Delicious open-faced sandwiches with shrimp or salmon. Attentive and friendly service. Although the setting is rather cafeteria-like, the food is good and it was fun to tour the American Swedish Institute read more

Great food! It helps not to be very hungry when you go, as the portions are somewhat small.

Had a lovely late lunch here, shortly after we arrived. Our server, Tina was so helpful and friendly. Everything looked so good, but decided on the Gravlax w/ creamy potato, green bean, snap pea, radish and soft egg- wow! So wonderful. Then the Swedish Meatballs, with a potato purée, cucumber, lingonberry, mustard sauce and dill - some of the best I've had. We were there over "happy hour" - $1 off cocktails and glasses of wine, and 1/2 off bottles of wine. I tried The Princess- and it was light and refreshing: Aquavit, St. Germaine, Absinthe, pineapple and lemon. They even have a couple new vegan items that sound great: a mushroom toast and peach and burrata on Danish rye w/ arugula pesto and sunflower seeds. Great spot for some gourmet bites before checking out the museum! read more

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*** 3,900th review *** On my most recent trip to Minneapolis, the ASI was a must visit. Luckily, Tim M. and I were hungry enough to snag a meal here, and we were really blown away. In full disclosure, one of us has a Swedish background, so there were some favorites we were drawn to right away, and it was hard to choose what to get. Ultimately we both got open-face sandwiches, the fried cod and the short rib. They were a little more different than gravlax or meatballs. Admittedly, we were kind of surprised by how long it took to get our food since the restaurant wasn't too full, but it was worth the wait. They were probably the most beautiful sandwich I've ever had the pleasure of eating. My cod had a magic yellow sauce and amazing textures with greens and the lightly-fried fish. The short rib was equally amazing and tender. Absolutely delicious with every bite. We're still talking about these sandwiches. As a beer maven, I was surprised there were no Scandinavian beers, but the selection was solid. They even have a "surprise $6 beer" menu, which I'm very curious about its popularity as there was a range of beers in the list. The cocktail menu is very nice and seasonal. read more

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We decided to check this place out as we come from an area, SF, that has no good Swedish options and we are glad we did. We tried the Haus Salad, the Salmon Mousse, the Swedish Meatballs, a special Scallop special, and the Kids Grilled Cheese. Everything was impeccably presented and full of flavors in the best traditions of Scandinavia. Highly recommend popping in for some lunch if you are in the Twin cities. read more

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Glad I got to try it. Beautiful restaurant- clean, simple, elegant. Maybe had my hopes and expectations were just slight too high given all the 5/5 reviews. The Swedish meatballs were definitely solid though maybe would have traded 1 more meatball for slightly less mustard (very tasty mustard but quite the pile for only 4 meatballs!). The Arctic char was overall good but found the almond cake a bit lacking. Would come here again with friends or to also see the ASI, but not sure would be my first pick to return given so many great dining options in the area. A side note - I really liked the museum gift shop at ASI! Was a pleasant way to pass some time while meeting a friend. read more

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Having a great time. Popped into the American Swedish institute. It's pretty nice and quaint. But the little restaurant was very nice and the food. Is amazing. The Halloumi and Tomato salad is winners. Swedish Meat balls and salmon is great also read more

To be honest, the last time I ate Swedish food (aka... bastardized American version... meatballs) was at IKEA. That is probably not something I should admit on here but....alas the truth. Hey sometimes you just like some mystery meat while you look at cheap furniture. ANYWAY. Fika has honestly really opened my world to a whole new country of cuisine. The flavors at Fika make me want to visit Sweden or any other Nordic country. It was fresh, and the different items we ordered were truly delectable. The highlight of the meal was probably the grilled shrimp SMÖRGÅSAR. I had to copy and paste that...lol. It is really just an open faced sandwich for the rest of us. The pickled egg on top was amazing. Perfectly oozy inside and a pink pickled slightly tart flavor. The shrimps were fresh and perfectly cooked. The "peas and carrots" is also not to be missed. The carrot puree and buttermilk curd pairs together well. All in all, Fika is a delightful place to have brunch. Inside the American Swedish Institute, it has a bright modern feel to it. If you sit on the patio outside, you will sit between modern and classic looking buildings, making the vibe quite different. read more

