122309 Thu Dec 11 08:34:10 -0800 2003 5 8 Midwest 0 665211 A chowhound that left mpls about 2 years ago, coming back for a visit. I've heard of some places that have closed (Aquavit, La Toscana, Shrlock's Home), but was wondering whether there are any new and interesting places. As far as old uptown favorites are concerned - is sushi tengo still good? quang? barbette? p.v.d.? sri lanka? Thu Dec 11 08:34:10 -0800 2003 0 George 1 665212 New places in the neighborhoods are Levain, Bakery on Grand, Cave Vin, Singapore!, Signature Cafe, and something like Station 28 (in Linden Hills). New downtown is Cosmos (in Le Meridian Hotel) and Solera. Not new, but often overlookes is Oddfellows in nordeast. Quang is still good, although others nearby rival it. I've not been a fan of PVD for their arrogant attitude and lack of focus on the customer. I'm also not a fan of Barbette cuz of what seems like a "smoking mandatory" policy. Thu Dec 11 13:58:45 -0800 2003 665211 0 Brad Ballinger 1 665213 I believe Sri Lanka is closed. If I'm wrong, of if anyone knows of another Sri Lankan spot, please inform! Thu Dec 11 16:59:44 -0800 2003 665211 0 sandra 2 665219 really? that's a shock. Evan (sp?) was always talking about moving to L.A., but I figured he's there for good...such a shame. Thu Dec 11 20:50:20 -0800 2003 665213 0 George 3 665230 I believe I read that somewhere recently. Being the lame person I am, I never made it there but badly wanted to go. My only, and heavenly, taste of Sri Lankan food was from dinners that a couple I knew made back in my Chicago days. They were Sri Lankan, and I had never tasted similar curries and other dishes. Amazing and wonderful. Anyone know for sure if the place is closed? Fri Dec 12 18:58:44 -0800 2003 665219 0 sandra 1 665217 Other new and noteworthy places to add to Brad's list: Midori (japanese beyond sushi) & Yummy (chinese). But if you can try only ONE new place, I highly recommend Levain, from the owners of Turtle Bread Co. As for the places you mentioned, Sushi Tango is still very good, especially if you sit at the bar and chat with Donna, the bartender. Ask for the white tuna and the hotate (scallop), and wash it down with hot sake or cold beer- yum! PVD is the same: fairly good food but VERY inconsistent service. - i haven't been there since summer when i had a poor and slow experience (and there were only 6 to 8 people in the entire restaurant!). I think Barbette is even better than it used to be... you can also walk to blocks to Lucia’s for another great meal. Thu Dec 11 18:57:53 -0800 2003 665211 0 MariQ