Twin Cities Restaurant Blog

The Sample Room- Northeast Minneapolis, MN

Cuisine: American,
Restaurant Features: Bar, On-Site Parking, Patio Dining

Location: Northeast Minneapolis
Address: 2124 Marshall Street NE  Minneapolis, MN 55418 (612)789-0333
Links: The Sample Room Website  Google Map

Atmosphere: The Sample Room is not a very large restaurant, but has both tables, padded booths and a bar in the space. The neutral colors, wooden furniture and floors give it a comfy-casual feel.

 

The Sample Room also has this cute but small patio attached to the building.

Menu: All plates are appetizer sized "for nibbling".

Cheese plates include Chef's Selection with Grapes, Warm Camembert with Carmelized Onions, Buffalo Mozzarella with Avocado and Roasted Red Pepper, Wisconsin Bleu with Red Onion, Cheddar with Chipotle Mustard, and Baked Goat Cheese with Oven Roasted Tomatoes in Basil Oil.

Meat plates include Turkey Chorizo Sausage with Chipotle Mustard, Baked Ham, Pork Ribs with Bourbon Barbeque Sauce, Steamed Bratwurst, Corned Beef with Cabbage, and Herb Roasted Beef with Carmalized Shallots.

Seafood Plates include Pan-Fried Walleye Strips, Seared Salmon with fennel, Sauteed Shrimp, Seared Scallops with Sun-dried Tomato Pesto, Seared Rare Tuna with Miso Glaze and Radishes, and Smoked Prairie Trout with Creamy Chive Sauce and Pickles.

Vegetable Plates include Warm Marinated Olives, Fire-Roasted Artichoke Gratin, Roasted Summer Vegetables, Roasted Asparagus, Sauteed Green Beans and Mushrooms, Roasted Fresh Veggie Torte, and Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic.

Soups and Salads offered are Mixed Greens, Caesar (with Chicken or Tuna), Grilled Chicken breast and Sliced Pear with Candied Walnuts and Bleu Cheese, Seared Scallops over Spinach, Warm Roasted Vegetables over Spinach.  Soup of the Day also available.

Sandwiches include Deluxe Cheeseburger, Reuben, BLT, Grilled Ham and Camembert Cheese, Grilled Chicken, Warm Meatloaf, Chopped Roast beef, Steamed Bratwurst, Fried Walleye, and Roasted Portabello Mushroom.

Dinner Entrees include Spaetzle Primavera, Roast Duck Hash, Three Meatloaf (beef, pork, and veal), Steamed Sausage Platter, Ribs, Sauteed Garlic Shrimp, and Seared Salmon.

Desserts include Summer Berry Crisp, Cannoli, Bailey's Irish Cream Cheesecake, Creme Brulee, Cheese Plate, and Chocolate Decadence.

Price guide: Cheese plates $4-7  Meat Plates $4-7 Seafood Plates $7-9 Vegetable Plates $4-7 Sandwiches  $9-11 Entrees $15-19 Desserts $6-7
What we ordered:To start with we tried the complimentary Bread Basket that had crusty French bread, Rye Bread, and Flatbread.

My companion had been told by a friend to try the Goat Cheese with Roasted Tomatoes, so we did! I thought it was pretty good, but the taste and texture was distinctly goat cheese.  The mild roasted tomatoes that accompanied the plate helped to curb the strong taste of the goat cheese.  I ate mine with some of the bread and liked it better.

We also tried the Artichoke Gratin, served with Flatbread.  The marinated artichokes were served whole in a boat of Gratin, which was a flavorful creamy cheesy mix.  Delicious on both flatbread and crusty white bread. I thought this was a unique alternate to the the cheesy artichoke dips that are served at other restaurants.

 

When I saw that they served real corned beef, I ordered the Reuben Sandwich.  It was great! The corned beef was hot and flavorful, sliced straight from the brisket and piled onto the fresh rye bread.  There was a decent amount of sauerkraut which seemed to have been mixed with the 1000 Island dressing.  Additional dressing was served on the side and had nice flavor, but the consistency seemed runny rather than thick like I prefer.  It was a nice change to have a Reuben on rye rather than pumpernickel, and the bread was still somewhat soft (I prefer it slightly toasted or grilled).  The kettle chips that were served with the sandwich were seasoned and very crispy.

 

My companion ordered the Three-Meat Loaf which was made with beef, pork and veal, a blend of peppers and caramelized onions, and then topped with Bourbon barbeque sauce.  It was served with seasoned mashed potatoes and roasted summer vegetables.

