For me, fall means landscape changes and comfortable spaces.

On days like today, all I want is homey, lived-in, cozy places that I can hide from the summers-end crowds.

Don’t get me wrong – I love basking in the beauty of any touristy place, I just like to bask from afar, with food.

In short, it’s pretty out there, but I’d rather be inside watching… and eating.

That brings me to my next stop, the Lake Ave Restaurant and Bar in Duluth.

Opened in 1991 in Canal Park, in the Dewitt-Seitz Marketplace, Lake Ave more than fits the bill.

Homey, check! Cozy, that too! Lived in, yep!

Not to mention the great, locally-sourced food!

Granted, the outdoor patio is beautiful and should be used, but I’ll stick to the indoors.

Casual with a very strong Lake Superior, Midwestern vibe, Lake is known for their service and ever-changing menu.

Adding creative and hospitable to the list.

I personally loved the Morning Schooner (espresso-hazelnut vodka, pineapple juice and cream), elote, and smoked mac and cheese.

Have you ever been?