1313 Nicollet
1313 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/332-6000
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Contemporary

Wine racks line one of the stucco walls of this restaurant in the Millennium Hotel. The kitchen turns out corn-crusted shrimp, pork poppers, chicken grills, and other interesting fare. For breakfast, there is a buffet. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

510
510 Groveland Ave. , at Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/874-6440
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
French

Chandeliers hang from 18-ft ceilings in this elegant space. Menu favorites include grilled pork tenderloin with figs and bacon in port sauce; rack of lamb encrusted with mustard and hazelnuts; smoked duck breast; and citrus-glazed salmon. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

Aquavit
80 S. 8th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/343-3333
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Scandinavian

Transplanted from New York, this restaurant has an unornamented but sleek atmosphere on the ground floor of the IDS Tower downtown. Shrimp, herring, salmon, venison, lingonberries, and juniper are a starting point for complex but subtle preparations, often with an Asian twist. Locals favor the venison loin, the miso-grilled bass, and the herring tacos. The restaurant even serves its own aquavits - clear liquors flavored with cloudberries and other delicacies. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sun.

August Moon
5340 Wayzata Blvd., Golden Valley, MN, USA
Phone: 612/544-7017
Under $30
Golden Valley
Pan-Asian

This small, cozy suburban eatery 5 miles west of Minneapolis is well-known to regulars not only for its food, but also for its decor which includes works by area artists (artwork changes every six weeks) as well as lava lamp lighting. Favorites includes murgh aloo matar anand (a marinated chicken breast stuffed with goat cheese), and the tuna with soba noodles. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat., Sun.

Auriga
1930 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/871-0777
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Contemporary

Modern art and concrete floors underscore the modern aesthetic here. The cuisine is subtle and delicious; you might find homemade pasta dressed with roast rabbit, parsley root, and porcini mushrooms; or brown rice-and-walnut croquettes nestled on a bed of wilted greens, Portobello mushrooms, and thin parsnip crisps. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Babani's
544 Saint Peter St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/602-9964
Under $30
St. Paul
Middle Eastern

Brightly colored walls and photographs may transport you to Kurdish territory, in northern Iraq. Dowjic, a tangy, lemony, chicken soup, is a local favorite. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch Sat., Sun.

Backstage at Bravo
900 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/338-0062
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Contemporary

During the cheery musical revue here, the black-clad servers belt out songs as they pass the fried calamari and Caesar salad. The dining area looks like a theater's backstage. Top billing goes to the stuffed wontons - a different filling every day. There's open-air dining on the roof. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun., Mon. No lunch.

Black Forest Inn
1 E. 26th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/872-0812
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
German

Directly south of downtown, this restaurant serves hearty German fare - including Wiener schnitzel and sauerbraten - and draft beer under a stenciled ceiling, amid displays of beer steins and German visual art. There are 18 beers on tap, including local, German, and other European brews. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Bobino Cafe and Wine Bar
222 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/623-3301
$30 to $40
Minneapolis
Contemporary

Hanging lights made from old wine bottles illuminate this dining room. The menu changes biweekly and it's a good bet for both everyday meals and special occasions. Entrées might include grilled salmon fillet with risotto, or any number of ostrich- and rabbit-based dishes. There is also a selection of tapas. The garden-flanked patio is pleasant when the weather is accommodating. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat., Sun.

Bryant-Lake Bowl
810 W. Lake St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/825-3737
Under $20
Minneapolis
American/Casual

This 1930s-era eight-lane bowling alley has one of the Twin Cities' hippest restaurants. Impressive wine and beer lists complement such specials as soft-shell tacos and fresh ravioli with four cheeses. After your meal, bowl a few frames or catch a live performance in the attached 99-seat theater. Breakfast is a bargain. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Buca Di Beppo
2728 Gannon Rd., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/772-4388
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Italian

Arrive hungry for the heaping plates of pasta served family style in this huge dining room, splattered with hanging Christmas lights and photographs of Sophia Loren. Open-air dining is available, weather permitting. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Buca di Beppo
11 S. 12th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/341-9178
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Italian

The visual appeal here is zany and fun, with red-checkered tablecloths, Christmas lights, and walls crammed as full as library shelves with pasta boxes, clay wine jugs, and photos of soccer teams and famous Italians. Dining groups pass around family-style platters groaning with ravioli, tortellini, pizza, and eggplant parmigiana. The garlic mashed potatoes and the fork-tender chicken Marsala with enormous, wine-soaked mushrooms are favorites, as is the 15-ingredient 1893 salad. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Mon.-Sat.

