The Heartland chef has been a force in the Twin Cities culinary scene for more than 30 years, as chronicled in these photos from the Star Tribune's archives.
Asked what's going to happen Jan. 1 when his landmark farm-to-table restaurant is closed, Russo says: "What I'll be doing in the short term, I don't know."
The "Luscious" pear is decidedly well named so don't be put off by its dowdy demeanor. Despite its small size, rust color and spotted skin, this fruit is sweet, juicy, lush and fragrant.