Sue Z. Says

How is your backyard? There is still time to plant a garden like the victory gardens of the past—or to get to a farmers’ market. Can’t decide whether to plant or purchase? Split the difference at Tangletown Gardens (5353 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-822-4769) where owners Scott Endres and Dean Englemann are selling sustainably raised vegetables alongside their beautiful plants. Or find a farmer’s market near you through the state ag department. (www.mda.state.mn.us) The prices are amazing and the products are fresh as sunshine.

Speaking of prices and fresh produce, while in Bloomington recently I stumbled into Wally’s (2113 W. 90th St., Bloomington; 952-884-4349) and had a flashback to the 1960s. Located in the same spot since 1969, the restaurant, owned by former pilot Jeff Sagal, offers famous roast-beef sandwiches with scratch-made mashed potatoes and gravy at 1960s prices: $6.99. And the daily specials start at $2.99. Wally’s is open six days a week from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and they can’t be beat for summer picnics.

If your fishing trip hasn’t brought in enough to feed the family, dock the boat and get to FireLake Grill House in downtown Minneapolis (31 Seventh Ave. E., Mpls., 612-216-3473) where chef Paul Lynch serves classic Minnesota walleye, sunfish, and crappies. Happy summer.

Sue Zelickson is host of WCCO Radio’s Food for Thought.