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$$$ | New American
Merriam Park's longtime clubhouse counts many loyalists. Not many people could tuck a New American bistro in the basement of an apartment building and court simple elegance, but Jill Wilson has. The barbecued back ribs are beloved, the knotty pine dining room is a love/hate proposition.
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- Critics’ + Eaters’ Ratings »
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WHAT THE CRITICS SAY
Critics' Scoring
Scores will be assigned based on a 0-100 scale broken down as follows:
100 = Perfect
90 = Excellent
80 = Very Good
70 = Good, not Great
60 = High Average
50 = Average
40 = Low Average
30 = Disappointing
20 = Nearly Without Merit
10 = Poor
00 = Worthless
88
StarTribune | Rick Nelson
02/21/08
One night I felt fortunate to inhale every drop of a simple butternut squash soup. Even a nicely embellished toss of field greens stands out.
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83
Gayot
Judging by its location---the knotty pine-lined basement of an apartment building near a college campus---the 128 Café should be a dive. Instead, it's one of the most charming and heartfelt restaurants in the Twin Cities, a place where you'll feel like chef Ian Pierce is cooking for you and you alone.
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80
Secrets of the City | Ann Bauer
12/08/07
And there's nothing cozier on a cold winter night than warm meat, good wine, and a little cave hulled out under the snow. Even better if it reminds you of your childhood basement, circa 1974.
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65
Minnesota Monthly | James Norton
02/08
Overall, the ribs were the best thing we ate-and that seemed indicative of the problem. The 128 Café isn't a barbecue joint. What is its cuisine, exactly? Continental? Asian fusion? American classic? The sooner Chef Pierce nails that down, the sooner 128 Café will transition from neighborhood spot to citywide destination.
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63.8
Zagat
This "little buttonhole" of a New American "down a few steps" in an "ugly apartment building" near the University of St. Thomas may be "nothing to look at", but its "appearance belies its incredible menu" ...
BUZZ
City Pages
Best Of: Best Caesar
1998
An absolutely fresh dressing with a rosy spiciness of garlic and anchovies is tossed with freshly torn romaine and crowned with crisp, buttery homemade croutons and just-grated imported Parmesan cheese.
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- No Smoking
- Kid-friendly
- Outdoor dining
- Wine and beer only
- Late night dining
- No alcohol
- Entertainment
- Wheelchair accessible
- No credit cards
- No personal checks
- Notable
- Our dining editors' favorites
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