Dinner near the Dakota and/or State Theatre [MSP]

We'll be seeing a couple of shows in the next couple of weeks -- one at the Dakota and one at the State Theatre. I've heard that the food at the Dakota is overpriced for what you actually get. So I'm seeking other suggestions for near-by options. Both shows are on weeknights and both start around 7. I'm not seeking fine dining options so much as recommendations for good food of pretty much any sort within walking distance of either theatre. (We'll be with not-so-adventurous eaters for the Dakota show but it'll just be us for the one at the State Theatre and we love Thai, Indian, and Japanese, and are willing to try just about anything.)

Thanks!

ajr1111 in General Midwest Archive

good eats around Mankato, MN

I don't know if I'd say the Mankato area has a lot to offer in either the "uniquely midwestern" or the "nice and homey" categories, but here are a few places you might consider.

St. Peter (about 12 miles north of Mankato) has two decent eating options. The first is Richard's Restaurant and Pub which has been open about 3 or 4 months. Their website (with menus) is richardsrestaurantandpub.com. Nice atmosphere, excellent food -- a huge addition to the dining scene. On the much more low-key end, River Rock Coffeehouse, also in St. Peter, has good, fresh, locally sourced (when possible) sandwiches, salads, etc. It's a coffeehouse, so we're not talking superfine dining here.

In Mankato proper, you might look at Olives by Massad's. It's in the Hilton Garden Inn. Good Mediterranean-influenced food.

None of these are particularly midwestern but they are about your best eating options in the area...

ajr1111 in General Midwest Archive

MSP Dinner Near Fitzgerald Theatre?

We're headed to a concert at the Fitzgerald Theatre in St. Paul and are in search of some restaurant recommendation nearby (preferably walking distance). We're up for good Indian or Thai if there's some nearby, but the priority is really just good food in a reasonably casual atmosphere with reasonable prices (say, $15 entrees).

Suggestions?

ajr1111 in General Midwest Archive

MSP: Empanada Dough

Looking for a place to buy La Saltena empanada dough (for baking, not frying) in the MSP area. Anyone know of a place that carries it? (Or have recommendations for another brand and where to get it?)

ajr1111 in General Midwest Archive

where to get good chicken? MSP

Anyone know if the meat at the Meat Lab is organic and/or if the dairy products are rbgh-free?

ajr1111 in General Midwest Archive

Beloit college visit

There's not much within the immediate Beloit area. Hanson's Tavern makes a decent burger but it's nothing to write home about.

If you're willing to go to Rockford, however, I'd recommend Mary's Market on E. State Street. The service can be a little iffy but the food is excellent.

(Have fun visiting the college -- I'm an alum who loved my four years there.)

ajr1111 in General Midwest Archive