11 things that I like.
November 7th, 2007, MICHAEL RISDALL1.) The Chicken Soup at Chambers Kitchen, MPLS.
I don’t know what is in this soup besides chicken, noodles and broth, but like almost everything else on the menu at Chambers Kitchen, it’s great. Best of all, it’s only $8 … So even if someone’s not in the mood to drop $150 for dinner, one can still swing by the art decorated bar, have a glass of wine, the soup and get out of there for around $50.
2.) Moose and Sadies Cafe (coffee)
I have been going to Moose and Sadies Cafe, located in the warehouse district for almost 2 years. Every time, I order the same thing — Large Skim Cappuccino. As a self-proclaimed coffee snob, which means I’m pretty picky about how espresso drinks are prepared (and why not they cost 4$), Moose and Sadies is the best prepared coffee I have found in Minneapolis. Plus, they have really good breakfast. (212 Third Ave N Ste 210 Minneapolis, MN)
3.) Pee Wee Herman’s Big Adventure
Last Sunday, Pee Wee’s Big Adventure was on, I watched it for the first time in nearly 5-8 years. If you haven’t watched it recently (assuming you liked Pee Wee) I suggest breaking out the VHS and watching it again. At first I was skeptical, but as soon as I saw the beginning scene and heard the theme music, it was over, I had to watch it. And I liked it.
4.) Clark’s Wallabee Shoes
If I remember correctly these shoes were originally designed in 1960’s for use on Cobblestone. They have this really rubbery sole that feels like your walking on jello. Plus, they look pretty sweet with out socks.
5.) When my mom says “Hella”
The exact phrase was, “What’s the weather like in Minnesota? It’s Hella cold here.” I guess I don’t need to exaggerate any further.
6.) Adult Education Courses at MCAD
Whomever said, “One should never stop learning / be a life long learner,” would be proud of the course offerings at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. There’s a whole slew of courses offered at one time rates. Recently, I took one for Flash. It was fun and I learned a lot + it was only $300, which is comparably lower than what other institutions wanted. Another class, 6$ figure drawing, is a reasonable way to get into or back into traditional art.
7.) People Watching
My girlfriend and I love people watching. We are both Advertising Art Directors, always absorbing human truths — insights into peoples lives, something we can make great ideas out of. A few places for people watching: The Mall of America, big airports (ohare/dfw), State Fairs and while parked in rush hour traffic. People are interesting – trying to understand why people do things – have certain mannerisms – will always be something I like.
8.) Pizza
3 years ago, I would have written Quesadillas. 10 years ago, probably Grilled Cheese sandwiches. Of late it’s pizza! One can make the argument that they are all the same basic thing, bread, cheese and some kind of tomato mess plopped on top, I beg to differ. The best places in MPLS to get pizza: Punch Pizza and Pizza Nea. I like Punch better, it has a better atmosphere and you get your pizza fast. Pizza Nea on the other hand, takes about an hour and you have to deal with a waitress, but the pizza is not as wet and you get a crispier crust. My favorite frozen pizza is Wolfgang Pucks brand, coming in tied for second, California Pizza Kitchen (thin crust) and Amy’s Pizza’s.
9.) Noise Canceling Headphones
I have those Bose ones, but I’ve heard any will do the trick. When flying, these headphones block every annoyance (the most obnoxious ones can still faintly be heard which in some cases is still too much). When at work, they block all the white noise – even if you aren’t listening to music. If I want it to be quiet, all I have to do is put them on. I like these.
10.) Fire
Fire is neat.
11.) Pine Scented Car Air-fresheners
Preferably the ones shaped like pine trees. They smell like Christmas.
November 7th, 2007 at 5:47 pm
The Pizza at Psycho Suzie’s Motor lounge in Northeast MN is
a definite favorite of my boyfriend and myself, in case you
haven’t tried it, it is amazing.
http://www.psychosuzis.com/