Service: Our server was friendly and attentive and helped us with suggestions.  We ordered our appetizers before we ordered our main dishes and had just started eating the artichoke and goat cheese plates when our sandwich and entree came out.  It was only slightly disappointing to have to rush through the appetizer so that we could start on our meals before they got cold.  We did not complain about this at all, however the server felt very bad that that had happened to us and she ended up taking 25% off our total bill.  Can't complain too much after that!
Overall Impression: I thought The Sample Room had an interesting variety of sample plates and entrees, and the prices seemed reasonable for both smaller plates and the full entrees.

IL Vesco Vino Bar Napoleto- St Paul, MN

*** Il Vesco Vino has relocated!!! This review was done at OLD restaurant location on Selby Ave.***

Cuisine: Authentic Italian
Restaurant Features: Patio Dining

Location: St Paul, MN
Address: 242 W. 7th Street  Saint Paul, MN 55102 (651) 222 - 7000
Links: Il Vesco Vino Website  Google Map

Atmosphere: Located in a refurnished Victorian Mansion in the middle of a residential neighborhood, Il Vesco Vino is a romantic little Italian restaurant and bar.  There are three stories to the restaurant, with many private dining areas throughout the rooms of this former mansion.

 

This is just one of many seating areas....

 

There is also a beautiful patio adjacent to the building, complete with gardens, a bar, and a wood-fire brick oven.

Menu: Appetizers include Arancini (fried rice balls stuffed with peas, mint & fresh lemon), Eggplant Parmigian, and Fried Calamari.

Antipasti that are served cold include Spicy Garlic & Rosemary Olives, Caprese, Romaine, Garden Greens, Panzanella, Roasted Beets with Arugula, Tuna Crudo, Carpaccio (thinly sliced beef), and Salumi & Cheese.  Antipasti that are served hot include Tomato and Sage Soup, Fried Polenta with Peas, Grilled Sausage with Roasted Peppers, House-made Meatballs, and Mediterranean Steamed Mussels.

Pasta Dishes include Puttanesca (spaghetti with olives and anchovy), Ziti, Lemon Risotto, Gnocchi with Porcini Mushrooms, Tortelloni with Shrimp, Ravioli with Lamb, Bucatini all' Amatriciana, Spicy Linguine with Shrimp.

Entrees (Secondi) include Pork Piccata, Fire-Roasted Chicken, Grilled Salmon with Artichoke, Grilled Lamb Steak, Halibut, Seared Scallops, and New York Strip Steak.

Desserts include Tiramisu, Cheesecake, Chocolate Fudge Cake, Creme Brulee, Chocolate Stuffed Pistachio donuts, Limoncello Frozen Custard, Warm Chocolate Cake, and Vanilla Gelato.

Price guide:  Appetizers $9-13  Antipasti $ 5-18  Pasta $13-19 Entrees $18-28  Desserts $7-8
What We Ordered: My companions and I stopped at Il Vesco Vino on a Saturday afternoon between a wedding we had just attended and the reception which was scheduled to start a few hours later.  None of us had eaten all day and we needed just a little something to tide us over until we were able to eat dinner at the reception.

Along with several really good cocktails, we received a basket of fresh bread.  It was thick, had a nice crust and was served with olive oil on the side for dipping.

 

We also ordered the Calamari which came seasoned with lemon and sea salt.  Our order consisted of both battered and fried rings and tiny little squid with tentacles still attached.  Both were very good, the texture of the rings was tender and the little squids had a crispier texture.  Two of my companions had never had calamari before and were slightly reluctant to try it, but both thought it was really good.

Service:  There were only just a few other tables being occupied on the patio where my companions and I sat, and the service was excellent.  All of our needs and requests were fulfilled in a timely manner.
Overall Impression:  A cool, romantic place for an authentic Italian meal.  Many wine and specialty drink offerings along with great special during Happy hour make it a great place to visit after work or for a romantic dinner. 

Baja Sol Cantina- Inver Grove Heights, MN

Cuisine: Mexican
Restaurant Features: Bar, Patio Dining, On-Site Parking

Location: Inver Grove Heights, MN
Address: 2922 Upper 55th Street  Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076 (651) 554-1111
Links: Baja-Sol Website  Google Map
Atmosphere: Fun, bright and colorful, Baja Sol Cantina is a good-sized restaurant located at the end of a strip mall.  There are several tables and booths to accommodate parties of various sizes.

There is a large Bar Area located at the front of the restaurant (you can kind of see it in the way back of the photo below), complete with several large-screen TVs.

There is also a nice patio area, a great place to enjoy one of the 18 specialty margaritas or other cold beverage.

Menu: Appetizers at Baja Sol Cantina include Sweet Corn Cakes, Chicken or Steak Quesadillas, Baja Wings, Baja Nachos, Avocado Empanadas, Del Rio Empanadas (grilled chicken, black bean and corn), Chicken or Beef Taquitos, and Chips with Guacamole or Queso.  There are also two Sampler Platters that each have 4-5 different appetizers. Soups offered are the Baja Chili and Cheesey Chicken Enchilada Soup.
There are also a number of salads, like the Tequila Honey Lime Shrimp, Painted Desert, Baja Tostada, Fajita Tostada Salad, Chicken Caesar, and Margarita Chopped Salad.

