Minneapolis is home to a wide variety of flavors, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Minneapolis Cultural Districts. Visit any of the seven Districts to try authentic global cuisine from every corner of the globe—from cozy family-owned cafes serving up homemade comfort food to trendy restaurants pushing the boundaries of flavor, Minneapolis’ Cultural Districts have it all.
Head over to East Lake Street, where the aroma of perfectly spiced street tacos wafts through the air. Here, family-owned taquerias serve up authentic Mexican fare that you don’t want to miss. For a true feast, don’t miss Mercado Central, where you can sample a variety of Latin American specialties under one roof.
Photos Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis, by Paola Carlson Sanchez
In the 38th Street Cultural District you’ll find barbecue, tacos, sushi, Argentinian pizza, and empanadas. Smoke in the Pit serves up fall-off-the-bone ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and classic sides. This family-owned eatery has perfected its recipes to deliver the perfect blend of smoky flavor and tender texture.
Sample traditional Native food at Gatherings Café in the Franklin Avenue Cultural District. Here diners can savor dishes that celebrate Indigenous ingredients and cooking methods, providing a taste of Minnesota’s rich cultural heritage. Just down the street, Maria’s Cafe serves up beloved Latin American comfort food, with their famous corn pancakes drawing breakfast enthusiasts from across the city.
Photo by Vic Campbell
For those seeking African flavors, the Cedar Avenue Cultural District is a must-visit. This neighborhood is home to a thriving East African community. At Dilla’s Ethiopian Restaurant and Red Sea, you can savor the rich, complex flavors of Ethiopian cuisine, including the popular sega wat (spiced beef stew) served with injera, a spongy flatbread perfect for soaking up every bite.
At the heart of the West Broadway Cultural District is Sammy’s Avenue Eatery, a community staple known for its warm atmosphere and delicious comfort food. Sammy’s serves up a mouthwatering array of sandwiches, soups, and baked goods, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The Central Avenue Cultural District in Northeast Minneapolis offers a diverse culinary landscape that reflects the area’s rich immigrant history. Visitors can try Afghani pizza at Football Pizza and explore Tibetan and Japanese food at Momo Sushi. Looking for more? The district boasts excellent Middle Eastern cuisine at Holy Land and flavorful tacos at El Taco Riendo and Maya Cuisine.
Photo by Asha Belk
The Lowry Avenue Cultural District in North Minneapolis offers a taste of local flavor and community spirit. The Lowry Cafe embodies the essence of a classic American diner, serving hearty breakfast fare and comfort food classics in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
As you explore the Cultural Districts, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and aromas that make each neighborhood unique. Listen to the rhythms of global music, experience the beauty of art that can be found on every block, and mingle with locals at markets and festivals.
Grab your food-loving friends and let your taste buds guide you through the Minneapolis Cultural Districts. Visit the Minneapolis Cultural Districts website for more information, district guides, and to plan your adventure today.