Cafe Brenda
300 1st Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/342-9230
$20 to $30
Minneapolis
Vegetarian

High ceilings, terra-cotta walls, and plenty of windows distinguish this renovated warehouse, where the menu includes macrobiotic brown rice with ginger-and-maple-seasoned red beans, sautéed tofu and pickled cabbage, and a rosy salmon fillet glazed with ginger and paired with a crisp croquette. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Cafe Havana
119 Washington Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/338-8484
Under $30
Minneapolis
Cuban

An arched ceiling, velvet drapes, and large leather booths bring to mind pre-Castro Havana in this small, energetic restaurant. Try the paella. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun., Mon. No lunch.

Cafe Un Deux Trois
114 S. 9th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/673-0686
Over $30
Minneapolis
French

The banquette seating, terrazzo floor, rosy faux-marble walls, and high, painted ceiling of this French bistro recall the worlds of Colette and Edith Piaf. Roast Long Island duck and grilled salmon with lobster-infused risotto are among the more popular dishes. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No dinner Sat.

Campiello
1320 W. Lake St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/825-2222
$20 to $30
Minneapolis
Italian

Tuscan-style mosaics adorn the walls of this Uptown restaurant, where the thin-crusted pizzas, the pastas, and the rotisserie meats make for lots of return customers. There is open-air dining in warm weather. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Mon.-Sat.

Caravan Serai
2175 Ford Pkwy., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/690-1935
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Afghan

Live music accompanies Egyptian dancers Friday and Saturday nights, and you'll order from a menu steeped in the culinary traditions of the Middle East, North India, Greece, and Afghanistan. Lamb, chicken, and vegetarian entrées are served on brass tables in the pillow room. The tandoori chicken is prepared in traditional clay ovens. AE, DC, MC, V.

Cecil's Delicatessen, Bakery and Restaurant
651 S. Cleveland, St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/698-0334
Under $20
St. Paul
Delicatessens

One hundred eighty-five items constitute the menu at this deli, which has been serving St. Paul for nearly a half century. Try one of the oversized Reuben varieties - Chicago, Russian, spicy, and veggie. MC, V.

Chet's Taverna
791 Raymond Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/646-2655
$30 to $40
St. Paul
Contemporary

This storefront restaurant has checked linoleum floors, European posters, and a loyal neighborhood clientele. The kitchen prepares predominately organic and locally farmed produce and meats. Daily pasta specials, potato gnocchi, and risotto are house favorites, along with braised lamb chops and bone-in pork chops. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch weekends.

Ciatti's
850 Grand Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/292-9942
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Italian

Design your own personal pan pizza or order from a variety of house-made concoctions including the prosciutto and wild mushroom pizza with sliced tomatoes, artichoke hearts and Parmesan. This downtown spot, on the corner of Victoria and Grand, also specializes in interesting pasta dishes. Sunday brunch is served. AE, D, MC, V.

