Minneapolis / Saint Paul Restaurants

Combine custom pool tables, a full bar and kitchen, plush couches, and a mural with unique lighting and you’ve just entered The Rack. The Rack is situated in the heart of Woodland Hills at the Promenade shopping center. This hip venue is open daily and serves everything from breakfast, lunch, and dinner, to brunch, cocktails, drink specials, and late night snacks. The Rack’s executive chef stirs up creative dishes and drinks that are an innovative fusion of Californian and European flavors and cuisines. In addition, on the last Thursday of every month, The Rack hosts an event known as The …

If you’re in the valley and searching for a trendy and sophisticated hangout for the evening, head to Rocco’s Tavern in Studio City. This rapidly expanding Los Angeles rendezvous is located on Ventura Boulevard at Whitsett Avenue. Rocco’s Tavern is open for lunch, dinner, drinks, and late night fare daily. Their menu is full of Italian favorites and they have a full bar along with 20 beers on tap, more in bottles, and a respectable wine list. Rocco’s has both indoor and outdoor patio seating accompanied by a mixture of bar stools, booths, and tables. The décor is simple yet …

Located at the intersection of West 12th Street and South Grand Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles, Cork Bar has quickly emerged as a trendy wine bar and Los Angeles venue. The restaurant serves a variety of inventive and exciting dishes all crafted from the freshest ingredients found at local farmer’s markets. Cork Bar is committed to providing customers with a genuinely enjoyable wine tasting experience. In an effort to achieve this, they present guests with wine pairing ideas on their food menu, offer around 40 wines by the glass, and even more by the bottle. This Downtown Los Angeles hotspot …

BottleRock’s philosophy is simple: “passion about wine, beer, food, and the subtle intermingling and fusion of tastes.” This idea pervades the entirety of the wine bar’s menu. Bottle Rock presents an extensive wine list alongside an inventive selection of appetizers, entrees, desserts, and cheeses. The Los Angeles hotspot has two locations: one in Downtown and the other in Culver City. Both locations are part tasting room, part wine retailer, and part quick bites. BottleRock also carries handcrafted beers and sake, and the venue encourages guests to explore new flavors and combinations. Their food menu changes seasonally and is presented to …

Barbrix Restaurant and Wine Bar is a new venue in Silver Lake serving fusion dishes consisting of Italian and Spanish cuisine with a Californian flare. The menu and décor are creative, modern, and eclectic with an ambiance that is intimate and friendly. This unique venue offers cooking classes, and a wine list that nicely complements their menu. Try such dishes as Pamplona and steak frites. Barbrix also prepares delectable desserts, such as their nutella crème brulee. Whether you’re interested in a quick bite or a gathering of friends to enjoy good food and a few glasses of wine, Barbrix is …

Dining at the Monsoon Café is a relaxing, spiritual experience provided by a unique atmosphere and fresh food. Even before diners walk through the door they are hypnotized by a pair of soothing yet intriguing eyes that adorn the front of the restaurant. The restaurant itself looks like a two story Eastern temple high ceilings and dazzling lighting fixtures, with lots of gold trim adorning columns and walls alike. There is plenty of seating in an open courtyard, with plenty of shade for even the sunniest days. Night is an exciting time at the Monsoon Café, with Salsa lessons and …

For a taste of Mexico in the heart of Downtown Long Beach, look no further than Agaves Kitchen & Tequila. This urban chic establishment is adorned with an impressive portrait, depicting Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, and a mural for the plant that is native to Central Mexico, the agave. Known for its extensive drink menu and the 100 types of tequila they serve, Agaves is the ideal place to have a drink or two with friends or co-workers. The spicy De La Casa Margarita, which utilizes habanero syrup, turns up the heat for all the thrill …

Gordon Ramsay lends his name and influence to the London West Hollywood’s newest fine dining addition. Channeling the celebrity chef, Executive Chef Andy Cook combines the sublime pleasures of haute cuisine with the freshest California produce for an approachably refined taste. Diners can choose from an array of a la carte options, or can place themselves in the capable hands of Chef Cook’s team by opting for market specials and tasting menus that highlight the best of the seasons. The décor acts as an excellent platform for showcasing the menu, blending opulent gold and crystal with comfortable banquettes for an …

Gaze out over the waters of Marina Del Rey, and nestle in for a rousing seafood-inspired dining experience at Shanghai Red’s. The restaurant’s Polynesian, Victorian, and contemporary architectural elements complement the similarly diverse and refined menu, and the welcoming lounge and cocktail patios invite guests to linger a while and truly savor the reprieve. Weekends are reserved for an award-winning champagne brunch that boasts both traditional brunch items and a selection of ethnic specialties; nightly delights include dishes like the Spicy Ratatouille Pasta, the Blackened Swordfish Steak, and the Sizzling Top Sirloin.

