It's Fresh Forkin' Friday, and I'm still thinking about last night's sneak preview of the Butcher Block, which officially opens today. In the old Fugaise space, which hasn't been changed that much, we were served a sampling from the Italian menu: crostini, light and fresh salads, smoky pastas, and a choice of braised short ribs or chicken. Everyone was lovely, the place had a nice buzz, but I was sad to see not a single wing on the sample menu. I mean, if you go around saying you're going to offer 29 flavors of wings, come on, let's dance. But don't worry, there's time, they plan to stay open until 4 a.m. from Thursday through Saturday (which actually then rolls into Sunday, not that you'd notice with your wing fingers all nasty in the best ways).

*****

On The OUTS

Doug Flicker is no longer cooking at Porter & Frye. A call to the restaurant confirmed the rumor, but no word as of yet on the plans for the former Auriga/Mission chef.

It's true, the Troc is gone. Trocaderos has closed and the building is for sale/lease.

Cafe Cuba, which never really got going, may be on the outs. The owners checked in with Heavy Table on the trials and tribulations of seeking the dream.

*****

On The UPS (nothing to do with brown vans)

Adele's, the queen of custard in the west metro and a perennial pick for anyone writing up Excelsior, has taken over the Glacier's spot in Wayzata. Today's flavors: chocolate covered cherry and butter almond.

Smashburger continued their play for world dominance with the opening of a Golden Valley location this week. Next up, Har Mar then Plymouth.

The former Sam's Wine Shop off Washington is now open as North Loop Wines & Spirits.

*****

Show your Pride this weekend and check out all the fabulous eats in Loring Park: Ms. Bev's BBQ, Ruby's BBQ, Taco Palace, Hog Wild Wings, and roasted corn-on-the-cob to name a few.

*****

Let's check in with the Best of the Fest to see that this weekend, you can participate in eating contests that celebrate horses and cabbage.

*****

Have you heard of the Chefs for Change dinners at People Serving People? Well, some of the ladies from FM 107.1 are hosting one of the dinners being cooked by Scott Pampuch on July 15th. Your $75 ticket goes to support the families that temporarily need help from PSP ( a truly amazing organization), and for your cash you get a five course meal with wine pairings, a chance to watch Scott cook, and a lot of yacking and fun from women who talk for a living. Yes, that includes yours truly.