D'Amico Cucina
Butler Sq., 100 N. 6th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/338-2401
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Italian

Gleaming white linens, leather chairs, marble floors, and exposed wood-beam ceilings distinguish this haute-cuisine restaurant. The seasonal menu has a modern Italian accent and includes artistically presented pastas. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Dakota Bar and Grill
Bandana Sq., 1021 E. Bandana Blvd., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/642-1442
Under $30
St. Paul
Contemporary

The Twin Cities' best jazz club also serves creative midwestern fare, including grilled rainbow trout, salmon-walleye croquettes, roasted pheasant, and venison. Like the music, the atmosphere is contemporary and cool. There's also a Sunday brunch. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Dixie's
695 Grand Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/222-7345
Under $30
St. Paul
Southern

Cajun music and jambalaya give this place a south of the Mason-Dixon atmosphere. The dining room is covered with framed flags from southern states. House specialties include the Shak sandwich - pulled pork with spicy barbecue sauce - and coconut fried shrimp. A rotating specials menu highlights other southern delicacies. Sunday brunch is served. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Emily's Lebanese Deli
641 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/379-4069
Under $20
Minneapolis
Mediterranean

Photographs of Lebanon serve as a reminder that this is not a standard New York-style deli. Situated in the Northeast district, the deli serves kababs, spinach pies, and anything with hummus and tabbouleh. No credit cards. Closed Tues.

Figlio
3001 Hennepin Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/822-1688
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Italian

Locals know this loud and bustling urban hangout as a place to see and be seen. The fire-roasted pepperoni pizza, with huge hand-cut slices of charred meat, marinated tomatoes, and thick mozzarella, is locally praised. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Forepaugh's
276 S. Exchange St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/224-5606
$20 to $40
St. Paul
French

Built in 1870, this three-story Victorian mansion-turned-restaurant serves upscale, inventive dishes including seafood, veal, and poultry. Be sure to try the stuffed breast of pheasant, beef Wellington, or tornedos of beef - two petit tenderloin fillets with béarnaise and bordelaise sauces. Saturday and Sunday brunch are served. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Gallivan's
354 Wabasha St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/227-6688
$30 to $40
St. Paul
Steak

With its soft lighting and mahogany paneling, this is a comfortable destination for business meals and a classy after-work and weekend party spot, with entertainment Friday and Saturday nights. Steaks are the favorite, but you can mix turf with some surf or choose from a generous list of pasta entrées. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sun.

Gardens of Salonica
19 5th St. NE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/378-0611
Under $30
Minneapolis
Greek

A narrow, turn-of-the-20th-century storefront houses this family-owned Greek café and deli, five blocks north of downtown on the other side of the Mississippi. The decor is sparse and tasteful with stone and wire artwork by local artists and walls painted to resemble the old crumbling walls of Greece. Moussaka is on the menu along with orzo and lamb in a light tomato sauce. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Giorgio
2451 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/374-5131
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Italian

Yuppies and hipsters flock to this northern Italian eatery for romantic nights out, but just as many people regard it as their friendly neighborhood trattoria. The daily ravioli special (with a different filling each day) is by far the favorite option; another popular pasta dish is the penne with cinghiale (wild boar) sausage, oven-dried tomatoes, and caramelized onions. There's a sunny dining area for nonsmokers and a dark bar for smokers. Beer and wine are available. DC, MC, V.

Gluek's
16 N. 6th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/338-6621
Under $30
Minneapolis
German

Dine in German beer hall surroundings, with wood, brick, stained glass, and photos reminiscent of the days when the building housed a brewery. Despite the decor, the food is mostly American with some German influence. Favorites include the Berliner sandwich, with roast beef, sour cream, mushrooms, and melted cheese, as well as New York steak and walleye pike. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Goodfellow's
City Center, 40 S. 7th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/332-4800
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Contemporary

Many of the restored light fixtures, mirrors, and other decorative pieces you'll see came from the popular Art Deco cafeteria that once stood here. The changing menu emphasizes regional game such as venison, pheasant, and Wisconsin star prairie brook trout in season, as well as excellent presentations of lamb, veal, and pork. AE, D, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Green Mill Brewing Company
57 S. Hamline Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/698-0353
$20 to $40
St. Paul
American

From six taps flow golden home-brewed beer, two seasonal beers and four in-house staples such as Swamp Buck Stout. Stained-glass windows cast colorful light across the tavern wooden tables and booths. On the menu are Caribbean sirloin steak and pasta Pavarotti (a decadent blend of penne, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes and Alfredo sauce). AE, DC, MC, V.

