage to utilize a fair amount of local ingredients along the way. Representative dishes from the dinner menu include a duck confit and garlic-lamb meatball cassoulet, polenta cakes, and braised short ribs with homemade spatezle. Weekend brunch features delights like corned beef hash made with Kobe brisket and huevos rancheros filled with Berkshire pork confit.

DOWNTOWN. Blood-red walls and stuffed vultures might not be the most inviting ambience for a morning meal, but the eats are so tasty at this road-food joint that you might not even notice. Try the house specialty, Mahnomin porridge ­ a warm blend of Minnesota wild rice, hazelnuts, cranberries, blueberries, cream and maple syrup that originated in American Indian cookery. Other equally appealing choices include ¼-lb. caramel rolls, huevos rancheros made with fresh salsa and rosti potatoes, and maple-glazed bison sausage. Be prepared: prices are commensurate with the quality of ingredients and the large portions. Not to be missed!

NOKOMIS. Pumpkin buckwheat waffles, blueberry buttermilk pancakes or scrambled eggs and cheese with smoked trout? It's these types of delicious dilemmas you'll encounter at Hot Plate, an unconventional diner where paint-by-number pictures hang on the walls and the kitchen uses locally sourced ingredients.

UPTOWN. This old-style bakery serves gigantic cinnamon and caramel rolls that you can frost yourself! Take home one of their delicious pecan sticky buns, a coffee cake, a loaf of bread, or a dozen savory rolls for a warm welcome. A sunken floor, high ceilings and windows, and a counter lined with stools lend a light, airy feeling to the place.

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. Attracting patrons of all ages, this well-appointed addition to the Warehouse District earns its popularity with juicy cuts of meat, knowledgeable servers, and the winning combination of a quiet dining area and a lively bar. Retro relish trays and garlic cheese bread are delicious preludes to a tenderloin filet, T-bone, New York strip, or prime rib prepared to your specifications. A 24-oz. Cajun double pork chop is also a serious contender. Peach cobbler, apple crisp, and strawberry shortcake are simple yet sinfully good dessert choices. NB Sunday brunch is served family-style.

NORTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS. The menu mainstay at this landmark restaurant (since the 1930s) is a mouthwatering selection of steaks. Enjoy the legendary broiled New York sirloin or prime rib. An ultra-long bar has a stained glass window that depicts the seven dwarfs. Call ahead for reservations, and a black matchbook bearing your name will be waiting at your table.

LORING PARK. This two-level restaurant overlooking Loring Park is the most popular of Joe's multiple Minneapolis locations. Joe's menu contains burger dishes that are influenced by cuisines just about everywhere ­ a lamb burger, curried tuna-burger, veggie burger, and Asian pork burger. On Sundays, the trendy crowd tends to flock here for brunch, an all-you-can-eat, family-style affair that includes Cajun pork chops, apple-smoked bacon, and spinach eggs. Brunch reservations suggested.

DINKYTOWN. Greece, Russia, France, and Mexico happily commingle at this eclectic bistro near the U of Minnesota campus. Locals are well-acquainted with Kafe 421 as an always-interesting dinner spot, but a selection of hearty specialty sandwiches makes lunch an equally appealing prospect. Try the pepperjack avocado burger on a toasted focaccia roll or the croque monsieur, made with fontina cheese and caramelized onions. Chicken, turkey, and grilled portobello mushrooms also make appearances.

DOWNTOWN. You'll find enormous portions of down-home breakfast fare served all day at this popular local chain eatery. Pancakes and omelets come dangerously close to falling off the edge of your plate, while eggs and just-greasy-enough roast beef or Italian sausage hash are favorites with regulars. Sweet treats abound for diners who need a little sugar in the a.m., including oversized cinnamon rolls with heavy glaze and a side of creamed butter. The place is known for breakfast, but a satisfying selection of sandwiches and soups is served for lunch and dinner.

BLOOMINGTON. Thanks to its location in an office building, Kincaid's attracts a business crowd who relishes its well-executed, straightforward cuisine. Kincaid's specializes in Nebraska corn-fed beef, chops, fresh seafood, and pastas, and it's known for its mesquite grilling and homemade breads. The large bar is an added attraction, especially when the workday is over. Sunday brunch and incredible service are added draws, as is outdoor dining when the weather's warm. Reservations recommended.