FIKA - Grilled shrimp open face sandwich - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Don't let the location or unassuming Setting fool you. The food here is absolutely amazing, with a large selection to choose from. Definitely worth a trip to the American Swedish Institute. read more

It's all good. We went with our extended family of 10 for the Christmas display at the museum and stopped into Fika to eat after. They were actually able to fit tables together for all of us. The meatballs were stupendous (as always). I had the gravlach which was like and fresh, not salty-- though it would have been better with rye bread instead of dry commercial crackers. One of our 14 year old granddaughters was brave and had the salmon and beets and ate every bite. The almond cake and cardamom pudding were also to die for. Secret tip-- if you do bring little ones they also offer a few items such as grilled cheese which aren't on the menu-- so be sure to ask. Probably our 6th or 7th time here now and they haven't gone downhill at all. read more

Found this on Yelp, went with coworkers. None of us knew a restaurant is there. First time at the American Swedish Institute. The restaurant is in the modern building to the left of the Mansion. Kim Simonsson's Moss sculpture exhibit was visible from the Fiska restaurant. Much larger and open aired than I envisioned. Arrived at 11:10 am and it was already packed. Our party of four got the last table. I forgot to ask about eating outside, but it is chilly today. We all got different and very good dishes. Two got side salads and said they were surprised by the acidic dressing and mysterious crunch. They said it was still very good. I got the open faced salmon sandwich, served hot. The salmon was topped with chopped beets that is similar to a Passover Beet Maror, which I happen to love. Not as bitter. I do not want to dissuade anyone. The salmon sits atop greens and a strong mustard sauce, over crunchy bread. Really good, 5 stars. $13. I would order again. Well, there are other dishes I want to try first. Another in my party got the Herb Crusted Roast Beef open faced sandwich, served cold. It was a work of art, and big. She said it was very good. The other dishes they got were the meatballs and Tarragon Chicken Salad. All rated 5s, said they will come back. Service prompt and food served fairly quickly. Salads came out really fast. We were in and out in an hour. I can see some not wanting to pay this much for lunch, but consider the atmosphere and unusual food. We all agreed this is not a place we would take kids, although I do not know if they have a kids restaurant. We will all be back. 5 all around. read more

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I am not sure who handles service or scheduling at this restaurant but training is required. 15-20 minute wait with 6-8 empty tables. I was told that they were leaving tables unserviced because the kitchen was behind. We ordered and got food right away. Food was outstanding. But service was horrible. Someone needs to take charge. Will try again but only for the food. read more

FIKA - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Wow. Fabulous, fabulous meal from here on Saturday afternoon after we explored the museum (which, by the by, is lovely and interesting). We had skipped breakfast, so were starving, and went to town with the menu after getting a couple aquavit cocktails--it was our last day in town, why not?? The mushroom and barley soup was a nice start, but it really needed some salt. The house salad, on the other hand, was super salty (but very good). We LOVED the egg salad sandwich because it had such a unique combination of flavors, but the whole thing was that massive open-faced style and when you cut it, basically all the components fell off. But, delish. Let's talk about the meatballs. Our kid is obsessed with them, and with only four on the plate, she ate 3.5 of them (no joke!) , so we each had one-quarter of a meatball. Based on those mini bites, they were well made. But for $15, add another meatball or two, Swedes! The plate itself was wonderful because there was a trio of sauces surrounding the mashed potatoes, but it was just the right amount and they all tasted incredible together. For dessert, we shared the cardamom bun and the Kringler almond pastry thing. Both were delicious, but the cardamom bun completely won us over. We've read about these for years, but this was our first time having one and it was INCREDIBLE. All told, we had a fun time and loved the minimal dining space. We actually would have been willing to give Fika five stars, but we're rounding down to four because of service. Their whole set up is weird: there's a host stand (with no host 95% of the time) and a line for the cash register--it was confusing where to go/order. The staff also seemed confused about their sections and our particular server was definitely in the weeds the whole time we were there. It seems like the operational aspect of the restaurant could use some ironing, but this is definitely one of the better meals that we had in Minneapolis, so we're happy to have had it on our last day. FYI: The museum gift shop is awesome. read more

when explaining the soup of the day, server did not include ham in the description of the potato leek soup. there was tons of ham in the soup which I don't eat dues to gastronomic issues. and the soup was barely warm. never asked if I needed a refill on coffee. so all this was server issues and not kitchen issues. read more

