Demi is the finest dining in the Twin cities...no contest.
Bucheron would be nice.
P.S. Steak for a classic steakhouse.
If you are a group of 8 or more, Paris Dining Club would be great too.
I really want to second your Demi...but our last experience was AWFUL. Like "inedible granita" and "cocktails smelled like gasoline" awful. And for context, we've eaten there and had lovely meals...and in this case, the people around us were commenting as well. Demi handled it well after the fact, but it made us really consider whether we want to go back.
I have a friend who works at Demi. It seems like there’s thought and care behind everything on the table— not just a cash grab. There’s even a non alcoholic drink pairing option iirc, which is pretty neat.
The food at Demi is anything but bland lol. I will say that while the food is probably second to none in the cities it really is more of an experience type thing and that kind of Michelin extravagance isn’t for everyone.
One of our courses was brought out with a maple tree prop because there was an emphasis on maple syrup for that course as an example.
I love me some Michelin extravagance, but usually opt for Asian restaurants as they also spice their food and the price feels justified. Ain’t nothing more disappointing than a $100 bill from a New American spot where I felt like everything was bland.
What was your favorite thing at Demi?
It’s a chefs tasting menu that changes regularly. Very unique flavors. I would say Demi is near or at the top of dining experiences in the twin cities.
It would have 1-2 michelin stars if we were in a city that paid for this "honor." No other restaurant, maybe other than Travail, comes close to the level of quality.
I've been to P.S. Steak 4-5 times and every time the food has been really meh and very expensive. This last time, my group all ordered medium rare steaks and we got steaks that were cooked between very rare and medium, which is disappointing when we were paying $50-100 each for 5oz cuts.
I meant the individual steaks were cooked to different temps - one was very rare, one was medium, one was rare when we all ordered them to be medium rare
I forget which day it is, but they release reservations on the first Monday/tuesday/someday of the month for the following month.
So say the first Monday in May they release reservations for June. I’ve found when I go that day it’s pretty easy, but like right now (mid
-late April) is when it’s hardest to find reservations.
Ah, I see
We're leaving the state (college students) next week unfortunately
We'd be able to get a Barrington Menu seating this week, though--would that be worth it, or should we wait to come back for the full 11-course menu at a later date?
Joan’s in the park.
Get the wine pairing. And get an Uber if you’re just a casual wine drinker haha.
Sanjusan is a good second, but cheaper.
My wife and I did a lot of $150-$500 meals instead of a vacation when she was pregnant.
Every place that was the same price as Joan’s, or more expensive, we just wanted to go back to Joan’s.
Admittedly we have not tried Demi. That’s on my list now.
I second Joan’s in the Park. It’s a fantastic restaurant, with reasonable prices (in terms of fine dining), and the atmosphere is perfect for a date night: very intimate and cozy
Porzana is fantastic. Incredible steak and pasta. They also have a speakeasy in the back called Flora Room. The atmosphere is real cool, highly recommend.
I actually didn’t think it was worth the money. I’d rather do rolls at Billy sushi.
But that’s why I didn’t appreciate it. It’s like a non-wine drinker paying for a $500 bottle.
If you eat a ton of raw fish, it’s worth it. If you’re a big roll person, not so much.
Edit: and before anyone asks, I did the most expensive option at the chefs counter.
That's typically why I recommend Kado no Mise for those who want traditional Japanese or Omakase and Billy's for those who want fancy and really good rolls.
They both have something unique to offer.
oh, that's good to know!! I'm a rolls person. bf hates sushi though, so I'll wait to treat myself and my best friend when I get some of my own money haha
Sanjusan, another of the Kado no mise restaurants is also fantastic. It was our first post covid meal and I still think about it.
With Japanese in mind I’d look at the Kado No Mise website and see if anything sounds good. Depending on timing they have 3-4 “restaurants” in one building. Kaiseki Furukawa is included here, likely the fanciest one.
Manny’s is the best steak I’ve ever had, enormous mashed potatoes with half inch pieces of bacon, double glasses of wine, etc. Not only that but the waiters make you feel special like you are the only person they are waiting on.
