Here’s Where to Go for Sushi in Rochester
Whether you’re a resident of Rochester, Minnesota, or are visiting the area, if you love sushi, you’re in luck. There are several fantastic sushi spots around town. Let’s take a look at some of
Rochester’s best sushi restaurants and what they have to offer.
Ichi Tokyo
In the Japanese language, the word “Ichi” means “Number One.” Ichi Tokyo strives to be the number one restaurant in Rochester, which is why it serves sushi and other Japanese dishes made with only the freshest, high-quality ingredients. Start your meal with an order of fresh oysters, miso salmon, or tuna tartar with quail egg for the table. Sushi entrees include the Love Boat, the sushi & sashimi combo for two, and the vegetable deluxe. You can also order sushi and sashimi a la carte. Be sure to try the red snapper, yellowtail, and flying fish roe. Read the rest of this entry »
If you’re looking for an excellent midsize sedan, check out the 2020 Mazda6. You can take the Mazda6 just about anywhere, from across town for work to across the state on a road trip. Keep
reading to learn about several outstanding features on the 2020 Mazda6.
Engine and Performance
The 2020 Mazda6 is equipped with two types of engines: a 187-horsepower, SKYACTIV-G 2.5-L DOHC four-cylinder engine with VVT and cylinder deactivation and a 250-horsepower, SKYACTIV-G 2.5-T dynamic pressure turbo DOHC four-cylinder engine with VVT. The Sport and Touring trims come with the 2.5-L engine, and the Grand Touring, Grand Reserve Touring, and Signature trims come with the 2.5-T engine. Both engines are paired with a SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission with sport mode. Read the rest of this entry »
New Standard Features for the 2020 CX-9
If you’ve been searching for an SUV that the entire family will love, look no further than the Mazda 2020 CX-9. While the CX-9 has always been popular with drivers, for the 2020 model year, Mazda is giving its signature family vehicle some exciting updates. Let’s take a look at what makes the 2020 CX-9 better than ever. 
Exterior
The 2020 CX-9 is just as stylish as previous models, with some exciting enhancements. Upper trim levels will receive all-new 20-inch dark silver wheels. A distinctive new exterior color, Soul Red Crystal, will be available on the Signature trim. Exterior badging, chrome accents, and LED accent lighting complete the look.
Interior Upgrades
With the 2020 model, the CX-9 will be more comfortable than ever before. Heated cloth seating and a power driver’s seat will come standard on the base trim level. Upper trims will give you the option of second-row captain’s chairs. This is the first time that captain’s chairs will be available in the CX-9. Not only do these chairs provide more comfort, but they also make it easier to board the vehicle. The 2020 CX-9 Signature trim gives you an extra console for second-row passengers and new Nappa leather upholstery. Read the rest of this entry »
Impress Your Date With These Romantic Restaurants
Valentine’s Day isn’t far away, and you should make reservations for a romantic dinner as soon as possible to get great seats. Rochester, Minnesota, has a variety of excellent restaurants, so you can find somewhere delicious to eat no matter what your favorite foods are. Here are some of the best, most romantic restaurants in Rochester.
Le Petit Cafe
Le Petit Cafe offers a fine European dining experience. You can eat at the bar, on the patio, in the elegant dining room, or in the cheerful sunroom. A new location in the Avalon building, a former hotel, is under construction. For dinner, you can sample delicious dishes such as twice-baked cheese soufflé, butternut soup, herb-roasted quail, seared scallops, and mushroom risotto.
For dessert, try the pomegranate molasses ice cream. After dinner, you can enjoy petit fours with liqueur and coffee or loose leaf tea. You can also sample some wine with a selection of gourmet European cheeses. Le Petit Café is open every day from noon to midnight, and reservations are recommended. Read the rest of this entry »
Get Ready for the Mazda CX-30 in Rochester, MN
The all-new 2020 Mazda CX-30 crossover SUV has a sleek, sporty feel, and it looks a lot like a hatchback. It’s fun to drive, it has plenty of luxurious features, and it can help you keep yourself and your passengers safe. It’s between the CX-3 and the CX-5 in Mazda’s lineup, but they didn’t call it the CX-4 because they sell a different SUV with that name in China. You can choose from four trim levels: the base or CX-30 model, the Select Package, the Preferred Package, or the Premium Package. Here’s some more information about this innovative new vehicle’s best features.
