My Work

Find Peace and Quiet in the North Woods | Minnesota Monthly

October in pine county has a certain magic to it—when the air is crisp, and the evening sky burns with the brilliance of the stars. I found myself, for two quiet nights, tucked away in a tiny remote cabin in the woods at Postcard Cabins (formerly Getaway House), a perfect, pet-friendly escape from the chaos of daily life.With 29 locations nationwide, Postcard Cabins provides year-round, easy access to nature, offering peaceful retreats just two hours from major cities. These escapes allow guests...

Q&A with Craig Conover | Minnesota Monthly

The Minneapolis Home + Remodeling Show, presented by Minnesota Rusco, will take place at U.S. Bank Stadium from Jan. 31–Feb. 2, 2025, and will feature dozens of exhibitors and presenters. Plus, attendees can learn insider tips from expert guests at the Main Stage, including celebrity appearances by Craig Conover, Patric Richardson, and more.In November, we caught up with Conover, star of Bravo TV’s “Southern Charm” and co-founder of the lifestyle brand Sewing Down South, ahead of his appearance...

Why We’re Hooked on True Crime | Minnesota Monthly

There’s something undeniably captivating about true crime. Whether it’s the pulse-pounding drama of a courtroom confession, the chilling details of unsolved mysteries, or the twisted psychology of perpetrators, true crime fascinates us.For me, my fascination started young—probably too young, if I’m being honest. I vividly remember the early ’90s, when our neighborhood continually left our porch lights on in solidarity for the Jacob Wetterling family. The news headlines are still plastered in my...

Editor's Picks: Holiday Gifts Edition | Minnesota Monthly

This holiday season, give the gift of local craftsmanship and homegrown goodness with our handpicked selection of Minnesota-made treasures. From cozy, handmade accessories to artisanal food and wellness products, these thoughtful gifts not only support local makers but also showcase the best of what our state has to offer. Whether you’re shopping for a foodie, a fashionista, or someone who loves unique, handcrafted items, this curated list is sure to inspire your gift-giving this year. 1. “I AM...

Dish: Bravi’s Elevates Mexican Cuisine in Shakopee | Minnesota Monthly

Bravi’s Craft Mexican Kitchen in Shakopee redefines Mexican street food with fresh, from-scratch dishes and creative twists on tradition. Known for its tacos, margaritas, and signature pineapple bowl, the restaurant offers a vibrant dining experience in its expanded space across from Canterbury Park.Initially conceived as a food truck, Bravi’s Craft Mexican Kitchen opened in 2018 with a focus on “modern street food,” allowing for innovative presentations of traditional items like tacos, carnitas...

'Love Is Blind' Season 8 Takes Over Minneapolis | Minnesota Monthly

Get ready, Minneapolis! The popular Netflix dating show “Love Is Blind” is heading to the Twin Cities for its highly anticipated Season 8, set to premiere on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 2025. After much speculation—and a casting call posted in 2023—the show’s co-hosts, Nick and Vanessa Lachey, confirmed the exciting news during a “Love Is Blind” Season 7 reunion special.With its unique format and the chance to explore deep emotional connections, “Love Is Blind” has become one of Netflix’s most pop...

Discover the Magic of Minnesota’s Holiday Markets | Minnesota Monthly

Minnesota’s holiday markets are a must-see destination for anyone looking to embrace the spirit of the season. From the festive charm of European-inspired holiday markets to cozy, handcrafted goods at local boutiques, there’s something for everyone. Mall of America, BloomingtonCelebrate the season at Mall of America with holiday deals, festive decorations, and joyful activities for all ages—plus extended Mall and store hours. Nov. 7–Dec. 20, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Minnesota Landscape Arboretum AppleHous...

2024 Best of MN: Readers' Choice | Minnesota Monthly

Our readers voted this fall for their favorites across diverse categories, from art galleries and boutiques to outdoor adventures and dining hot spots. Join us as we showcase the standout moments, exceptional choices, and unique aspects that define the best of Minnesota and the remarkable communities that call it home. Our editors also highlight hidden gems, cherished experiences, and beloved local treasures that embody the spirit of our state (plus a few extras!). Congratulations to the winners...