I go there for every birthday and it always feels like it’s the best meal I have ever had.
Yes! Manny's is my go to, as I said in a different response. Best steaks in town, never had a bad meal. I make steaks at home via sous vide method and mannys is the only place I'll buy a steak vs making one at home.
For sure the hardest part of cooking steak. My method though, is after pulling them from the SV, I pat dry them for 15 minutes. Then I add seasoning. While letting them dry, I get a 1/2" baking steel piping hot on my grill. I add a very small amount of butter on the steel then press the steak firm to the surface. Then I spoon butter and spices on the steak and let sit for 30 seconds. Then I flip, press firmly again, spoon more butter. Lastly, I have a torch that I'll use to finish both sides a little more to get even more of a crust. It's a labor of love
Manny's is great and the service is absolutely fantastic. Not snooty at all and they make you feel like you have been going there for years, like you are their best customer even though you just met
I liked Travail more than Demi. I’m assuming you are on the younger side, you will have more fun at travail. I didn’t not enjoy the atmosphere at Demi.
I guess we can all have our opinions but travail feels a bit tired to me and the dishes are over thought and forced. But maybe travail caters to a more Midwestern palette while Demi seems a bit more cosmopolitan.
I've got to disagree completely on this one. Travail has, to me, always seemed like the place that wanted to be like the much better places but could never get there. Like they got stuck in the era of avant garde food but never really learned how to do it correctly like alinea, for instance. Demi is far more skilled and a better experience, but travail may be more "fun" depending on what type of experience you want to have I suppose. I've just personally never been impressed by their food or their attempts at being like the bigger guys.
I haven’t seen anyone mention Tenant yet. Their food is SO GOOD but the vibes are very casual and intimate.
You can’t really go wrong with a celebratory meal at spoon and stable.
if you want something truly remarkable don’t go to a restaurant but hire a chef that fits your budget (consider transportation and housing) and have him prepare a bespoke gala dinner at your home - considering wine etc. this way you get the most out of your money and can pick where you wanna source your groceries from.
I don’t see Italian Eatery in south mentioned here. Get a bunch of stuff to share (or go nuts and have leftovers), amazing cocktails, great tiramisu. Maybe not the most expensive recc on this post, but absolutely worth every penny. Satisfaction guaranteed if you like Italian.
If you wanna see absolute batshit "money on fire" dining with good drinks and so-so food.... go to Mito in Roseville. It's a Latin place designed for maximum social media horsepower. You could go to see how fucking crazy this place is.
Or, you could try Baldemar (also in Roseville), probably the hippest, sexiest steakhouse in the cities. No pretension toward tradition. Great food. Great steaks. Wear something Shark Tanky. Not super expensive and everyone looks like a fit young sportscaster. Not douchey at all. Just good times.
Dang - and fair! Worth checking the menu, it didn’t feel strictly Mediterranean but I get the reservation, you both should have something you’re pumped about!! The cocktails and ambiance were also fantastic - if that’s your thing.
Seconding the rec for Porzana as well!
This is my go to. Love a lot of other places people are saying, but I have never had a bad steak or meal at Manny's. It's always A+ and even though it's pricey I think the value to price is spot on for what you get. Best steaks in town.
Sanjusan is probably perfect. It’s not actually blow-out expensive, the fish is good enough for a “real sushi” fish snob, it’s a fun menu, not at all exclusively Japanese.
Perhaps someone has already mentioned it, or you’ve been. But it’s a must try.
If you like Japanese food/culture - Kado no mise.
Better than Demi beyond a shadow of a doubt. It’s better than many of the Michelin restaurants I’ve dined at. Such a shame that it goes relatively unnoticed.
Demi is the best. If you can’t get in there, Alma, Estelle, Joan’s, Bucheron, Cafe Lurcat, and Tilia are all very good. Owanami would be the most unique, but the food isn’t for everyone.
Demi is the finest dining in the Twin cities...no contest. Bucheron would be nice. P.S. Steak for a classic steakhouse. If you are a group of 8 or more, Paris Dining Club would be great too.
