Gastro Globe-Trotting

From falafel to homemade hummus, this spot is like Mecca for lovers of Middle Eastern and old-world foods. Specializing in breads (Roghani, pita and more), to-go deli items (gyros, kebobs, spinach pie and Greek salads), Holy Land is a veritable one-stop shop for authentic and diverse Mediterranean foods.

This South Minneapolis Thai restaurant has become so popular that a 2008 expansion was in order. And guess what? The place is still packed for its lunch-time buffet and fabulous signature dishes, like My Mom's Salmon--a sweet and spicy whole fish.

German food shouldn't be relegated to Oktoberfest. That's why the Black Forest Inn expertly serves German foods like bratwurst, spaetzel and pastries for breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the summer months, the waterfall and white lights on the patio make it the perfect spot for a German brew and their signature dessert--Black Forest cherry torte.

One of the most underrated restaurants in Minneapolis, this Nepalese restaurant is dedicated to service and excellent, authentic cuisine. Stop in for the $7.95 lunch buffet, the always perfect Choyala--spicy chicken baked in the Tandoori oven--and any one of the vegan dishes, all of which use a variety of spices like cumin and turmeric to tickle the palate.