MSP Musings: November 2010

Paying tribute to my cherished Sex and the City series, the title for this two-post series is entirely fitting, if not slightly deceptive. Having grown up in a small town of 2,000 in greater Minnesota (not far from Pine City), there will always be a little "country" in me. But having lived in MSP for more than 10 years now (eek!), I've come to identify myself as a bona fide "city" girl.

And so begins my lovely weekend with friends exploring the wonder that is Pine City.

First up, the Pizza Pub, a local institution.

With its medieval-inspired decor, plethora of games and fun wait staff, it's easy to see why the Pizza Pub is the Friday night hot spot.

The pub features a number of unique specialty pizzas. Our group shared the asparagus pizza, with asparagus, Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, mozzarella and cheddar cheese...

As well as the alfredo pizza with alfredo sauce, chicken breast and mozzarella.

I loved the chicken alfredo pizza, especially with the delicious white sauce. I also enjoyed the asparagus pizza, but it didn't stand out as particularly special to me (though my friends may disagree with that assessment). I generally prefer a little more sauce than it offered.

I had a great time at the Pizza Pub with good company, good food and good people watching :)

Next up, Sauser's Hardware. If the Pizza Pub is a Pine City institution, Sauser's might just be a landmark. In describing the grandeur that is Sauser's, my friend explained that they have everything. And, if they don't, they'll get it for you. That level of customer service, might just be my favorite thing about small towns.

When I first stepped into Sauser's, I immediately realized she was right...they do have everything. From power tools and outdoor landscaping...

To gift-giving and home decor. It was quite precious.

From Sauser's we headed through town, stopping at various little gift shops and antique stores, including the darling little Chicken Koop, filled to the brink with antiques and goodies.

I found some candlesticks and napkins for my dining room. Neither were antique, but they're cute nonetheless.

We finally made our way through town to the A&W, perhaps my favorite place in all of Pine City (in fact, I briefly held the Foursquare mayorship of this, my beloved little restaurant chain). I don't know why I have such a fascination with A&W...maybe it's because they're now somewhat of a rarity in Minnesota. Or it's just my love of root beer.