We asked lifestyle blogger Landyn Hutchinson (@livingwithlandyn) of Living With Landyn to share some of her favorite Twin Cities spots. Here’s what she had to say.
When I look back on my career, Minnesota was where it all started for me. I created a Facebook page while living here so that I could start answering questions and helping other women with daily inspiration. I never expected it would grow to where we are now!
Coming back to Minnesota for my Hey Landyn Live show was an incredible reminder of not only how far I have come, but also how many businesses here inspired me along the way. I love to plant my roots where I am, and I really tried to invest in the people and the businesses around me. Leaving Minnesota for Nashville, Tennessee, was hard for that very reason.
In the beginning stages of planning for the show, I knew I wanted to feature some of my favorite Twin Cities spots. I loved the community I had formed when I lived here, but to be able to pick up the phone and call the businesses I used to frequent and have them agree to help me without any hesitation was such an unexpected gift. I hadn’t talked to some of these business owners for more than five years, and we were able to pick back up and work together so easily.
Living in Wayzata made so many places incredibly accessible. Some of my favorite places to eat, shop and work out were just a few miles from my house. Although I am sad I can’t just walk into these places every day, I am so glad I can share them with you.
Eat
Butcher & the Boar
Great beer menu, amazing food and a fantastic atmosphere — what else could you want in a local restaurant? Don’t leave without getting the beer-battered fries. Sinful. 1121 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612-238-8888
Crisp & Green
I love fun and healthy food. Crisp & Green was right down the road from my house, and I would honestly eat here every day if I still lived in Minnesota. Side note: I met the cofounder, Lily, at Steele Fitness many years ago. I’m so proud of this girl! 755 Lake St. E., No. 120, Wayzata, 952-476-2591
Gianni’s Steakhouse
This was our weekly date-night spot. We knew the waiters by name and so enjoyed the company we made here. I’ve got three words for you: Gianni’s spun salad. It’s a must-have. 635 Lake St. E., Wayzata, 952-404-1100
Sakana Sushi
If you are a sushi lover like I am, you have to give this place a try. Just be sure to ask for Travis. I never ordered off the menu, and he never steered me wrong. I still crave the Spicy Girl Roll. 683 Lake St. E., Wayzata, 952-476-7000
Shop
Covered Uptown
If I ever had somewhere fun to go and wanted a unique piece that I knew I wouldn’t see on someone else, Covered was the place to go. Plus the girls here are fun to work with. 1201 Lagoon Ave., Minneapolis, 612-825-1610
Evereve
I have been shopping at Evereve since my daughter was 16 months old. She is about to be in high school, so yes, it’s been a while. I have watched this store grow into the successful company it is today, and I couldn’t be happier for Megan and her team. Still a go-to. 687 Lake St. E., Wayzata, 952-224-9985
Merilou Boutique
Although Merilou came along after I moved to Nashville, I kept my finger on the pulse here. Just by following the shop on Instagram, I fell in love with the clothes. I adore everything I order from here. 726 Lake St. E., Wayzata, 952-476-0027
Pamper
Evolution
I have a girlfriend who always has perfect hair. Imagine my shock when she told me that her husband does it! Matt Swinney has won every hair award known to man and works on models all over the world. Finding him was like finding a unicorn. Insider tip: If you’re looking for a great blowout, ask for Mark. 2836 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-870-2979
Excelsior Nails & Day Spa
In my opinion, Excelsior Nails does the best nails in the Twin Cities. The salon is beautifully decorated, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. Plus I never had to go back midweek for a touchup. 21 Water St., Excelsior, 952-923-2462
Sweat
Steele Fitness
This is where I went to get my baby weight off after I had my son. I shed 26 pounds and 14 inches! Steele Fitness is like an upscale personal-training gym. I walked through that door nearly 10 years ago and walked out a new woman. 714 Lake St. E., Wayzata, 952-476-8004
The Barre
When this incredible studio is two miles from your house, it’s hard coming up with an excuse not to go. And when you start seeing the results, you’ll want to go every day. My legs miss that place. 539 Lake St. E., Wayzata, 952-473-0109
Tiger Fit
Once I got on the exercise train, I didn’t want a personal trainer; I knew how to work out but needed a high-energy spot where I could be held accountable and create lasting friendships. That’s where I met power couple Stacie and Chris Clark, and I did just that. Whenever I’m back in town, I make sure to take a class. 12993 Ridgedale Dr., No. 103, Minnetonka, 952-595-5915
Looking for more about Landyn Hutchinson? Check out our coverage of her Hey Landyn Live show.
