You’d be forgiven for thinking Khâluna (@khaluna.mpls), a mirage-like oasis in Minneapolis, is merely beautiful. Once the food arrives you’ll find the feast for the eyes was just the appetizer. Everything tastes stunning, too. Chef-owner Ann Ahmed (@chefannahmed) has come into her own, cooking precise and imaginative Laotian cuisine. Ahmed subs peanuts, pistachios, and mushrooms in for the more typical pork in her sakoo, creating luxurious umami-laden texture in the traditional street food. Nearly every table has an order of bucatini talay, a praiseworthy tangle of pasta with shrimp, scallops, squid, and a rich "tom yum ragout” of breadcrumbs, tomato, and fish sauce. The dish is inventive and yet also comforting, affirming Khâluna’s forward-thinking attitude. Click the link in bio to read more about Khâluna. ✏️: Jaya Saxena (@jayasax), correspondent 📸: Caroline Yang (@carolineyangphoto)