Saffron

165 13th Ave NE

The highly anticipated return of Saffron, the restaurant of Palestinian-Minnesotan Chef Sameh Wadi that closed a decade ago, is here. Saffron brings Palestinian cuisine to Minneapolis by utilizing some of the oldest cooking techniques in the world, blended with modern influences and Minnesotan flavors. For example, roasted red cabbage is served on a bed of beet yogurt (paying homage to the Eastern European immigrant roots of Northeast Minneapolis) and seasoned with Arabic spices. Charred dates, grilled blue prawns and charcoal grilled prime beef shish are other menu highlights.

Robb Jones, the beverage director who kicked off his career at the original Saffron, returns with an unforgettable drink list. You'll find cocktails like a tahini piña colada and za'atar martini. But most notably, the restaurant offers some of the last cases of Philokalia's Grapes of Wrath, a traditionally fermented white wine made from vineyards crushed by the Israeli military. The wine represents Palestinian resistance, as the vines grew back around boulders and continue to thrive today.

Bill's Bait Shop

3101 E 42nd St

Reminiscent of a Northwoods bar, Bill's Bait Shop is a nostalgic but new spot for walleye fish n' chips, burgers, walleye po boys, and affordable drinks. Named for the owner's grandfather, the restaurant is decorated with hallmarks of rural life. The mallard decor, fish mounts, old beer signs and vinyl cushioning along the edge of the bar will make you want to stay awhile.

Killen's Irish Pub

324 N 6th Ave

There's a new Irish pub open in Minneapolis' North Loop! Killen's menu includes favorites like fish and chips, a ham and cheese toastie (also known as the "famous Dublin Pub Toastie") grilled skewers and salads. On tap you'll find Guinness, Harp and Smithwick's red ale. Each table has a view of a TV, perfect for sporting events, and all of the pub's decorations were imported from Ireland. Killen's is open every day of the week.

Company Bar

3800 Nicollet Ave

Find Company Bar in Minneapolis' Kingfield neighborhood. Formerly Petite León, Company Bar serves no frills cocktails and bites. Don't worry — you can still get the famous León cheese burger. New menu highlights include the hot mortadella sandwich, the shishito dip, and spoked beets.

Ono Hawaiian Plates

337 N Washington

Ono Hawaiian Plates is all about love for the authentic flavors of Hawaii. It's the real deal — Ono's founders are transplants from Oahu and Maui. The menu features everything from kalua pork and Hawaiian barbecue to poke bowls, and it's all served in a casual, tropical space that'll transport you to the islands. Don't miss the bar program with a house shot of Hawaiian punch and a small sandbox for grownups on the patio!

Asher's Bar & Grill

2730 W Lake St

Meet your newest neighborhood sports bar. Asher's Bar & Grill is located in the ground level of the historic Beach Club Residences on Bde Maka Ska. But Asher's isn't just the newest spot to watch the game — the menu is approachable, affordable, offers generous portions, and the bar boasts a full craft cocktail program! Menu highlights include a smashburger, layered nachos, poutine walleye fish and chips and more.