Diane’s Place Just Put Minnesota on the National Food Map

I enjoy eating out, but I get annoyed when I spend good money on mediocre food. I think most people can relate, which is probably why most people stick to a few tried-and-true favorite spots.

I love discovering new places and am always looking for recommendations from trusted sources. So when I saw that Food & Wine named a Minnesota restaurant as their Restaurant of the Year, it instantly made my must-try list.

I love the backstory, too. A hardworking woman spent over 20 years as a pastry chef before opening her own restaurant in 2024, and then just a year later, it's named restaurant of the year. How cool is that?

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Minnesota’s Food Scene Is Getting National Recognition

Minnesota has a ton of great restaurants. Guy Fieri has endorsed several, like Pizzeria Lola, which he called one of the best pizza joints in the country, and the Nook, which made his top burgers in America list.

RELATED: GUY FIERI REVEALS HIS FAVORITE MN RESTAURANTS

When someone like Guy Fieri or a major outlet like Food & Wine recommends a place, I pay attention. A while back, Food & Wine named Myriel in St. Paul one of the top ten restaurants in America. And now, they’ve selected another Minnesota restaurant as their 2025 restaurant of the year.

Food & Wine Selects Minnesota Restaurant as Restaurant of the Year

Diane Moua, a classically trained pastry chef with more than 20 years of experience in the Twin Cities dining scene, opened Diane’s Place in 2024.

SEE THE 15 MOST BOOKED RESTAURANTS IN MINNESOTA BELOW

When the restaurant first opened, they served her signature pastries and lunch, but have now expanded to offer dinner. The menu features both classic pastries with an Asian twist, like coconut and pandan croissants, and savory dishes inspired by Hmong traditions.

According to Food & Wine, you’ll find comforting dishes like sour pork short ribs, roast chicken with egg roll–inspired stuffing, and a flavorful duck stew with Thai eggplant and lemongrass.

Diane has simplified the names of traditional dishes to help non-Hmong guests feel more comfortable ordering. You can find this restaurant at 117 14th Avenue NE in Minneapolis, and you can get a sneak peek at their delicious-looking online menu at dianesplacemn.com.