510 and The Lynhall Are Immediate Hits, According to the Star Tribune

It’s only July, but according to Rick Nelson at Star Tribune, it’s already been a beauty of a year for the Minnesota culinary scene. In a recent article, Nelson names a handful of stellar restaurants that have opened in the Twin Cities this year, including brand spanking new 510 Lounge, Don Saunders’ restaurant and event space in the former La Belle Vie digs, and the nascent The Lynhall, which at this point still lacks complete definition.

Most of the six Nelson considers “best new restaurants” are on the higher end of the dining scale, including the resurrected Lexington in St. Paul, Gavin Kaysen’s Bellecour, and Jamie Malone and Erik Anderson’s Grand Café. Counter-service BBQ spot StormKing Barbecue gets high marks for its brisket, “smoky, buttery” ribs and spot-on sides. Nelson calls The Lynhall’s dishes “sensitive” and “affordable.” He also gives a nod to Founder Anne Spaeth’s staff, including La Belle Vie’s final chef de cuisine Shane Oporto, noting his transition from formal to the open, casual, no-server style dining.

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Four spots earned honorable mentions in this mid-year round up, including Rise Bagel Co. in the North Loop, ticketed restaurant Tenant in the former Piccolo space, Chef J.D. Fratzke and restauranteur Matty O’Reilly’s Bar Brigade in a sleepy neighborhood of St. Paul and Jun, who along with soul satisfying Sichuan dishes and lovely cocktails also serves all-day-every-day dim sum.

• Twin Cities' 6 best new restaurants of the year (so far) [STRIB]
• 510 Groveland, Ground Zero for Dining Elegance Returns [ETC]
• All Coverage of The Lynhall [ETC]
• All Coverage of Grand Cafe [ETC]
• All Coverage of The Lexington [ETC]