Shorewood Bar & Grill, Fridley

In 1971, brothers Bill, Jim, and Tony Nicklow opened their first restaurant, naming it the Shorewood Inn. The eatery prospered for decades thanks to a clear view of Moore Lake and a collection of Greek recipes handed down through the family. In 2005, though, Jim Nicklow retired, leasing the lakeside property to another restaurant. When the building became available again in 2009, Jim came out of retirement to revitalize the old family business.

At the revamped location, chefs roast gyro meat on a vertical spit for tzatziki-sauced sandwiches or mediterranean pizzas decorated with feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Traditional American favorites, such as barbecue ribs, offer edible comfort to diners on strict teddy-bear-free diets. On Sunday, diners put together custom feasts at a brunch buffet with an omelet station and a bloody-mary bar. Shorewood Bar & Grill dispenses culture in addition to cuisine with a schedule of live music, and an outdoor patio is available for al fresco dining.