Ichiban Japanese Steak House
1333 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/339-0540
Over $30
Minneapolis
Japanese

Here, you sit around huge griddles as your food is cooked, and kimono-clad waitresses take your order. All dinners include a chicken liver and mushroom appetizer sautéed in sake and butter, soup, marinated cucumber salad, vegetables, rice, and green tea. There's a small moat around the sushi bar and you can select your sushi from little boats that float by. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

India Palace
2570 Cleveland Ave. N, Roseville, MN, USA
Phone: 651/631-1222
Under $30
Roseville
Indian

Specializing in curry, vindaloo, masala, and korma (spicy curried meats), this restaurant also has a lunch buffet where you can sample a little of everything. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

It's Greek to Me
626 W. Lake St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/825-9922
Under $30
Minneapolis
Greek

Pressed-tin ceilings, wall murals, and tile floors help create the proper Greek mood at this southside restaurant, as do the traditional Greek dishes such as kabobs, moussaka, spinach pies, and lamb preparations. AE, D, MC, V. Closed Mon.

J.D. Hoyt's
301 Washington Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/338-1560
Over $20
Minneapolis
American

Diners settle into roomy booths that recall a 1950s roadhouse at this downtown hot spot known for Cajun pork chops. The prime steaks, seafood, and the signature double pork chop, grilled over charcoal and served, if you wish, with herb butter and Cajun or jerk spices, are top picks. The restaurant is open for Sunday brunch. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Jax Café
1928 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/789-7297
Over $30
Minneapolis
American

Steaks top the list here. Thick as a weightlifter's neck, they're hands-down the most satisfying choices. In winter, you can sit by a fireplace in the dark Roundtable Room; in summer, there's patio dining. Enjoy live piano music Thursday through Sunday. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Jerusalem's
1518 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/871-8883
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Middle Eastern

With the walls covered in colorful tapestries and billowing red cloth drooping from the ceiling, Jerusalem's evokes a desert tent in the Middle East. Indeed, the crunchy falafel, thick hummus, and shish kebabs encourage you to forget you're really in a concrete building in Minneapolis. Belly dancers perform Saturday and Sunday evenings. D, DC, MC, V.

Khyber Pass Cafe
1399 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/698-5403
Under $20
St. Paul
Afghan

An unassuming storefront across from a coin laundry encloses a small slice of Afghani culture and cuisine. Tangy spice combinations enliven dishes such as baba ghanoush (eggplant dip) and shola (mung beans) with chunks of tender stewed lamb. No credit cards.

Kikugawa
43 S.E. Main St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/378-3006
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Japanese

The view of the Minneapolis skyline and the serious approach to food make this restaurant popular among Japanese visitors. The enormous prix-fixe dinner includes otoshi (little hors d'oeuvres), sashimi or yakitori (grilled chicken), beef teriyaki, yakisakana (broiled marinated salmon), shrimp and vegetable tempura, sunomono (a crab-meat salad), miso soup, and the vegetable pickles known as oshinko - all presented in pretty dishes. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Kincaid's Steak, Chop and Fish House
8400 Normandale Lake Blvd., Bloomington, MN, USA
Phone: 612/921-2255
Under $40
Bloomington
American

Kincaid's imposing interior of marble, brass, glass, and wood sets the mood for all-American standards such as filet mignon, mesquite-grilled salmon, grilled-rosemary lamb, and roasted chicken Dijon. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

King and I Thai
1346 LaSalle Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/332-6928
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Thai

Steps away from the Minneapolis Convention Center, this spacious restaurant contains carved elephant statues, ceremonial Buddhist figures, and museum-quality Thai crafts and antiques. The chef prepares a special curry to be served fresh every day. You might try the pad bai ga-prow (basil stir-fried with Thai chile and garlic seasoning). Beer and wine are available. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Kozlak's Royal Oak
4785 Hodgson Rd., Shoreview, MN, USA
Phone: 651/484-8484
$30 to $40
Shoreview
Continental

