The “Bold North” boasts a truly amazing number of world-class restaurants across all different types of cuisines. We have quite a few foodies here at Kipsu, and we wanted to share our favorite spots around the city to help you make the most out of your trip to Minneapolis for HITEC. Since you will be busy at the convention center most of the day, here are our best recommendations for dinner. Of course, if you are looking for a cup of joe and tasty pastry before the convention, browse our recommendations for best coffee shops nearby.

Downtown Minneapolis

Since the convention center is at the southern edge of downtown, the most convenient option is to find some grub downtown. Across the street from the convention center is Monello—a modern Italian, seafood-focused restaurant located within the Hotel Ivy. Venture down 12th street to Butcher & The Boar—a smoked meat, steak, bourbon, and beer joint where you can enjoy the beautiful June weather in their Beer Garden. Be sure to try their sausage sampler and famous “Beer + Brat + Shot."

If you are interested in seeing Target Field (Go Twins!), we would recommend 112 Eatery nearby. This cozy establishment with dark wood and dim lighting is often described as “where the chefs eat.” The tagliatelle with foie gras meatballs, tres leches cake, and gianduja chocolate torte (can you tell we love the sweets?) are some favorites. If you are getting off a long day at the convention center and truly want to celebrate, Manny’s Steakhouse is the place to go. As one of America’s top steakhouses, the number one thing to get here is steak, steak, and more steak. Their wine list is also quite impressive, as well as the applewood smoked bacon appetizer and asparagus with hollandaise.

North Loop

North Loop, or the Warehouse District, is where many Kipsuvians (what we call ourselves) venture for dinner because of the expanse of great dining options. Conveniently, it is also where Kipsu’s office is located! Spoon and Stable consistently is one of the best restaurants in the nation. Pro Tip—get reservations as soon as possible, they go fast! Their menu changes constantly, but you won’t go wrong with anything you order (try the Bison Tartare if you can). Bar La Grassa is yet another wonderful Minneapolis stronghold. This Italian restaurant has a variety of bruschettas (including a lovely Marinated Pork Shoulder) and, of course, homemade pasta galore. They go above and beyond your average red sauce with noodles, and instead, cook up about 20 unique and interesting pairings, including Paccheri with Saffron Milk Braised Chicken, Gnocchi with Cauliflower and Orange, and Garganelli with Braised Lamb and Roasted Mushrooms.

Parlour, which is situated beneath another fabulous North Loop restaurant called Borough, has been in the running for the best burger in Minneapolis (and as many Kipsuvians can attest, it’s quite good). A great place to settle down with a nice glass of wine is Bev’s Wine Bar. Its high ceilings and simple philosophy of serving a fantastic selection of wine with no-fuss appetizers is why it has been a favorite among Warehouse District residents for close to 20 years.

South Minneapolis

We would also recommend heading a little south of the convention center to find a mix of casual options and cuisines. Hola Arepa is always a hot spot, serving up delicious Venezuelan-style arepas and tropical drinks. Some of our favorite dishes include the Brussel Sprouts, Shredded Beef & Sweet Plantain Arepa, and Pork & Sweet Potato Arepa. Pimento is another Minneapolis favorite, serving up authentic Jamaican street food on Eat Street. Any of their flavorful meats and sweet fried plantains is a great meal to end your day at the conference.

If you want to go further south (maybe a nice option as you are heading back to the airport), check out either Italian Eatery or the Porchetteria at Terzo (or both!). Italian Eatery is a neighborhood joint across the way from Lake Nokomis serving up hearty pasta and great wine. Their Mushroom Cappelletti and Gnocchi are so rich and flavorful, highly recommend. The Porchetteria at Terzo is a just little window with patio seating connected to Terzo Wine Bar that serves up slow-roasted Italian pork sandwiches to-go. Enjoy The Rapini or The Calabrian sandwich next to Lake Harriett to top off your great trip to Minneapolis.

Northeast

We couldn’t have made a list of best Minneapolis restaurants without including a few from Northeast (Home to Kipsu’s Original Office!). Hai Hai serves up Southeast Asian street food in a light, breezy, and tropical-inspired restaurant. Kipsuvians love their Hanoi Sticky Rice, Vietnamese Crepe, and Lychee Sangria. Young Joni is down the street and truly is a treat. Their welcoming atmosphere, shareable plates, and wood-fired pizza are mouth-watering—we would recommend the La Parisienne, Korean BBQ, and Sausage & Onion pizzas. Be sure to take a photo to remember the night in the photo booth at the back of the restaurant!

Last but not least, Alma. Alma might not “technically” be in Northeast since it’s closer to the University of Minnesota (Ski-U-Mah!), but you will definitely not regret stopping in. One side of Alma is an award-winning restaurant serving up a delicious and innovative three-course, prix fixe menu, while the other side is a more casual cafe opened for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On top of that (literally!) is their 7-room hotel that is so charming, you will feel right at home.

Hopefully, you (and your taste buds) are getting prepped for your trip to Minneapolis. We are looking forward to seeing you at HITEC!

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