Tell Charles Barkley what’s happening in the Minneapolis food scene

After the Timberwolves’ thrilling win over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night, NBA Hall of Fame analyst-turned Charles Barkley asked Wolves MVP Anthony Edwards for restaurant recommendations ahead of the Western Conference Finals, which begins Wednesday in Minneapolis. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered closer than the Wolves defense. Here’s an open letter with more than a few ideas.

Dear Ant:

Congratulations on this victory, we couldn’t be more proud. If you’re like us, there’s a post-game buzz of energy that cries out for a night out on the town. As Sir Charles somewhat forgets the last time he was in town (even though the 2019 Final Four seems like it was 20 years ago), many new restaurants are opening not far from downtown Minneapolis and the Target Center. Here’s where we think you should take it.

Obviously, the man appreciates the finer things in life and three-star dinners. Porzana would have achieved all the goals. Perfectly cooked steak, especially the Minneapolis/North Loop vibe with the exposed brick and subtle lighting, and there’s also a dimly lit downstairs bar for VIPs to relax with a premium drink.

If he wants something even more private, Billy Sushi offers some of the best sushi in town and has a few private rooms, including an incredible Japanese whiskey selection. Plus, no one throws a party like owner Billy Tserenbat. He’s used to hosting megastars, like you, and you probably already know him as the fan who attends games on the field in his full Mongolian regalia.

We hear you’re a fan of That of Fhima, also, which makes sense since chef-owner David Fhima is the executive chef of the Timberwolves. While you can enjoy its food inside the Target Center at the concession stands, the Art Deco decor of the restaurant next door does not disappoint. (Also not his classic French restaurant Maison Margaux in the North Loop.)

The forecast calls for great weather Wednesday night, and Minneapolis is doing summer so well that a patio might be in order. Somewhere like the Monte Carlo, with its giant patio could be a good idea. Order the signature wings and a martini big enough to do a few rounds. Plus, they’re dog friendly, so Ant Jr. can join you.

For breakfast the next day, consider leaving the premises. There is a magical land nearby called St. Paul. It looks like another country, but as a resident I can assure you that no passport is required. Take him for a ride down Summit Avenue, one of my favorite things to do with visitors for the rows of historic homes and views of the Cathedral and Capitol. Then head to Mickey’s Dinner by Willy on West 7th. It’s the kind of good restaurant food that can remind him of the good old days of touring as a rookie. And no matter how famous it is, the staff doesn’t care. Order America’s favorite all-day breakfast, eggs any way you like with some of the best hash browns, plus a side of meat and toast. This might actually be a good place to go before Charles has to go home. It is not far from the airport and is open 24 hours a day.

And if you need more restaurant recs, we’ve got you covered!

Yours in good taste,

Joy summers