Eleven miles north of St. Paul, in Shoreview, this restaurant has linen table cloths, and fancy roast duck dishes fill the menu. All entrées come with homemade clam chowder or a trip to the salad bar, plus fresh bread. There is garden dining in summer months. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Lake Elmo Inn
3442 Lake Elmo Ave., Lake Elmo, MN, USA
Phone: 651/777-8495
$30 to $40
Lake Elmo
Continental

This 1880 stagecoach stop and inn, 15 miles northeast of St. Paul, specializes in chops, lamb, pork, and other meaty fare. Sunday and Tuesday there is a champagne brunch buffet, and in fair weather you may dine outside under an umbrella. Sunday brunch is served. Reservations essential. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Leeann Chin Chinese Cuisine
214 E. 4th St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/224-8814
$20 to $30
St. Paul
Chinese

With five entrées, four appetizers, dumplings, and sides, this all-you-can-eat buffet is not for the faint of heart. Some table service is available. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Lexington
1096 Grand Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/222-5878
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Continental

The stately black marble entryway of this west side turn-of-the-20th-century building leads you into a chandelier-lit dining room, a real find hung with oil paintings. The simple menu includes steaks, a renowned prime rib, and pasta specials. Reservations essential. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Lindey's
3600 Snelling Ave. N, Arden Hills, MN, USA
Phone: 651/633-9813
$20 to $40
Arden Hills
Steak

The centerpiece of this steak-lover's paradise, 11 miles north of St. Paul, is a grand stone fireplace topped with a ship in a bottle. Each of the three top sirloin varieties here come in 1-lb slabs, and are served with salad, hash browns, and watermelon pickles. No credit cards. Closed Sun. No lunch.

Linguini and Bob
100 N. 6th St. , at 1st Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/332-1600
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Italian

Bleached wood, wicker chairs, and sponge-painted walls create a subdued setting for grilled chicken breast, lemony mashed potatoes, or chewy-crust pizzas. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Lord Fletcher's of the Lake
3746 Sunset Dr. , Spring Lake Park, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 952/471-8513
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
English

High-rollers arrive by boat, wearing swimsuits; landlubbers and dreamers travel more conventionally to this busy lakeside complex, which has sunset viewing, fireplaces, and a scattering of wine kegs presided over by a portrait of Winston Churchill. Except in the formal, reservation-only Harbor Room, the vibe is summery and casual and the menu offers up seafood, including local favorites like walleye. Sunday brunch is served. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Loring Cafe
1624 Harmon Pl., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/332-1617
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Contemporary

There's a terrific view of Loring Park from this bohemian-chic café. Brick arches, towering trees, and exposed ductwork add to this restaurant's cultivated counterculture atmosphere. The menu changes nightly and includes pasta, vegetarian, and meat dishes. The artichoke appetizer stands out. In warm weather, you can dine on the open-air patio. AE, MC, V.

Lucia's
1432 W. 31st St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/825-1572
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
American

A separate wine bar adjoins this sunny, Uptown storefront dining spot. You might try a spicy seafood gumbo or smoky lentils with duck, or order a risotto of leeks, asparagus, fresh peas, and Parmesan. The restaurant is open for Sunday brunch, and there is open-air dining in warmer months. MC, V.

Mancini's Char House
531 W. 7th St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/224-7345
Over $20
St. Paul
Steak

Tunes by Sinatra and Tony Bennett play over the speakers in this Chicago-theme restaurant whose walls are covered in brick and bright red paint. From your booth you have a clear view of the open pit broiler, on which the juicy steaks are seared. There is live entertainment Wednesday through Saturday. AE, MC, V. No lunch.

