Taher keeps growing Along with its new Nordeast Eatery, there's more to report on the ever-expanding Taher Inc. dining empire. The company has purchased St. Paul's venerable Forepaugh's (276 S. Exchange St., www.forepaughs.com) and is planning lots of changes, starting with renovated dining rooms in the grand 1870 Victorian mansion and an all-new menu. "We haven't talked about the cuisine yet," said chef Matt Quist, "but it might be contemporary American."

Quist's other venture: A rooftop garden at the Wayzata Eatery (1179 E. Wayzata Blvd., Wayzata, www.wayzataeatery.com), where he plans to grow organic tomatoes, lettuces and herbs, using raised planting beds and reserved rainwater. "Isn't that cool?" he said with a laugh. "I'm really looking forward to spring."

Around town It's a tough economic climate out there. The latest closing: Machu Picchu, the Peruvian restaurant at Lake and Lyndale in Minneapolis.

There's a new chef at Cafe Levain (4762 Chicago Av. S., Minneapolis, www. cafelevain.com). He's 22-year-old Adam Vickerman, and his résumé includes stints at the former Restaurant Levain and Cafe Barbette before launching Cafe Levain with opening chef Eric Sturtz. One change Vickerman has made is adding Sunday to the restaurant's dinner-only schedule; every Sunday features a three-course option that's $20 for vegetarians, $25 for meat eaters.

In its March issue, Details magazine tells the world what Twin Citians have known for years, namely that Al's Breakfast (413 14th Av. SE., Minneapolis) is one of the nation's top breakfast destinations. And in its fascinating all-butter March issue, Saveur magazine reinforced another tell-us-something-we-don't-already-know factoid, by including Minnesota-made Pastureland on its list of the 30 best butters.

Here's a sure sign of spring: the Harbor View Cafe (314 1st St., Pepin, Wis., www.harborviewpepin.com) has opened after its winter hibernation. At present, the seasonal restaurant, now in its 28th year, is open for lunch Friday through Sunday, adding Monday and Thursday meals after Memorial Day.

When the 100-year-old office building at 500 Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis undergoes a much-needed renovation (thanks to its new owners, a California real estate outfit), don't be surprised if the gutted and rebuilt ground floor becomes home to a restaurant.

Looking for a sweet Easter treat? Check out the cool Peeps-inspired marshmallow bunnies at Lucia's Bakery & Take Home (1428 W. 31st St., Minneapolis, www.lucias.com).

RICK NELSON