Honoring Native American Heritage Month | Minnesota Monthly

Minnesota is steeped in the history and culture of its Indigenous peoples, whose influence is evident in the names of our towns, lakes, and rivers—as well as many other aspects of our ways of life. Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of these communities in Minnesota and encourage a deeper appreciation for the narratives woven into our landscape, during Native American Heritage Month and beyond.Minnesota is the homeland of the Dakota people. Many of our state’s naming conventions—includi...

Exciting New Partnership Brings Fashion to Vikings Fans | Minnesota Monthly

The Minnesota Vikings, in partnership with Leah O’Connell (head coach Kevin O’Connell’s wife), Chelsea Adofo-Mensah (wife of Kwesi Adobe-Mensah, general manager of the Vikings), Fanatics, and NFL-licensed fashion brand The Wild Collective, have unveiled the “International Collection,” a limited-edition outerwear line featuring three stylish pieces. Co-designed by O’Connell and Adofo-Mensah, the collection draws inspiration from London streetwear and includes a shearling faux leather jacket, a st...

The Enduring Legacy of Mancini's in the Heart of St. Paul | Minnesota Monthly

Where can you find a dining experience in the Twin Cities that feels just like the meals your parents or even your grandparents enjoyed? Mancini’s Char House is the answer.Mancini’s began as a small tavern on West Seventh Street in 1948, where Nick Mancini and his family served the working-class community with homemade dishes and a warm smile. Over the years, Nick’s dedication to hospitality and high-quality food turned the establishment into a renowned steakhouse. He worked tirelessly to perfec...

Pioneering AI in Ophthalmology | Minnesota Monthly

Dr. Mark Lobanoff, a fellowship-trained refractive surgeon based in Minnesota, has dedicated his career to advancing the field of ophthalmology through innovation and technology. With a robust educational background, including four years of medical school, a year of internal medicine, and three years of surgical training, Dr. Lobanoff specialized in refractive surgery through an additional fellowship at the University of Minnesota. He began practicing in 2004 and quickly built a reputable clinic...

Dish: Chef Yia Vang Debuts Vinai, A Tribute to His Family’s Legacy | Minnesota Monthly

The New York Time’s annual search for America’s best restaurants has concluded, revealing the 2024 list featuring 50 incredible spots—and Vinai made the list for Minnesota. Here’s our review of Yia Vang’s latest venture.After four years of developing and ironing out every last detail, Minneapolis chef Yia Vang finally opened the doors of Vinai (pronounced VEE-nye) in late July—and people are excited to get an even bigger bite of Vang’s traditional Hmong flavors and dishes. Vang is also the face...

OG ZaZa: New Haven-Style Pizza and ’90s Nostalgia Arrive in Shakopee | Minnesota Monthly

OG ZaZa, a highly anticipated pizza spot, recently opened in Shakopee near Canterbury Park, joining an array of new businesses in the developing area.The 60-seat restaurant captures the essence of nostalgia with old-school arcade games and a vibrant interior filled with pop art. Tomato cans line high shelves, and light fixtures are made out of wooden pizza peels. The kiosk ordering system is very easy to use, but don’t worry—the chefs are right there, behind glass partitions, ready to greet you...

Leading with Heart | Minnesota Monthly

At first glance, Kevin O’Connell’s office at TCO Performance Center looks like every other coach’s safe haven—shelves lined with past seasons’ stats, playbooks strewn on his desk, a charging station for walkie-talkies, and schedules tacked to the wall. But upon closer look, there’s more. There are mismatched frames of generational family photos, kids’ paintings and popsicle-stick art, and even personalized “Conquered the North” purple and gold Nikes.“Kevin will be a bit delayed,” the Vikings’ co...

48 Hours in Chi-Town | Minnesota Monthly

The “Windy City” offers a wealth of cultural and entertainment options that provide a refreshing contrast to the more subdued vibe of Minnesota. The storied metropolis is brimming with iconic landmarks and revered cuisine and is a popular destination for many Minnesotans—thanks in large part to its proximity and ease of access. For those living in the Twin Cities, Chicago is only about a six- to eight-hour drive away, or direct flights to Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway airports are plentiful and ty...

