Week 22 at the Mill City Farmers Market

It was a gorgeous Fall morning at the Market.  Only two Saturdays left in the 2011 season - don't miss out!  We picked up some beautiful edamame from Swede Lake Farms.  I'm thinking edamame hummus.

The Zen Box Izakaya Experience

Zen Box Izakaya(602 Washington Avenue South) is now open, and it was so worth the wait!  From the moment you walk in and are greeted with a cheer of “Irrasaimase!” (“Welcome!”), until you leave to chants of “Arigato gozaimashita” (“Thank you very much for coming!") - it's a wonderful experience.

Many people know owners John and Lina Goh (below) from their popular lunch-only skyway location.   Per Lina, "We are very blessed with a group of loyal fans whom embraced us from the beginning when we came from San Francisco to open Zen Box Japanese Eatery in the skyway. They are one of the reasons why we opened the second location, so that they can also share their love for good food with their friends and family."

She added, "We simply love to eat, and love to share with others our passion for Japanese comfort food. We believe that Food brings people together and good food comes from the heart."

We started off with Japanese beers exclusive to Zen Box - Asahi and Hitachino Ginger.  Zen Box has created their own version of pub nibbles, Buckwheat Soba Sticks, lightly fried for a crispy texture and seasoned with sea salt.

Our server, Heidi, recommended four items for our first visit, starting with the Crab Croquettes with Spicy Mayo ("Big Brother" Kani Korokke on the menu) and Tuna Poke', a melt-in-your-mouth marinated raw tuna with Poke' dressing.   Both were absolutely delish.

Next, the Zen Box Short Ribs.  The flavor reminded me of a steak grilled to perfection - mmmmm.

Finally, the Chicken Kara-Age (Crispy Chicken) with Kamikaze Sauce.  Words can't describe the incredible delicate crunch - I don't recall having anything like it.  Again, the accompanying sauce was delicious.

In addition to creating a relaxing atmosphere and wonderful food, John and Lina have assembled a staff who share their passion.   Beyond the lively greeting at the door (which immediately sets a "feel good" tone), the servers are attentive, helpful and genuinely excited to discuss the menu and make suggestions. 

So now the dilemma we're faced with is what to have on our next visit.  While there are many tasty items on the menu, we'll be tempted to order the same four dishes again - they were just soooo good.

Per Lina, most of the lunch and dinner menu items are available for take-out, with the exception of the Ramen dishes.  They are currently working on a take-out menu.

You can reach Zen Box at 612-332-3936, and follow them on Facebook.  Check their website for the lunch and dinner menus.

Park Board Seeking Public Input on Proposed Park and Trail Plan for Upper River

On Wednesday, September 21, 2011, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Commissioners accepted the draft RiverFIRST: A Park Design Proposal and Implementation Framework for the Minneapolis Upper Riverfront for new parks along the North and Northeast sides of the Upper Riverfront.

The proposal recommends that the Park Board partner with the City of Minneapolis and other government and non-profit partners to develop five new green and public spaces within five years.

Riverfront Trail System with Farview Park phase one greenways – which integrate with existing city and regional parks and trails to create a cohesive, user-friendly network of commuter and recreational connections, most notably across the Interstate 94 trench cutting off Northsiders and the West Metro from the Mississippi.

BioHaven® Islands – offering water quality rehabilitation while providing scenic views and habitat for native plants and animals, including migrating birds.

Scherer Park – an existing Minneapolis Parks property along the Northeast side of the riverfront, and located in a burgeoning neighborhood and adjacent to compatible properties, including existing parks and bridges.

Northside Wetlands Park – which transforms significant acreage from the existing Port of Minneapolis from asphalt to amenity, without adding industry, and becomes a destination point for Farview Park and other envisioned Northside greenways.

Downtown Gateway – the restoration of a historic park at the front door of downtown.
 
The Park Board has actively sought public input during each phase of plan development and is now asking the public to share its thoughts about the four proposed new parks during a formal public comment period, September 22 – November 6, 2011.

In addition to wide distribution of a news release announcing the public comment period to local media outlets, neighborhood and community associations and via the MR|DI’s online blog and e-newsletter, the Park Board is advertising the MR|DI public comment period in four Minneapolis newspapers: Finance & Commerce (legal notices), North News, Camden News, and the Northeaster (flyer inserts).

The public is encouraged to view the proposal and/or the executive summary and submit comments at Park Board Headquarters and any Minneapolis Parks recreation center or online at Minneapolis Riverfront Development Initiative.com.

