Niko White
Boulder, Colorado: Sushi Tora
Seldom seen (on these shores, at least) varieties of nigiri sushi, augmented by perfectly composed Japanese appetizers. Lunch for two $100.
Mike Lutz
Louisville, Kentucky: 21c Museum Hotel
Great Value Envelope-pushing yet comfortable hotel with a rotating collection of contemporary art installations. Doubles from $205.
Courtesy of Hotel Ivy
Minneapolis, Minnesota: Hotel Ivy
Starwood amenities, but with a boutique sensibility. Doubles from $229.
Craig Bares
Minneapolis, Minnesota: Moto-i
The first sake brewpub outside Japan, complete with an impressive izakaya menu. Lunch for two $50.
Courtesy of Spoonriver
Minneapolis, Minnesota: Spoonriver
Imaginative, ingredient-driven food in a bustling space in the Warehouse District. Dinner for two $75.
Roland Halbe/Courtesy of the Contemporary Arts Center
Cincinnati, Ohio: Contemporary Arts Center
Zaha Hadid’s floating galleries alone are worth a visit.
Brie Williams
Charlotte, North Carolina: Capitol
Superbly curated emporium of women’s designer clothing and accessories.
