FIKA: is a concept, a state of mind, an attitude and an important part of Swedish culture. Many Swedes consider that it is almost essential to make time for fika every day. It means making time for friends and colleagues to share a cup of coffee (or tea) and a little something to eat.
We Minnesotans know that our state is well-known for our harsh (and long) winters, often full of snow and no short supply of ice. But one of the most beautiful things about northern Minnesota, is being able to see it just as the ice and snow start to melt away, but there's just enough to give the area the moody, eerie, majestic feel that captivates the minds and hearts of many.
Not only was the food phenomenal - the wine list had me salivating, the atmosphere was unlike any Twin Cities restaurant I've tried, and yes, the reservation was worth the wait. I found the service to be wonderful - we'd gone roughly one month after the official opening, and every single person working at the restaurant provided such a wonderful experience that made for such a lovely evening.
Many people have heard the tales of Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men - all of which also originated in this area too. But it's not just the tales of heroism and the moody grey skies that fill the streets with fog that capture the attention of locals and visitors alike.
From when their founder, Giovanni di Piero Antinori, became a member of the Arte Fiorentina dei Vinattieri (The Florentine Winemaker's Guild) until now - each idea that has been cultivated is a chance for a new beginning. Though the family has ancient roots, there is no holding back their innovative thinking.