Taco plates come with three tacos, rice, and black or pinto beans.  Choose from the Primo Style Tacos (meat*, lettuce, cheese, sour cream), Baja Style Tacos (meat* with onions and cilantro), Fajita Tacos (meat, peppers, onions), and Fish Tacos (lightly fried fish, cabbage, onion and cilantro).

Burritos are also served with choice of meat*, rice and black or pinto beans and include the Grande Burrito, Smothered Burrito  (green chile sauce), Enchilada Burrito, Fajita Burrito, BBQ Burrito (Chipotle BBS sauce) or the Chicken Caesar Burrito.
Sierra Sandwiches are wraps that are served hot, and include Steak or Chicken Fajita, Chipotle BBQ Carnitas, Portabella Mushroom, and Grilled Veggies.
Entrees include Fajitas (Steak, Chicken, Shrimp, or Grilled Veggies), Peach Mango Tilapia, Margarita Chicken (marinated in Tequila Honey Lime dressing), Chicken Durango, Carne Asada, Inside Out Pork Tamale, Inside Out Chicken Tinga Tamale, Tequila Honey Lime Shrimp, Baja Burger, and Enchiladas (cheese & choice of meat and sauce- Red or Green).

**Meat choices include Grilled Chicken, Grilled Steak, Carnitas, Ground Beef, Shrimp, Pork Green Chile, Grilled Veggies and Chicken Tinga.

Desserts offered are the Mango Tango Mousse, White Chocolate Banana Quesadilla, Apple Flautas, Turtle Sundae and Sopapilla Sundae.
Baja Sol Cantina also has a $5.99 lunch menu that is offered from 11am-2pm daily, and also a $3.99 children's menu.

Price guide: Appetizers $6-15  Tacos $8 Salads $9-13 Sandwiches $8 Burritos $8-10 Entrees $9-15 Desserts $5-6
What I ordered: One of the very first things I noticed when I walked in the restaurant was this fabulous self-serve Salsa Bar with several specialty salsas including Peach-Mango, Caliente, Verde, Diablo, Corn, Fire Roasted, Pico de Gallo, Fresh Cilantro, Onions, and Pickled Jalapeños.

The chips were hot and freshly fried.  Thin, crispy and lightly salted.

I started with the Baja margarita and a generous helping of each of the Fresh Salsas.  I love margaritas and can be very critical about them, but the Baja Margarita is one of the best I've ever had! They use fresh lime juice, which is the key to perfectly tart margarita.  I enjoyed all of the salsas, but my favorite was the peach-mango.  I was particularly impressed with how fresh all of the ingredients were.

For an appetizer my companion and I tried the sweet corn cakes.  These were patties made of traditional Mexican corn meal mush, but with a exciting and fresh modern twist.  The patties are lightly fried and contain whole kernels of sweet corn, and served over salsa verde and then topped with fresh pico de gallo, cilantro, avocado, and sour cream.  These were very different, but very good! The texture of them was crispy on the outside, and softer on the inside.  The flavors and textures all complimented each other rather well.

We also tried the Baja Wings with Caribbean Jerk sauce.  The wings were big and fried crispy, the sauce was spicy and sweet. 

For the main course we tried the Smothered Burrito with Carnitas.  You can't really tell from this photo, but the burrito was as long as my arm! The pork carnitas was tender and very flavorful and I enjoyed the green chile sauce, it gae it a nice kick.  I liked the beans but the rice seemed slightly on the dry side, but that may just be a characteristic of the rice itself.

We also tried the Chicken Durango, which was three marinated chicken breasts that were extremely tender and flavorful.  The chicken was topped with salsa and melted cheese and served with grilled peppers, onions, and yellow squash.  I thought the grilled veggies made the perfect side to the chicken.

We were beyond stuffed after dinner, but had to try dessert! The white chocolate banana quesadilla is unlike anything I have ever had before and I loved every bite that I was able to eat! There were thinly-sliced bananas with shaved white chocolate folded inside a flour tortilla that had been grilled  to a golden brown.  If that wasn't heavenly enough, it had caramel drizzled on top and a scoop of cinnamon ice cream on the side! The warm bananas were soft and sweet from the melted white chocolate and the tortilla was nice and crispy.

We also tried the Mango Mousse, which I have a hard time describing because it was very different. It was light, but not too creamy or sweet.  It had a strawberry sauce and mango de gallo on top.  It was okay, but didn't hold a candle to the banana quesadilla!

