It’s not very often that people with certain food allergies and dietary restrictions can feel completely safe while dining out—and still enjoy a delicious meal. As someone who discovered they have a gluten intolerance two years ago (and who previously loved sandwiches, pasta, and carbs of all kinds), I’ve been on the hunt for alternative options around Minnesota that fit the bill in terms of taste, quality, and bang for your buck—and locally owned, plant-forward Brim Cafe & Coffee is one eatery that checks all the boxes.
Brim’s menu is entirely free from gluten and seed oils, nutrient-dense, made from scratch, and rooted in locally sourced, organic ingredients. Across brunch, lunch, and dinner, options range from delicious sandwiches (featuring gluten-free bread baked in Minneapolis) and baked goods to bowls, tacos, toasts, and more, plus craft coffee beverages. The menu feels creative: Rather than simply offering items that aren’t made with gluten in the first place, Brim has curated a robust selection of specially made alternatives that easily compare to the real thing. This level of care opens up a world of options that diners like myself don’t usually have access to.
Photo by Ashley Sullivan
Brim launched its Lake Street location in Uptown in 2018, and now, the team is ready to expand. Announced this week, a second location in Edina will open its doors this Thursday.
“It was always part of our long-term vision to expand Brim, and now the timing finally feels right,” says owner Kate Sidoti. “We’ve spent years building something special, and we’re so proud of the community that’s embraced us. We’re incredibly excited to bring the Brim experience here and can’t wait to welcome everyone through our doors.”
Located in the former Red Pepper Chinese Restaurant space on West 66th Street (which is technically in Richfield, but situated right near border of the two cities), the new spot will be able to seat 36 in the main dining area, with a seasonal patio to accommodate an additional 30. Renovated by Christian Dean Architects and Design, the cozy, earth-toned interior features lime-washed walls, warm wood, and live plants to give it a lived-in feel.
Photo by Ashley Sullivan
The restaurant’s fall menu is set to launch in tandem with the Edina location’s opening, and will be available at both locations. Highlights to look forward to include a gluten-free pesto penne pasta and seasonal beverages like the Maple Sea Salt Matcha Latte and Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Additional offerings in Edina will include a refrigerated grab-and-go case stocked with quarts of soup, fresh salads, and family-style prepared meals; a variety of warm family-style meals available for dine-in or takeout; and Brim’s own single-origin coffee, available in one-pound retail bags.
The second location houses a full kitchen, which will allow Brim to expand its current catering operation (which has served high-profile clients like teams from the NBA, MLB, and NFL). Catering orders for corporate and private events can be made online.
Even if you don’t have dietary restrictions, Brim’s offerings strike a balance between healthy and delicious that everyone can enjoy. Give it a try—you might not even be able to tell that it’s gluten-free.