An Appealing Style
The 2020 CX-30 has a curved profile, a subtle spoiler, and a sculpted tailgate with angular taillights that sit around the corners of the vehicle. The hood and sides are sculpted as well, giving this vehicle a swift, agile look. Black plastic cladding protects the parts of the body that are closest to the road. The CX-30 also has 16-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, all-season tires, rain-sensing windshield wipers, folding power side mirrors, and automatic high beams. You can add roof rails, a power moonroof, a power liftgate, 18-inch aluminum wheels, or rear privacy glass.
Can’t-Miss Exhibits at the Zoo in Rochester, MN
The Zollman Zoo is part of Oxbow Park in Byron, Minnesota, about 15 minutes away from Rochester. Admission is free, and it has more than 30 species of animals. Along with the zoo, this 572-acre park includes more than 10 miles of trails for hiking and bird watching, campsites, a baseball field, four picnic areas, and a ski trail. You can go fishing as well. The zoo focuses on native Minnesota animals, and environmental education classes are available. Here are some of the exhibits at Zollman Zoo that you shouldn’t miss.
The Oxbow Nature Center
The Oxbow Nature Center opened in December 1981, and it offers a variety of educational and recreational activities. School groups can participate in programs that cover particular animals, the ecology of the area, natural history, outdoor recreation skills, and more. There’s an area for classes and an exhibit with some of the most common snakes, frogs, and fish in the region. You can check out interesting artifacts and displays that are associated with the natural world as well. The Nature Center has maps and brochures with information about upcoming events, the animals at the zoo, and its history.
Introducing the 2020 Mazda 3
After a full redesign in 2019, the 2020 Mazda 3 is showcasing even more appealing features that make it a top choice in the compact sedan and hatchback segments. Take a closer look at some of the new additions to decide if it’s the right car for you.
New Standard Safety Features
Mazda added new safety features to the 2020 Mazda 3 that come standard across all trim levels. They were previously available on the upper trim levels and include blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, and forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking. The features are bundled together in Mazda’s i-Activsense driver-assist package. Every model also has a rearview camera, a driver attention monitor, and plenty of air bags in the seating area.
Exterior Equipment and Styling
Whether you’re shopping for a stylish sedan or a sporty hatchback, the Mazda 3 delivers on what you want. Standard exterior features include LED headlights, taillights, daytime running lights, and alloy wheels. You can also choose a higher trim level to get features like automatic and adaptive headlights, keyless entry, automatic windshield wipers, and a sunroof. The hatchback version is also available with a rear spoiler that adds sport-inspired flair.
Comfortable Cabin
Within the cabin of the 2020 Mazda 3, you’ll find a variety of appealing features. Even the base model comes well-equipped with a driver information screen, push-button start functionality for the ignition, and a split-folding rear seat. Tech features include an 8.8-inch central display screen, an eight-speaker sound system with two USB ports and HD radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice controls.
With the higher trim levels come options like dual-zone automatic climate control, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, leather upholstery, a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system, satellite radio, and power and heated front seats. The hatchback is available with a cargo cover. If you choose the automatic transmission, you can also get paddle shifters as an option.
Power and Performance
Mazda didn’t change the powertrain, so it’s still a peppy vehicle that’s fun to drive. Beneath the hood, you’ll find a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine that produces 186 pound-feet of torque and 186 horsepower. It works with a six-speed automatic transmission, although you can choose a manual transmission as an option on the hatchback version. The steering wheel of this vehicle feels light in your hands, yet engages well for crisp and precise handling.
Drivers also appreciate the smooth, impressive power, even from a non-turbo engine, and the firm and responsive brake pedal. In speed testing, the Mazda 3 went from zero to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, which beats many of the other models in its segment.
Visit Rochester Mazda to take the latest Mazda 3 for a test drive and experience these upgraded features for yourself. Between the stylish exterior design, the comfortable and upscale cabin, and the power beneath the hood, this model is sure to impress!
