Named one of America’s Best Hipster Neighborhoods by Forbes, the North Loop has mastered the art of being funky and trendy, but at the same time sophisticated and independent. This area is booming, having a population that has just about tripled in the past decade, with former warehouses being transformed into apartments, boutiques and attention-grabbing restaurants, not to mention the addition of Target Field. Located on the edge of downtown Minneapolis, spend a leisurely day exploring this unique pocket of the city.
Morning: Grab a cup of coffee and breakfast dish at Moose & Sadie’s (try the quiche of the day, or ever-praised huevos rancheros), then head over to One on One Bicycle Studio and rent a 3-speed Bianchi Milano to ride around the area on. They’ll also set you up with a helmet, lock and map of the area, as well as offer suggested routes.
Borough; Photo by Jeffry Newcomer
Noon: Try a lobster roll or po’boy at Smack Shack, a food truck to brick-and-mortar success story. Or, for non-seafood eaters, grab a sandwich piled with house-cured meats at Be’Wiched Deli. After lunch, explore the local shops. Find debonair bowties, old-school cufflinks and other classically modern men’s goods at martinpatrick3, or, for superbly constructed, timeless pieces, check out Askov Finlayson. Find home goods at The Foundry Home Goods, and women’s jewelry, accessories, and clothing at Statement Boutique. If you still have some time, go behind the barley and hops at Fulton Brewery by taking a tour or grabbing a seat in the taproom.
Night: Enjoy a meal that honors Minnesota’s Nordic heritage at The Bachelor Farmer, named one of Bon Appétit’s Best New Restaurants in America last year, or sample the ever-changing menu at Borough, which is nominated for the same title this year. Each has a separate, equally eclectic, bar for after dinner drinks, Marvel Bar and Parlour, respectively. Another top dining choice is the Italian fare at Bar La Grassa, helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Isaac Becker. For entertainment, Acme Comedy Company serves as a stage for national headliners and up-and-coming local talent, while The Lab Theater hosts concerts, cabaret and full-scale theatrical productions.
