Tomorrow marks the end of the road for Fugaise. Kate, Beth, and I found our way there for one last meal this week, and it was great. The windowless room was a refuge from the snownami outside, and we were focused on solving the world's problems as we shared some perfectly seared scallops, wonderfully rich kangaroo, and an elegant and clean panna cotta. Before we knew it, we had been at the table for four hours. On this bittersweet Fresh Forkin' Friday, I'm wondering how long it will be before we see another restaurant of this caliber open up.

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Did you see in last week's comments that Vincent is also extending his Restaurant Week menu through the end of the month? And I've just heard from Chambers that it is also on board! I feel giddy.

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Here's a treat for anyone being dragged to the Xcel for hockey this weekend. Head over the bridge to District del Sol, and check out the newly opened La Chiquita for some helados (ice

cream) and paletas (popsicles). In the Mexican popsicle tradition, the treats are water- or cream-based with a fruit focus. Right now they have coconut, strawberry, lime, guava, and more. I had some neon lime (which makes me think they are using more than just fresh juice), but on a freezing cold day, it was like a little cup of bright green sunshine.

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Savage Depot Bistro has opened in the former Dan Patch Coffee Depot. The cute little depot, which anchors the Savage "downtown" hub, is now serving soups, sandwiches, and salads with wine and beer.

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Maple Grove has lost another one. Bella Sera has closed. That's the second restaurant to close in that spot, which one would think was valuable and a "give" as it sits on a hot intersection. Siblings Buona Sera and Luna Rossa are still kickin'.

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As the thaw approaches, it feels like things are loosening up. There are loads of rumors and scouting tips out there concerning little places that are changing hands, being re-born through the vision of fresh owners. Betsy's Back Porch Coffee on Diamond Lake Road has closed, and there's a sign that says "Cafe Cuba coming soon." Europol Eva's Deli in Nordeast is no longer, but it's purportedly soon to become the NE Social Club. We all knew La Bodega wouldn't sit dark long. Rumor says it's been bought by a Target-wonk who plans an Italian place with live music called Sauce Soundbar. I love the activity, I love the optimism! Let's go!

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Azia and La Belle Vie have teamed up to break the chicken-finger hold on your kids! The Junior Gourmet Club, created by LBV's Bill Summerville as a way to emphasize the importance of food and family, will convene at Azia on March 24th for a four-course meal. For $35 per guest, kids and their lucky parents will be treated to such yummies as miso soup, tuna tempura, unagi (eeeeeeel) nigiri, and other Asian-influenced treats. Check your ranch dressing at the door. Seating is limited, so call soon: 612-813-1200.

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In frosty-mug-lovin' news: Because beer dinners seem to be all the rage, Firelake is hosting a five-course Summit dinner on Thursday for $55. And Surly is releasing its 16 Grit (a double IPA) beer at Grumpy's on Monday.

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Haskell's in Woodbury is hosting a free tasting of wines that cost less than $10. Scouting for those gems has become one of my favorite pastimes.