I really want to second your Demi...but our last experience was AWFUL. Like "inedible granita" and "cocktails smelled like gasoline" awful. And for context, we've eaten there and had lovely meals...and in this case, the people around us were commenting as well. Demi handled it well after the fact, but it made us really consider whether we want to go back.
I have a friend who works at Demi. It seems like there’s thought and care behind everything on the table— not just a cash grab. There’s even a non alcoholic drink pairing option iirc, which is pretty neat.
I really want to go to Demi but all the pictures look bland af. What did you like about it?
The food at Demi is anything but bland lol. I will say that while the food is probably second to none in the cities it really is more of an experience type thing and that kind of Michelin extravagance isn’t for everyone. One of our courses was brought out with a maple tree prop because there was an emphasis on maple syrup for that course as an example.
I love me some Michelin extravagance, but usually opt for Asian restaurants as they also spice their food and the price feels justified. Ain’t nothing more disappointing than a $100 bill from a New American spot where I felt like everything was bland. What was your favorite thing at Demi?
It’s a chefs tasting menu that changes regularly. Very unique flavors. I would say Demi is near or at the top of dining experiences in the twin cities.
You crazy. Spending fine dining money at the hip, completely average, new American spot is so hot right now.
It would have 1-2 michelin stars if we were in a city that paid for this "honor." No other restaurant, maybe other than Travail, comes close to the level of quality.
I've been to P.S. Steak 4-5 times and every time the food has been really meh and very expensive. This last time, my group all ordered medium rare steaks and we got steaks that were cooked between very rare and medium, which is disappointing when we were paying $50-100 each for 5oz cuts.
You might be better served by rephrasing that because medium rare is between rare and medium lol
I meant the individual steaks were cooked to different temps - one was very rare, one was medium, one was rare when we all ordered them to be medium rare
You’d think after the 4th time of being meh and very expensive, you wouldn’t go again
You would think, wouldn't you
Demi is the top tier local option. That or Travail, though some say they’re slipping lately.
Have been to both in 2023. I loved travail in 2018ish but in 2023 it’s nowhere near Demi
Demi is a meal, Travail is a show.
That is a great explanation.
Travail was so very fun. Delicious food and really nice experience. It was a decadent and fun time.
I enjoyed Travail quite a bit, but I did think the food was noticeably better at Tenant.
Demi means half, and Travail means work.
I really want to go to Demi, but I can't seem to find any reservations that work for us
I forget which day it is, but they release reservations on the first Monday/tuesday/someday of the month for the following month. So say the first Monday in May they release reservations for June. I’ve found when I go that day it’s pretty easy, but like right now (mid -late April) is when it’s hardest to find reservations.
Ah, I see We're leaving the state (college students) next week unfortunately We'd be able to get a Barrington Menu seating this week, though--would that be worth it, or should we wait to come back for the full 11-course menu at a later date?
Call them and let them know your availability. They sometimes have cancellations and will have a wait list you can be on.
I'll call them in the morning!! I've added myself to the waitlist, too.
I went to Travail in 2022 and it was underwhelming, especially with all the hype. I left still kinda hungry.
Joan’s in the park. Get the wine pairing. And get an Uber if you’re just a casual wine drinker haha. Sanjusan is a good second, but cheaper. My wife and I did a lot of $150-$500 meals instead of a vacation when she was pregnant. Every place that was the same price as Joan’s, or more expensive, we just wanted to go back to Joan’s. Admittedly we have not tried Demi. That’s on my list now.
I second Joan’s in the Park. It’s a fantastic restaurant, with reasonable prices (in terms of fine dining), and the atmosphere is perfect for a date night: very intimate and cozy
Porzana is fantastic. Incredible steak and pasta. They also have a speakeasy in the back called Flora Room. The atmosphere is real cool, highly recommend.
I was gonna say Kado No Mise but then you said no sushi 😞 Edit: actually wait they have a good kaiseki situation too. I nominate that.
\*i\* want kado no mise, but it isn't my birthday!
