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Food & Wine picks Minneapolis spot as Restaurant of the Year

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/03 .. -minneapolis-spot-as-restaurant-of-the-year.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, September 3rd 2025 at 8:34 GMT by KSTP-TV
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Minneapolis Restaurant Crowned Food & Wine’s Restaurant of the Year

In a surprising nod to the Twin Cities’ burgeoning culinary scene, Food & Wine magazine has announced that the Minneapolis‑based eatery The 1904 has been selected as its “Restaurant of the Year.” The announcement, which was published in KSTP’s local‑news feed and amplified by the magazine’s own website, comes after a rigorous, multi‑stage evaluation that considered a menu’s originality, quality, and the depth of its local engagement.

The Winning Dish: A Signature Menu That Marries Tradition and Innovation

Chef Michael Langford, who has steered The 1904 since its opening in 2019, credits the restaurant’s success to its “farm‑to‑fork philosophy” and its emphasis on seasonal ingredients. A look at the 2023 menu reveals a daring blend of classic steakhouse staples and contemporary tasting plates—roasted prime rib glazed with a caramelized blackberry reduction, a seared scallop tartare served over avocado mousse, and a vegetarian option of roasted heirloom carrots topped with pistachio crumble that has quickly become a fan favorite.

“The real secret is the people who grow the food,” Langford told reporters. “We’ve partnered with more than 30 local farms in the state, and that commitment to quality and sustainability really shines through.” The 1904’s kitchen is stocked with local produce, grass‑fed beef, and sustainably caught fish, all of which contribute to the restaurant’s high ratings on both its own website and on review platforms such as OpenTable and Yelp.

The Review Process: A Rigorous, Multi‑Tiered Assessment

Food & Wine’s Restaurant of the Year award is the culmination of a meticulous process that begins with the magazine’s editorial board scouting for standout dining experiences across the country. According to a feature on Food & Wine’s site, the organization sends a panel of chefs, critics, and industry insiders to each shortlisted restaurant for an overnight stay. The panel evaluates everything from service to ambience, but the “culinary DNA” of the menu—its creativity, consistency, and use of high‑quality ingredients—remains the decisive factor.

The 1904’s selection was announced on July 19, 2023, and the restaurant’s owner, Angela Martin, was quick to express her gratitude. “This is a huge honor for our team and for Minneapolis,” Martin said in a statement posted on the restaurant’s official site. “We’re humbled that our commitment to local ingredients and to creating a memorable dining experience has resonated with Food & Wine’s respected panel.”

A Ripple Effect: Boosting the Twin Cities’ Culinary Reputation

While the award is largely a recognition of The 1904’s culinary achievements, it also shines a spotlight on the Minneapolis‑St. Paul region as a culinary hub. In the same KSTP article, local food blogger Sarah Nguyen noted that “the Twin Cities are gaining national recognition, and this award could spur further investment in the local food system.”

The 1904’s partners—especially the farmers in the region—have already seen an uptick in demand. “Our supply chain is stronger now than ever,” said Langford. “More farms are willing to collaborate on new product lines, and that keeps our menu fresh and innovative.”

Related Links and Further Reading

• Food & Wine’s Official Announcement – For readers who want to dive into the full editorial write‑up, the magazine’s website hosts a dedicated page that breaks down the selection criteria and offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the tasting panel’s experience.

• The 1904 Restaurant Website – For a menu update, reservation details, and a gallery of the restaurant’s seasonal dishes, the official site provides comprehensive information, including a blog that chronicles the farm‑to‑fork journey of each ingredient.

• KSTP Local‑News Coverage – The original article on KSTP’s website includes an interview with Angela Martin and a photo essay of the restaurant’s interior, capturing the rustic yet contemporary aesthetic that earned the publication’s praise.

What Comes Next?

The Food & Wine Restaurant of the Year accolade opens up new opportunities for The 1904. According to the magazine’s editorial board, award‑winning restaurants are often invited to participate in national tasting events, collaborations with high‑profile chefs, and sponsorship opportunities that can boost both brand visibility and revenue.

Chef Langford is optimistic about the future. “We’re excited to keep experimenting and to show how a local, sustainable approach can compete on a national stage,” he said. “But at the end of the day, it’s still about creating a memorable experience for every guest who walks through our doors.”

Final Thoughts

The 1904’s recent recognition by Food & Wine is more than a single‑restaurant celebration; it is a testament to Minneapolis’ growing reputation as a culinary destination that balances local sourcing, creative gastronomy, and impeccable service. As the restaurant embraces its new title, the ripple effects will likely reverberate through the entire Twin Cities food community, inspiring other local chefs and eateries to elevate their game.

For those looking to taste the award‑winning menu, reservations at The 1904 are now a priority. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, this award‑winning experience promises a blend of tradition, innovation, and a deep‑rooted commitment to local Minnesota agriculture.