On a nice fall morning, about a dozen M.U.M. members met at a parking lot in Rosemount for a fun food tour.
Our first stop would be the Hanisch Bakery and Coffee Shop located in the heart of historic downtown Red Wing. But, to get there we would take a tour of the country side. On our way we passed by the Little Log House Pioneer Village south of Hastings. There you could see a collection of historic buildings including Porky’s Drive-in from University Ave. Then we headed to Welch, MN and some twisty roads past Welch Village Ski & Snowboard Area and onto Red Wing.
Then into Hanisch Bakery and Coffee Shop. The story on WCCO about them being the Best of Minnesota for Donuts was spot on. I saw many a M.U.M. member with a Maple Bacon Donut plus other variations. Additionally, there were a few boxes of donuts placed in MINI Coopers for later. We all enjoyed a beverage and coffee at this stop.
Next it was back up on the bluffs for a ride to Pepin Heights Orchard in Lake City, MN. It wasn’t as twisty as the previous segment but it was still fun. We pulled into the parking lot for conversation, apples, cider and other items. With the boxes of donuts and bags of apples, were the MINIs going to make the trip home?
Now it was time for lunch. Where do you go when you are along the Mississippi River south of the Twin Cities? No other than Nelson Cheese Factory (aka Nelson Creamery) in Nelson, WI. They offer great food, ice cream, drinks and of course cheese. We had a great lunch and then went our separate ways back home.
It was a great day for a drive with great food and people!
David Hammer
