Whether the mood calls for a sophisticated sober sipper, a full-strength beer or a no-fuss classic, these places have it covered.

A behind-the-scenes look as Sameh Wadi opens his Minneapolis restaurant shows the heartache, hard work and hopes of the Palestinian-Minnesotan chef.

From Red Rooster and Gramercy Tavern in New York to an all-day cafe in Frogtown, chef Nicole Pederson-Bates has big plans for the former Groundswell space.

Love them (we do) or hate them (how could you?), Salted Nut Rolls, Nut Goodies and Mint Patties are part of our state’s sweet identity.

Looking for your next great meal? Here are standout sandwiches, tacos, churros and pizza from a week of unforgettable flavors.

After six months as the Star Tribune’s restaurant critic, here are the dining habits, trends and traditions that stood out most to this newly minted Minnesotan.

Plus: The local viral Dubai chocolate shop expands to Mall of America; Altera and Toma Mojo are closing, a new sports bar is opening, and more food news.

From sublime dives and sleek distilleries with inventive cocktails and NA drinks, everyone’s a friend at these spots.

Plus: Smack Shack owners buy a dive bar, Tay Ho is closing, a spicy new restaurant in Lyn-Lake and more food news.

Strong-brewed and sweetly mixed, the beverage’s popularity is fueled by young fans, vibrant shops and the desire to maintain connection.

Plus, a fond farewell to Sun Street Breads, a Viking-sized deal at Parlour and two iconic ice cream stands are open for spring.

Plus: Angelea’s Soul Food is coming to Frogtown, DDP’s French finery restaurant Therese closes for some fresh air, Duluth burgers and bagels and more restaurant news.

Plus: A celebrity bake sale fundraiser, Coborn’s launches chef-run eateries, Soul Bowl on the move, Grand Avenue pizza and more news.

Across the metro you’ll find sleek cocktail dens, serious sandwiches and sweet reasons to get out of bed a little earlier in the mornings.

Plus: New fried chicken at Graze food hall, Victor’s 1959 Cafe changes hands, sandwiches at Aki’s BreadHaus and more restaurant news.

With no official bailout on the horizon, the restaurant community tries to save itself.

Twin Cities Live highlights lesser-known restaurants worth exploring. Joy Summers from the Star Tribune presents her favorite off-the-beaten-path dining spots. These hidden gems offer a unique experie...

Co-owner Teresa Fox talks about her mad dash to reach employees as they watched history unfold outside. “The experience we had will haunt us all for life.”

Living under ICE’s crackdown has changed how some Minnesotans of color, including U.S. citizens, move through the world.

Some of Minnesota’s best chefs are struggling to survive: “I would trade any possible accolade for peace of mind.”

Locked doors, extra security, staff shortages, changing hours and temporary closures are all part of doing business in an effort to stay afloat.

Faced with staffing shortages and safety concerns, restaurants hold food drives, fundraisers and serve up hot cocoa to create community.

The much-anticipated restaurant opens this week, with pastries and light lunch by day and classic French fare at night.

ALT: a group of women are dancing in a mall with the words let 's go to the mall

Plus Krispy Kreme is almost here, three new eateries opening in Kingfield, cocktails in Northeast and more food news.

Like the meats cooked inside, this Minneapolis restaurant took time and care, but chef-owner Jon Wipfli is ready.

Thérèse will open in November in the former Lynhall space, serving the Edina neighborhood tartine, escargot, brunch and more.

Grand Rapids is the setting for a couple’s dream restaurant, which highlights locally grown food while raising the bar on this small-town dining scene.

What to expect as you head to St. Louis Park for fried ice cream, chimichangas, margaritas and free chips with salsa.

More than great coffee, these cafes offer space for sober hangs, game nights, art events and more.

The “Merry Marc Heu Christmas Popup” opens in October and will focus on the cozy flavors of the season.

Plus: Rustica heads downtown, and five metro restaurants that are closed, closing, or on the verge of closing.

Whether you’re back in the office, in town for an event or on a staycation, here’s our curated guide on where to get breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Start shopping for butter and polishing those cookie recipes — this could be your year.

Jump start the day with eggs your way, gooey caramel rolls, blueberry-jammed pancakes and so much more.

From the genius of falafel waffles to sambusas and frozen beer, this year’s new crop of foods is fresh, spicy and flavorful.

Daniel del Prado’s restaurant group will take over the address.

Plus: Minneapolis’ Malt Shop is back, more Football Pizza, coffeehouse by Minnehaha Falls, Sonic at the U and other restaurant news.

Order up: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or making it through the week, these cakes will turn it into a top-tier event.

After the popular Twin Cities restaurants closed in January, Jester Concepts bought the recipes and food truck and will debut this weekend at local breweries.

From fine-dining to fast-casual, these eateries are leading the culinary conversations and driving our food scene into a new era. They are the Minnesota Star Tribune’s Culinary North Stars.