Nice place for a light lunch date. A bit more pricey but you pay for authenticity and ambience. I recommend a designated driver if you get a drink, they are strong. read more

FIKA - Burrata - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

The food was beautiful presented and very delicious as were the cocktails. We had great service also. Definitely want to come back and try something else it's a large open space comfortable setting read more

We had the short rib stew and it was superb! A delicate beef broth with carrots, potatoes and short ribs cooked to perfection with mustard seed, lightly pickled cucumber, fresh dill and cream drizzle garnishes. The friendly service here is spot on and food served quickly. read more

FIKA - Short rib stew - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

"Indoor and outdoor tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis." Apparently, this is not true - at least not always, but when not true, there is no indication or clear direction. Around Christmas, the museum can become busy, and rules change at a whim, not comfortable for servers or customers who pay steep prices. So, for poor customer service, they get one star. read more

What a fun surprise! Flavors of all the dishes were amazing and your mouth just explodes with happiness! Our server, Kain was excellent! Great guy and knew exactly how to describe each entree. We had rabbit, short ribs, salmon and halibut. All excellent. Dessert was good.. strawberry soup need a bit more ... like angel food cake(my opinion and favorite.) Sat outside and fun view of the mansion. Be sure to go! read more

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A hidden gem of a place you don't want to miss if you are a foodie and come to Minneapolis. All the food items are made on the premise including 3 types of delectable breads, scones, cardamom buns and danish like pastry. The entrees keep to the traditional Swedish fare exactly and are the next best place to actually having meals in Sweden! The soup was served hot and delicious with bursts of flavor. Breads are hearty and dense buttered and a faint flake salting really make them delectable! I also had the best Gravlax (cured salmon plate) I ever ate in the US! The salmon is cured in-house and served with little dabs of onion marmalade, deviled egg smear, beet sauce, capers, delectable fish eggs and fresh dill sprigs. They also had meatballs, beef stew among many other heavenly things. You have a party going on in your mouth the whole time. The plate was a work of art in itself. I spent extra time eating as to savor the Unadulterated flavors! I'll go back every time I visit here. Wonderful way to taste the real true flavors of Sweden! read more

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I enjoyed a stiff drink and snack after visiting the American Swetish Institute. In the spirt of "fika," Swedish culure for having a break/drink and snack, this small cafe serves drinks, coffee, deserts, and Nordic dishes with a contemporary presentation. Don't leave without trying the Swedish meatballs or one of their open faced sandwiches. Their Swedish meatballs made the top meatballs of the USA. http://www.seriouseats.com/2015/01/best-meatballs-across-the-country-usa-america.html read more

FIKA - The Swedish 75 & Scandinavian Sping. These were very strong and Swedish tasting! - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Holy buckets it's beautiful in here (yes, I am here right now). The new Nelson Cultural Center is... well, STUNNING. And the bright, airy, Swedish-modern cafe inside the lobby going to be one of my new favorite hangouts. I can see it in my crystal ball. Mornings, this place is a coffee shop and an ideal meeting location since they have plenty of parking. I ordered some medium roast (Tiny Footprints Coffee) and a slice of quiche (asparagus, goat cheese, fennel). The quiche gets an A. It was extremely tasty, but it's a little small for the price. I'd suggest adding some mixed greens on the side of this for a perfect A+. Also, cardamom rolls and cardamom bread pudding. Just have to mention those exist. Afternoons, you can order from a fresh Scandinavian cafe menu that includes sandwiches, salads, gravlax (cured salmon), meatballs and things like that. They also serve beer and wine and the very local Joia, who coincidentally makes a cardamom soda. Is this a pattern? Fika is open until 5 p.m. most days and then 8 p.m. on Wednesdays if you want to linger later. Which I will clearly want to do. Little Update 4/16/13: THE SALMON SMORGAS IS LIFE-AFFIRMING. I have ordered it the last four times I've eaten at Fika. I have (sex) dreams about it. read more