Service: We were greeted as soon as we entered the Baja Sol Cantina, and had great service throughout our visit.  Our server was friendly and had a couple of good suggestions for us. 
Overall Impression: Everything was great! The salsa bar is the coolest feature I have encountered in a restaurant for awhile now, I could eat there everyday for that reason alone! The food was really tasty and it was apparent that all of the ingredients were really fresh.  Prices were very reasonable for the amount of food you get. 

Ciao Bella ~ Bloomington, MN

Cuisine: Italian
Restaurant Features: Bar, Patio Dining, On-Site Parking

Location: Bloomington, MN
Address: 3501 Minnesota Drive Bloomington, Minnesota 55435 (952)841-1000
Links: Ciao Bella Website  Google Map

Atmosphere: Ciao Bella is a large restaurant, with a couple of separate dining areas throughout the space.  The main dining room is an open area with a mix of tables and booths, white table cloths and dim lighting. I thought the ceiling was pretty cool- it was formed into bands of arches (Better view in the bar photo below).Adjacent to the large dining room there is a smaller seating area near the outdoor patio with several windows that give it great natural lighting.

Here is a view of the bar area, which has tables in addition to the stools at the bar.

Patio area

Menu: Appetizers (aka "small plates") include Calamari Fritti, Parmesan Crusted Shrimp, Seared Ahi Tuna, Tuna Spring Rolls, Mini-Burgers, Grilled Beef Tenderloin, rilled Shrimp, Ginger Scallops, Crab Cakes, Baked Chicken Spring Roll, Steamed Edamame, Zucchini, and Grilled Asparagus.  There are also three types of Bruschetta.  Pizzas and Specialty Flatbreads such as the Grilled Chicken and Artichoke, Tomato and Avocado, Wild Mushroom and Margherita are also popular choices.

There are several salads offered (half or full-size) including Caesar, DolceVita, Brasiliana, Organic Baby Greens, Caprese, Heirloom Grain Chopped Salad, Bacon and Blue Cheese, Ciao Baby, Sesame Chicken, and the Wild Muchroom Salad.

Pastas include Ravioli with Ricotta, Shrimp Linguini, Fettucine with Chicken, Fussili Lunghi, Risotto, Lasagna, Spaghetti, Fettucine with Asparagus, Tagliolini with Shrimp and Tortiglioni Rossa.

Sandwiches served at lunch only include Grilled Chicken Panini, Grilled Filet Mignon Sandwich, and Rotisserie Chicken Panini.
Entrees featured on Dinner Menu are the Wood Grilled Pork Tenderloin, Chicken Parmigiana, Veal Scallopine al Limone, Grilled Turkey Burger, Ahi Tuna Burger, Filet Mignon Steak, New York Strip, and Seasonal Fish.

Price guide: Small Plates $5-14  Salads $8-12 Pastas $14-18  Flatbreads $10 Pizza $8-12 Entrees $12-42
What We ordered: Shortly after we sat down we were served this warm, dense Italian bread.

I started with the Tomato Basil Soup, which was delicious.  It had big, chunky stewed tomatoes that gave it great texture, and the flavor was slightly sweet and tangy.  It was topped with a couple of big chunks of the bread and grated parmesan.

 

I was more in the mood for a sandwich than for a pasta dish, and after hearing the server talk-up the Turkey Avocado Panini, I went with her suggestion.  The ingredients were fresh, but the turkey and avocado just didn't have enough flavor to get my attention (I love flavor and spice!) and I found it a little on the boring side, even with a tad of Dijon Mustard.  I had also assumed that all paninis were made on ciabatta bread (which I love because they are soft and crispy), but this sandwich was made with a denser bread and was hard on the outside.  The sandwich was good, it just wasn't what I was after.

 

One of my companions ordered a half Bacon and Blue Cheese Salad with a half order of the Chicken Fettuccine. The salad had romaine, tomatoes, onions and chunks of crispy bacon and came with the dressing pre-tossed.  The Chicken Fettucine dish was made with spinach noodle and then topped with steamed spinach, toasted almonds, chicken and tossed in the house white wine cream sauce.  This was a half portion, but seemed considerably smaller than the half portion of Fettucine with Asparagus.

 

My other companion ordered a half salad with a half Fettuccine Asparagus. 

The fettucine was topped with large pieces of asparagus, pine nuts, pancetta, parmesan and served in a light cream sauce.  My companion enjoyed the dish and he bite that I tried had more flavor than most Alfredo sauces, so I was pleased.

Service: Our server was really nice, and very accommodating to the baby I had in my party.  When asked for suggestions she offered her favorites off the menu.  It was a busy lunch hour and I think the food was served in a reasonable amount of time.
Overall Impression: Very nice restaurant, a popular place for the business crowd.  Good food and a decent-sized menu.  Prices seem a little high, but comparable to other restaurants in the area. 