Manny's Steakhouse
1300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/339-9900
Over $30
Minneapolis
Steak

Waiters in white aprons squeeze between packed tables on hardwood floors in this meat-lover's landmark, which is known state-wide for its perfectly cooked dry-aged steaks. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Market Bar-B-Que
1414 Nicollet Ave. , at 14th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/872-1111
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Barbecue

Framed newspapers, autographed photos, and an oldies-stocked jukebox create a retro café style. Market's pork and beef ribs are decidedly on the chewy side, but to many Twin Citians they are sentimental favorites. For the indecisive, there are several combo plates, plus barbecue sandwiches and burgers for smaller appetites. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

The Marsh
15000 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka, MN, USA
Phone: 612/935-2202
$20 to $40
Minnetonka
Contemporary

Low-fat eating is a watchword of this restaurant in a health and wellness resort 20 miles southwest of Minneapolis, and you can eat cafeteria-style or in a formal dining room. Paintings and sculptures with eastern themes decorate the dining room, and the menu revolves around chicken, fish, and stir-fry. In spring you can order a Portobello mushroom melt and eat outside on the deck, enjoying views of the marsh that inspired the establishment's name. Sunday brunch is served. AE, MC, V.

Meadows
615 Washington Ave. SE, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/379-8888
Over $30
Minneapolis
Continental

This restaurant is in the Radisson-Metrodome Hotel, but the dark wood, comfortable chairs, and classical music in the air feel more like an old-fashioned country club. On the menu are seafood, steak, and native game. On Friday and Saturday there is live piano music. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.; no lunch.

Mickey's Diner
36 W. 7th St. , at Saint Peter St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/222-5633
Under $20
St. Paul
American

This quintessential 1930s diner, with lots of chrome and vinyl, a lunch counter, and a few tiny booths, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The stick-to-the-ribs fare and great breakfasts make it a local institution. D, MC, V.

Morton's of Chicago
555 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/673-9700
Over $40
Minneapolis
Continental

The songs of Frank Sinatra are always in the background at this popular steakhouse below Nicollet Avenue. You can order a huge steak or prime rib, a Maine lobster, or a 1-pound baked potato. AE, DC, MC, V.

Mud Pie
2549 Lyndale Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/872-9435
Under $30
Minneapolis
Vegetarian

At this uptown bohemian joint you can dine indoors surrounded by abstract art, huge mirrors, and potted plants or, in warm weather, sit outside on the enclosed patio. The menu has a large selection with lots of sandwiches, salads, dips, and the like. The house specialty is the veggie burger. Beer and wine are available. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Muffuletta in the Park
2260 Como Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/644-9116
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Contemporary

The fresh fish and daily specials keep locals coming to this neighborhood bistro done in earthy colors. Dining is intimate and the menu is varied, so it's fun to order several entrées and split them among friends. Try the harvest farfalle (butterfly-shape pasta) with roast chicken, cranberries, and pecans, served in a squash cream sauce. The patio is open in fine weather, and Sunday brunch is served. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat.

Murray's
26 S. 6th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/339-0909
Over $20
Minneapolis
American

This third-generation steak house, with its pink linen-covered tables, has been in business since 1946. Silver Butter Knife steaks, hickory-smoked shrimp, and Murray's signature garlic toast are served in a plush atmosphere with piano and violin accompaniment. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

New French Café & Bar
128 N. 4th St. , at 2nd Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/338-3790
Under $40
Minneapolis
French

This bistro in a converted turn-of-the-20th-century warehouse in the Warehouse District has been a favorite for the past 20 years. The open kitchen turns out French and Mediterranean specialties, including beef tenderloin and tuna. French bread and pastries are baked in the bakery next door. Enjoy open-air dining in warm weather. AE, D, MC, V.

No Wake Cafe
100 Yacht Club Rd. , Pier 1, Harriet Island, MN, USA
Phone: 651/292-1411
$20 to $40
Harriet Island
American

From the wraparound windows of this tugboat-turned-restaurant, still afloat, you'll have stunning views of the sun setting over the Mississippi. The menu changes yearly, but usually includes seafood, beef, and sandwiches. Breakfast is also available. Reservations essential for dinner. AE, MC, V. Closed Oct.-April and Mon.

Nye's Polonnaise
112 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/379-2021
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Polish

Gold-speckled booths and a sing-along piano bar are among the big draws at this retro hangout, which serves various Polish favorites including pieroszki (a meat- or potato-filled dumpling) and kielbasa. There's polka Thursday to Saturday nights. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sun.