FIKA - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Fika, boo, you are hella fine in almost every way possible and deserve all the stars. Where do I begin? Is it your stunning open space with gigantic windows that allows for tons of sunlight, and chic furniture? Your friendly and enthusiastic staff members that wear huge smiles across their faces that work uber fast? How about your beautiful, vibrant, and palatable salads, soups, sandwiches, and small plates that always seems to satiate my lunch hungers? It's everything, but I think the food in particular can hold it down by itself. During my last visit, I tried a couple of dishes: Mussels with apples and other goodies in a white wine reduction: I went there for a business meeting, and left wotj a shotgun-like residue of mussel sauce splatters. It has permanently stained my shirt. My only regret? Not sipping down more of my sauce. Forget the shirt. Rock Shrimp Open-Faced Sandwich: The dill, aioli, pickled celery, horseradish surprisingly complimented my rock shrimp very well. Like the mussels, I had a hard time holding myself back from destroying this thing, and my fingers from turning green. Maybe I get lucky with each visit and order the right things, but this place is one of my favorite lunch spots and writing this review has me dying to return soon. read more

FIKA - Mussels and other goodies - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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While we didn't have time to explore the American Swedish Institute while in Minneapolis, my friend insisted that we at least get lunch at Fika since she had read good things. I gave in even though I wasn't convinced. The cafe is not very big but we had no problem getting a table on a Tuesday afternoon. My friend had been talking up the Gravlax (described as house-cured salmon, deviled egg, onion jam, capers & danish rye). That was not really my cup of tea so we ordered the Meatballs to share and I went with the White Asparagus. All our orders were small plates, perfect for sharing. The Meatballs were served over a potato puree with a lingonberry sauce. It might sound crazy, but the tastes melted together in my mouth with delight. My White Asparagus was grilled and came with a poached egg and topped with radishes (and I think ocra if I remember correctly). Fika Cafe was a nice place to relax and enjoy some good food. They recommended several wine pairings and if we had been there to try more, alcohol may have become involved in our meal. I thought it was a bit on the pricey side but I would gladly go back and make an entire day of taking in the whole ASI. read more

FIKA - White Asparagus - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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You know, I was going to give Fika four stars, and then I realized - I couldn't think of a reason NOT to give it five. The food was excellent; the service was solid; the prices were absolutely reasonable. So I'm visiting the Twin Cities, spending time with my in-laws for the holidays. We've got to find a place to meet my wife's family for lunch, and so I whip out the ol' Yelp app on the phone, and oddly enough, this restaurant comes up - at the American Swedish Institute??? Such a thing exists?? We arrive at the crowded lunch hour, and have to wait almost an hour (for a party of five). But - unlike almost any other restaurant, that's not a problem, because you're in the ASI, and get to spend your wait time browsing what is one of the most awesome and amazing museum shops in the country. The time flies by, and you're seated soon enough; the staff at Fika do the best they can to seat you promptly - but yes, it's popular. And worth the wait, assuming you can handle it. The cuisine is sort of Nouveau Scandanavian; like Swedish staple gravlax (smoked salmon) that's house cured; or meatballs spiced with juniper. I had the braised beef smorgas (sandwich) and it was out of this world - the beef was perfect, with escarole and pickled onions atop that blended perfectly with the taste of the beef. Oh, one warning about the food you get here: if it's served with lingonberries, they are not the sweet, cranberry sauce-like ones you normally buy in stores; these are straight from the tree, and they are sour and bitter. So a big thumbs-up for Fika - it made a possibly-iffy lunch with in-laws into an awesome taste treat. Skräckinjagande! (that's Swedish for "awesome!" Sort of). read more

FIKA - Braised beef smorgas (open-faced sandwich) with pickled onions. - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

We have been eager to try this place and the wait was worth it! Amazing food, beautiful space, excellent wait staff!

