121523 Sun May 18 09:26:43 -0700 2003 5 8 Midwest 0 661400 I am spending a few days in Minneapolis (starting today) and would appreciate a quite update on good places to eat. I haven't been to the Twin Cities in a few years.... The two places that attracted my attention in my research were Zander's and Lucia's; any Chowhound opinions on those two? I prefer casual restaurants that serve creative food--moderate cost is a plus but I will pay for something special. I like local places and local specialties--and I eat all kinds of food. I am staying downtown (Marriott) but will have a car. Thanks for your help. Jim Zurer Washington DC Sun May 18 09:26:43 -0700 2003 0 Jim Zurer 1 661407 Zander Cafe and Lucia's will not disappoint you. Given your criteria, you will also like Auriga, Alma, and Bobino, all of which are closer to the downtown Marriott. Mon May 19 09:05:26 -0700 2003 661400 0 Brad Ballinger 2 661411 I agree with all the recommendations above (especially Auriga), but if you do want to indulge on something a little more special, try Heartland in Saint Paul - truly creative cuisine using local ingredients, but a little more expensive than the rest. Mon May 19 11:47:48 -0700 2003 661407 0 MariQ 1 661442 If you have time for the trip, go down the river to the Harbor View in Pepin, Wisconsin. About 90 minutes each way. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. gorgeous trip, good eats. 715.442.3893, no reservations, maybe no plastic? Also, Stag Head, in Red Wing, (~60 minutes one way) has fed me well a number of times. Eli's on Hennepin Ave, down around 10th-12th, has some nice pork chops and good wings. And their bartender pours a very good Manhattan. Haven't tried Heartland, but the Groveland Tap, just across Fairview from Heartland, is a great little neighborhood tavern with good burgers, and Summit Pale Ale. I have heard very good things about Erte, over in NE mpls, but no direct experience. enjoy Tue May 20 18:23:18 -0700 2003 661400 0 ajs 1 661489 Try Cafe Marimar-a great neighborhood spot -tasty and imaginative food ,reasonable prices.Its at 34th Ave and 50th St--Nokomis neighborhood Fri May 23 17:56:57 -0700 2003 661400 0 Ruth Lauritzen 1 661490 Try Cafe Marimar-a great neighborhood spot -tasty and imaginative food ,reasonable prices.Its at 34th Ave and 50th St--Nokomis neighborhood Fri May 23 17:58:34 -0700 2003 661400 0 Ruth Lauritzen