Twin Cities Central
European Panache
Meets the Mall of America
by Stacie Stukin

Atrium lobby

The Sofitel Minneapolis is just a ten-minute drive from the quintessential U.S. shopping mecca, the Mall of America. But this elegant 23-year-old property has a distinctly European sensibility.

Situated at the intersection of two major highways outside the hub of downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, this Sofitel recently underwent a $10 million renovation. Sleek lines in the atrium lobby and the contemporary, inviting furnishings like high backed couches and large banquettes make it a great place to relax and meet business associates or friends for some drinks.

La Fougasse interior	Rooms use the "My Bed" system

During the week, the hotel fills up with business travelers who come to take advantage of amenities like Wi-Fi, daily newspaper delivery, 10,000 square feet of versatile meeting space that can accommodate gatherings large and small as well as a full conference staff on-hand to make sure events go off without a hitch.

The hotel’s two restaurants are popular with locals and travelers alike. French brasserie Chez Colette is the Twin Cities’ choicest breakfast spot where you can glimpse the mayors of St. Paul and Minneapolis as well as the region’s corporate titans eating eggs benedict. For fine dining, La Fougasse specializes in the foods of the Provence region of southern France, with Sunday seafood brunch featuring flamenco music and dancers. Don’t miss the French pastries and other baked goodies from Le Petit Marché.

Conference room	La Fougasse exterior

The 282 rooms feature the Sofitel “My Bed” system that includes a generous feather bed with cozy duvet and extra large pillows. The rooms have all been renovated to be as user-friendly as possible, with halogen lights built right into the headboard, Wi-Fi, plasma LCD TVs, plush chaise lounges, and amenities from Roger and Gallet. The rooms with the best views face the atrium.

The fitness center has cardio and nautilus machines and serves complimentary fruit and bottled water. While the hotel has no spa, the concierge can arrange an in-room massage within fifteen minutes.

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