Lunch, and culture. Or is it culture, and lunch?
While absorbing all things Nordic Christmas at the American Swedish Institute, be sure to set aside time for a meal or a snack at the exceptional Fika, where chef Michael Fitzgerald and his team explore modern Scandinavian flavors at moderate, Lutheran-like prices. Lunch Tue.-Sun., dinner Wed.
2600 Park Av. S., Mpls., 612-871-4907, www.asimn.org
At Gather, chef Josh Brown pays close attention to the seasons, and his cooking obviously takes its design cues from the Walker Art Center's collection. Check out Brown's British-themed menu -- a nod to the museum's screenings of the British Arrow Awards -- at this Thursday's edition of the restaurant's monthly chef meet-and-greet (complete with free samples), from 5 to 9 p.m. Lunch Tue.-Sun., dinner Thu.-Sat. through Dec. 29.
1750 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls., 612-253-3410, www.gatherbydamico.com
Sea Change really covers the bases for its Guthrie Theater-going diners, offering a stunning raw bar and nuanced seafood (don't miss the aromatic bouillabaisse) but also emphasizing easygoing items along the lines of cod tacos, a fine burger, a well-prepared daily omelet and a lovely smoked trout salad. Lunch Tue.-Sun., dinner daily.
806 S. 2nd St., Mpls., 612-225-6499, www.seachangempls.com
