Because we haven’t had any thrilling restaurant opening news in moments (maybe a week) around here, the dining scene is about to get a little more thrilling. I just got off the phone with Nick Rancone, owner of Corner Table and they are one signature away from finalizing all details for the new incarnation of Corner Table. Unless something goes terrifically sideways, their new location just down the street at 4537 Nicollet Ave. in Minneapolis will open next week. They will have the tables set and a fresh, inspired menu from co-owner/chef Thomas Boemer ready for guests at 5 p.m. on Thursday May 8th. The dish pictured above will be featured on the menu, which will continue to be the seasonal, locally sourced, divine creations we’ve all come to know and love.
Once their old address closes down, the transformation will begin. Some time later this summer, the spot will be reborn as a lowcountry spot with feather-light biscuits and a killer fried chicken. They’re calling it: Revival, a name I adore on so many levels. After being served an abysmal fried yard bird at another newish restaurant this week, I know this town has room for fried chicken improvement. Can I get an amen?
In other news that no one saw coming, Bill Summerville has announced that he’s leaving his longtime post as Managing Director at La Belle Vie for mysterious “other endeavors.” He told me that there are several things on the horizon, including a fried chicken and champagne pop up dinner that he’ll be doing with Erick Anderson. He’s keeping mum on all other details for now.
The restaurant won’t be without a dapper man overseeing service for long, Matthew Anderson will be taking over. Anderson was last at Icehouse, but his time with Tim McKee dates back to when La Belle Vie was still in Stillwater.
Jester Concepts, the owners of Borough, Parlour and Coup d’Etat are already eyeing their next spot. The base of the new Lime Apartments building will house a new cafe owned by the group.
The dining scene in Excelsior continues to heat up. Coalition will be moving into the former Biella space. It’s promised to be chef-driven, the chef in this case being Eli Wollenzien who used to work for the Blue Plate Group. The menu will be American dishes made with seasonal, local ingredients.
I heard a rumor that there might just be some sunshine this weekend (we’ll see). However, spring is definitely swinging as both the Minneapolis and St. Paul Farmers Markets are finally up and running. Although the growing season might not be rolling just yet, there are all kinds of other goodies that I can’t wait to discover.
