A fairly recent (and sorely needed) addition to Minneapolis's Whittier neighborhood, Lake Wine and Spirits is your one-stop shop for a Friday night party run or an evening in with a block of cheese, a baguette, and two bottles of wine. Browse the fine but not overbearing selection of wine, beer, and spirits just next door, then duck into the small attached cheese shop for suggestions on the perfect pairings from the friendly and helpful staff, who are generous with samples and will make suggestions in a way that won't make you feel like a culinary dunce. With an unpretentious, corner market vibe, Lake makes it easy to feel comfortable asking questions as you browse the small but diverse selection of domestic and international artisan cheese, cured meats, honeys and jams, crackers and baguettes, vinegar and olive oil, salts, olives, chocolates, you name it — all the accoutrements you need to make an impressive cheese and charcuterie spread. Plus, check out the delicious made-to-order sandwiches and the selection of gift baskets that make for an easy but impressive host or hostess present.