I had the great opportunity to participate in one of the Twin Cities Food Tours this past weekend. Laurie Rupe, owner of Twin Cities Food Tours, did a fabulous job incorporating the unique history of Minneapolis with a wide variety of tasty treats. The 3-hour walking tour begins at Local D’Lish, a charming grocery store busting with local products and beautiful fresh produce. Not only can you find meats and daily items too, you can feel the love in this store. Here you know you are supporting high quality local producers. The story of how this magnificent sore came to be, is one of true passion for seeking out the best in the foods we consume.
Next we took a short walk over the Hennepin Avenue Bridge. We learned some fun facts about the old Grain Belt Brewery sign, while taking in a view of the start of the falls. At Punch Pizza our second food stop not only did we get to taste two different authentic Neapolitan pizzas, we also learned about the “Pizza Police.” You must take the tour and find out which Hollywood celebrity said it was the best pizza they had ever eaten.
 |
| The Brick Wood Fire Oven at Punch |
No food tour would be complete without a visit to the long time Northeast Minneapolis favorite Kramarczuk’s. This family run market and deli is dishing up the finest in Eastern European comfort foods. Making all their fresh sausages in house, it seems they have an endless variety. Try taking a guess at how many sausages they make each week for one of their largest clients, the MN TWINS.
Next a short historical walk past the oldest, continuously used church in MN, and a look at the Ard Godfrey House will help work up an appetite for what I think is the hidden gem of the tour, Gorkha Palace. I have driven past this little corner of Northeast Minneapolis and never seen this restaurant. You will try one of her famous Momos, a traditional Tibetan pot sticker, which is bursting with rich authentic flavors using local ingredients. Rashmi, the owner, goes far beyond serving conscientious, high quality food; her staff is exceptional in customer service as well.
 |
| Tibetan pot sticker, Momo |
Lastly what better way to complete a meal then with dessert, just one block away at Gardens of Salonica. You will try, not just one, but three varieties of traditional Greek desserts. With all of them being equally delicious, it was hard to pick a favorite. I could not believe the amount if information and tasty food that was packed into such a short time.
Enjoy a nice
walk around the city and sign up for a Twin Cities Food Tour. Tours run
Saturday’s at 11am and 3pm or inquire about a private tour.
