McCormick and Schmicks

Michael Geer
September 25, 2008
Filed under Restaurant Reviews, scene featured

Hawaii Mahi Mahi. Ecuadorian Tilapia. Red King Swordfish.
No, this is not a list of fish at the Minnesota Zoo’s Aquarium, it is just an example of the wide variety of seafood available at McCormick and Schmick’s in Minneapolis.

Located on Nicollet Mall right across from the Target Headquarters, M&S has a reputation of being one of the premier seafood restaurants in the metro area for over 20 years, not only for its astounding food, but for the great service and unique atmosphere.

Upon walking inside, you pass a bustling bar area and private seating booths on your way to the main dining area. It is lavishly decorated with wooden walls, pictures of the sea, and, of course, big fish. If being stuck inside surrounded by what you might be eating doesn’t appeal to you, there is an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy the fresh air and scenery of downtown Minneapolis.

Unlike many restaurants, the M&S employees actually care about how you are doing, how your day is going, and what they can do to help you. One of the foundations that this restaurant was built on was customer service, and they have received many awards because of it, such as Twin Cities magazine’s ‘Service With A Smile award’.

The atmosphere and service are great, but the real reason people go there is the food. Not only do they have rare and exotic fish, they taste great too. The food has won numerous awards like the service, and has been praised across the country, like Business Weekly’s ‘Best Business Lunch’ award. Their most proclaimed dish is the Alaskan Halibut, which, like all of their other food, is flown in daily, so it is as fresh as can be.

When you combine their great tasting food, the dedicated service, the distinctive atmosphere, and the downtown location, it adds up to one unparalleled dining experience. Reservations are often needed in advance, and there is almost always a wait of a few minutes for a table, but the meal is worth every second.