St. Paul, MN 55105
651-690-5901
www.twistedforkgrille.com
I tried it once. I tried it twice. I want to like it, but I don't. It turns out the new Twisted Fork Grill on Grand Ave. in St. Paul isn't really all that "twisted." The menu items sound interesting and somewhat innovative - such as the bison meatloaf and bacon sandwich, coffee marinated flat iron steak, peanut butter and banana stuffed French toast, and lavender creme brulee - but the food simply lacks flavor. There tends to be a problem when the menu items sound more delicious than they actually taste. Just as Gary Busey is often described as the poor man's Nick Nolte, the Twisted Fork could be referred to as the low-grade Longfellow or Highland Grill. I've personally tried six or so menu items and only one is of noteworthy depiction - the crispy Amish chicken legs. This appetizer is three legs of chicken marinated in a fiery blend of chile and honey and accompanied by a cabbage-carrot slaw. Reminiscent of Buffalo Wild Wing's Asian zing wings, these deep fried drummies serve a powerful punch of both sweet and spicy. In this case, the garnish is just as impeccable as the chicken, as the slaw is drenched in the same aromatic marinade.
The Twisted Fork's breakfast is served from 7am-2pm daily; while lunch and dinner range from 11am-close. As my visits were during lunch, I didn't pay close attention to their wine and beer list, but my friend mentioned that they have a decent selection of micro-brews.
The ambiance is friendly, clean, and relatively average. The small size of the restaurant makes the corporate feel (Green Mill owns and operates the Twisted Fork) slightly less annoying. On a positive note, the wait staff are attentive and helpful, offering suggestions to those who inquire. What the Twisted Fork lacks in taste, they make up in convenience, congeniality, and neighborhood charm.
Mindy's Rating: 4/10 Sporks
4 comments:
I can't believe you really thought it was that bad. I disagree. It's one of my favorite places to dine! Well, you win some, lose some.
I am curious about said lavender creme brulee! Might have to check that out.
Melissa, The creme brulee does sound interesting, but I don't tend to like floral flavors in my food. Let us know if you ever try it.
Couldn't agree more, Mindy. Twisted Fork was a real disappointment. It will never compare to other small local places like Groveland Tap, The Blue Door, or Highland Grill.
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