Best of the Cities 2011

We’re always excited when the City Pages Best Of awards drop. They’re always a good reminder of all the fantastic stuff all around us. And this year we’re doubly happy to see that a Lake Street area neighborhood, Lyn-Lake, won the best neighborhood award.

It’s easy to become a resident; there are plenty of duplexes and apartments for rent, many just rundown enough to be affordable without crossing the line into scary. Parking is pretty easy, the neighbors are mostly friendly, and the business district can’t be beat.

But that’s not all! Read on for the full list of love shown to the Lake Street area this year, with more awards than you can count on your fingers.

Best Neighborhood – Lyn-Lake

Best New Restaurant – Heidi’s, 2903 Lyndale Ave. S.

Best Outdoor Dining - moto-i, 2940 Lyndale Ave. S.

Best Ethiopian Restaurant – T’s Place, 2713 E. Lake St.

Best Restaurant for Romance – Barbette, 1600 W. Lake St.

Best Italian Restaurant – Il Gatto, 3001 Hennepin Ave. S.

Best Cheap Eats – La Loma Tamales, Midtown Global Market & Mercado Central

Best Cocktail Name – Trust Me Baby at Amore Victoria, 1601 W. Lake St.

Best Bloody Mary – Burger Jones, 3200 W. Lake St.

Best Free Activity – Free Ink Day at Highpoint Center for Printmaking, 912 W. Lake St.

Best Place to Buy Vinyl – Hymie’s Vintage Records, 3820 E. Lake St.