Visiting the Twin Cities? Check out these great Twin Cities restaurants!

US Bank Stadium Final Four sign
Photo credit Entercom

With our second large event in just over a year (that little thing called the Super Bowl), Minneapolis and the Twin Cities will once again be in the spotlight.  Virginia, Auburn, Michigan State and Texas Tech are coming to town for a couple basketball games at U.S. Bank Stadium.  The games promise excitement and hopefully that 'one shining moment'.  

There is more to hosting a Final Four than basketball, just the same as last year's Super Bowl.  There are concerts, youth events, a Fanfest at the Convention Center, a ferris wheel on Nicollet Ave. and much more.  And thousands of fans, corporate sponsors, media and more will also descend on Minnesota and they're going to need to eat. 

Luckily, we're well equipped to deal with that too.  Here are a few of our picks as the best places for out of town visitors to experience the food scene of the Twin Cities!

Downtown MinneapolisManny's- No visit to downtown is complete without the outrageous excess of Manny's.  Especially if you're coming in with a nice expense account (you'll need it).  The steaks are as good as you'll get, the portion sizes are "Man vs. Food" sized, and the atmosphere is pure classic when it comes to a steakhouse.  

Murray's- On the other side of the downtown steak street is Murray's and their as-good-as-advertised "Silver Butter Knife" steak, a 28 oz. behemoth of a strip sirloin that is cooked to perfection.  You get all the classic supperclub sides.  And do not, under any circumstances, forget the unbelieveably addictive garlic toast.  

112 Eatery- A personal favorite.  They're also open late in case you need that midnight fix.  The burger is one of the best in the Twin Cities.  Everything Isaac Becker and his staff churn out of the kitchen is top-of-the-line.  

Sea Change- Often overlooked thanks to it's almost hidden location inside the Guthrie Theater on the Mississippi riverfront, Sea Change focuses on sustainable seafood in a gorgeous setting.  If you go for lunch or grab a bite in the bar, get the fish sandwhich.  It's a fantastic version of the McDonald's Filet-O-Fish.  It's good enough to ruin all other fish sandwhiches you get at other restaurants.  

Barrio- On the lower end of the $$$ scale, the food at Barrio is still top notch.  In addition to the best selection of tequilla you'll ever find, you'll get some terrific tacos and other Mexican dishes in this Nicollet Ave. spot.  The Pacifico battered fish tacos are unreal.  The chips and guac are as good as you'll find.  (Locations in Edina and St. Paul too)

Downtown St. PaulMeritage-  If you find yourself on the other side of the river, seek out Meritage.  This French-inspired bistro features an oyster bar, a great wine and cocktail list, sidewalk seating for our 60+ temps over the weekend and some of the best French food in the Upper Midwest.  

Saint Dinette- If you're ready to indulge in one of the best burgers in Minnesota, this is the place.  Two ultra-rich patties smothered in homemade American cheese on a perfect, squishy bun.  Plus, a bunch of diner style food elevated to classic status with a great cocktail list.  

Cossetta- Great Italian.  Need we say more?  The upstairs features Louis Ristorante, while a more casual eatery and pizzeria is available at street level.  They also have a terrific Italian Grocery if you want to take a few things to go.  Pro tip:  Get the cannoli!  

St. Paul Grill- If you're staying in St. Paul, and you are staying at the St. Paul Hotel, you're off to a great start while visiting us.  Complete the package with a classic meal at the St. Paul Grill.  And do not forget their terrific breakfast/brunch!

SuburbsBroders' Pasta Bar- If you crave great pasta look no further.  The Broders' family has created a mini Italian empire at the 50th and Penn intersection near the Edina/Minneapolis border.  The pasta bar features some of the best handmade pasta available anywhere.  The Cucina across the street features some great casual Italian food, and Terzo Wine Bar on the other side of Penn has one of the best wine lists anywhere in addition to terrific small plates great for sharing.  Highly recommended.  

Bellecour- Chef Gavin Kaysen has a hot spot in Downtown Minneapolis called Spoon and Stable.  Good luck getting in there (worth the effort).  But, another option lies about 20 minutes west in the Lake Minnetonka town of Wayzata.  His French Bistro Bellecour will also wow you.  Do not overlook their pastry bar where they make some of the best croissants that you can find outside of Paris.  

Cedar + Stone, Urban Table- Many visitors will take time to explore the Mall of America.  Filled with plenty of fast casual places, the Mall has no lack of food options.  From Shake Shack to Crave to the Twin Cities Grill to Buffalo Wild Wings, all kinds of great food is available.  But inside the new JW Marriot Hotel, you can escape the madness of the Mall.  Head to this gem of a hotel restaurant and enjoy some great farm-to-table food.  You have to love a restaurant that lists the farms they get food from on the menu.  Don't overlook their happy hour menu too.  

Pizzeria Lola- On the very southern end of Minneapolis, near the border with Richfield, you'll find Pizzeria Lola and the best pizza in town.  Their wood-fired pies (some with a Korean twist!) usually lead to long lines and a bit of a wait.  That's OK.  It's worth it.  Featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" usually means you've made it.  If Guy likes your food, it has to be good.  Check out the Lady ZaZa with Italian red sauce, kimchi, Korean sausage, serrano peppers, scallions, sesame & soy chili glaze.  And yes, pepporoni and sausage are available too!  

Red Cow- The Twin Cities are full of great burgers.  This releative newcomer not only has great burgers, but plenty of great beers, solid wine choices and other food options too.  Plus, a few locations to choose from including their first near 50th and France in Edina, downtown Minneapolis and dowtown St. Paul. 

Did we miss any?  Check out WCCO's Facebook and Twitter if you want to share some of your favorites!