LAKE ELMO. Tell a native that you're planning to dine at Lake Elmo Inn, and you can expect to hear one thing: "Better make sure they've room for you." Indeed, trying to get a table for Sunday brunch is difficult, but it's well worth the effort. The menu usually includes smoked salmon, eggs Benedict, shrimp, vegetable stir-fries, and unforgettable pastries. During warmer months, brunch is served on the patio.

DOWNTOWN. You'll marvel at the Loring Pasta Bar Restaurant in Minneapolis as soon as you walk through the doors. With unique, beautiful artwork and décor throughout, this stunning restaurant is as much a feast for the eyes as the mouth. Offering both traditional Italian dishes, as well as their own signature entrées, Loring offers a little bit of everything. Start off with an order of the pan-fried potstickers or the delicious artichoke ramekin. For a unique Louisiana Creole dish, try the Loring Shrimp Jambalaya or stick with an Italian specialty like spinach and cream cheese raviolis with braised lamb shank. Let your taste buds go crazy at Loring Pasta Bar.

DOWNTOWN. This appealing steakhouse, reminiscent of an old-fashioned men's club, serves USDA-certified, dry-aged beef and does so in portions that are certain to demand a doggie bag. The menu changes daily but often features a mouth-watering porterhouse or New York strip, along with lemon-pepper chicken, shrimp, salmon, tuna, veal, lamb, and pork chops. The typical crowd dresses in everything from rhinestones to blue jeans.

DOWNTOWN. The image of a smiling pig leads the way to this charming downtown barbecue pit. In operation since 1946, Market is just as popular today as it was when the jukebox was new and autographed pictures on the wall were current. Try Market's famous barbecued spareribs ­ sauce comes on the side, because they trust the quality of the meat and the smoking ­ and then chase them down with tasty onion rings and a house brew. That's good eating!

DOWNTOWN. This well-known seafood establishment is dressed for success with dark woods, a stained-glass ceiling, and polished brass details. The crisply attired waitstaff and huge printed menu (it changes twice daily) match the air of luxury. Seafood is flown in from Hawaii, British Columbia, and Florida, assuring diners of the best of the season. Dungeness crab is a work of art, oysters are plump and juicy, and clam chowder is absolutely divine. Great when you want to impress.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. If you want an authentic, homemade doughnut freshly glazed, then look no further than Mel-O-Glaze Bakery in Minneapolis. Perfect for breakfast or even an afternoon snack, Mel-O-Glaze offers a wide variety of pastries, cookies, breads, cakes, doughnuts and more that'll hit the spot any time of the day. For a jump-start to your morning, try their freshly brewed coffee or hot drinks that include mocha, espresso and café latte. So what are you waiting for? Head to Mel-O-Glaze for finger-licking good treats.

DOWNTOWN. Though the location (and prices) may seem custom-wired for corporate types with expense accounts, Mission goes the extra mile to make sure those who take food seriously walk away impressed. Dinner mains range from grilled quail with polenta to smoked miso salmon, and potato cake with feta makes an awesome side dish. As to the space, designers hope to recall the flavor and attitude of San Fran's Mission District with the eclectic art collection, citrus color scheme, marble-top bar, and smooth hardwood floors.

NORTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS. Add the term "retro" in front of this neighborhood-style bistro's name, and you'll have a good idea of what to expect decor-wise. With the checkered linoleum, formica tables, and chrome trim, Modern certainly seems like it's been stuck in the 50s since... well, since "I Like Ike" pins were all the rage. Don't let all that jazz fool you, though ­ the kitchen here has quite a few New American surprises up its sleeve, incorporating everything from sautéed sea bass with bok choy to lamb shank with mint-cilantro chutney.

DOWNTOWN. A celebration of glitzy, 1940s-era establishments, this swank, curtained restaurant is family-owned and -operated. Specialties include hickory-smoked shrimp and heavenly Silver Butter Knife Steak, while fan favorites include bacon-wrapped filet mignon with mushrooms and a salad made with thin-sliced beef, baby greens, mushrooms, walnuts, and capers. Save room for strawberry pie or devil's food cake.

Located in the Mall of America, the Napa Valley Grille transports diners to California wine country. Meals are prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the menu evolves to utilize the finest seasonal items. Best of all, the restaurant offers prix fixe menus for both lunch and dinner. After a busy day of shopping, stop in and enjoy some of the most acclaimed dining in the mall. Dinner specialties include entrees like almond crusted walleye, butternut squash risotto and venison osso bucco.

