Savor the Twin Cities: A Culinary Celebration of Restaurant Week, Minneapolis
Introduction
Minneapolis is home to a vibrant, different, and ever-evolving culinary scene. From the inventive fine-dining establishments of the North Loop to cozy bistros nestled in neighborhoods like Uptown and Northeast, food lovers have no shortage of options. But if there’s one time of year that truly brings together foodies, chefs, and restaurants in a collective celebration of gastronomy, it’s Restaurant Week Minneapolis.
This biannual event isn’t just a week of good food — it’s a chance for locals and visitors alike to explore new eateries, revisit old favorites, and experience innovative cuisine at a fraction of the cost. With prefix menus, special offerings, and unbeatable dining deals, Restaurant Week Minneapolis is a must-attend for anyone who loves food.
In this guide, we’ll explore the essence of Restaurant Week Minneapolis, spotlight the participating restaurants, highlight must-try dishes, and offer tips to make the most of this flavorful festivity.
What is Restaurant Week Minneapolis?
Restaurant Week Minneapolis is a twice-a-year event typically held in February and July, organized by MPLS. St. Paul Magazine, in collaboration with local restaurants. Its goal? To showcase the city’s culinary talent and offer diners a taste of Minneapolis’ diverse cuisine at special prices.
During this week, participating restaurants curate Prix fine menus (usually 2–3 courses) at discounted rates — often ranging from $15 for lunch to $45+ for dinner. These menus typically feature signature dishes, seasonal ingredients, or exclusive creations crafted just for the event.
Not only does this week help restaurants boost business during typically slower seasons, but it also gives diners the opportunity to explore high-end or lesser-known establishments without breaking the bank.
Why You Should Attend Restaurant Week, Minneapolis
Whether you’re a Twin Cities local or a visitor planning a summer or winter getaway, Restaurant Week Minneapolis is the perfect time to indulge in the city’s food culture. Here’s why:
1. Exceptional Value
Fine dining frequently comes with a hefty price label. During Restaurant Week, you can enjoy three-course refections from award-winning cookers at a bit of the usual cost.
2. Culinary Exploration
From modern Ethiopian to farm-to-table New American, Restaurant Week showcases Minneapolis’ diverse food scene. It’s the perfect opportunity to try something outside your comfort zone.
3. Support Local Restaurants
Many of the city’s independent and chef-owned establishments participate in the event. Dining during Restaurant Week supports the local economy and the restaurant community, especially in the post-pandemic era.
4. Discover Hidden Gems
While popular spots like Spoon and Stable or Demi may draw crowds, Restaurant Week also shines a spotlight on underrated and newly opened restaurants worth discovering.
Top Restaurants to Try During Restaurant Week, Minneapolis
Then’s a curated list of must-have- visit caffs that regularly share in Restaurant Week Minneapolis and what they’ve preliminarily offered. Please note, the factual immolations may vary each time.
1. Spoon and Stable
- Neighborhood: North Loop
- Cuisine: New American
- Chef: Gavin Kaysen
- Why Go: One of Minneapolis’ most iconic restaurants, known for its meticulous plating, seasonal ingredients, and impeccable service. Restaurant Week menus often include crowd-pleasers like duck confit and house-made pasta.
2. HAI
- Neighborhood: Northeast Minneapolis
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
- Why Go: Chef Christina Nguyen’s lively eatery celebrates bold flavors and tropical vibes. Expect dishes like turmeric fried fish or Vietnamese crêpes, along with vibrant cocktails.
3. Bar La Grass
- Neighborhood: North Loop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Why Go: Pasta lovers rejoice! With handcrafted pastas, rich sauces, and a sleek ambiance, Bar La Grass is a Restaurant Week favorite. Their soft eggs and lobster bruschetta is legendary.
