Minneapolis continues to solidify its reputation as a culinary hotspot, with a wave of new restaurant openings and enduring local favorites enriching the city’s food scene. Here’s a look at some notable establishments that are making waves.
New Restaurant Openings
Asher’s Bar & Grill
Located at 2730 W Lake St, Asher’s Bar & Grill has quickly become a neighborhood favorite. Situated on the ground level of the historic Beach Club Residences overlooking Bde Maka Ska, this sports bar offers an approachable and affordable menu. Highlights include a smashburger, layered nachos, poutine walleye fish and chips, complemented by a full craft cocktail program.
Company Bar
In the Kingfield neighborhood at 3800 Nicollet Ave, Company Bar has emerged as a go-to spot for no-frills cocktails and bites. Formerly known as Petite León, the bar retains the famous León cheeseburger while introducing new menu items like the hot mortadella sandwich, shishito dip, and smoked beets.
Dreamstate Cafe
For plant-based cuisine enthusiasts, Dreamstate Cafe at 2558 Lyndale Ave S offers an all-day dining experience. The dinner menu features innovative dishes such as Lion’s Mane steak, shredded mock duck burnt end nachos, Delicata squash doughnuts, and corned beef sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch services are set to commence soon.
Bellecour
Chef Gavin Kaysen’s Bellecour has reopened at 107 3rd Ave N in the North Loop. By day, it operates as a casual counter-service bakery offering viennoiserie, patisserie, sandwiches, and salads. In the evening, it transforms into an energetic full-service bistro with a dinner menu inspired by classic French brasseries.
Mestiizo
Blending Latin and Asian flavors, Mestiizo at 337 13th Ave NE offers a unique dining experience. The entirely gluten-free menu features starters like sashimi tiradito, ceviche, birria eggrolls, and elote, along with tacos, sushi, and main dishes such as octopus, short rib, sea bass, and customizable bibimbap bowls.
Beloved Food Trucks
World Street Kitchen
Since 2012, World Street Kitchen has been a staple in Minneapolis’ food truck scene. Founded by brothers Sameh and Saed Wadi, the truck offers a diverse, globally inspired menu with favorites like the Bangkok Burrito and Yum Yum Rice Bowls, bringing flavors from Asia, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean to the streets of Minneapolis.
Red Rocket Pizza at Bauhaus Brew Labs
For classic Neapolitan-style pizza, Red Rocket Pizza serves wood-fired creations at Bauhaus Brew Labs. Known for quality fresh ingredients, their Hot Chick pizza, featuring house red sauce, chili flakes, pepperoni, sausage, fresh mozzarella, red onion, jalapeños, and a hot honey drizzle, is a fan favorite.
Bark and the Bite
Operating both a brick-and-mortar location and a food truck, Bark and the Bite offers smoked meats like pulled pork and shredded chicken, accompanied by scratch-made sides such as honey-spiced hush puppies and cider vinegar slaw. Their barbecue sauces, including cherry bourbon and vodka chile, add a unique twist to traditional flavors.
Notable Closures
While the food scene thrives, some establishments have recently closed their doors. Beast Barbecue in Northeast Minneapolis announced its permanent closure after seven years of operation, marking the end of an era for local barbecue enthusiasts.
Looking Ahead
The Michelin Guide’s expansion to Minneapolis as part of its new American Great Lakes edition brings the possibility of Michelin stars to the city’s restaurants. This recognition could further elevate Minneapolis’ culinary reputation and attract food enthusiasts from near and far.
With a dynamic mix of new openings and cherished favorites, Minneapolis’ food scene continues to offer diverse and exciting options for every palate.