Bella Italian Grill- Blaine, MN

Cuisine: Italian, Pizzas, Fish & Seafood
Restaurant Features: Bar, Happy Hour, Patio Dining, On-Site Parking

Location: Blaine, MN
Address: 10950 Club West Parkway - Suite 270, Blaine, MN 55449
Links: Bella Website  Google Map

Atmosphere: Everything about Bella is sophisticated and lovely! There is a large courtyard complete with full bar and large fire pit. Highly recommended for happy hour, lunch, or an evening with friends.

Inside Bella's dining room, you can see the details that make this restaurant a step above others.  It is richly and sophisticatedly decorated, with many tables throughout.  My favorite are the couple of giant, semi-private round booths set in the middle of the restaurant.  These booths are perfect for an intimate party of up to six people, as they block out much of the sounds of other guests.

The bar is a giant area situated on one side of the restaurant.  Seats about 30-40 people comfortably.

Menu: Happy Hour Appetizers include Grilled Pork Loin Skewers, Mozzarella in Carrozza, Napoleon Flatbread, Blackened Chicken Flatbread , and Shoestring Fries (all for $3/ea from 3-6pm, 7 days a week)
Regular appetizers include Mozzarella Caprese, Shrimp Cocktail, Sausage and Peppers, Steamed Mussels, Bruschetta, Southwest Rolls, Eggplant Parmigiana, Garlic Cheese Bread, Calamari and Hot Peppers, Breaded Mozzarella, and Spicy Chicken Wings. 
Flatbreads include Spinch & Artichoke, Blackened Chicken, Napoleon, and Spicy Shrimp.  There is also a selection of Bella's Special Pizzas.
Salads include Caesar, Wedge, Bella, Spinach, Della Casa and Midwestern.
Bella makes fresh homemade raviolis daily.  Choices include Butternut Squash in Brown Butter Sauce, Lobster with Lobster Cream Sauce, and Spinach with Ricotta.  The Spinach or Meat Lasagna are also signature dishes at Bella.  Other pasta dishes include Cappellini Primavera, Bella Fettuccine, Spaghetti & Meatballs, Rigatoni with Meat Sauce, Penne Vodka, Linguini and Shrimp, Stuffed Chicken, Linguini and Clams, Field Pasta (with mushrooms in a cream sauce), Spicy Shrimp Penne, or Linguini Basil Pesto.
Veal and Poultry Entrees include Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Champagne, Simple Chicken, or Chicken or Veal Marsala.
Grilled Entrees include Pork Chop, Pork Tenderloin, Top Sirloin, Ribeye, New York Strip and Filet. 
Fresh Fish dishes include Chilean Sea Bass, Grilled Tilapia, Peppercorn Crusted Ahi Tuna, Seared Atlantic Salmon, Canadian Walleye, and Australia Lobster Tail.
Side dishes are served A La Carte and include Purple Potatoes, Yukon Gold Potatoes, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Risotto, Sauteed Spinach, Grilled Asparagus, Vegetable Medley, and Glazed Baby Carrots.

Price guide: Appetizers $8-11 (plus Happy Hour Specials for $3), Flatbreads & Pizzas $ 7-13, Salads $7,  Pasta $14-25  Veal & Poultry $18-22, Grilled Meats $17-30, Fresh Fish $ Market Price
What we ordered: We arrived during Happy Hour and decided to hang out on the patio for the wine and appetizer specials.  This is the Mozzarella in Carrozza (crispy breaded fresh mozzarella cheese,
wild mushroom ragout & roasted capers finished with Bella sauce).  Very good, but eat it while its hot or the cheese will harden quickly!

The Grilled Pork Loin Skewers (with a roasted tomato chipotle sauce
and served with a Thai cucumber salad ).  These were pretty good, but without the sauce they would've been pretty boring.  The salad was god, but was saturated with dressing and slightly on the soggy side.

I ordered the Ravioli Platter, which was considered by our server to be a "must try".  There were three of each of Bella's handmade-daily-raviolis.  The first ravioli I tried was the Butternut Squash.  The pasta was made with spinach and filled with a slightly sweet butternut and brown sugar squash, with a buttery pesto sauce.  Very good!  The second ravioli on the platter was the House ravioli.  This was filled with a cream-cheese-like filling and lightly topped with red sauce.  The third ravioli on the platter was the lobster ravioli with creamy lobster sauce.  So delicious! It had big chunks of tender lobster in the sauce and the ravioli itself was filled with a cheesey-lobster mixture that also had a nice twang to it.  The raviolis were on the small side, but the platter itself was more than enough for one person.

