Hazellewood Grill, now a couple of years old, has grown into one of, if not the best, dining options around Lake Minnetonka. The vibe is upscale casual, the menu comfort food with inventive twists. Everything from the service to taste of the food exceeds expectations. Brined Iowa pork chops were sided by a killer smoked Gouda potato gratin, perhaps one of the best side dishes in town. The wine list is reasonably priced, adventurous, and quite diverse for a restaurant of its ambition. As for the view, it's a strip mall parking lot. But in lake 'burbs, it's either food or view.

• See Review | February 2005
• See Second Helping