NICOLLET ISLAND. Beautiful Nicollet Island Inn's restaurant delivers an elegant affair, thanks to classy decor and a sharply dressed, professional waitstaff. The exclusive Sunday champagne brunch includes homemade breads and pastries and dishes like créme brûlée French toast, caramelized onion and duck confit crêpe, and pressed short ribs. It has garnered a great deal of regional and national attention, and as you might expect, the wine list is among the best in town. Al fresco dining is available. Reservations are necessary.

Est. 2002, NORTH Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge is a Bloomington, MN hidden gem. Chef Jason Halterman is excited to offer a contemporary, yet sophisticated menu sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Featuring Scratch-Made Classic American food served breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The atmosphere, service and attention to detail will draw you in for a dining experience you won't soon forget.

EDINA. At this delicious eatery, try baked Dutch Baby pancakes with whipped butter, lemon, and powdered sugar or oven-baked apple pancakes with cinnamon glaze. Another time, go for a gourmet omelet loaded with fillings and served with Swiss-style hash browns. Regulars have learned to show up before 7am, although breakfast is served any time of the day. Complimentary coffee is offered while you wait for a table.

Locals visit Patrick's Bakery Cafe in Minneapolis for the freshest baked goods, pastries and chocolate treats. The shop's impressive display case is filled with everything from truffles and macaroons to Danishes, cookies and muffins. Patrons also find an assortment of breads, as well as a large lunch menu featuring the traditional Patou burger, Croque Monsieur, quiche Lorraine and salad Nicoise. Dinner is also available, and there is full table service on Friday and Saturday nights.

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. At Pizza Lucé, the delectable pies are made from scratch, and you can top them with just about anything you desire ­ high-quality ingredients like seafood, chicken, eggplant, and artichoke hearts. Standard pies to exotic concoctions are possible, and homemade pastas and salads make for a great lunch, as do hoagies. Pizza Luce also offers vegetarian and vegan options and is a fantastic place for late-night dining, as you can tell by the crowds.

DOWNTOWN. Local products (beef, pork, chicken, vegetables) capture the spotlight at this stark downtown kitchen, located in Starwood's oh-so-posh Ivy Hotel. The chef applies modern twists and turns to heartland standards (Prime ribeye with spinach and potato fondue), and isn't afraid to "go coastal" with dazzling renditions like grilled swordfish with celery root and apple butter or Arctic char with braised winter greens. Tasting menus are available.

SOUTHWEST MINNEAPOLIS. Pizza pies at this local chain are wood-fired, resulting in maximum flavor and pleasantly crisp crusts. Unexpected ingredients like cayenne salami are fresh and appetizing, as are basics like tomatoes and mozzarella. A wide selection of vegetarian options, a decent array of salads, and a wine list that's better than you might imagine are even more reason to take a leisurely lunch at Punch.

Promising Original Cuisine, Authentic Style, Redstone serves lunch and dinner with panache. Offering unique takes on classic American dishes, Redstone's menu includes some intriguing selections like Michelle's Waldorf salad, made with spinach and Manchego cheese, and the Palm Beach burger, topped with red onion compote, Canadian bacon and brie. Catering to both the adventurous and picky palate, Redstone also offers a variety of more traditional items like steaks, chicken and seafood. The restaurant is also a great choice for a hearty Sunday brunch. Try the affordable Never-ending Family Style Brunch, which offers complimentary additional servings.

DINKYTOWN. An expansive tasting menu that changes almost daily and a bustling dining room made light and cheery with blond wood accents keep things lively and bustling at Alma. If it's fresh, organic, and seasonal, it's probably on the menu, which is designed with local farms and suppliers in mind. The three-course tasting menu is pricey but worth it; representative courses include parmesan flan and soft quail egg with maple syrup, buckwheat crepe with smoked portobellos, leeks and spicy mustard, and sautéed wild Alaskan halibut with red kimchi purée. You'll have to order dessert separately, but with choices like chocolate-banana cake and passion fruit meringue pie, the splurge is well worth it.

DOWNTOWN. Restaurant Max caters to a variety of lifestyles and culinary tastes to create a dynamic dining experience perfect for any occasion. Restaurant Max is a great place for a business lunch, fine dinner or even a late-night drink. For lunch, choose from one of their specialty flatbreads, grilled to perfection and topped with your choice of sautéed chicken, beef, veal or assorted vegetables. For dinner, try the tender roasted duck breast or sesame scallops.

