The Twin Cities area includes Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. The Twin Cities is known for its vibrant food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants serving everything from traditional Midwestern comfort food to international cuisine. The Twin Cities is also known for its thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues.
with discounted drinks and snacks.
The Starling in Edina, Minnesota
A Haven for Cocktail Enthusiasts
Located in the heart of Edina, Minnesota, The Starling is a popular destination for those seeking a unique and exciting drinking experience.
The Tiny ‘Tinis are a unique offering that sets Dexter’s apart from other sports bars.
The Tiny ‘Tinis Flight: A Game-Changer
The Tiny ‘Tinis flight is a three-martini selection that can be ordered individually or as a flight.
The Story Behind Luna and the Bear
Luna and the Bear is a modern American bistro with a cozy atmosphere, located in the heart of the city. The restaurant’s concept is built around the idea of a warm and inviting space where friends and family can gather to enjoy delicious food and drinks.
The Mezcal and Tequila Obsession
Oro by Nixta’s cocktail program is a love letter to the spirit of mezcal and tequila. The restaurant’s commitment to these spirits is evident in every aspect of the program, from the menu to the happy hour specials. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of mezcal and tequila, exploring what makes them so unique and why Oro by Nixta is the perfect place to experience them.
A Brief History of Mezcal and Tequila
Mezcal and tequila are two of the most popular spirits in Mexico, with a rich history that dates back centuries. Both spirits are made from the agave plant, but they have distinct differences in terms of production, flavor, and cultural significance. Mezcal is produced in the states of Oaxaca and Durango, where the agave plant is grown in the highlands. The production process involves cooking the agave in a pit oven, which gives mezcal its distinctive smoky flavor. Tequila, on the other hand, is produced in the states of Jalisco, Guanajuato, and Michoacán. The production process involves cooking the agave in a steam-powered autoclave, which gives tequila its crisp, clean flavor.*
The Flavor Profile of Mezcal and Tequila
One of the most distinctive features of mezcal and tequila is their unique flavor profiles. Mezcal is known for its smoky, earthy flavor, while tequila is known for its crisp, clean flavor.
The Hmong people have a rich cultural heritage, and Vinai’s commitment to preserving and sharing this heritage is evident in its menu and atmosphere.
The Cultural Significance of Hmong Cuisine
The Hmong people have a rich cultural heritage, and their cuisine is deeply rooted in their history and traditions. Hmong cuisine is a unique blend of flavors and ingredients, shaped by the Hmong people’s experiences as refugees and immigrants. The Hmong have a long history of migration, with many Hmong people fleeing their homeland in Laos and settling in the United States.
Traditional Hmong Ingredients
These ingredients are often combined in traditional Hmong dishes like stir-fries, soups, and curries. The Hmong people have a strong tradition of preserving food through fermentation, which allows them to make use of ingredients that might otherwise spoil.
The Story of Vinai
Vinai is a Hmong restaurant that embodies the spirit of its people.
The menu features a variety of dishes, including the popular Hmong New Year’s Eve dinner, which includes dishes like grilled pork, steamed buns, and stir-fried vegetables.
A Taste of Hmong Culture
Diane’s Place is a restaurant that proudly showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Hmong American community. Chef Diane Moua’s passion for her culture is evident in every dish that leaves the kitchen.
The drink menu is a reflection of the restaurant’s eclectic mix of influences, from the Mexican-inspired flavors to the classic cocktails with a twist.
The Transformation of a Gas Station
In the heart of North Minneapolis, a once-abandoned gas station has been reborn as a vibrant community hub. Tap In, the brainchild of restaurateur and entrepreneur, has breathed new life into the space, transforming it into a lush oasis that welcomes patrons from all walks of life. The restaurant’s founders aimed to create a space that not only serves exceptional food and drinks but also fosters a sense of community and belonging.
The Drink Menu
The drink menu at Tap In is a true reflection of the restaurant’s eclectic mix of influences. Classics like palomas, sidecars, and mojitos are paired with a succinct, funky list of signature cocktails that showcase the restaurant’s creativity and flair.
The sake list is equally impressive, with over 100 varieties to choose from, including rare and hard-to-find options.
The Art of Craft Cocktail Creation
Craft cocktails have become an integral part of the modern dining experience. Restaurants and bars have elevated the art of mixology, experimenting with unique flavors and techniques to create one-of-a-kind drinks. At Dexter’s in Edina, the focus is on creative, expertly crafted cocktails that showcase the art of mixology.
The Inspiration Behind Dexter’s Cocktails
The inspiration behind Dexter’s cocktails comes from a variety of sources, including classic cocktails, international flavors, and the restaurant’s own unique twist. The menu is designed to take customers on a journey around the world, with drinks that evoke the spirit of different cultures and regions.
A Brief History of Forepaugh’s
Forepaugh’s has been a staple in St. Paul’s dining scene for decades. The building itself has been around since 1924, but the bar has been serving up classic cocktails and gins since the 1970s. Over the years, the bar has undergone several transformations, but its commitment to quality and community remains unchanged.
The Evolution of Forepaugh’s
The Mezcal and Tequila Revolution
The mezcal and tequila revolution has been gaining momentum in recent years, with many bars and restaurants jumping on the bandwagon to offer these spirits. Oro by Nixta is no exception, with its new cocktail program that puts these spirits front and center.
A World of Flavors
Mezcal and tequila are both made from the agave plant, but they have distinct flavor profiles. Mezcal is often described as earthy and smoky, with notes of pepper and spice. Tequila, on the other hand, is typically crisp and clean, with flavors of citrus and green apple.
Or, indulge in the decadent Chocolate Lava Cake.
The Ambiance of Vinai
Vinai is a restaurant that seamlessly blends the comfort of a sit-down feast with the convenience of a happy hour at the bar. The moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The décor is a beautiful blend of modern and traditional elements, with a touch of whimsy that adds to the overall charm.
The Menu
The menu at Vinai is a true reflection of the restaurant’s eclectic and adventurous spirit. Customers can explore the constellation-themed menu accessed by QR code, which features a range of dishes that are both familiar and innovative. Some highlights include:
The Drinks
Vinai’s drinks menu is just as impressive as its food menu.
The neighborhood’s bars and restaurants are a mix of Asian and American influences. Minneapolis’s Sheridan neighborhood is a vibrant and eclectic mix of cultures, with a drink menu that reflects its diverse influences.
Gathering around the hearth, sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company.
The restaurant is located in a former warehouse, which has been converted into a cozy and intimate setting. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a large stone fireplace.
The Concept Behind Black Duck Spirits & Hearth
Black Duck Spirits & Hearth is more than just a restaurant – it’s an experience. The concept behind the establishment is to create a warm and welcoming space where friends and family can gather to enjoy good food, drinks, and company. The owners, who are passionate about food and hospitality, wanted to create a space that would make people feel at home. The restaurant’s name, Black Duck Spirits & Hearth, is inspired by the idea of gathering around the hearth, sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company. The menu features a range of dishes, from classic comfort food to more adventurous options, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The bar serves a variety of craft cocktails, including seasonal specials and classic favorites.
The Menu and Drinks
The menu at Black Duck Spirits & Hearth is a reflection of the owners’ passion for good food and hospitality. The dishes are creative and delicious, and feature a range of ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers. Some highlights include:
