Eating
Restaurant Alma
Restaurant Alma’s organic salad with berries, corn soup with tender mushrooms, fresh cedar-smoked salmon, and handmade desserts reflect its philosophy of buying from local organic farmers. 528 University Avenue Southeast (612) 379-4909
Lucia’s Restaurant and Wine Bar
Lucia’s relies on organic, seasonal ingredients from local farms, evident in the vibrant flavors of dishes, from sesame-crusted eggplant to parsley gnocchi with wild mushrooms. 1432 West 31st St. (612) 825-1572
French Meadow Bakery and Cafe
Get tasty, organic, yeast-free, handcrafted breads and treats, plus organic-egg omelets, free-range chicken pot pie, and rum maple pecan tart at the French Meadow Bakery and Cafe. 2610 Lyndale Avenue South (612) 870-7855
Exploring
Theodore Wirth Park
500-acre park of trails, swimming and boating, a wildflower garden, a nine-hole golf course, a quaking bog, and more. 1339 Theodore Wirth Parkway (763) 522-4584
Bryant-Lake Bowl
Rent a lane, lace up your bowling shoes, and order healthy, hearty food such as vegan quesadillas, Sleeper Nachos, and warm fig salad. 810 West Lake St. (612) 825-3737
The Wedge
On your way to canoe the boundary waters? Stock up on natural sandwiches, juices, and organic chips at this co-op grocery store. 2105 Lyndale Avenue South (612) 874-7275
Relaxing
Aveda Institute Minneapolis
Founded a quarter century ago in Minneapolis, the Aveda Institute‘s training facility is where future massage therapists and stylists hone their art. The salon atmosphere is somewhat frenetic, but haircuts cost just $11. Pedicures or massages are about $40 per hour. 400 Central Avenue Southeast (612) 331-1400