Independent Restaurants

Growing up in Prospect Heights, Ill., Jay Brizzolara spent plenty of time hanging out with friends at a popular restaurant on Rand Road. As many restaurants do, Nikko’s eventually closed and for years

What’s popular in décor is always changing, as evidenced from the shag carpet and avocado place settings of the 1970s. But how do you know where and when to invest in a new look and how to avoid jumpi

As you drive up to the entrance of Tria, it’s easy to feel like you’ve left Minnesota and been transported to the French countryside. The terracotta tile roof and grand fireplace create

There is a lot that goes into transforming an old warehouse into a fine dining establishment, which is the story behind Snack Bar, and furniture choice plays a key role. Deep red leather booths and ri

Hazelwood’s St. Louis Park location features a focal point in the dining area – a large walnut table strikes your eye as soon as you enter the restaurant. The uniquely shaped table is te

The Copperfield, located in Mendota Heights, MN, provides a wide range of services to its community. Located on the first floor of an apartment building, residents can stop in throughout the day for a

When owners of the Crooked Pint franchise purchased an old Shopko building in Mankato, MN, they knew it was the perfect location for an event center. The challenge came in figuring out how to efficien

Food on the go is an easy choice for customers, but keep in mind they are expecting the same quality of food as they would get in your establishment. Choosing the right take out containers for your fo

In 1986, Bill Rowe saw a need in his community. His neighbors were suffering from AIDS and unable to cook for themselves, so he made meals and delivered them. What started out as a small operation in

The centerpiece of any cocktail lounge is the bar itself, and After is no exception. From coming up with the concept to helping source just the right bar for the establishment to working construction