UPTOWN. Located just east of Lake of the Isles, Rudolphs is uptown in more ways than one. The upscale place features linen tablecloths and some of the area's best home-style barbecue. Many menu items pay tribute to Hollywood, from the Sheik sirloin and Rhett Butler chicken-and-ribs combo to the Rudy or Bogie spare ribs plates. Be sure to sample their famous cole slaw, slightly sweet with accents of parsley and carrot.

DOWNTOWN. Elegant Ruth's Chris sits in the heart of Minneapolis and seduces diners with incredibly tender steaks, including huge slabs of beef prepared with butter for mouthwatering richness. Among the more popular cuts are a porterhouse for two, a cowboy rib-eye, and a petite filet served with New Orleans-style shrimp. Side dishes include fried onions, lyonnaise potatoes, and sautéed mushrooms.

A fun local restaurant with a relaxed vibe, Sam's Grill is a popular destination for casual, satisfying dining. Our eclectic menu features the favorites and we've added a fusion of American and Mediterranean favorites. There's always entertainment at Sam's, including DJ's on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Watch for special events!

DOWNTOWN. Welcome to Sanctuary Restaurant in downtown Minneapolis, your own dining haven. This fine Minneapolis restaurant welcomes you with an elegant and contemporary ambiance as soon as you walk through the doors. The restaurant's creative menu features new American cuisine with a hint of international flavor in each dish. Try the smoked and braised lamb shank with oyster mushroom and pea risotto or Jamaican jerk chicken with a pineapple cilantro rice cake. Take refuge in the Sanctuary Restaurant in Minneapolis for a truly refreshing dining experience.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. Cozy Scott Ja-Mamas enjoys fine status as one of the area's best barbecue dives, and identifying two or three standouts on the menu is impossible since everything tastes so good! Follow the "Hot Barbecue" neon sign, and you'll find finger-licking spare ribs, barbecued chicken, and shredded pork, along with a selection of sauces: mild, medium, or hot (and they do mean HOT!). Consider throwing a twice-baked potato into the mix, too. Come early for lunch, because seating is often limited. If you do have to wait, check out the eclectic decor, which includes poker-playing dog art and newspaper clippings.

Sky Deck Sports Grille and Lanes serves up the perfect combination of food and fun. Featuring a unique bowling experience, an amazing selection of video games, High-def sports viewing and mouth-watering menu selection of burgers, pizza and more! Watch the game, play the games or just hang-out with friends and family.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. One of the best deals around, this closely guarded secret specializes in hot (that is atomic) barbecue. Ted Cook's, which has been feeding people well for more than thirty years, offers everything from beef and pork ribs to traditional barbecued chickens, as well as a variety of down-home Southern sides like black-eyed peas, home-fries, collard greens and, oh yes indeed, sweet potato pie. By the way, you'll kick yourself later if you don't take home one of Ms. Davis's homemade desserts. Take-out only.

NORTHEAST. Dining at Anchor Fish and Chips may not be the healthiest option, but you'll leave satisfied. In addition to serving fresh Alaskan cod and hand-cut chips, the restaurant offers British favorites like shepherd's pie, sausage and chips, and their famous "Helicopter Burger" topped with cheddar, ham and a fried egg. Weekend mornings you can order an Irish breakfast.

DOWNTOWN. The Capital Grille, part of a national chain, is one of Minneapolis's most popular steakhouses. If you're looking to impress a potential client, this place delivers. The interior sports lots of mahogany, dark green hues, welcome privacy, and a predominantly masculine decor. The famous porterhouse is 24 ounces of excellent, dry-aged beef that will leave you swooning. For dessert, why not try the mouthwatering flourless chocolate cake? Reservations are suggested.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. The regional New American cuisine cooked up in this comfortable Arts and Crafts kitchen is prepared using organic, chemical-free produce, meat, and fish, much of which is grown locally. Representative dinner offerings include grilled pork chop with chourcoute bread pudding and pan-roasted pheasant wrapped in caul fat and cured ham.

A classic Irish pub, The Local is a great place to relax with a Guinness, watch your favorite rugby team play and enjoy friendly, lively conversation. The interior features traditional dark wood elements, giving the bar the quintessential pub feel. Menu items include more upscale versions of typical bar fare like burgers and chicken fingers, as well as classic Irish favorites, including fish and chips and shepherd's pie. If you're looking for exceptional food and a friendly, no-frills atmosphere, The Local is the perfect choice.