Best best best food ever! Even when surrounded by deliciousness, I am generally a dainty eater. Stuffing myself would be ungainly, and I avoid it as it makes me uncomfortable. Regardless, I gave in at Fika. One Swedish meatball platter, part of a fried cod meal, an incredible Americano and half a berry shortcake later, I practically needed to be rolled back out the door, but it was worth the effort. This food is just amazing, and the coffee is also incredible. Forget the plane ticket to Stockholm, if I want to see some Scandinavian surroundings, I'll just visit the ASI and Fika. Prices are really reasonable too, considering the quality. I'll definitely be back, soon, I hope! read more

FIKA - Delicious fried cod with roe on toast! - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

This place is such a little, unpretentious gem. Some of the city's finest New Nordic cuisine. Plus, they have an insane happy hour on Wednesdays where you get 6 imported beers for something like $13 and glasses of wine for $3. It's one of my favorite brunch spots in town. It's affordable and super yummy (especially the meatballs and pork belly). After you finish, visit the gift shop for cool imported Swedish stuff and take a tour of the Turnblad Mansion. My only complaint about this place is that I wish it were open longer hours. read more

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Whenever I sit down at Fika I am a little perplexed and always unsure about what I am going to order. The cuisine is unfamiliar to me so I order what sounds familiar. I started with the beet salad. This was awesome and so beautifully presented. It would be a wonderful first course at an elegant affair. Then I had the rock shrimp on toast. Yummy! I could honestly go back today and have the same meal all over again. It was delicious. read more

As soon as you walk into the American Swedish Institute, you will see Fika to the left. It's a cafe in the open space of the sunny, airy lobby. Although it looks casual, you have to wait to be seated up front. Every dish at Fika looks like a work of art. Everything is arranged in a minimalistic but artsy way. The best part is, the prices are very reasonable. We started with the $4 cocktails (four dollars!!). Mine was a refreshing gin cocktail with thyme. It was delicious and crisp without being too sweet. For the meal, we were recommended Minila Clams & Smoked Pork Hock and Shrimp Smorgasar. The Clams and Pork were presented well. I can't say it's anything super unique but it was delicious. The Shrimp Smorgasar on the other hand was not only delicious but a delight to look at. Actually, it looked too pretty to eat! You get perfectly fried shrimp on top of their rye bread and dill sauce, topped with a purple pickled egg. The soft boiled pickled egg yolk oozes out over the smorgasar when you break it open. The combination of flavors makes for a hearty, but not too heavy meal. Surprisingly enough, I didn't feel gross after a meal with deep fried shrimp. I really wish I could have tried everything on the menu! Even if you don't visit the museum part, I highly recommend having lunch here. Worth the trip! read more

FIKA - Shrimp Smorgasar! Amazing natural lighting. - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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What an amazing lunch. 7 of us were able to eat at one table in the courtyard. First off, the service was impeccable. Could have sworn we were at a 4 star Michelin restaurant. And the food? Amazing or whatever word is bigger than that! I had butternut squash soup with pepitas . It was so silky delicious. And Swedish coffee with cardamin whipped cream. I could take a bath in it! Everyone loved their lunch. Will be back again just for the restaurant! read more

This place is stunning! I mean the building is the perfect combination of modern and historical. I would love to organize an elegant event over here (not that I organize events, but if I were...). And the food is just equally as stunning as the building. Clean flavors, simple dishes, elegantly presented and inspired. I had the pork belly and tried the cardamom bun my BF had for himself and both of them were really tasty. On the bun, BF commented that cinnabons were probably something similar before Auntie Anne took a hold of them and transformed them in a sugary mess. The belly was deliciously crispy and went great with the creamy poached egg. I would have it any day for breakfast or lunch or dinner for what matters! I think this is the perfect place for a light weekend lunch. We will be back! read more

I had the egg tart (twin sister to a quiche) and a ginger beer. It was a good paring. I was there for an putdoor movie so by the time I ate it, it was dark out so I couldnt see my food. My review will be based soley on taste! The crust was nice and flaky, the egg was smooth and subtle and there was a good mix of bacon, tomatoes and other veggies. It was a perfect portion and tasted really good with the ginger beer. read more

