Introduction
Fifty and France is a bustling hub in Edina, Minnesota, renowned for its sophisticated boutiques, unique shops, and vibrant atmosphere. However, beyond the stylish storefronts lies a culinary landscape as diverse and appealing as the district itself. Whether you’re a local resident seeking a new favorite spot, a visitor exploring the Twin Cities, or simply someone with a craving for a delightful meal, the area surrounding Fifty and France offers a plethora of dining experiences to satisfy every palate. This guide highlights some of the best restaurants, cafes, and eateries nestled near Fifty and France, carefully curated to cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, ensuring there’s something delicious waiting for everyone. From elegant fine dining establishments to cozy lunch spots and exotic international flavors, prepare to embark on a culinary journey through this dynamic neighborhood.
Elegant Dining Experiences
For those seeking an upscale and memorable dining experience, the area near Fifty and France boasts several exceptional restaurants that offer impeccable service, refined ambiance, and exquisitely prepared dishes. These establishments are perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or simply indulging in a truly exceptional meal.
The French Meadow Bakery & Cafe
Consider The French Meadow Bakery & Cafe, a local staple that offers a sophisticated yet comfortable dining experience. While technically a bakery and cafe, its dinner menu rivals that of more formal establishments. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a special occasion. A signature dish that exemplifies their culinary prowess is the pan-seared duck breast with cherry reduction, a delightful combination of savory and sweet. Expect to spend a bit more for this quality, placing it in the higher price range, but the experience is well worth the investment for a memorable evening. It’s a wonderful choice for celebrating an anniversary or impressing a date.
McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks
Another excellent option is McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks, renowned for its fresh seafood and high-quality steaks. This restaurant boasts an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, ideal for a business dinner or a special celebration. A standout dish is the grilled Atlantic salmon with roasted vegetables, perfectly cooked and seasoned to enhance its natural flavors. With a price point reflecting its premium ingredients and attentive service, it’s a destination for those seeking a truly refined dining experience. McCormick & Schmick’s is a classic for a reason; the quality and service are consistently top-notch.
Casual Dining and Relaxed Lunch Destinations
When you’re looking for a more relaxed and informal dining experience, or simply need a quick and satisfying lunch, the area around Fifty and France offers a fantastic selection of casual restaurants and cafes. These spots are perfect for catching up with friends, grabbing a bite during a shopping trip, or enjoying a relaxed meal with family.
Patisserie Margo
Patisserie Margo is a charming French bakery and cafe that is perfect for a light lunch or a delightful pastry. The atmosphere is bright and cheerful, reminiscent of a Parisian cafe. A popular item is their Croque Monsieur, a classic French grilled ham and cheese sandwich that is both comforting and flavorful. The price range is moderate, making it an accessible option for a casual lunch. Patisserie Margo is an excellent choice for a quick yet satisfying meal and a delicious treat.
Convention Grill
For a taste of American comfort food, Convention Grill is a beloved local diner known for its classic burgers, sandwiches, and malts. The atmosphere is retro and nostalgic, transporting you back to a simpler time. Their signature burger, the Convention Burger, is a must-try, featuring a juicy patty, melted cheese, and all the classic toppings. The price range is very reasonable, making it a great option for a casual and budget-friendly meal. This is a go-to spot for locals craving a hearty and satisfying burger.
Snuffy’s Malt Shop
Consider Snuffy’s Malt Shop as well. Known for its old-fashioned charm and classic diner fare, Snuffy’s offers a range of sandwiches, burgers, and, of course, their famous malts. The atmosphere is family-friendly and nostalgic, and popular items like the patty melt or a classic chocolate malt are sure to please. The price point is affordable, making it a great choice for a quick and easy meal with the kids.
Exploring International Flavors
The culinary scene near Fifty and France is enriched by a diverse array of international restaurants, offering a tantalizing taste of cuisines from around the world. Whether you’re craving the vibrant spices of Asia, the comforting flavors of Italy, or the zesty tastes of Mexico, you’ll find a restaurant to transport your taste buds to another country.