4. The Lyndall
- Neighborhood: Lyn Lake & Edina
- Cuisine: Brunch & Modern American
- Why Go: Perfect for brunch lovers. Previous Restaurant Week menus featured items like shakshuka, beet hummus toasts, and lemon ricotta pancakes.
5. Café and Bar Lucas
- Neighborhood: Losing Park
- Cuisine: Modern American
- Why Go: Overlooking the park, Lucas is both elegant and approachable. The RW menu might include their iconic apple-cheddar salad or miss sea bass.
6. Revival
- Neighborhoods: Wingfield, St. Paul, US Bank Stadium
- Cuisine: Southern Comfort
- Why Go: Indulge in Nashville-style hot chicken, collard greens, or mac and cheese. Revival offers hearty portions and bold Southern flavors.
Tips for Making the Most of Restaurant Week, Minneapolis
1. Make Reservations Early
Popular restaurants fill up fast. It’s best to book a table as soon as the Restaurant Week lineup is announced, usually on MPLS. St. Paul Magazine’s website.
2. Browse Menus in Advance
Menus are typically released ahead of time. Compare options and plan your culinary journey strategically — mix up the cuisines and neighborhoods!
3. Try Both Lunch and Dinner
Some caffs offer different menus for lunch and regale. Consider doing a light lunch at one spot and a hearty regale at another.
4. Bring a Friend or Two
Restaurant Week is best enjoyed socially. Sharing multiple dishes gives you a chance to sample more of the menu.
5. Be Adventurous
Step out of your comfort zone. If you’ve never tried Peruvian, vegan fusion, or Somali cuisine — now’s the time.
Beyond the Plate: Exploring Minneapolis During Restaurant Week
Why not turn Restaurant Week into a full-blown experience? After a satisfying meal, explore nearby attractions.
- Walker Art Center & Sculpture Garden: Located near Losing Park, this is perfect after dining at Café Lucas.
- Mill City Museum & Stone Arch Bridge: Great spots if you’re dining downtown or by the riverfront.
- Uptown Theater & Chain of Lakes: Combine brunch at The Lyndall with a walk around BDE Make Ska.
- Northeast Breweries: After dinner at HAI, enjoy a drink at nearby breweries like Dangerous Man or Indeed Brewing.
Restaurant Week, Minneapolis: A Local Chef’s Perspective
To get an insider’s take, we spoke with Chef Amina Yusuf, head chef at a rising Somali-Mediterranean fusion restaurant in Cedar-Riverside.
“Restaurant Week Minneapolis is more than just deals — it’s a chance to connect with our neighbors. We see new faces every year. People are curious, they ask about the spices, the origins of our dishes. It sparks dialogue, and that’s beautiful.”
Her restaurant’s RW menu includes saffron rice bowls with spiced lamb, cardamom-infused lentil soup, and rosewater panna cotta.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurant Week, Minneapolis
Q: When is Restaurant Week Minneapolis held?
Typically, in late January to early February (Winter RW) and mid-to-late July (Summer RW). Exact dates vary year to year.
Q: Where can I find the list of participating restaurants?
The sanctioned list is published on MPLS. St. Paul Magazine’s Restaurant Week runner.
Q: Are takeout and delivery options available?
Some restaurants offer takeout RW meals, especially since 2020. Check individual restaurant policies.
Q: Are vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options available?
Yes. Many restaurants provide dietary-friendly RW menus. Check the published menus or call ahead.
Final Thoughts: Taste the Twin Cities During Restaurant Week, Minneapolis
Restaurant Week Minneapolis is more than a foodie event — it’s a cultural celebration, an economic boost, and a delicious journey into the soul of the city. Whether you’re sampling hand-rolled sushi, gourmet ramen, rustic French fare, or vegan soul food, the week offers a plate for every palate.
Mark your calendars, grab your dining companions, and dig into one of the tastiest traditions in the Midwest. Because when you explore Minneapolis through its restaurants, you’re not just tasting food — you’re experiencing stories, communities, and the heart of the city itself.