Two of my companions ordered the Veal Marsala served with wild mushrooms and topped with asparagus. I did not try this dish, but it looked and smelled wonderful! It was a big hit

One of my companions ordered the Chicken Marsala, served with potatoes, wild mushrooms and carrots in a delicious Marsala Demi Glace.  Wonderful flavor!

Another companion ordered the Chicken Canneloni.  This looked so good that I had to try a bite!  Lots of seasoned cheese, but also a lot of chicken.  The sauce was rich and packed with flavor.  I would definitely order this for myself in the future :)

Service: Our service was very good.  We first enjoyed Happy Hour on the patio.  There was only one server who was also working as bartender, so she was very busy, but kept up with customers very well.  Inside the dining room, we were served by a wonderful young woman named Maria.  She was a big hit with our group! Besides giving excellent recommendations from the menu, she was also very patient and friendly.  I have been to many, many restaurants, and Maria was one of the best servers who has ever waited on me.  We had made a reservation in advance and were please to be seated in one of the large, private round booths.  One thing that I must mention is that although the food was excellent, it took a good 45 minutes to arrive at our table after we ordered.  We did not mind this, as we were enjoying our experience and the good company.
Overall Impression:  Fabulous atmosphere, great food but very expensive.  Excellent service.  A good place to go for a special occasion.

Washington Square Bar & Grill ~ White Bear Lake, MN

Cuisine: American,  Mexican, Breakfast

Restaurant Features: Bar, Patio Dining

Location: White Bear Lake

Address: 4736 Washington Square  White Bear Lake, MN 55110  651.407.7162

Links: Washington Square Website Google Map

Atmosphere: There are pretty much two "halves" to the restaurant, both offering tables and seating at the bar.  One side allows smoking, the other does not.  One awesome feature of Washington Square that I was not able to take a picture of at the time of my visit is the gigantic patio area that accommodates a good hundred people or so.

Menu: Breakfast is served WED - FRI : 8:00AM - 11:00AM
SAT - SUN : 8:00AM - 1:00PM

Starters include mozzarella sticks, walleye strips, chicken wings, bruschetta, spinach artichoke dip, quesadillas or nachos, and sausage platter. Sandwich offerings include tuna or Philly melt, Reuben or Rachel, club, BBQ pulled pork, po' boy, portabella melt, walleye sandwich, Cajun shrimp BLT, turkey wrap and several grilled chicken specialty sandwiches and hamburgers.  Also  selection of premium salads.  Dinner entrees are served with either steamed veggies or salad and choice of potato and include the walleye, salmon or catfish platters, BBQ pork ribs, Angus sirloin, spicy chipotle shrimp and pesto pasta. Mexican entrees include steak, chicken or shrimp fajitas, three tacos, two tostadas, burrito (choice of shredded chicken, beef, chorizo, or black bean), mole enchiladas or the spinach cream chicken enchiladas.

Price guide: Appetizers $6-9  Salads $7-10 Sandwiches $8-9 Mexican $10-13 Dinner entrees $16-19 Breakfast $3-12

What we ordered: My companions and I ordered a couple of appetizers before our entrees.  This is the veggie quesadilla....it was loaded with perfectly sauteed peppers and onions.

I was in the mood for Mexican food and the waiter highly recommended the spinach cream chicken enchiladas, so I went with his suggestion and I wasn't disappointed.  I wasn't sure what "spinach cream" meant, but discovered that it was a unique sauce that was a blend of both without tasting too creamy or of spinach.

One of my companions ordered the black bean tostadas. Rather than layering loose black beans across the tostada, Washington Square makes a flavorful black bean paste. There are actually two tostada shells with a layer of sour cream between them. This dish is wonderful! Best black bean tostadas I've ever tried:)

Another of my companions ordered the pecan-crusted walleye, with an extra fillet for an additional $4 (great deal!).  The filet's were very long and heavily coated with the pecan crust, pan fried to a nice nutty crunch with great texture.  It was served with a side of non-traditional tartar sauce that was unexpectedly sweet.  Some people may enjoy this version of the tartar, but my companion preferred the fish without it.

Another companion ordered the southwest chicken salad ( topped with blackened chicken breast, corn, peppers, black beans, pico de gallo, shredded cheese and tortilla chips topped with salsa ranch dressing.)  I did not have the pleasure of trying this salad, but it looked really good and my companion thought it was awesome!

Another companion ordered the club sandwich.  Pretty standard for a club!

Service: It is almost always packed at Washington Square and it isn't always easy to have someone seat you immediately, but you'll usually be greeted by one of the friendly bartenders.  Servers are knowledgeable of the menu and are willing to give suggestions. 

Overall Impression: One of the more expensive places to eat in White Bear Lake, but the food is really good.  Best place to go for patio seating!

