What's new in Twin Cities dining? These 4 spots, for starters

The second outlet of this modern-day diner (find the original at 2 E. 26th St., Mpls.,) will soon debut in a newly renovated furniture factory in northeast Minneapolis. Spouses Mary and Andy Cohen will replicate their breakfast-all-day format (along with the usual sandwich and salad roster), supplemented by cocktails (created by La Belle Vie vet Johnny Michaels) and a bar menu. Opens Feb. 17. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

700 Central Av. NE., Mpls., thebadwaitress.com

The Blue Plate Restaurant Company's revamped Mac-Groveland property — formerly known as Scusi — debuts on Valentine's Day, with an approachable menu that's aimed at the neighborhood ("it's the easy answer to 'I don't feel like cooking,' " said co-owner Stephanie Shimp). Look for a full bar, the requisite kitchen counter and a soft-service ice cream machine. Lunch and dinner daily, plus weekend breakfast. Opens Feb. 14 at 5 p.m.

1806 St. Clair Av., St. Paul, 651-789-3333, bottlerocketmn.com

After taking over a North Loop address that has seen two other food-and-drink operations quickly come and go, here's hoping that the third time will be the charm for this contemporary Sichuan restaurant. It's the work of Jessie Wong and Jack Wong, the mother-son team behind popular Szechuan in Roseville, and they're specializing in fresh noodles, steamed buns, dumplings and more, plus a full bar. Lunch and dinner daily.

730 Washington Av. N., Mpls., 612-208-0706, junnorthloop.com

The wait is over. Following a feels-like-forever hiatus, Grand Avenue's 82-year-old grande dame is back in business, with a multi-bazillion-dollar renovation and a talented, James Beard-nominated chef on the premises. He's Jack Riebel (formerly of Butcher & the Boar), and he knows the restaurant well: He grew up a few blocks away. Expect All-American classics from both the kitchen and the bar. Dinner daily.

1096 Grand Av., St. Paul, 651-289-4990, thelexmn.com