Week 21 at the Mill City Farmers Market

It was an action-packed day as the Market celebrated Oktoberfest in conjuntion with the Mill City Museum.  We tried a donut from Sweetland Orchard for the first time - WOW - now I understand what all the fuss is about!

People Serving People 'Change a Life Coalition Matching Gift Challenge'

There are numerous ways to help People Serving Peoplecontinue the great work they do day in and day out.  In previous postings we've mentioned donating items such of children's books, toiletries and baby items, and women's career clothes.  There are fund raisers such as ongoing Chefs for Change dinners, and the Heart and Soul event coming up this Saturday night.  Here's a new opportunity:  Change a Life Coalition Matching Gift Challenge.

Join the Change a Life Coalition with a monthly gift and the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation will match your gifts 100% for 12 months.  (First donation must be made by October 15 to qualify.)

The Change a Life Coalition is a group of individuals acting together to provide homeless children and families with new opportunities for healthy and stable family life. Members make monthly recurring donations to People Serving People’s Family Support Services. This includes employment services, family advocacy, financial fitness, early childhood education, tutoring, family activities and more. The Coalition ensures that People Serving People keep programs going continually.

Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam Tour - Fun, Free, Informative

Remember the dog in the animated movie "Up" that was immediately and frequently distracted by "Squirrel!"?  Well, that's how I react to "Tour!" 

I've wanted to tour the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam since moving to the Mill District two years ago, but our work schedules and packed weekends always seemed to take precedent over making time for the tour.  So, when Mill City Commons organized a private tour for members earlier this month, I signed us up right away. 

What a great way to spend an hour on a beautiful afternoon.  From the vantage point of the Lock and Damn facility, we gained a whole new perspective of the river, falls, bridges and riverbanks.  Our tour guide, Josh, provided a wealth of information, and we were able to get up close and personal with some of the powerful mechanics.  

In addition to the history, facts and figures discussed during the tour, the US Army Corps of Engineers has a variety printed materials available to take home.  Tours run through September, so if you haven't had a chance to enjoy one yet, there's still time this season.

Day of the Dead / Dia de los Muertos Postcards on Display at the Open Book

Minnesota Center for Book Arts (MCBA) sponsored a Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) postcard competition, and the 253 entries are now on display in the Open Book Lobby Gallery until November 6.  The 4"x6" postcards incorporate a number of artistic methods, including collage, paint, drawing, printing, sewing, photography and digital imagery.  

The below slide show will give you an idea of how diverse the entries are, but we strongly recommend you stop in (1011 Washington Avenue South) to appreciate this creative collection in person.  It's wild!

The Great Minnesota Pet Together Seeks Volunteers for October 1 Adoption Event

Although this event isn't in our neighborhood (it's at the MN Fair Grounds), we know there are a lot of pet lovers here who might want to do a few hours of volunteer service at this October 1 adoption event.

Download Great Minnesota Pet Together

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Week 20 at the Mill City Farmers Market

With just four Saturdays remaining in the 2011 Mill City Farmers Market season, it's time to get serious with our shopping lists.  The Market is a great place to pick up unique gifts - house warming, birthdays, hostess gifts, and of course Christmas.

Monster Halloween Store Opens on Washington Avenue South - Mill City Times Exclusive

It's never too early to start working on your perfect Halloween costume or party, and the Monster Halloween store is now open and ready to help.   They're located at 1211 Washington Avenue South (next to Bobby & Steve's Auto World) and will be open daily 10:00am-10:00pm until November 7th.

The store features two levels stocked with decorations, makeup, accessories, props and costumes for both kids and adults.  

Manager Hunter Duncan has plans to offer artist services for customers who want professionally applied makeup to complete their costume.  We'll post a follow up article when the details are available.

Check out some of the cool items and large selection you'll find at Monster Halloween:

There are separate changing rooms for men and women, so you can make sure the outfit that looks great on the hanger also looks great on you.   The "Ladies Boodoir" is located on the upper level, and has 8 dressing rooms.

Reach them at 612-338-5161, or email info@gosota.com with any questions.

Mill City Farmers Market September 11 Harvest Moon Dinner

Neighbors and friends of the Mill City Farmers Market filled the train shed Sunday night for the Harvest Moon Dinner.  Attendees enjoyed a feast prepared by Chefs Heather Hartman and Nick Schneider, Cajun music, a colorful live auction, silent auction, raffle, and guest speaker Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie. 

Can't think of a better way to transition into the Fall season.