Jake's City Grille ~ Eagan, Eden Prairie, Maplewood & Plymouth, MN

Cuisine: American, Pizza, Steak, Chops & Ribs, Steak, Chops, Ribs

Restaurant Features: Bar, Patio Dining, Sunday Brunch, On-Site Parking

Location: Eagan, Eden Prairie, Maplewood, & Plymouth, MN

Addresses & Maps:

Eagan: 1288 Promenade Place Eagan, MN 55121 (651)287.8784

Eden Prairie: 12365 Singletree Lane Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (952)930.3742

Maplewood: 1745 Beam Ave E  Maplewood, MN 55109  (P) 651-366-6440  F) 651-366-6441

Plymouth: 3005 Harbor Lane North Plymouth, MN 55427 (763)559-1595

Links: Jake's City Grille Website 

Atmosphere: Contemporary with warm, rich colors;  very relaxing and inviting. Large dining room split into two sections, with additional seating on large patio.  I found it interesting that the wall between patio and restaurant is a clear-garage door; not sure if/when it is opened. There is also a nice view of the kitchen and wood-fire oven in the back of the restaurant, you can watch your pizza being baked!   

Menu: Jake's has a very large menu! Appetizers include Buffalo Wings, Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Dumplings, Lettuce Wraps, Seared Tuna, Bruschetta, Nachos, and Walleye Fingers. There are a variety of Burgers and Chicken Sandwiches and Specialty Sandwiches like the Prime Rib Dip, Walleye Sandwich, Lobster Clubhouse, or Smoked Turkey Melt.  In the mood for a good steak? Choose from Ribeye or Prime Rib (3 sizes to choose from), or Ribs and Beef Brisket.  Other entrees include Glazed Chicken, Pork Chops, Shrimp, Walleye, Salmon.  Tex-mex selections include Smoked Chicken Enchiladas, Fajitas and Tacos.  Pasta selections include Cajun Chicken Fettucine, Spicy Garlic Shrimp Linguini, and Baked Penne with Sausage.  There are also wood-fired pizzas with many choices of toppings.

Jakes also offers a Sunday brunch.  Items include Mesquite Beef Brisket, Peel-N-Eat Shrimp, Eggs Benedict, Huevos Rancheros, Scrambled Eggs, Jumbo Sausages, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Smoked Gouda, Au Gratins, Southern Fried Chicken, Made-to-Order Omelettes, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Pan Gravy, Ciabatta French Toast, House Smoked Salmon, Fresh Fruit, Bagels and Cream Cheese, Caramel Rolls, Cinnamon Roll

Price guide: Appetizers $7-12  Burgers/Sandwiches $8-12 Entrees $15-21 (More for large prime rib)Pasta $11-14 Pizzas $9-11 Sunday Brunch $14

What I ordered: Smoked Chicken Enchiladas (Herb seasoned shredded chicken, onions and pepperjack cheese wrapped in corn tortillas with ancho chili sauce, pico de gallo and sour cream).  I have to say I thought this meal was really good, better than I expected for a non-Mexican specialty restaurant.  The black beans must've been marinated in spices because they had really good flavor  The rice was also excellent.  The enchiladas themselves were very cheesy, but had chunks of white meat chicken.  The portion was modest, I was actually able to eat the entire thing.

One of my companions ordered the Fire Grilled Chicken Ciabatta
(Caramelized onions, cheddar, Jake Sauce and chipotle mayo). She liked it so much I ended up ordering the same sandwich on a  separate visit a few days later with a different companion.  I was blown away by the amount of french fries that were on my plate!  The sandwich was very good, it had a sweet sauce that was similar to BBQ, but more sweet and not as thick.  Loved it on the ciabatta bread. 

On my second visit to Jake's, my companion ordered the largest Prime Rib (22oz).  Huge steak for the money! It was very tender and cooked perfectly.  The au juis at Jake's was very good 

I was too full to consider dessert on either occasion, but they all looked really good, as you can see from their dessert tray.

Service: Excellent on both occasions.  The servers were very knowledgeable about the menu and made recommendations, or answered all questions.

Overall Impression: Great atmosphere, huge menu of excellent food, prices a little high but comparable to similar restaurants.

Brit's Pub ~ Minneapolis, MN

Cuisine: English

Restaurant Features: Bar, Patio Dining, Happy Hour

Location: Minneapolis (Downtown)

Address: 1110 Nicollet Mall    Minneapolis, MN 55403  (612) 332-3908

Links: Brit's Pub Website  Google Map

Atmosphere: Brit's isn't nearly as dark and dungeoness as I was envisioning, in fact it has several large windows that face onto Nicollet Mall (where there happen to be several tables for patio seating).  The bar at Brit's is one big draw...its a happy hour hotspot for many Downtowners.  Another big draw to Brit's is the Lawn Bowling, which was closed on my visit because of poor weather.

