Each Friday, this list will track five of the best things Heavy Table’s writers, editors, and photographers have recently bitten or sipped. Have a suggestion for the Hot Five? Email editor@heavytable.com.
The Hot Five is a weekly feature created by the Heavy Table and supported by Shepherd Song Farm.
Mushroom Melt at the New Scenic Cafe
The mushroom melt served at the New Scenic Cafe is worth every minute of the 2.5-hour drive to the North Shore. Between two hearty slices of wholegrain bread, there is a delicious mix of shiitake, maitake, oyster, hon-shimeji and porcini mushrooms, all topped with melted Gruyere and pecorino Romano. Paired with a cup of French onion soup, this meal was the perfect, savory warmup before stepping out into the freezing temps to hike along Superior.
[Debuting on the Hot Five | Submitted by Lucy Hawthorne]
Raw Scallops from Grand Cafe
We’d recommend pretty much every selection on Grand Cafe’s final menu, but the raw scallops were outstanding. These shellfish were firm, fresh, and sweet, with just the right amount of fresh dill and finishing salt. The accompanying pommes paillasson were like little French tater tots — warm (but not hot), and a crunchy complement to the slick texture of the scallops. I will miss the creativity that came out of the Grand Cafe and will miss Mary and Dan Hunter the most. They are such graceful, friendly hosts. But as the rumor goes, “there’s something brewing.” Perhaps closing chef Jamie Malone is taking over?
[Debuting on the Hot Five | Submitted by Brenda Johnson]
Porchetta Sandwich at Smoqehouse
Easily one of the best sandwiches we’ve had in months — tender, full-flavored barbecued pork belly slathered in a bright, garlic-forward salsa verde that perfectly cuts the richness and fat, all balanced on a delicate but structurally sound ciabatta bun that ties the package together. Is it worth the drive to Faribault? Maybe. Is it a must-eat if you’re passing through? For sure.
[Debuting on the Hot Five | Submitted from a review by James Norton]
Cry Baby Burger from Jimmy’s Billiards
The Cry Baby Burger from Jimmy’s Billiards is as feisty as its name sounds. Jalapeño peppers, pepper Jack cheese, and a small but mighty dose of hot sauce will clear those sinuses in no time. Spring for the sour cream for the fries as a heat-reducing dairy product.
[Debuting on the Hot Five | Submitted by Amy Rea]
Quiche from Dave the Pie Guy
We weren’t looking for quiche when we walked into Dave the Pie Guy’s new location on the 3500 block of Grand Avenue in Minneapolis. That said, the quiche looked appealing. It was, in fact, delicate and creamy. The bacon was generous and savory, and the cheddar cheese on the top was broiled to a crisp perfection. The crust was pretty good, too: flaky with flavor, and not soggy in the center.
[Debuting on the Hot Five | Submitted by Brenda Johnson]