Minneapolis is carving out a notch for itself in the culinary world. From
celebrity chefs making headlines and noted local hotspots, to spaces for
large groups, we’ve got your taste covered.
CELEBRITY CHEFS
Local chefs making headlines include nationally-recognized Tim
McKee of La Belle Vie, named by Gourmet Magazine as “America’s top 50
restaurants of 2006.” Focusing on Mediterranean fare, this spacious
venue offers a chef’s tasting menu in addition to the ala cart items.
Internationlly-recognized chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten set up shop
in the new Chambers boutique hotel. Chambers Kitchen offers Asian-inspired
cuisine with an emphasis put on local ingredients. The 190-seat restaurant
also includes a lower level space with seating for 140.
Wolfgang Puck’s 20.21, serves up Asian-influenced California cuisine.
Perched atop the newly remodeled Walker Art Center, the space is
intimate with great views of downtown skyline.
FOR LARGER GROUPS With numerous restaurants offering ample room for larger groups, here
are a few of the options:
Bellanotte offers Italian cuisine with dining options
including an atrium with a fire pit, a chef’s table as well as the
private Tuscany room.
Rossi’s Steak Housebrings steak and chops to
downtown Minneapolis. With a full restaurant including private wine
rooms for larger groups, and the attached Blue Star Room you're sure
to find a seat in this hotspot.
The Capital Grille this New York-style steak also
serves up over 300 varieties of wine. Semi-private dining is an option
for large
groups.
DOWNTOWN Groups of any taste will find something to enjoy at downtown’s eateries. Atmospheres range from casual to upscale, featuring flavors and entertainment from around the world.
Irish atmosphere: competition heats up on the bowling green at Brit’s Pub, where a 10,000-square-foot rooftop green showcases city views. Other pubs spots The Local and Kieran’s both have outdoor or indoor areas.
Jazz up your meeting: did you know Minneapolis has the 4th most active jazz scene in the country? The Dakota and Rossi’s Steakhouse have live performances 7 nights a week.
For all tastes: theater buffs might enjoy pre-show dining at Cue, before taking in a performance at the Tony Award-winning Guthrie Theater. If sports are a better bet, at NBA City you can get in on the gaming before, during or after dinner.
OUTSIDE OF DOWNTOWN There’s so much to do in downtown, but those looking to meet outside the city have several great options too.
Just a convenient and easy ride away on the light rail train is Mall of America. With 520-plus stores, a 7-acre amusement park, Underwater Adventures and more, attendees can also check out more than 40 restaurants - try Napa Valley Grille, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. or Rainforest Cafe.
Head just a few blocks south of downtown to the hip and vibrant Uptown. Chino Latino offers food from the hot zone, with large dishes for sharing and sampling. Seafood lovers: Cajun and Creole specialities and fresh fish are on the menu at Stella's.
