Ringing Endorsement Bon Iver's Guide To Eau Claire

Singer-songwriter Justin Vernon, better known by his sadsack folkie name Bon Iver, hasn't had much time to spend in his hometown of Eau Claire lately. His debut record For Emma, Forever Ago is a favorite among indie-rock fans and critics, and he's been touring the world with the likes of Black Mountain and Wilco. Next week, he'll have a few days back home before heading out to the west coast. Here's where to find him if you happen to be visit Eau Claire this weekend. (It's only a four-hour drive!)

Racy's
"It's really good coffee, it's right there by the river, and I like everyone that goes there. Ever since I was growing up, I've been going there. I go there a lot more now that I'm older and don't have a day job when I'm home."

The Joynt
"This is where my folks met, and the beers are still 40 cents at happy hour. It's cheap, not pretentious, and there's a sincerity there. You can get a beer there and not be hassled by anyone. And with all the music that's been played there, the bartender--it's the neighborhood bar with something special behind it."

Egg Roll Plus
"This is my favorite restaurant in the world. We have a pretty substantial Hmong population in Eau Claire, and this place serves Vietnamese cuisine. It's the tastiest food I've ever had. It's made by the people from there; it's their culture and their food.