With La Belle Vie, Aquavit, and Solera under her belt, Diane Yang stepped into the role of Executive Pastry Chef at Minneapolis’ Spoon and Stable when it opened in 2014. The James Beard Award-nominated chef created a whimsical and modern menu of not-too-sweet desserts (her personal preference). Think Blackberry and Beeswax Crema and Poppy Seed Angel Cake with rhubarb, lemongrass ice cream, and pistachios. And, if you’re going to Sunday brunch, save room for her massive pastry bar. A lot of room.
We put the Minneapolis dessert master through our 18-question ringer to see where her Midwest roots (and tastes) lie.
Favorite place in the Midwest?
Superior North Shore
What temperature is considered warm enough for no coat?
45 when the suns out
Favorite meal to cook?
Steak with veggies on
What’s a hidden gem in your city?
If I told you, it wouldn’t be so hidden, but my second favorite spot is down under the 35W bridge at night looking towards the downtown skyline.
Local coffee shop of choice?
Five Watt Coffee
Go-to pizza toppings?
Pepperoni
Soda or Pop?
It’s POP
Duck Duck Goose or Duck Duck Grey Duck?
Duck Duck Grey Duck
Favorite condiment?
Mustard
Favorite local brewery?
Lift Bridge Brewery or Enki Brewing
Can you name all the ingredients in puppy chow?
Peanut butter, chocolate, Chex cereal, powder sugar
How many shovels do you own?
At least 3
Favorite food on a stick?
Corn dog
Skiing or wakeboarding?
Skiing
Signature drink order?
Gin Gimlet
Mississippi River or Great Lakes?
Great Lakes
Favorite Midwestern artist?
Bob Dylan
Favorite building in the Midwest?
Target building at night