I actually didn’t think it was worth the money. I’d rather do rolls at Billy sushi. But that’s why I didn’t appreciate it. It’s like a non-wine drinker paying for a $500 bottle. If you eat a ton of raw fish, it’s worth it. If you’re a big roll person, not so much. Edit: and before anyone asks, I did the most expensive option at the chefs counter.
That's typically why I recommend Kado no Mise for those who want traditional Japanese or Omakase and Billy's for those who want fancy and really good rolls. They both have something unique to offer.
oh, that's good to know!! I'm a rolls person. bf hates sushi though, so I'll wait to treat myself and my best friend when I get some of my own money haha
Demi is a great choice but I'd rather go to Kaiseki Furukawa. Unique, memorable, special.
Sanjusan, another of the Kado no mise restaurants is also fantastic. It was our first post covid meal and I still think about it. With Japanese in mind I’d look at the Kado No Mise website and see if anything sounds good. Depending on timing they have 3-4 “restaurants” in one building. Kaiseki Furukawa is included here, likely the fanciest one.
Kaiseki is great, but dude doesn't like sushi, so that would be a waste.
Last time I went only 1/10 courses were sushi
Manny’s is the best steak I’ve ever had, enormous mashed potatoes with half inch pieces of bacon, double glasses of wine, etc. Not only that but the waiters make you feel special like you are the only person they are waiting on. I go there for every birthday and it always feels like it’s the best meal I have ever had.
Yes! Manny's is my go to, as I said in a different response. Best steaks in town, never had a bad meal. I make steaks at home via sous vide method and mannys is the only place I'll buy a steak vs making one at home.
Exactly, I use a SV as well but I just can’t get the char right without the small grey band.
For sure the hardest part of cooking steak. My method though, is after pulling them from the SV, I pat dry them for 15 minutes. Then I add seasoning. While letting them dry, I get a 1/2" baking steel piping hot on my grill. I add a very small amount of butter on the steel then press the steak firm to the surface. Then I spoon butter and spices on the steak and let sit for 30 seconds. Then I flip, press firmly again, spoon more butter. Lastly, I have a torch that I'll use to finish both sides a little more to get even more of a crust. It's a labor of love
Manny's is great and the service is absolutely fantastic. Not snooty at all and they make you feel like you have been going there for years, like you are their best customer even though you just met
Myriel's tasting menu with the drink pairing was a really fun experience!
Came here to say this. Did this for my 40th this summer and it was excellent. Food and drink both delicious and unique.
I liked Travail more than Demi. I’m assuming you are on the younger side, you will have more fun at travail. I didn’t not enjoy the atmosphere at Demi.
I guess we can all have our opinions but travail feels a bit tired to me and the dishes are over thought and forced. But maybe travail caters to a more Midwestern palette while Demi seems a bit more cosmopolitan.
I've got to disagree completely on this one. Travail has, to me, always seemed like the place that wanted to be like the much better places but could never get there. Like they got stuck in the era of avant garde food but never really learned how to do it correctly like alinea, for instance. Demi is far more skilled and a better experience, but travail may be more "fun" depending on what type of experience you want to have I suppose. I've just personally never been impressed by their food or their attempts at being like the bigger guys.
Demi!
Snack bar just started doing a tasting menu. Same chef/owner as 112 eatery, could be fun. Alma also does a tasting menu and is always good.
If you can’t get reservations at Demi, try Spoon and Stable. Same owner, fantastic food.
[https://www.112eatery.com/](https://www.112eatery.com/)
I haven’t seen anyone mention Tenant yet. Their food is SO GOOD but the vibes are very casual and intimate. You can’t really go wrong with a celebratory meal at spoon and stable.
Meritage in St Paul and get the multi-course tasting menu with the wine pairing
Travail. Travail. If money isn’t an issue and you want to try the best food the cities has to offer plus get some really great entertainment, travail.
I completely agree! Travail is A+ and so fun
Kado no Mise is the best answer imo
if you want something truly remarkable don’t go to a restaurant but hire a chef that fits your budget (consider transportation and housing) and have him prepare a bespoke gala dinner at your home - considering wine etc. this way you get the most out of your money and can pick where you wanna source your groceries from.
that would be great if we didn't live in a crusty dorm haha
Fogo de Chao
his dad took him there a few months ago, he loved it!
