Dining: There's a new chain in town; actually, several new chains

This import from Chicago's Chinatown landed near the U earlier this year. Expect big portions, moderate prices and one of those encyclopedic menus that cover all manner of cravings, running from the familiar (tea-smoked duck, Kung Pao beef, General Tso's chicken) to dishes not always on mainstream Minnesota menus, including frog and jellyfish. There's beer, wine and a small list of specialty cocktails, and an ever-changing $10 weekday lunch deal. The second Minneapolis outlet of another chain, Bambu (bambudrinks.com), is arriving next door. Lunch and dinner daily.

317 Huron Blvd. SE., Mpls., 612-379-1983,

laoszechuanmn.com

Chicago's hyper-popular hot dogs-and-more juggernaut has established a Minnesota beachhead in Woodbury, and judging by the startling number of vehicles taking advantage of the drive-through operation (which runs with military precision), the place is an instant hit. All-beef hot dogs (with all the proper Windy City-style toppings) are the menu's headliner, but the kitchen also cranks out burgers, Italian beef sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, pasta and baby back ribs. Dessert? Chocolate layer cake, of course. A second location is under construction in Maple Grove. Lunch and dinner daily.

8450 Hudson Road, Woodbury, 612-295-0100, portillos.com

A welcome addition to downtown's skyway dining scene (technically, it's located on the IDS Crystal Court's street level), this newcomer is another one of those "it's the [fill-in-the-blank] version of Chipotle." Instead of tortillas, the carbs of choice are just-baked pita and flatbread, served with a bevy of grilled meats (try the salmon kebab or the zesty lamb meatballs), fresh vegetables and lively condiments. There are salad and rice plate (with a basmati-wild rice blend) options, too. Decent prices, refreshing beverages and terrific chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Lunch and early dinner Monday through Saturday.