Sometimes you're hit with the unexpected: car wreck, flood, illegal gambling circle run out of your basement.

Other times, you get the good kind of unexpected. Like Subo, the downtown restaurant and lounge now open for lunch.

The hopping spot gets its name from the Tagalog language of the Philippines, meaning "to feed." And chef Neil Guillen does just that with delicious small plates that combine his French training and Filipino heritage.

The food is nothing to sneeze at: steamed mushroom rolls wrapped in a tofu sheet, marinated ahi with avocado and crostini and green curry potato croquettes with coconut dipping sauce. And the cocktails are unexpected: The Subo Royale is made with sparkling Brut with lychee syrup and sake, with an edible hibiscus flower swaying in the glass.

As for dessert, we'll let you find out for yourself.

You won't be disappointed.

Subo, 89 10th St S, Mpls, 612-886-2377. Lunch ($9.95) available Tuesday through Friday.

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