Dinkytown Recs

[Inasuitcase]

Looking for a step above burgers & fries near the Varsity Theater. I know the Loring Pasta Bar is close but not a lot of options for someone who cannot eat dairy. A wine bar would be nice but, I know, it's Dinkytown and the college crowd. Thanks:-)

[AnneInMpls]

Kafe 421 for sure. The food is always very nice - it's a constant, pleasant surprise at how good it is. (And I eat there almost every week.) Me, I love the salmon with mango salsa. And the lamb burgers. And the "pollo" with chicken, mushrooms, and mashed potatoes. And the salads. And ...

[Lincster]

Yep, you want Kafe 421. Very good food and the wine is priced right. The have half price bottle nights and happy hour pricing as well.

[mull0263]

I haven't been for awhile, but I've always been a fan of Kafe 421. Very cozy surroundings and solid Mediterranean-centric food. Prices are reasonable and the service has always been fairly good.

http://www.kafe421.com/

[GutGrease]

If you don't want to break the bank, go to Vescio's. It's right in the heart of Dinkytown, is an old Italian joint, and serves good food that is above burgers and fries. It's not a fancy place but more of an old-time joint that you'd likely find up north than in the heart of the UofM.

[MSPD]

My choice would be between two: Pagoda for Chinese/Asian if you have to do walking distance. Alma would, obviously, be the best restaurant within a very short drive (less than 2 miles).

[mitch cumstein]

Alma would work, to sit at the bar and order a la carte... kafe421 at one point had a smart beverage program, been a few years though...