The Ant-Man Joins Netflix Lineup | Minnesota Monthly

It seems Netflix has a trend: if you’re producing a sports documentary series, you must feature a Minnesota athlete.Following the appearances of Kirk Cousins in “Quarterback” and Justin Jefferson in “Receiver,” the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards is set to take the spotlight next.On Wednesday, Netflix announced that Edwards will star in “Starting 5,” alongside NBA stars LeBron James, Domantas Sabonis, Jayson Tatum, and former Timberwolf Jimmy Butler.This 10-part series will provide an in...

To Infinity & Beyond

In the vast expanse of space, humanity’s quest for exploration and discovery has propelled us to reach for the stars. Fueled by the rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War era, this historic competition to conquer the cosmos took humanity to unprecedented heights of scientific achievement and technological innovation. Whether it’s diving into the realms of space exploration or reliving America’s historic, out-of-this-world milestones, these iconic destinations...

How to Start Agate Hunting on the North Shore | Minnesota Monthly

What began as a single parent’s family bonding activity with his two daughters turned into a lifelong pursuit of Minnesota’s biggest, heaviest agates—a successful pursuit, to boot. “When my daughters got old enough to go for walks, we’d go to a nearby gravel pit and rock hunt,” says Lyndon Johnson, a self-proclaimed geology expert from Sauk Rapids. “I showed them what agates were, and it just became a big family passion—a huge family bonding time. From then on, I just started finding unbelievabl...

Dish: Gia Shows Deep Love for Italian Cooking | Minnesota Monthly

Having operated as a pop-up over the past few years, Gia now boasts a permanent home in the heart of southwest Minneapolis’ Armatage neighborhood, situated in the former Cavé Vin space, next door to Ann Kim’s Pizzeria Lola. With a needed revamp, upgraded seating, and new paint, the space greets guests with a wave of quaint, old-but-modern warmth—and a grandiose, tiled, open-kitchen concept. This is where you’ll find the culinary visionaries behind Gia, expediting, organizing, and carefully garni...

Sacred Lands

The American West, with its vast landscapes and diverse populations, is a tapestry woven together by the histories and cultures of countless Native American tribes. This region—and the nation as a whole—is home to a wealth of Indigenous traditions, languages, and customs that have shaped its identity for millennia. From the rolling plains of the Midwest to the rugged Pacific coastlines, Native American culture thrives, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the first peoples of these lands...

5 Kitchen Gadgets for Easier Holiday Hosting | Minnesota Monthly

A pie bird (also referred to as a pie vent, pie chimney, pie whistle, or pie funnel) is a small ceramic or metal figurine that is placed in the center of a double-crusted pie before baking. Using a pie bird during baking helps prevent the crust from getting soggy and ensures that the filling is evenly cooked. How does it work? The pie bird allows steam to escape from the pie as it bakes, which helps prevent the filling from becoming too watery. It also helps the crust bake more evenly by allowin...

Restaurant Review: The Shakopee House | Minnesota Monthly

Between the shiny black wall tiles, glittering chandeliers, button-back chairs, and myriad gold accents, walking into the Shakopee House is like stepping back in time to a 1920s, Gatsby-esque place where people come to gamble and drink unlawfully. A nod to Prohibition-era Shakopee, the likes of which John Dillinger and the notorious “Baby Face” Nelson would frequent.The 100-plus-year-old building is crawling with history—a treasure trove of speakeasy lore and memories of a felonious past (litera...

Spring Travel: Mankato and Other U.S. Destinations | Minnesota Monthly

Close your eyes and envision expansive prairies, rich farmland, and budding foliage—a place that reminds you of a simpler time. Though far from simple, Mankato imparts an air of relaxation, where visitors become instant friends and entertainment is best served au naturel. Between a diverse cityscape and deep-woods panorama, you’ll soon see why this southern Minnesota town is a hub of endless activities.Known for its great parks and trails, Mankato boasts a variety of adventures for outdoor enthu...
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