Runners Get in the Spirit of the 2011 Mill City Suds Run

Creative runners turned out in full force for the September 10 Mill City Suds Run (formerly known as the Blubber Run).

 

Here's a slide show with a more expansive group of pictures:

Dessert at the Aster Cafe - Perfect+

While meandering around this past Friday night we noticed the dessert menu posted outside the Aster Cafe.   The brownie ala mode (with ganache AND caramel, of course) and lemon pie drew us in.

The place was hoppin', but General Manager Rick Oknick was kind enough to secure a table for us on the patio.  Our desserts did not disappoint.  The lemon pie was very similar to a key lime (my fave).  And the brownie?  Well, the brownie was perfect all by itself, but adding the other three components kicked it up to perfect+.

Check out Aster Cafe on their website and Facebook.  In addition to good food, they have live music, open mic nights, host the Books & Barsseries and more.  Look for an Oktoberfest celebration next weekend.

Breakfast at the Newly Opened Crooked Pint Ale House

The Crooked Pint Ale House, 501 Washington Avenue South, opened at 7am Saturday, September 10.   We dropped in for breakfast before heading off to the Mill City Farmers Market.  

I opted for the caramel apple walnut french toast (above), which had a nice apple/sauce/walnut ratio.

They did a beautiful job renovating the former 501 Club space.  Removing the wall between the two levels really opened it up, and the new stage area is a huge improvement - both in size and location.

We spoke with Manager Matt Saffert, who filled us in on some of the upcoming and ongoing events and activities. Check out the schedule online.

Welcome to the neighborhood, Crooked Pint Ale House, and thank you for bringing us early morning weekend breakfast option!

Week 19 at the Mill City Farmers Market

Only five more Saturdays to take advantage of all the wonderful food, education, arts and entertainment the Mill City Farmers Market has to offer.

 

Grumpy's Offers Evening Food Delivery

From the September 9 Secrets of the City e-news:

Grumpy's Partners with MPLS Courier for Downtown Delivery

You can now get a Grumpy Burger and a beer brought to your house, if you live in downtown anyway. Grumpy’s Bar & Grillin downtown Minneapolis tells us last night was the first night the resto started offering a new (and FREE) bike delivery service through MPLS Courier. From 5 to 10 p.m., the folks at MPLS Courier will deliver from the full menu at Grumpy’s to 7 corners, Loring Park, and beyond and will even make a stop at Sorella Wines & Spirits to round out your evening noshing. Eventually Grumpy’s may expand to offering delivery during lunch, but for now they’re just gauging interest in this new service.

Minnesota Center for Book Arts (MCBA) part of Minneapolis Museum Day, September 24

From the September 9 Secrets of the City e-news:

Mpls Museum Day Set for September 24th

Has there been a “museum crawl” around Minneapolis or St. Paul yet? If not, September 24th would be a great day to start one. The Smithsonian will be bring their 7th Annual Museum Day to Minneapolis; the event will be “a day of knowledge and tradition” that follows the format of Smithsonian Magazine‘s nationwide Museum Day, a full, and free, “celebration of education and culture.” Participating Minneapolis museums include the Hennepin History Museum and the Minnesota Center for Book Arts, and you can get free entry to the museums with a downloadable Museum Day Ticket from Smithsonian Magazine‘s website. For more information, visit Smithsonian Magazine‘s Museum Day website.

New Website for Twin Cities' Bikers: Cyclopath

Per a September 7 notification from Secrets of the City, the U of M released a new open source site that shares information about bike routes around the Twin Cities called Cyclopath. The site uses info from MnDOT, The Met Council, and the United States Geological Survey for its data source.  According to the notice, the creators also hope to use the site’s interactivity to build a community to share their bike route tips and tricks.

Central Library is Seeking 'Homework Hub' Volunteers

Central Library, along with several other Hennepin County Libraries, is recruiting Homework Hub volunteers to work with youth after school on literacy and homework related projects - reading, math, history, language arts and more.

Volunteers must have some experience with school age children and commit to working once a week, for as little as 3 hours, at a Homework Hub location for a semester. This is a great opportunity to make a huge difference in a child's life.

Training is provided. A criminal background check is required. You can apply online at the Library website. Additional volunteer opportunities can be viewed on the Library's volunteer page.

Slide Show from the August 21 Homegrown Experience on Nicollet Island

The second Homegrown Experience, organized by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board(MPRB), took place August 21 on Nicollet Island.   This slide show is condensed down from the 1,000+ pictures we captured that afternoon.   Beautiful day, great food and drink!