Rina Japanese Cuisine
Rina Japanese Cuisine provides an authentic Japanese dining experience, serving a wide variety of sushi, sashimi, and other traditional dishes. Known for its fresh ingredients and skillful preparation, Rina’s offers an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting. A must-try is their Omakase, a chef’s selection of the freshest seasonal fish, offering a true taste of Japanese culinary artistry. The price range reflects the quality and authenticity of the cuisine, making it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking an exceptional Japanese meal. Rina’s is a fantastic option for a special occasion or a sophisticated dining experience.
Tide Thai
For those seeking the vibrant and flavorful cuisine of Southeast Asia, Tide Thai provides an authentic Thai experience. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and use of fresh ingredients. A standout dish is their Pad Thai, a classic Thai noodle dish with shrimp, tofu, peanuts, and bean sprouts. The price range is moderate, making it a great option for a delicious and affordable meal. Tide Thai is an excellent choice for those seeking a flavorful and authentic Thai dining experience.
Coffee Shops and Delightful Bakeries
Beyond the full-service restaurants, the area near Fifty and France is also home to a number of charming coffee shops and bakeries, perfect for a quick caffeine fix, a sweet treat, or a relaxing place to work or meet friends.
Caribou Coffee
Caribou Coffee provides a reliable and comfortable atmosphere for enjoying a cup of coffee and pastries. The specialty here is, of course, their various coffee drinks, from lattes to cappuccinos. A great choice is their seasonal Caramel High Rise, which is a coffee-based drink, blended and topped with whipped cream and caramel. The price range is consistent with other national coffee chains, making it an accessible option for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon break. Caribou Coffee is a convenient and reliable choice for a caffeine boost and a quick bite.
Wuollet Bakery
Wuollet Bakery is a classic bakery, known for their delicious pastries and cakes. Their specialties are their cakes, cookies, and pastries. A standout item is their princess torte, a light and airy cake with layers of sponge cake, pastry cream, and whipped cream. The price range is moderate, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a treat. Wuollet Bakery is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth.
Indulgent Treats and Sweet Endings
No culinary exploration is complete without indulging in a sweet treat, and the area near Fifty and France offers several options for satisfying your dessert cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for ice cream, frozen yogurt, or a decadent pastry, you’ll find a perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.
Edina Creamery
Edina Creamery is the perfect place to find a cold sweet treat. Edina Creamery is known for its unique flavors and local ingredients. A popular item is their Cookie Monster ice cream, a sweet cream base filled with crumbled chocolate sandwich cookies. The price range is comparable to other gourmet ice cream shops, making it a worthwhile treat. Edina Creamery is a great choice for a sweet ending to your meal.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
While the well-known restaurants and cafes deserve their accolades, the area near Fifty and France also holds a few hidden gems that are beloved by locals. These smaller, less-publicized establishments often offer unique menus, intimate atmospheres, and a truly authentic dining experience.
Arepa Bar
Arepa Bar offers a taste of Venezuelan cuisine. What makes it a hidden gem is its authentic and flavorful arepas, grilled corn cakes filled with various savory ingredients. A must-try is their Reina Pepiada arepa, filled with shredded chicken, avocado, and mayonnaise. The price range is very reasonable, making it an affordable option for a unique and delicious meal. It’s a place where the locals go for authentic flavor.
Conclusion
The area surrounding Fifty and France is a culinary treasure trove, offering a diverse array of dining options to suit every taste and occasion. From elegant fine dining establishments to cozy lunch spots, exotic international flavors, and charming coffee shops, there’s something delicious waiting to be discovered around every corner. The next time you’re near Fifty and France, be sure to explore these culinary delights. You’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings! Before your visit, I suggest checking online reviews and the menus of these establishments for the most up-to-date information. And most importantly, don’t hesitate to share your own favorite dining spots in the comments below! Happy eating!