DOWNTOWN. Style steals the show at The News Room, where the spacious patio overlooks Nicollet Mall and the kitchen serves up "three squares" every day. The space plays up the newsy theme, and the walls in each room are decorated with covers and clips devoted to different sections from the newspaper. Also newsworthy are the loos, which have prison-issue toilets and one-way mirrors behind the sinks. As for the eats, the lunch menu caters to just about any type or size of appetite, from salads topped with pecan-crusted tilapia, to Chicago-style Italian beef sandwiches, to full-on feasts of Southern-fried chicken and garlic mashed potatoes smothered in country gravy.

DOWNTOWN. The Oceanaire is a '50s kind of place in the best sense -comfortable booths, Tommy Dorsey tunes, relish trays, informed waiters, and a bar with eight different kinds of oysters. The menu changes daily, and skilled preparations allow fresh flavors to shine through. Seafood dishes often reflect regional preferences, and you can be assured of perfect cooking. Service is exquisite, and huge portions are easily shared (you can also get a half-order).

NORTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS. The turn-of-the-century redbrick building near the corner of Marshall and NE 23rd is home to a unique dining establishment where it's possible to get a little bit of everything in one sitting. Indeed, The Sample Room's tapas-inspired offerings of cheese plates, pan-fried walleye strips, and sautéed green beans with ginger tamari sauce work perfectly fine as sharables. There are a handful of main courses as well, and on Sundays the brunch menu features "sample plates" of hand-cut bacon, crêpes, and currant scones. When the weather's cooperative, grab a table on their outdoor patio. House wine by the glass is 1/2 off between 3pm and 6pm, Monday through Friday.

Arrive early to get a seat at award-winning chef Steven Brown's Tilia. This 40-seat gem features a menu of dishes that are simple and unique, from fish taco tortas to American cassoulet with bratwurst, navy beans, and shallots.

SOUTHWEST MINNEAPOLIS. Those seeking distinctive Minneapolis bakeries turn to Turtle Bread Company for delightfully flavorful treats. Their handcrafted artisan breads come in a wonderful variety of flavors, including cracked wheat, brioche, olive and rosemary levain, country sourdough and French rolls. Pastries, cookies and pies are also available, as is a deli menu featuring soups, salads, sandwiches and quiche. Be sure to browse the gourmet grocery section for specialty salad dressings, preserves, cheeses and marinades, too.

Shopping at the Mall of America can certainly work up an appetite. When hunger strikes, head to the Twin City Grill. The sleek, stylish interior features mahogany paneling and atmospheric lighting, while the menu features top-quality entrees perfectly suited to any palate. Fresh soups, salads and sandwiches mix with tender steaks, chicken, seafood, barbecue and excellent nightly specials to create a hearty, well-rounded menu. Complement your meal with a glass of wine or a cocktail, and enjoy the great food and comfortable atmosphere that can only be found at Twin City Grill.

UPTOWN. Located in a Victorian house, this genteel coffeehouse evokes a romantic feel. Faux marble tables, rose-colored chairs, and green velour booths populate the many small rooms, and a patio opens in warm weather. In addition, light classical music plays in the background. Order from a menu of tea, coffee, cakes, soups, and sandwiches.

With a convenient location across from Southdale Shopping Center, great food and a colorful, inviting interior, Via is the perfect restaurant for a casual lunch or dinner. The menu at Via represents an eclectic blend of classic American favorites and international cuisine. A few of the diverse menu items include shrimp and scallop ceviche, prosciutto, shallot and arugula pizza, an assortment of kabobs, roasted chicken and the black angus sirloin burger. A kid's menu is available, and, when the weather is nice, you can dine on the outdoor patio, complete with fire pits for the colder months.

EDEN PRAIRIE. Evoking the ambiance of a 1940s-era steakhouse, this branch of the small Midwestern chain is a hit with locals thanks to hearty portions of meat and potatoes ­ of course, a hip martini bar doesn't hurt either. Baked goat cheese and crab-crusted stuffed shrimp are tempting starters, but save room for the main course ­ salads, sandwiches, steaks, fish, seafood, chicken, and barbecue are all appetizing. For a change of pace, try a blue cheese-crusted filet or honey mustard-glazed St. Louis ribs.