Where to Grab a Drink in Rochester, MN
When you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a drink with friends, check out these local bars and pubs in Rochester. Each offers a unique atmosphere, along with an extensive menu of drinks and tasty food options. You can have fun with your friends or choose a spot that delivers a cozy, intimate feeling for a date night.
Dooley’s Pub
Dooley’s Pub is the place to go if you want a fun, vibrant atmosphere. This location features large screen TVs throughout the seating areas where you can watch the latest sporting events and games. It’s located in the heart of downtown Rochester and is open daily from 11 a.m – 2 a.m. During happy hour, which takes place Sunday through Thursday from 9 p.m. until close, you can get half-price menu items, $4 select shots, $5 glasses of house wine, and special prices on beer.
The menus vary, depending on when you go, although you can always find something tasty to sample. Dooley’s naan tacos are among the top menu options. These tasty tacos are served on warm, fresh-baked flatbread and topped with your choice of flavorful toppings, such as pulled BBQ pork, house-made slaw, picked peppers, fish, pico de gallo, vegetables, and chipotle crema. You can also order from the “pick two” lunch menu, which allows you to choose two menu favorites for a lower price. If you’re dining in for dinner, try the pork’n mac ‘n’ cheese, which features pasta, beer ale cheese sauce, bacon bits, and BBQ pulled pork.
Bitter & Pour
Located on Historic Third Street in the Merchant Exchange building is Bitter & Pour, a cozy bar where you can sample the finest elixirs and spirits. Four locals founded the location with a goal of creating a stylish place where hip Rochester residents could mingle and sip cocktails crafted by bartenders who truly obsess over the details.
The Chubby Ginger is one of the local favorites, prepared with Lake House spiced rum, house-made ginger syrup, fresh lime and soda, topped with candied ginger. Along with an extensive selection of cocktails, the menu includes wine, craft beer, and small plates, including a charcuterie board, marinated nuts, and a cheese board.
Thirsty Belgian
Thirsty Belgian has been part of the downtown Rochester scene since it opened in 2014. The bar features nine taps, along with 70 bottled and canned beers and ciders available to enjoy. You can always enjoy Stella Artois, Kwak, Stella Cidre, Maredsous Brune, and St. Bernardus Abt 12 on tap, while the other four taps feature a rotating selection. In addition to the beer options, this spot has specialty house cocktails, liquor, and wine options to sample.
The atmosphere in this cozy pub is inspired by the owner’s frequent childhood trips to Belgium. You can experience live entertainment as you enjoy a variety of drink and food options. The food menu fuses Belgian pub food with American favorites. Be sure to try the Thirsty Belgian Toasties, which are toasted sandwiches prepared with thinly sliced meat, fruit, and cheese.
No matter where you are in Rochester, you can always find a fun bar or pub that offers a refreshing libation in an appealing atmosphere. Stop in at one of these spots and enjoy an evening out with friends or family.
Which 2020 Mazda Will Be Your Next Vehicle?
If you’re shopping for a new car, take a look at the new models available in the 2020 Mazda lineup. Each boasts impressive standard and available features, a strong powertrain, and a stylish look that is sure to turn a few heads when you’re behind the wheel.
Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is a three-row midsize crossover SUV that’s perfect for those who want a little more space than a compact SUV can offer. For 2020, Mazda has made some improvements that make it even more appealing than the outgoing 2019 model. One of the most notable changes is a bump up in torque. Beneath the hood, you’ll find a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that now rates at 320 pound-feet of torque and 250 horsepower.
Mazda also added a new off-road traction assist button, which replaces the control button and helps drivers navigate on rough terrain. When engaged, the traction assist system stops reducing the engine torque, increasing the brake force on the wheels that have lost traction. Additionally, all models come with heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, and heated side mirrors. Second-row captain’s chairs are now available as an option, replacing the standard bench seat.
Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 has been one of the best compact crossover options since Mazda released it in 2013. This model has only gotten better through the years, and the 2020 is no exception. It went through a complete redesign in 2017, so it maintains many of the features from that update. However, new exterior equipment includes a longer hood, upgraded headlights and taillights, and a more aggressive front grille. Within the cabin, you can get appealing features like premium leather upholstery, metallic accents, and ventilated front seats.
