At Domacin Restaurant & Winebar (102 2nd. St. S., Stillwater, 651-439-1352, www.domacinwinebar.com), chef Jeffrey Lundmark caters to his wine-savvy guests with an eclectic array of entrees and meant-to-be-shared plates, while the bar uncorks from a deeply stocked cellar. On Sunday evenings, the kitchen prepares an ever-changing tasting menu ($30, with $15 wine pairings). Open daily at 4 p.m.
Chef Christopher Durant's something-for-everyone menu is a big draw at the Green Room (215 S. Main St., 651-342-0215, www.thegreenroomstillwater.com) — don't miss the green coconut curry shrimp, or the lively chicken vindaloo — but another attraction is the handsome historic setting. Oh, and the bar's mojito menu. Lunch Mon.-Sat., dinner daily.
Every small town should have a gathering place along the lines of cozy Olives Pizza (11 Judd St., Marine on St. Croix, 651-538-2124, www.olivesmarine.com), with its busy wood-burning oven and craft beer-loving bar. Open Thu.-Sun. evenings.
RICK NELSON