Menu: Appetizers that are offered include Sausage Rolls, Artichoke Dip, Scotch eggs, Samosas, and English Cheese Platter.

Sandwiches and Burgers include Stilton Burger, Toasted English cheese, Tuna & sweetcorn salad wrap, Beefeater, London Broil Sarnie, and Grilled Portebella. 

If you like Shepherd's Pie, Brit's has that as well as Cornish Pastries, Pot Pie, Bangers and Mash, Pot Roast, and London Broil.  Last but not least, Brit's Fish & Chips. 

Price guide: Appetizers $8-11 (Sampler $15) Sandwiches and Burgers: $9-12  Pies and Entrees: $12-17

What I ordered: Brit's Artichoke & Spinach dip (Four cheeses, artichoke hearts, fresh spinach and tomatoes make this a perennial BRIT'S favourite.  Served with toasted baguette slices).  This appetizer has been my family's favorite since the recipe was published in the Minneapolis Star Tribune several years ago.  Brit's version contains much larger pieces of vegetables than my mother's finely-chopped version.  This dish is usually $11.95 but is offered during Happy Hour for a mere $4.95

For dinner I ordered the Brit's London Broil Sarnie (tasty marinated London Broil steak loaded with mushrooms, onions and melted Stilton cheese on a toasted ciabatta roll).  I had never had Stilton cheese before, but it is basically a strong bleu cheese.  The mushrooms and onions were sauteed nice & buttery.  I thought the sandwich was delicious, but very, very messy!! They give you a large steak night so I opted to cut my sandwich up.  This proved to be a bigger challenge than I had assumed, as I lost my knife not once, but twice while attempting to cut the sandwich!

 

Service: I thought the services was pretty good.  Our server stopped by several times to see if we were ready to order, offered suggestions, etc.  As business picked up with the Happy Hour crowd, it took awhile for us to get our bill.

Overall Impression: The food was really good, not as different as I expected "English" food to be.  May be difficult getting a table for a large party, but I will definitely go back to see the lawn bowling and have another meal.

Boca Chica Restaurante Mexicano- St. Paul, MN

Cuisine: Authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex, Sunday Brunch,

Restaurant Features: Bar, Patio Dining, Lunch Buffet, Happy Hour

Location: St Paul, MN

Address: 11 Cesar Chavez St. St Paul, MN 55107 (651) 222-8499

Hours: Mon 11am to 9pm, Tues-Thurs 11am - 10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 10am-9pm

Links: Google Map  Boca Chica

Atmosphere: Boca Chica is one of the original restaurants to boast authentic Mexican dining in the Twin Cities. It is located on St Paul's west side, in the District Del Sol.  It was a busy Saturday night when my party and I visited, but we had no problem getting reservations for a large group with just a few days advance notice. There are three dining rooms, with plenty of table space. Several fireplaces around the restaurant kept the room on the warm side. On thing that I enjoy about Boca Chica is that they have house musicians that perform for each table if you would like to be serenaded.  There is also a 6-piece mariachi band who performs from 8-11pm on the fourth Saturday of every month.

There is also a nice patio area available during the warmer months.

Menu: Chips and salsa are complimentary. Salsa is on the spicy side!! Infused with a variety of chili peppers, I'd rate it a 6 on a spiciness scale of 1-10.  Make sure you have a cold drink available before trying it, seriously! In additon to chips and salsa, I recommend the guacamole at Boca Chica, it is excellent! Made with very fresh avocados, the guacamole is mildy seasoned with fresh tomato and onion.  Comes in a big bowl and is a great way to cool down from the spicy salsa!

Authentic dishes range from a variety of seafood dishes to huevos, flautas, enchiladas, chile rellenos, and tamales. Many of them topped with traditonal Mexican spices or sauces. Carne, pollo, barbacoa, pescados and carnitas authentically prepared. Tex-Mex dishes include tacos, chimichangas, enchiladas, etc. Boca Chica also boasts a variety of combination dinners and a long ala carte menu. See full menu here.

Lunch Buffet served M-F 11am-1:30pm

Sunday Brunch served 10am-1:30pm

Price Guide: Entrees range from $8-14.

What I ordered:  Plato Plazero....make your own tacos! I had both steak and chicken, which came with peppers and onions. Corn and flour tortillas came on the side, along with black beans, fresh pico de gallo and fresh guacamole. I also couldn't help but order a cheese enchilada ala carte. Everything was delicious! The portion was so big, I was able to make approximately 5 tacos.

Service: Our group had a reservation and we were promptly seated 10 minutes before the set time. Our waiter, Michael, was very nice and made sure everyone had what they wanted. It was a little slow getting our drinks, but the restaurant was very busy that night.

Overall Impresion: Boca Chica has a large menu offering with excellent authentic Mexican food, as well as Tex-Mex dishes.