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.

Situated inside the Hilton Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport Mall of America, Blue Water Grill offers superb seafood dishes and tender, high-quality steaks. Designed to provide fine dining in a stylish, comfortable atmosphere, the restaurant is a wonderful option for everything from business meetings to romantic dinners. Popular menu items include king crab legs, filet mignon, grilled venison and pappardelle with wood grilled chicken. The restaurant is also open for breakfast and lunch, so head to Blue Water Grill and enjoy a fabulous meal any time of the day.

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.

Located in the famous Hennepin Theatre District at City Center, Fogo De Chao has become a downtown landmark. This Brazilian Steakhouse serves up an memorable dining experience starting with the gourmet salad and sides bar with over 30 items including fresh cut vegetables, imported cheeses, cured meats and Brazilian side dishes. Then, choose from the 15 cuts of delectable fire roasted meats that are bought to your table, sliced, and served by our gaucho chefs. Enjoy!

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.

DOWNTOWN. This pagoda-shaped Japanese steakhouse features slicing, dicing, chopping, sizzling, and serving ­ all from a tableside grill. Chef-servers prepare lobster, shrimp, scallops, chicken, and filet mignon as diners watch from U-shaped booths. At the sushi bar, fresh rolls are served in miniature boats. Reservations accepted.

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.

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.

Owned by Bill and Dana Kozlak, Kozy's combines family cooking techniques and traditions with top quality steakhouse dishes and a stylish, comfortable atmosphere to create the ideal dining experience. The extensive menu includes such popular items as prime rib, filet mignon, chicken piccata, seared scallops and chicken pot pie and is sure to offer something to satisfy any palate. Open for brunch and lunch as well, Kozy's also serves popular breakfast items like French toast and a selection of sandwiches. With its sleek, stylish interior, great food and exceptional service, Kozy's is the perfect restaurant for any occasion.