Gluten Free Bakery Opens Just in Time for Cookie Season

Sift, the gluten-free bakery that makes the crave--inducing doughnuts and bars for area coffee shops have opened up a full service bakery at 4557 Bloomington Avenue South in Minneapolis. In addition to all the flour-free goodies, there is locally roasted Bootstrap Coffee and Young Mountain Tea out of Oregon. Get those cinnamon rolls, berry iced doughnuts and ginger orange cookies now.

• The Original on 42nd has closed this week. The little shop in the former home of the original Colossal Cafe didn’t even make it six months. The shop was the work of chefs Andy Lilja and Stephanie Kochlin. A brief note on its Facebook page announced the closure Monday with no further word on what happened or what might come next.
• Red Sauce Rebellion will open in downtown Excelsior on December 22nd. The restaurant is the third for chef/owner Eli Wollenzien and business partner Deacon Elles who also operate Coalition in Excelsior and Edina. The restaurant is in the former Victor’s on the Water location. Expect American-Italian classics including a little Alfredo action.

Bent Paddle/ Facebook

• Bent Paddle Brewing is expanding in Duluth. The brewery is moving its popular taproom across Michigan Street to the former Enger & Olson Furniture Store. With the additional digs, the brewery will be able to increase production and make a snazzy new space. Construction is underway and the new spot is expected to open in time for 2018 Kanu season. As with the original taproom, food will come from outside vendors, like food trucks and delivery from nearby OMC Smokehouse.