Tasty Pot
A dozen variations on simmering Taiwanese meal-in-a-bowl soups are the house specialty at this new-to-Minnesota mini-chain. The bowls arrive in a flash, and they're filled to the brim with a dozen-plus ingredients. Prices fall in the moderate zone; service is fast and friendly, and it's an understatement to describe the portions as "ample." Dessert? Ice cream sandwiches made with colorful macarons. Lunch and dinner daily.
423 14th Av. SE., Mpls., 612-886-3837,
Wally's Falafel and Hummus
The only constant in Dinkytown is change. Look at Sssdude-Nutz doughnut guru Bradley Taylor's decision to step away from his tiny shop for the summer, and hawk his lavishly topped treats out of a food truck. This welcoming spot, having recently moved to roomier digs a few doors down, is another prime example. The affordable menu also includes gyros, kebabs and shawarma (in sandwiches and platter-like meals), plus salads and samosas. Lunch and dinner daily.
417 14th Av. SE., Mpls., 612-746-4776,
The Cove
Borrowing from the order-at-the-counter setups at Chipotle and Naf Naf Grill, chef Tom Thammavong is delivering a mix-and-match format to rice bowls ($8.95 to $10.50). But the main event is poke bowls ($11.50), where diners choose from raw salmon or tuna, then select a finish: a mango-avocado-sweet onion combination, or a mix of avocados, Thai chiles and roasted garlic. Look for a half-dozen bành mÍ-style sandwiches ($7.25 to $7.95), too. Lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday.
1320 SE. 5th St., Mpls., 612-236-4628,
Nancy Pelosi book, 'The Art of Power,' will reflect on her career in public life
