Inspired by the seasonality of appetites and available food, Chef Lucia Watson has made a name for herself creating unique dishes that blend French and Minnesotan traditions. The menu at Lucia's Restaurant, Wine Bar, and To Go in Uptown Minneapolis changes weekly and Lucia buys food from local producers to ensure that her dishes are made with the freshest ingredients. Lucia's commitment to local farmers and food systems goes beyond her work as a chef; she is also a board member of the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, the author of two cookbooks, and an occasional teacher.
Eric and Lisa Klein of Hidden Stream Farm in Elgin deliver fresh meat and produce to Lucia's weekly, and Lucia enthuses, "The food is beautiful and it's always good to get news of the country!" Lisa's father stopped using chemicals on these 180 acres in the 1970s and today the Kleins raise grass-fed beef, pastured poultry, naturally raised pork, and produce on their Food Alliance Certified farm, where they graze their livestock rotationally to maintain soil health.
When the Klein family's phone rang four years ago, little did they know that call would begin a lasting relationship with one of Minneapolis' premier chefs. And back at Lucia's, customers are sure to find dishes made with the freshest ingredients, always served with warm hospitality.