With a dash of Vegas, and a whole lot of down home Asian flavors, RockSugar Pan Asian Kitchen is an experience one will want to savor. Located in the busy Century City mall, RockSugar features cuisine from Southeast Asian countries like, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam. Bring your appetite and a few good friends, to enjoy these dishes served family style. The elegant décor, with indoor and outdoor dining, incorporates a luxurious feel of Southeast Asia, welcoming all with a friendly wait staff, and plenty of parking. Come try some of these tantalizing dishes such as Singapore Hainan pork or roasted …

Famed Chef Todd English pairs up with Hollywood darling Eva Longoria Parker to introduce us to Beso, a glamorous and refined restaurant serving up fine fusion cuisine with a side of glitz nightly. Step into Beso and be seduced by the lush and invocative palette of deep crimsons, rich wood tones, and alluring leather upholstery. The menu infuses Latin-inspired flavors with Middle-Eastern flare for a tantalizing array of meat and seafood selections. Eva’s Tortilla Soup is a comforting bowl of spice and the Beso Paella is an invigorating melding of surf and turf. Every bite glistens like the crystal chandelier …

Beacon stands as a go-to destination for innovative Asian cuisine that seamlessly marries traditional technique with visionary flavors. Chef Matsusaka utilizes years of experience as both a classic and avant-garde chef to create a menu that is equally inviting as it is adventurous. Dishes like the Green Tea Soba Noodle Salad and the Miso Braised Shortribs shine in the stark yet comforting décor of the restaurant’s main dining space. Bare cement walls stand tall along floor-to-ceiling windows that wash the entire space in warm light, while the outdoor patio provides a relaxed and lively spot to savor the fine Asian …

Dining at Mastro's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills is an opulent experience. Dishes feature the highest quality ingredients, cooked to perfection, and served in generous portions. Start off with their creamy lobster bisque and then try the “Chef’s Cut” New York Strip. The ambiance is full of high energy with an undertone of elegance, with dark wood and subdued lighting throughout the dining room. Live entertainment and an extensive wine list add the final changes to an already exquisite dining experience. For a night of elegant dining in a luxurious setting, try Mastro’s Steakhouse.

With an amazing 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles county as well as a history that dates back to 1926, The Sky Room atop the Breakers Hotel is a timeless Los Angeles landmark. Classic Art Deco décor transports diners to the Supper Club era of the 1920's and 30's, when dining out was synonymous with elegance and style. The menu offers French infused California cuisine with elegantly presented dishes that include Maine lobster and Colorado rack of lamb along with an inspired collection of wine that compliments Chef Juan Carlos's menu. Fine china, linens, and crystal hark …

For delectable fusion cuisine, blending flavors of the Pacific Rim, Provence, and Tuscany, travel no further than Restaurant Christine. Chef and Owner Christine Brown created an eclectic menu that is both unique and flavorful, incorporating Asian, Mediterranean and French influences to offer a wide variety of tastes. Located in Torrance near the foot of Rolling Hills, Restaurant Christine feels like a cozy Mediterranean villa, and provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a meal with friends and family or perhaps celebrate a special occasion. A reasonably priced wine list, friendly service, and excellent fare make Restaurant Christine an experience worth repeating.

Nico's is a contemporary American bistro with subtle French and Italian inspiration. Covered in art deco posters and straw-colored walls, this chic and cozy hot spot serves up a wide array of entrees from Dungeness crab cakes to New York Strip. The intimate décor complete with candle light and the upscale ambience makes Nico’s a fine choice for a romantic evening on the town with that special someone. The upstairs cocktail lounge is a wonderful place to kick back and enjoy a drink while waiting for a reservation, should guests arrive early, or just a place to unwind after a …

For sharp and flavorful Asian dishes that render a taste of the east, Pearl Dragon can offer something special for everyone. The sleek, dramatic decor and chic bar scene draw a stylish crowd to this industry hangout, which offers the only full bar in Pacific Palisades. The Pearl Dragon's elegant yet laid back atmosphere, with potted bamboo and gleaming wood tables, is well suited for crowds coming for the lobster specialty dishes, sushi and Pan-Asian entrees. This elegant and modern décor enhances the fine dining atmosphere, and when paired with Pearl Dragon’s entrees and appetizers, a little taste of the …

Veterans of the Los Angeles dining scene since 1981, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger have garnered national acclaim and multimedia stardom with their modern approach to Mexican cooking. Throughout their ascension, the duo has managed to keep their Santa Monica flagship vital. A magnet for both tourists and locals, Border Grill showcases colorful murals and plentiful portions of equally vibrant Mexican cooking. With encyclopedic menus and daily specials, ordering can be daunting, but regardless of the selection, the dishes are consistently flavorful. The duo’s attention to detail lasts through dessert, with house-baked cakes and strong, spice-infused café de olla.

Chef-owner Sal Marino, has delighted Los Angelenos for the past decade with his contemporary, market-driven approach to traditional Italian cuisine. Centrally located near the intersection of the 10 and 405 freeways, Il Grano draws a steady crowd of well-heeled Westsiders craving pristine crudo, house-made pastas, and unpretentious entrees. He writes a new menu every month, to capitalize on “whatever swims in the ocean and grows on Mother Earth.” Noted sommelier Peter Birmingham keeps pace with inspired wine pairings and pastry chef Corinne Sidelsrud’s desserts share Marino's seasonal approach, minus the swimming ingredients.

Chef Suzanne Tracht’s has rejuvenated proverbial American cuisine through her newest bistro, Jar, creating tangy and zestful editions of classic favorites. Her signature Kansas City Steak and Prime Porterhouse can be sided with her award winning French Fries, made scrumptious by being dusted with garlic and parsley, or the Creamy Spinach, both buttery and rich. The delectable menu ties in well with the warm setting, wrapped in browns and hues of orange. The minimalist décor allows one to experience the retro-modish theme of Jar’s 1940’s-premised dining room. Come enjoy this new twist on American cuisine.