For 2020, experts expect to see the long-anticipated 2.2-liter SKYACTIV-D turbodiesel four-cylinder two-stage engine. On the European version of this car, the engine makes 290 pound-feet of torque and 168 horsepower, and it’s also incredibly efficient. If the numbers remain consistent, buyers should be able to get a diesel-powered engine in the 2020 CX-5 that will have better fuel economy than the current version, which has a 2.5-liter gas-powered four-cylinder engine.
Mazda CX-30
All-new for 2020, the Mazda CX-30 is a crossover SUV that sits between the CX-3, a subcompact, and the CX-5, a compact SUV. From the outside, this model looks bold and sleek, sharing some of the exterior elements with the CX-9. Although final details haven’t been released yet, the vehicle should have premium interior features like the other models in the lineup, including soft-touch surfaces and high-end tech.
Mazda also includes a number of safety features as standard on its vehicles, and this model should come equipped with them as well. Some of these include a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. You may have to move up to a higher trim level to get all of the features, but at least some will almost certainly come standard across the board.
Visit Rochester Mazda to take one of these vehicles for a test drive and determine which is the right fit for you and your lifestyle.
Top Bakeries Around Rochester, MN
When you’re craving delicious baked goods, you have plenty of options in the Rochester, Minnesota, area. At the local bakeries, you’ll find fresh-baked bread, pastries, doughnuts, and other tasty treats. Check out a few of the top-rated bakeries to decide where you want to go for your next sweet treat.
Drift Dough
Drift Dough is a popular coffee and doughnut shop located within Forager Brewing on 6th Street NW in Rochester. This spot provides daily doughnut options that change throughout the week. Some of the past flavors include blueberry lemon cookie, Oreo, coconut, Nutella s’mores, strawberry powdered sugar, strawberry unicorn, cotton candy crunch, and cinnamon sugar. The menu also includes different types of coffee drinks that pair nicely with the flavorful doughnuts.
If you need gluten-free doughnuts, you’re in luck at Drift Dough. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the bakery offers a wide range of tasty options. You can also place an order in advance for a dozen vegan doughnuts, which will contain a mix of the daily vegan flavors. The bakery offers three to five different vegan options each day and you can keep an eye on the company’s Instagram page to see what’s available that day. Recent vegan doughnut seasonal favorites included horchata, vegan cream cheese, and pumpkin butter, topped with a Biscoff cookie.
Daube’s Cakes and Bakery
Daube’s Cakes and Bakery is another appealing spot to enjoy some baked treats. You can order custom cakes for any occasion, and you have plenty of flavors to choose from at this location. A few of the popular flavors include a dark chocolate cake topped with cream cheese frosting, a rich chocolate ganache, and a cherry, red velvet with strawberry white chocolate frosting, and white cake with coconut and nuts, topped with burnt buttercream and cream cheese frosting.
Along with the selection of cakes, the bakery offers similarly flavored filled cupcakes, cheesecakes, tortes, tarts, doughnuts, muffins, cookies, brownies, and bombe, a decadent French dessert. If you’re not in the mood for something sweet, try a sandwich or a slice of quiche. Another specialty is kolache, a Czech pastry with a flaky crust and stuffed with fruit filling. With so many different options, it’s easy to find something you’ll enjoy at this versatile bakery.
Great Harvest Bread Co.
Great Harvest Bread Co. has a location on Broadway in Rochester, where its staff members bake fresh bread and goodies every morning. For more than three decades, this company has been using 100% whole-grain flour to produce wholesome and delicious options for you to enjoy. If you’re dining in for lunch, you can choose from hot and cold sandwiches piled high with fresh ingredients. One of the local favorites is the “GHBC,” which has two types of cheese and a garlic and herb spread on top of fresh white bread, grilled to crispy perfection. You can also enjoy cookies, tarts, sweetbreads, muffins, and scones.
You don’t have to go far to find a bakery that offers all types of delicious house-made treats and bread. Sample a few goodies at these local bakeries and satisfy your sweet tooth.
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