NOSHING YOUR WAY DOWN MINNEHAHA CREEK

NOSHING YOUR WAY DOWN MINNEHAHA CREEK

Robyn Schindeldecker

Winding its way through South Minneapolis all the way to the Mississippi River, Minnehaha Creek doesn’t lack for food and drink establishments that are only a stone throw’s away from its banks. Whether its a full-on feast or a happy hour suds you’re hankering for, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Here are five options, following the creek’s current from west to east.

Cafe Maude

Cafe Maude, 5411 Penn Ave S. Both casual and sophisticated, this Armatage Neighborhood favorite offers fare for couples and families alike (Leisure and Family Hours coincide from 5:00-6:00 PM daily). This destination spot is the perfect storm of fresh, locally-sourced menu items, inspired cocktails, and live jazz music. When to go: 5:00-6:00 PM daily for $3 select tap beer, $5 house wine, $5 featured cocktails, and appetizers starting at $1.50. 

Town Hall Tap. 4810 Chicago Ave S. Sharing a block with area mainstays Pepito’s and the Parkway Theater, the Town Hall Brewery offshoot more than holds its own. Embracing its beer-centricity, offerings include seven Town Hall beers, four ciders, and three beer engines (two for its own beer and one for a rotating local beer). Pair a pint with a generously-portioned meal and you’ll be planning another visit before you even leave. When to go: 3:00-5:30 PM Monday-Friday for $1 off all taps and most appetizers.

Buster’s on 28th. 4204 28th Ave S. ‘Tis the city for craft beer and juicy burgers, and this gastropub doesn’t lack for either. Whether you belly up to the bar or gather your group around a patio table, there’s a seat waiting for everyone at this neighborhood hot spot. For the hopheads among us, enjoy the Happy Hour price all day for the current Beer of the Week, Hinterland Saison. When to go: 4:00-6:00 PM Monday-Friday for $1 off all taps.

Buster's on 28th

Al Vento. 5001 34th Ave S. What do you get when you take authentic Southern Italian fare, add an amorous ambiance, and wash it down with a bottle of house red? A superb dinner for two at Al Vento, situated in the heart of the Nokomis neighborhood. Don’t forget to save room for dessert: A delicately-layered tiramisu or heavenly honey ricotta cheesecake with mascarpone gelato (among others). When to go: 4:30-6:00 PM daily for half-priced bottles of wine and $5 specialty cocktails; all night Sunday and Monday for half-priced bottles of wine.

Sea Salt Eatery

Sea Salt Eatery, 4801 Minnehaha Ave S. Located just steps from Minnehaha Falls, this dining spot provides the perfect confluence of setting and seafood. Open from April through October, the menu features fish prepared several ways, including tacos, po’ boys, oysters on the half-shell, and calamari. Choose from an extensive selection of wine or local brew to round out your al fresco experience. When to go: Specials vary daily.

This is one voyage that merits repeat trips. And a huge appetite.