112. i think it's my favorite number. at least it's my mouth's favorite, since saliva starts to flow the second it's spoken. and it's all because of 112 eatery... as much as i love thai and sushi, i think this is my favorite restaurant in minneapolis. in the twin cities. in minnesota. possibly in the world. at least it's my favorite of those i've been to. i'm not saying it might not be topped some day, by some foreign deliciousness i've yet to experience, but, for now, 112 is gonna post up on the top spot.
why, might you ask, do i love this restaurant so much? let me list the reasons...
1. the food rides the perfect line between innovative and traditional. the menu is full of twists on basics (my favorite: the 112 burger, served on an english muffin with brie cheese) and an excellent mix of simple and exotic (exotic by the standards of a city in the midwest).
2. the staff. hostesses, bartenders, servers. i have never once had poor service, but what's even better, i've had nothing but exceptional service. and it's not the "technically right but lacking in charisma" kind of service, but the full-on, "i'm actually happy to be here serving you tonight, i'm going to refill your wine glass without you even noticing, i know every item on the menu and what makes it as good as it is, i'm happy to describe every last thing for you even if you're not planning to order it, and i'm going to have a genuine smile on my face the entire time" kind of service. how can you beat that?
3. the wine list. it's quality. it's broad. it's a great compliment to the menu.
4. the prices. this place is so reasonable, the last time i went my co-diner and i looked at each other and wondered out loud, "why don't we come here more often???" sure, there are the spendier options, but if you show up, grab a seat at the bar, order a couple of cocktails, an appetizer, split an entree and treat yourself to a dessert, i'm willing to bet you can walk out of there with an extremely satisfied belly for under $40 (plus tip). not bad for a date at a restaurant that makes you feel like you should be paying twice as much.
5. the atmosphere. low-key but classy. you can dress it up or down, place it into your own mold for the evening. it's always busy, but not in a way that makes you feel crowded or overwhelmed. just a steady flow of people who are happy to be tucked into the nearly-hidden restaurant for a mini-escape from the city. it's cozy and welcoming. in that restaurant, you could be anywhere.
6. the location, at least for me. three blocks from where i live. i can practically call it my kitchen.
7. the hours. full kitchen service until midnight monday-thursday, 10pm on sunday, and until 1am on friday and saturday.
8. the butterscotch budino. who's the genius who thought to put sea salt on butterscotch pudding? i have no words for how good this tastes.
the place is fantastic. i think you get the point. now it's your duty to taste the wonder with your own tongue.
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