5 to Try: Eat Local in the Twin Cities

Chef Lenny Russo has won numerous awards for his contemporary menu and commitment to sustainable agriculture practices. He takes fresh, local and in-season ingredients and makes mouth-watering and artful dishes like pan-seared Minnesota duck and asparagus cream soup.

Owner and chef Scott Pampuch is such a proponent of sustainable agriculture that he's organized a summer farm tour, where local chefs will use the farm bounty to make meals right on site. He's also been nominated for James Beard awards for his delectable dishes, all of which focus on sustainability and the joy of farm-to-table food.

Diners can try out the best in local and seasonal foods with Restaurant Alma's tasting menu. At $45 per person, the meal features a choice of local grains, grass-fed meats, fish, greens and more.

Even in the darkness of the winter months, this little Uptown cafe gets nearly 60 percent of its ingredients from local sources. In the spring, nearly everything they serve--from the turkey burger to the fish tacos--is organic, local and fair-trade.

This famous wine bar's menu is always changing, finding inspiration in seasonal ingredients and farm provisions. Every week Lucia's menu will change to reflect the growing season and unique local flavors it brings.