Last year’s COVID restrictions had us yearning for a return to our much-loved restaurant experiences. Limits on international travel heightened all the more that desire for something different. So, we’re sharing some of our favorite local restaurants that serve globally inspired fare in atmospheres so special, you’ll feel transported.
Coconut Thai
With locations in Edina and St. Paul, this authentic Thai food restaurant creates meals made from recipes passed down through generations. Using fresh ingredients to make flavorful meals from curries to rice dishes, many options are a delight. If you want to try something new, we suggest the pineapple curry, made with fresh pineapple, bell pepper and coconut milk with a tasty sweet red curry sauce and an option to add your choice of meat.
3948 W. 50th St.
952.288.2888
coconutthaimn.com/coconut-thai-edina
Nakamori Japanese Bistro
With Japanese food made with an international flair, this sleek spot has a huge menu filled with a variety of options. With an open view sushi bar, customers feel connected to the artful process and get to see just how much care goes into every roll. Made with healthy and fresh ingredients, Nakamori’s special rolls include an homage to the city, the Edina Roll, with spicy tuna and avocado.
7101 France Ave. S. # 113
952.920.9980
nakamoriedina.com
Cocina del Barrio
Since 2008, Barrio has brought fabulous flavor to the Twin Cities, with five locations featuring Latin cuisine and a tequila bar. It’s a fun, vibrant atmosphere to unwind and indulge with a signature Trinity margarita paired with a classic Latin dish like the grilled chicken quesadilla. With handcrafted drinks, authentic food and a perfectly placed patio on France Ave., you can’t go wrong with this summer selection.
5036 France Ave. S.
952.920.1860
barriotequila.com
Ciao Bella
A long-time Twin Cities favorite, Ciao Bella has been serving fresh Italian cuisine since 1997 to adoring customers. Handcrafted meals made with local ingredients are served in quality dishes that keep diners coming back. Enjoy the beautiful outdoor patio space or relax and dine in the dining room filled with locally-sourced artwork and featuring a charming fireplace. Unsure what to order? Our suggestion is the pesto sea bass, a customer favorite.
3501 Minnesota Drive., Bloomington
952.841.1000
ciaobellamn.com
Cahill Bistro
Inspired by the flavors of Latin America, this local bistro offers a perfect balance of casual charm and sophisticated rustic dishes. Cozy and family–owned, Cahill Bistro makes classic Latin comfort food from tacos de carne to house-made guacamole. Be sure to try the empanadas, a customer favorite, made with pan fried corn dough paired with either braised beef or fresh vegetables and served with roasted tomato salsa and crema casera.
7078 Amundson Ave.
952.426.4196
cahillbistroedina.com
Raaj
This progressive Indian restaurant has a great mixture of authentic food with a modern twist. They serve beautifully crafted dishes full of flavor that look as good as they taste. Try a handcrafted cocktail paired with a popular dish like the allahabad murgh korma that is sure to impress.
3812 W. 50th St.
612.345.5830
raagindiancuisine.com
Salut
A France Ave. standout, Salut brings French food without any intimidation by blending French cuisine with a casual American twist. There is a charming approach to dining in this space that is comfortable yet sophisticated with a menu meant to impress. With dishes like “ze salut” steak sandwich made fresh with marinated beef tenderloin and arugula served on a ciabatta bun with garlic mushrooms and mustard sauce, you’re sure to fall in love. Oui, oui!
5034 France Ave. S.
952.929.3764
salutbaramericain.com
