Minneapolis continues to solidify its reputation as a dynamic culinary destination, with a host of new restaurants enriching the city’s diverse food scene. Here’s a look at some recent openings and beloved establishments that are capturing the attention of food enthusiasts.
New Culinary Ventures
Pizza Luna at Midtown Global Market
Adding to the vibrant mix of vendors, Pizza Luna has opened its doors inside the Midtown Global Market. This quick-serve stall offers homemade-style pizzas crafted with fresh ingredients, providing a delightful option for market visitors seeking quality and convenience.
Arch and River: Afro-Caribbean Bistro
Set to open this summer, Arch and River will bring Afro-Caribbean French ‘bistronomie’ to the Water Works Pavilion along the Mississippi River. Operated by the team behind B’beri Desserts, the bistro will serve morning pastries, brunch, lunch, and snacks, complemented by a selection of beer, wine, and cider. The location offers picturesque views of the Stone Arch Bridge, enhancing the dining experience.
Pikok Lounge: Upscale Korean Fare
Located within Daniel del Prado’s East Asian restaurant Minari, Pikok Lounge in Northeast Minneapolis offers generous portions of Korean-inspired dishes at accessible prices. Menu highlights include unique hand rolls, shrimp toast sandwiches, and a standout double-patty kimchi cheeseburger made with wagyu beef and kimchi mayo.
Animales BBQ Co.: A Permanent Home
After years as a popular food truck, Animales BBQ Co. has established a permanent location adjacent to La Doña Cervecería. Known for its St. Louis-style ribs, the expansive space features large booths, community tables, a bar, and a stage for live music, creating a welcoming environment for barbecue enthusiasts.
Bellecour’s North Loop Revival
Gavin Kaysen’s acclaimed bakery, Bellecour, has reopened in the North Loop as an all-day bistro. By day, it offers casual counter service, transitioning to a full-service restaurant in the evening with French-inspired cuisine, continuing its legacy of culinary excellence.
Local Favorites
Spoon and Stable
Under the guidance of Chef Gavin Kaysen, Spoon and Stable remains a cornerstone of Minneapolis fine dining. Housed in a restored horse stable, the restaurant offers a menu that blends French techniques with Midwestern flavors, featuring dishes like duck liver mousse and hand-rolled pasta with foraged mushrooms.
Young Joni
Located in Northeast Minneapolis, Young Joni is renowned for its inventive pizzas and cozy ambiance. Chef Ann Kim’s creations, such as the Amatriciana and La Parisienne pizzas, have garnered a dedicated following. The adjacent secret bar offers a curated selection of cocktails, enhancing the overall experience.
Oro by Nixta
Oro by Nixta has been recognized as a semifinalist in the Best New Restaurant category of the James Beard Foundation Awards and named one of the twenty best new restaurants by Bon Appétit. This Mexican restaurant continues to set the gold standard for Mexican cuisine in Minneapolis.
Minneapolis’ culinary landscape is ever-evolving, with new establishments adding to the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences. Whether you’re exploring the latest openings or revisiting cherished favorites, the city’s dining scene offers something for every palate.