Indulging in the Art of Crêpes and Culinary Delights Across Minnesota

Embark on a delectable journey through the diverse culinary landscape of Minnesota, where the art of crêpe-making takes center stage and innovative dining experiences await. From the charming Edina establishment of Oh Crêpe! to the vibrant flavors of Ruam Mit Thai + Lao Cuisine in St. Paul, and the captivating fusion of Scenic 61's bánh mì éclair, this article invites you to savor the extraordinary flavors that are redefining the state's dining scene.

Discover the Crêpe Connoisseurs and Culinary Innovators Shaping Minnesota's Gastronomic Landscape

Oh Crêpe!: Bringing the Essence of Brittany to Edina

In the heart of Edina, the charming Oh Crêpe! has become a beacon for those seeking an authentic taste of Brittany, France's crêpe-centric region. Helmed by Claire Corvaisier, a native of Brittany, this cozy establishment offers a delightful all-day crêpe experience. From the savory buckwheat galettes to the sweet crêpes, each bite transports diners to the quaint streets of Brittany. The standout feature, however, is the spectacular crêpe cake, a labor-intensive creation featuring 25 paper-thin pancakes layered with rich cream and house-made chocolate ganache. The rotating flavors, such as the captivating tiramisu-inspired offering, have become a true head-turner, leaving patrons and passersby alike in awe of this culinary masterpiece.

Ruam Mit Thai + Lao Cuisine: Blending Traditions and Flavors in St. Paul

Nestled in the heart of downtown St. Paul, Ruam Mit Thai + Lao Cuisine has undergone a remarkable transformation, now under the stewardship of Nia Rasavong and Mark Khaopraseuth. The restaurant's new location, once home to a Dunn Brothers coffee shop, has been meticulously refreshed, boasting floor-to-ceiling glass and a welcoming patio that invites diners to bask in the ambiance. While the menu still features beloved classics, the standout dish is the pha ram long song with massive shrimp. This rich and creamy red curry, infused with the depth of coconut milk, envelops the succulent shrimp in a delectable blanket of wilted spinach. The harmonious blend of spicy, citrusy, and herb-forward flavors creates a symphony of taste that captivates the senses.

Scenic 61: Elevating the Éclair with Savory Surprises

At the Taste of Minnesota festival, the Scenic 61 food truck, the mobile counterpart of Duluth's renowned New Scenic Cafe, caught the attention of discerning palates with its innovative éclairs. Among the offerings, the bánh mì éclair stood out as a culinary mash-up that seamlessly combined the flaky, puffy choux pastry with the bold flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Swiped with a layer of chicken liver pâté, the éclair is then loaded with savory pork confit, crisp cucumbers, and a tangy blend of pickled carrot and daikon, all drizzled with a Sriracha-infused mayo. This unique creation not only delighted the festival-goers but also hinted at the exciting menu items Scenic 61 has in store for the upcoming Minnesota State Fair.

Krewe: Bringing the Flavors of New Orleans to St. Joseph

For those seeking a taste of the Big Easy in the heart of Minnesota, Krewe, Matteo Mackbee's Creole restaurant in St. Joseph, has been a much-anticipated dining destination. At the recent Taste of Minnesota festival, Krewe showcased its culinary prowess with a concise yet tantalizing menu, featuring the standout hush puppies. These deep-fried cornmeal delights, infused with onion, garlic, and a hint of spice, are a testament to Mackbee's mastery of Creole cuisine. Served with a side of rémoulade, the supersized portion of five hush puppies was a steal, leaving festival-goers eager to make the trip to Krewe's brick-and-mortar location to savor more of these crunchy, airy delights.

Two Inlets Country Store: Unexpected Delights in the North Woods

Tucked away in the serene North Woods near Itasca State Park, the Two Inlets Country Store has undergone a remarkable transformation under the stewardship of Robb and Claudia Peterson. Leaving behind the bustling city life of Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Petersons have embraced the tranquility of this tiny township, turning the once-simple roadside store into a destination for exceptional Detroit-style pizza and craft cocktails. The thick, pan-baked crust, with its familiar focaccia-like chew and charred cheese edges, serves as the foundation for a symphony of flavors, including fennel and garlic sausage, zippy pepperoni, and a blanket of fluffy, stretchy, and crusty cheese. Whether you're a local or a visitor seeking an escape from the urban grind, the Two Inlets Country Store offers a delightful respite, where the loon calls and the gentle lapping of waves create a soothing backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience.