20.21; "The Perfect Storm"

Halibut with Pineapple Sambal
Photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

With severe weather all day and a tornado just south of downtown Minneapolis, it looked as though Sample Circuit attendees were going to have to enjoy 20.21 at the Walker Art Center’s spectacular view from inside the minimalist, contemporary dining room.

It looked that way, until the clouds parted and the sun came out.

Photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

It would have been a shame to miss out on the breathtaking view that 20.21 Restaurant and Bar has to offer from the very popular terrace. Not only were attendees able to enjoy an artful space in an artful location with an artful view, but Executive Chef Asher Miller also created art on the plate.

Photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

Guests arrived to be greeted by Roy & Dianne from Z Wines USA, perfectly pairing wines with the delicious morsels prepared in the open kitchen. If you were fortunate enough to sample the Sweet Corn Soup paired with the Bush Camp Chenin Blanc – you may have closed your eyes and reminisced of the perfect summer bounty, fresh from the farm to your grateful palate.

Randy Zarecki of Fitness Together and Dianne Ferrandi of Z Wines USA
Photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

Ketel One partnered with expert mixologists from 20.21 to create an Asian fusion cocktail, the Ginger Drop. Ketel One Vodka combined with Limoncello and fresh ginger created a spicy, citrus treat that was refreshing and with just a little heat.
Just past the bar was a round table heaping with Chinese to-go boxes filled with the famous Chinoise Chicken Salad, garnished to perfection with Fresh Cilantro, Crispy Wontons and Candied Cashews. The Halibut with Pineapple Sambal was a show stopper. The Tempura Shrimp with Pickled Ginger Vinaigrette was not to be missed, along with the perfectly proportioned miniature Kobe Beef Burgers with Aged Cheddar. Guests were raving about the Shrimp and Scallop Spring Rolls and the Korean Beef Short Rib Satay – which was cited as several guests favorite of the evening.

Tempura Shrimp with Pickled Ginger Vinaigrette
Photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

Executive Sous Chef Corinne Sherbert was not about to shy away from the spotlight offering creative sweet somethings including, Strawberry Panna Cotta, Lemon Yuzu Bars, Chocolate Dipped Cones filled with Ginger Custard and Cookie Lolli-pops in two varieties – my favorite was the Coconut Macroon dipped in Chocolate.

Strawberry Panna Cotta

Cookie Lolli-Pops
Photos by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

Leinekugel’s was there, tasting the Classic Amber, especially good with the burgers and satays.

Mini Kobe Burgers with Aged Cheddar

Korean Beef Short Rib Satay
Photos by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

All in all, the event was an example of the perfect “storm”; beautiful people in a beautiful space, enjoying spectacular food. What could be better on a late summer evening?

Photos by Chris Bohnhoff Photography