FIKA - egg tart - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Who would have expected the next five star review to be in a museum lobby? Fika is a delightful rendition of scandinavian service and feasting... my group shared an amazing and albeit reasonable meal of wine and Carlsberg, Smoked Salmon Smorgasbord, Swedish Meatballs, and the most amazing brussel sproats and carmelized onions I may have tasted. The treats were actually less impressing than the actual meal, however still, amazing. Excited to get past the splendid eats to check out the museum! read more

FIKA - Open faced salmon and meatballs - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Wow! accurately sums up my feelings about Fika in one word. Who knew you could get such gourmet food from a museum cafe? Everything on the menu sounds fantastic, and, accordingly (since it is the Swedish Institute after all) everything has a Scandinavian twist. I eventually decided on the Braised Beef sandwich with a side of Brussels Sprouts, having heard rave reviews about both menu items. The Braised Beef sandwich was one of the best sandwiches I have ever eaten - served open-faced (see picture), it comes topped with a hunk of tender, moist, flavorful beef complemented beautifully with pickled onion and saffron aioli. The Brussels Sprouts were cooked perfectly, paired with a nice crunch from crisp onions and drizzled in yummy cheese sauce. (They also paired the Brussels Sprouts with golden grapes; I've had dishes with golden grapes before and I just don't get it, maybe my palate isn't that advanced. The grapes were mild, not tart, and didn't detract from the dish). I've also been told the Celery Root soup is to die for, but it unfortunately wasn't ready when I was there. A return trip is in order... The cafe itself is simply decorated, a cozy, albeit modern, nook in a spacious building. The service was great and the staff really knows their menu. My only wish is that they were open later hours, but at least they are open on weekends too. I was told the menu is seasonal and occasionally rotates; I can't wait to see what they come up with next! read more

FIKA - Braised beef sandwich - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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My husband and I visited American Swedish Institute on Sunday afternoon. When we arrived, cafe looked busy because it was around 12:30. After we enjoyed touring mansion, we stopped and dined at Fika. The price looks expensive, but service was good and we decided to dine here because we wouldn't come here for just dining. The meal was great and it was not something we usually eat, so we overall enjoyed it. We shared Gravlax and Cardamon Bread Pudding. Coffee was good and we loved bread pudding! read more

FIKA - Bread pudding with caramel sauce and cinnamon whipped cream - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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This is the place I've been looking for in Minneapolis. Modern Swedish food served in a modern space but surrounded by relaxed customers and staff. Trout and Swedish meatballs both phenomenal. For the quality, it's not expensive. read more

We loved the glazed salmon. I'm not a fan of beets but this purée went well with the salmon.

Absolutely a wonderful unique place to go. Hard to find many gems like this! The in-house made kombucha like Shrub drink which has turmeric is a must if going here! Staff are extremely nice. Cardamom buns you have to get and go without saying if stopping by here. Highly recommend!! read more

My boyfriend and I went here when we were in town a few weeks ago and we still can't over just how phenomenal this place is! The dishes look and taste like they were created at a fancy, incredibly expensive Michelin star restaurant, yet they were very affordable and are made in this unassuming little cafe inside a restaurant, who would have thought?! I want to take a trip back to Minneapolis just to visit this cafe again. The kombucha cocktail, made with house-made kombucha!, was refreshing, and the food - the meatballs, sweet pea dumplings, and side of bread were incredibly delicious. The dumplings were nothing like I thought they'd be - in the absolute best way. We both loved them! I'm not usually a big dessert person but we kept seeing the server bring out the honey cake to guests so we decided to order it. Pure delight! The honeycomb meringue on top melts in your melt and has a complexity in its flavor you would not expect, and the lemon semifreddo with the blueberry and lemon curd was refreshing and not overly sweet. Incredibly delicious. If we had more room in our stomachs, I think we may have ordered a second of any one of these dishes. The staff at Fika are also awesome! Very welcoming and friendly, and very helpful. The young man serving us was one of the best servers I think I've ever had - I believe his name was Tony. Thank you for such great experience Tony and team!! read more

FIKA - Honey cake - a must try! - Modern European Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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