If you have never been to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, you probably have no idea that it is one of the greatest natural resources in the Twin Cities. I still remember my first time, after being told time and time again that I simply had to go. I was blown away by the size of the place and the sheer number of species of plant, tree and shrub. When walking the many paths and trails, it is somewhat like being transported to other lands, be they forest, prairie or wetland. Certainly it feels as if you have just left the city.
Anyone who is unsure of whether or not they should support the Arboretum by attending this event should spend half a day there talking a walk, having a picnic and simply enjoying the peace you can find in so many of the wonderful settings. I think that anyone who appreciates the preservation and care of our local species and natural lands, will find value in this place and this upcoming event. Plus, the feed you like royalty. Check out the list of restaurants and wineries below who will be contributing to what many call the culinary event of the summer.
All proceeds will support the Arboretum and the folks I spoke to at the "Arb" told me that anyone who is able should choose the $125 patron level. You get to come early and have access to the food and wine when it is the freshest, when the crowds are small and mellow and the garden paths clear for strolling. Either way, by going to Toast and Taste, it is a win win.
Reservations are highly recommended although walk-ins are also accepted. In the case of rain, the event will be held indoors. Thanks for supporting the Arboretum and I hope to see you there!
Toast & Taste Highlights Top Twin Cities Restaurants, Local Wines
Save the date - Thursday, July 28 - for the best outdoor party of summer!
Chanhassen, MN (June 24, 2011) - It's been called the best outdoor party of the summer! How can you argue with beautiful gardens, live music, savory food and delicious wine?
Set aside the evening of Thursday, July 28, for Toast & Taste in the Gardens at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. The evening will serve up tastes of in-season, fresh, local cuisine from 25 top independent restaurants in the Twin Cities and surrounding area. Minnesota and regional wineries also will be pouring samples in this pristine garden setting. 
Participating restaurants include Vincent - A Restaurant, The Strip Club, Trotter's Cafe, Terra Waconia, Spoonriver, Sopranos, Signature Cafe, Sen Yai-Sen Lek, Prairie Ale House, Prairie Bay Grill and Catering, Oceanaire Seafood Room, Nosh Restaurant & Bar, Minneapolis Club, Foursquare Kitchen, Gardens of Salonica, Dakota Jazz Club & Restaurant, Crema Cafe, Crave, Urban Eatery, Sopranos, Campus Club, Common Roots Cafe, Cafe Maude, Birchwood Cafe, Bryant Lake Bowl and Arboretum Catering.
Featured vineyards include Carlos Creek Winery, Northern Vineyards, St. Croix Vineyards and Parley Lake Winery and others. Live music in the garden will be provided by George Faber and the Icons. Dr. Al and Sue Zelickson and Gordie and Jo Bailey are official honorary co-chairs of the event.
Reservations required: $75 for general admission from 7 to 9 p.m.; $125 for patron-level early admission at 6 p.m. All proceeds benefit the Arboretum, its gardens and programs. For reservations & info, call 612-625-9875, check the website at: www.arboretum.umn.edu/toastandtaste.aspx or email celebarb@umn.edu. Toast & Taste is presented by the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Foundation.
