New Vegetarian Restaurant Flaunts a Beautiful Room Redo

Fig and Farro is now open inside Uptown’s Calhoun Square serving vegetarian cuisine in a beautifully refinished room. The space just off the intersection of Hennepin Avenue and Lake Street has long been a home to many restaurants: Figlio, then Il Gato, Primebar and most recently Parella. That restaurant closed in January 2016, leaving a wide open, remodeled space filled with white walls waiting to be reborn.

Fig and Farro has been mindful of design since its inception. Co-owner Michelle Courtright, is a self-described serial entrepreneur who also owns MADE, a product design agency, she works with designer Ellen Hughes at the restaurant. (Also, in the mix is Thomas Dambrine, whose restaurant background includes working with larger quick-service companies like Dairy Queen and Bean Sprout Cafe.)

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

In addition to the plan of serving vegetarian, vegan and occasionally gluten-free foods, the team behind the restaurant hopes to promote a better way of living through diet and serving the community.

Near the front of the restaurant is a play house, complete with a stuffed tiger for little ones to explore and play while parents eat.

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

The once nearly colorless room is now mostly painted with a dark, slate blue and pops of rich colors like maroon and gold accent different dining areas, along with plenty of green plants.

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

All staff has been trained in both front and back of the house, in the hopes that everyone is paid in a fair way and all get the chance to learn new skills.

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

In keeping with that vibe, there are plenty of long, community-style tables in the hopes that Minnesotans will actually, willingly talk to each other.

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

The menu take inspiration from global flavors, serving dishes like shakshuka (eggs in spicy tomato sauce), hummus, lentil curries and more. Dishes are served family-style for easy sharing. Prices are moderate, with entrees under $20.

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

Fig + Farro is open 11am to 9pm Monday through Friday, 10am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday.

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities

Katie Cannon/Eater Twin Cities