Patrick’s Cafe & Bakery

“We bring France to you.” Patrick’s French Bakery & Cafe definitely does that with classic French dishes, exquisite pastries, and artisan breads, all served in a cozy, quaint atmosphere reminiscent of a Parisian cafe. Authentic French cuisine is served for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with sophisticated twists on American favorites. Take a journey through France by ordering a Croque Monsieur, Nicoise salad or buttery, perfectly prepared escargots. Save room for the delectable desserts for which Patrick’s is known: The only problem is deciding which to choose. We recommend ordering several and sharing with your friends. If you can’t hop a jet to Paris, visiting Patrick’s is definitely the next best option. A bientôt (see you soon)!

Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival

The MSP International Film Festival is THE regional annual celebration of international cinema. This year will feature over 200 buzzworthy films from all over the world, including several made by local Minnesota filmmakers. The 42nd festival returns April 13-27, 2023 to The Main Cinema, along with additional screenings at the Capri Theater in North Minneapolis and Landmark Center in St. Paul. 

Ticket options vary, with a full-access pass to a six-pack of tickets. Film-goers will enjoy a full array of parties, filmmaker conversations, panel discussions and of course, the films themselves. Travel from Minnesota and North Dakota to the wilds of India or a remote valley in the Italian Alps, all without leaving your seat! See what the buzz is all about.

Feller Restaurant at Lora Hotel

A visit to the charming river town of Stillwater is not complete without a stop at Feller Restaurant, located within a former brewery built into the bluffs. Found inside the Lora Hotel, Feller brings the culinary traditions of the Great North alive by paying homage to Minnesota’s traditional foraging and hunting culture. Whether you’re in the mood for a perfectly cooked Bison Ribeye, homemade venison sausage or a smoked trout BLT, you’ll be thrilled with your foray into the tastes of Minnesota. 

Linger over a handcrafted cocktail made with Minnesota spirits in the gorgeous dining room with main street views or on the outdoor patio overlooking Stillwater’s bustling business district. For those who crave a more intimate experience, private dining is offered tucked within the entrance to the caves. For a taste both familiar and unexpected, Feller is a must-do on your itinerary.

Bloomington South Loop Public Art Itinerary

Beauty, vibrant color and the unexpected are what visitors will find in the Bloomington South Loop public art itinerary, a walking/driving tour of unique indoor/outdoor art in the area around Mall of America. The loop features more than a dozen works of art ranging from sculptures, murals, artistic landscaping and even an augmented reality experience using Snapchat. With stops at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Mall of America, Killebrew Drive and the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, you’ll see why this area is known as a national and international travel destination. With plenty of bars and restaurants to experience along the way, make your visit to the South Loop a day-trip to remember complete with art, history, shopping and dining.

Celtic Croft

If you’re passionate, or even curious about all things Celtic, a stop at The Celtic Croft showroom in Brooklyn Park is a bucket list item. What started in 1995 as a way to sell bagpipes has evolved into a thriving family-owned business featuring custom-made kilts and tartan, jewelry, Highland gear, Celtic accessories and wedding regalia. 

If interior design with plaid inspires you, make sure to check out the extensive collection of premium plaid fabrics woven in Scotland, England and Wale. Hundreds of designs are available for your home, cabin or lake house for upholstery, furnishings and decor. And if you’re wondering what Tartan belongs to your family name, The Celtic Croft will research your clan family origin and history!

First Avenue

First Avenue is a true music lover’s dream. There’s always live music happening, thanks to multiple performance spaces with more than 1,000 concerts booked per year. First Avenue has launched countless artists and bands into fame, including Semisonic, Lizzo, Prince, Soul Asylum and Hippo Campus, to name a few. 

The venue is one of the longest-running, independently owned and operated venues in the U.S. It aims to promote artistic expression in diverse voices old and new by offering artists a stage and mic, a place to connect with fans. 

In addition to First Avenue’s packed show calendar, it’s also home to the famous Star Wall, where you’ll find Prince’s star among many other celebrated musicians.

District del Sol

A trip to St. Paul is not complete without a visit to District del Sol, home to the city’s most thriving Latino community. Centered on the city’s west side at Robert and Cesar Chavez streets, the neighborhood is known for its colorful storefronts, vibrant murals, thriving Latino businesses and annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, one of the largest celebrations of Mexican culture in the country.

This pedestrian-friendly area is home to Boca Chica, a well-known Mexican restaurante known for its amazing Sunday brunch, margaritas and outdoor patio. Stop at El Burrito Mercado, known as Mexico in St Paul. Shop for authentic deli, grocery, and arts and crafts brought directly from artisans in Mexico. If you’re looking for a music scene, Papa Legaba Lounge offers a laid-back vibe with fine spirits, live music and a cozy atmosphere.

Sato Sushi & American Fusion

At Sato Sushi & American Fusion, flavor is the name of the game. The Twin Cities’ first certified kosher sushi restaurant features sushi and sashimi that are not only works of art, but the heart and soul of Chef Johnny’s dedication to fresh ingredients. Each bite is meant to to be a delight to all senses. 

Chef Johnny brings more than 40 years of experience in some of New York City’s most renowned sushi restaurants to St. Louis Park, along with American bistro dishes sure to please almost any palette. Paired with beer, wine and sake cocktails and a complete experience is waiting for you.

Kramarczuk’s Sausage Co. & Bakery

If you’re looking for a taste of Eastern Europe, Kramarczuk’s Sausage Co. & Bakery in northeast Minneapolis will tantalize your taste buds. For 60 years, this Minneapolis landmark has served the highest quality Eastern European specialties in its casual restaurant, such as pierogi, cabbage rolls, sausages and desserts. Every sausage, loaf of bread and pastry is made by hand from scratch, with quality locally sourced ingredients. 

Founded by Ukrainian immigrants in the 1940s, you’ll feel as if you’re stepping back in time when you browse the deli’s extensive selection of sausages and imported foods. The bakery prides itself on crafting all breads and sweet breads from scratch from traditional family recipes. Make sure you save room for dessert, as the Kolachi and Napoleonka custard can’t be beat.

Songkran Festival

You don’t have to go to Thailand for the ultimate Thailand experience. Imagine dining on authentic Thai cuisine, taking in sights and scents of the artisan market, and enjoying two days of traditional dances and musical performances from different cultures. All of this and more makes up the Minnesota Songkran Festival, which celebrates the Thai New Year and draws in crowds from all over the Upper Midwest. 

This two-day festival will be held May 27-28 at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul. The event features authentic Thai food, cultural performances, Thai artisan goods and a variety of interactive exhibits. New year is one of the most important holidays in Thailand, a time for the community to come together and welcome new beginnings. 

The Thai Cultural Councils of Minnesota are proud to host the free event, which also features an infamous papaya eating contest for brave souls (and a $500 cash prize), a Thai temple blessing booth, photo booths and an authentic tuk-tuk and samlor!