Oceanaire
1300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/333-2277
Over $30
Minneapolis
Seafood

Leatherette booths lend a clubby air to this restaurant, which has an oyster bar and individual relish trays. Crab cakes and cioppino are popular. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Origami
30 N. 1st St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/333-8430
$30 to $40
Minneapolis
Japanese

This Warehouse-District destination is known for its sushi. The interior shimmers with lilac lights and flickering candles, and a sidewalk patio is open in summer. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Palomino
825 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/339-3800
Over $20
Minneapolis
Mediterranean

Vibrant colors, artistic decor, and music set a perfect background for this bistro's European and Mediterranean cuisine. Try the wood-fired Roman-style (thin-crusted) pizza or the spit-roasted garlic chicken. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Pazza Luna
360 Saint Peter St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/223-7000
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Italian

A floor-to-ceiling mural of the face of Botticelli's Venus overlooks this artfully designed trattoria, which manages to be busy and tranquil at once. Pazza Luna stakes its growing reputation on innovative dishes such as the fritto misto (mixed fry of shrimp, calamari, and julienne vegetables) but brings panache to standards like handmade fettuccine in a Bolognese meat sauce. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Pickled Parrot
26 N. 5th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/332-0673
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Southern

Pink flamingos and a red pontoon plane add extra whimsy to the beach-shack presentation of this Warehouse-District eatery. The championship barbecue ribs are perennial favorites. Sunday brunch is served. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Ping's Szechuan Bar and Grill
1401 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/874-9404
$20 to $30
Minneapolis
Chinese

Box kites hang from the ceiling at this popular sit-down or take-out restaurant, one block from the convention center. Lunch is buffet-style. The restaurant offers free valet parking. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Pracna on Main
117 Main St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/379-3200
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
American

One of the Twin Cities' best outdoor dining spots, this Northeast neighborhood restaurant is on the trolley stop and has a dreamy view of St. Anthony Falls. It is known for its sandwiches, burgers, and baby corn dogs. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Ristorante Luci
470 Cleveland Ave. S, St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/699-8258
Under $40
St. Paul
Italian

This intimate, family-run neighborhood trattoria serves carefully crafted regional Italian dishes such as saltimbocca, pounded veal medallions with prosciutto and fontina cheese. Reservations essential. AE, MC, V. No lunch.

Rosewood Room
618 2nd Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/338-2288
$20 to $40
Minneapolis
Continental

Rose-patterned carpeting, rosewood paneling, and soft lighting create a romantic setting. Couples might enjoy the roast rack of lamb for two, or individual plates of cumin-crusted pork tenderloin. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Sakura
338 Saint Peter St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/224-0185
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Japanese

The spacious sushi bar occupies much of the space in this converted loft, between 4th and 5th. Hot entrées are on the menu as well. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Santorini
9920 Wayzata Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN, USA
Phone: 612/546-6722
Under $30
St. Louis Park
Mediterranean

Festive Greek music and vivid murals create a Mediterranean garden setting; the Village Room, a re-created Mediterranean courtyard, is complete with clotheslines and grapevines. On the menu are saganaki (fried cheese), gyros, and phyllo specialties. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Sawatdee
607 Washington Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/338-6451
$20 to $30
Minneapolis
Thai

This restaurant's big windows look out on Minneapolis's rebounding riverfront district. Known for pad thai - stir-fried rice noodles, egg, bean sprouts, onions, and spices, topped with ground roast peanuts, in shrimp, meat, or vegetarian variations - and other Thai dishes, the kitchen also serves a buffet lunch. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Sawatdee
289 E. 5th St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/222-5859
Under $30
St. Paul
Thai

Here you can look out at the St. Paul skyline while dining on chicken satay (grilled and served with spicy peanut sauce) and pad thai, Thailand's "national" dish of stir-fried rice noodles, egg, bean sprouts, shrimp, crushed peanuts, and spices. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sun.