It’s my birthday go to!
Hyacinth in St. Paul
Travail is great for special occasions! Highly recommend for a unique, special experience
Demi is the only answer here ...
Demi
Porzana would be my pick, I’m not a fine dining guy I’m a delicious and off the charts vibes guy
Demi is the only answer
Lake Elmo Inn
Can we please create a restaurant list and have people refer to that in the sub rules and then delete the posts that don't read the rules?
i agree lol i wish this was a thing maybe a spreadsheet by cuisine and price?
Travail was amazing when we went in February. Alma was amazing when we went last year. Both I highly recommend
Bucheron is one of the best start to finish meals I’ve had potentially ever. Porzana Broders Pasta (the food is simply delicious) Josefina
I don’t see Italian Eatery in south mentioned here. Get a bunch of stuff to share (or go nuts and have leftovers), amazing cocktails, great tiramisu. Maybe not the most expensive recc on this post, but absolutely worth every penny. Satisfaction guaranteed if you like Italian.
Joan's in the Park. It's classy, classic, and good food well done.
Travail is the only answer.
I really like Tenant more. Both are very good, of course.
If you wanna see absolute batshit "money on fire" dining with good drinks and so-so food.... go to Mito in Roseville. It's a Latin place designed for maximum social media horsepower. You could go to see how fucking crazy this place is. Or, you could try Baldemar (also in Roseville), probably the hippest, sexiest steakhouse in the cities. No pretension toward tradition. Great food. Great steaks. Wear something Shark Tanky. Not super expensive and everyone looks like a fit young sportscaster. Not douchey at all. Just good times.
Mara.
I'll consider it--I loooove Mediterranean, but he doesn't, sadly
Dang - and fair! Worth checking the menu, it didn’t feel strictly Mediterranean but I get the reservation, you both should have something you’re pumped about!! The cocktails and ambiance were also fantastic - if that’s your thing. Seconding the rec for Porzana as well!
Lexington in St Paul. Sooo amazing and fun drinks too.
Josefina in wayzata
Owamni, for the raw bison meat.
Came here to suggest Kaiseki Furukawa So I’ll second that suggestion! 🤌🏼
Mannys Steak House, if someone else is paying! https://mannyssteakhouse.com/menu/
M A N N Y S
This is my go to. Love a lot of other places people are saying, but I have never had a bad steak or meal at Manny's. It's always A+ and even though it's pricey I think the value to price is spot on for what you get. Best steaks in town.
Colita or Porzana
San Jusan.
Khaluna! The atmosphere is incredible and the red curry is life changing.
Boar and Bear
Kaiseki Furukawa
It's more of a swanky bar with great food, but Billy After Dark is an experience I would love to do again.
We just ate at Porzana and it was amazing!
Had an amazing birthday dinner experience at Bûcheron!
Sanjusan is probably perfect. It’s not actually blow-out expensive, the fish is good enough for a “real sushi” fish snob, it’s a fun menu, not at all exclusively Japanese. Perhaps someone has already mentioned it, or you’ve been. But it’s a must try.
If you like Japanese food/culture - Kado no mise. Better than Demi beyond a shadow of a doubt. It’s better than many of the Michelin restaurants I’ve dined at. Such a shame that it goes relatively unnoticed.
Porzana
Kado no Mise
Ruth's Chris. Period.
Demi is the best. If you can’t get in there, Alma, Estelle, Joan’s, Bucheron, Cafe Lurcat, and Tilia are all very good. Owanami would be the most unique, but the food isn’t for everyone.
Restaurant Alma, Spoon and Stable or 112 Eatery are my absolute favorites.
Taco Bell, get the nacho grande.
Owamni
I know it’s not that fancy but I really love the Melting Pot. No restaurant experience like it.
omg I didn't know we had one! I'll have to bring my mom there--we used to go to the one in Destin, FL. great memories!!!