Shuang Cheng
1320 S.E. 4th St., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/378-0208
Under $30
Minneapolis
Chinese

A few scattered streamers are the only visual frills at this popular stop on the University of Minnesota campus. The kitchen serves lobster, crab, and various fish preparations, as well as common Chinese fare. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Sidney's Pizza Cafe
2120 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/870-7000
Under $30
Minneapolis
Italian

In this Uptown restaurant, the wood-burning oven and rotisserie are in full view of diners, as cooks prepare innovative pies such as the Asian spicy chicken pizza. Pasta dishes, such as fiesta chicken linguine, are equally varied, and fresh salads are an art form. Beer and wine are available. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

St. Paul Grill
350 Market St., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/224-7455
Under $40
St. Paul
American

The Saint Paul Hotel's stylish, contemporary bistro has a view of Rice Park. The menu is American and includes dry-aged steaks, fresh fish, pastas, chicken potpie, homemade roast beef hash, and weekly specials. Sunday brunch is served. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Table of Contents
1310 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/339-1133
Under $30
Minneapolis
Contemporary

This sophisticated eatery, the sister restaurant to the St. Paul location of the same name, has a dramatic black, gold, and mauve color scheme, an innovative martini list, and a menu full of creativity. Sunday brunch is served. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Table of Contents
1648 Grand Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/699-6595
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Contemporary

Works by local artists, varying in medium from paintings to metalwork, cover the sea-green walls at this intimate, 55-seat restaurant. The menu changes every four weeks and draws on cuisines from around the world. Entrées always include a pasta, a vegetarian selection, and free-range chicken, fresh ocean fish, and whole roasted fish dishes. Sunday brunch is served. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Toby's on the Lake
249 Geneva Ave. N, St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/739-1600
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Continental

Overlooking Tanner's Lake, this pub-like restaurant may be the perfect, low-key place to unwind. Try the steak or the chicken piccata, and save room for the homemade desserts - the variety of cheesecakes is as decadent as the crème brûlée. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No dinner Sun.

Tulips
452 Selby Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/221-1061
$20 to $40
St. Paul
French

In the Cathedral Hill area of St. Paul is this gem with rose-colored walls, dried flowers, and strings of tiny lights. A typical meal might begin with a wild mushroom strudel appetizer, followed by escargots, and finally boneless duck breast with Bordeaux sauce. If you still have room for dessert, try the crème brûlée. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat.

Venetian Inn
2814 Rice St., Little Canada, MN, USA
Phone: 651/484-7215
$20 to $40
Little Canada
American

After a hearty pizza or bowl of pasta in the theatrically themed dining room - it's decked out with playbills and theater memorabilia - you can move into the bar area for entertainment by female impersonators. Little Canada is 6 miles north of St. Paul. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

W.A. Frost and Company
374 Selby Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/224-5715
Over $20
St. Paul
Continental

In this romantic Victorian house dating from the 1880s, each dining room has a fireplace, oriental rugs, and marble-topped tables. Country French and Mediterranean flavors predominate in the cuisine. The roast venison in juniper sage reduction, served with leek-flavored mashed potatoes and wild forest mushrooms, is not to be missed. Sunday brunch is served, and no smoking is permitted. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Whitney Grille
150 Portland Ave., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: 612/372-6405
Under $40
Minneapolis
Contemporary

In the lavish Whitney Hotel, the Grille has a flower-filled garden plaza and a hushed main room with rich woods and muted floral fabrics. The regional American specialties change seasonally and have included beef tenderloin with goose-liver pâté and port wine demi-glacé, and crisp whole red snapper. By far the favorite item on the menu is the Minnesota walleye pike. There is live entertainment Friday, Saturday, and during Sunday brunch. The restaurant is non-smoking. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Zander Cafe
525 Selby Ave., St. Paul, MN, USA
Phone: 651/222-5224
$20 to $40
St. Paul
Contemporary

No detail was spared in this stylish neighborhood bistro, which has a wine bar, geometric furniture, and wood floors. After your grilled meat or crab cake dinner, plus a good night's sleep, you might try Zander's sister café, Z's, across the street, for breakfast or lunch. D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon.