In the loop

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/12/2024 (288 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A morning stroll down Minneapolis’s North Washington Avenue means sharing the path with committed runners, those in search of that first cuppa, hustling valets bringing keys and cars to hotel guests, and families getting to where they need to be.

It’s hard to believe this bustling and beautiful neighbourhood was once the sketchy part of town, its sturdy buildings standing tall and dark.

Today, the former manufacturing and warehouse district has a new name — the North Loop — and most definitely a new lease on city life that gives a big hug to its hard-working past.

Those industrial buildings provide the perfect modern-rustic vibe for the neighbourhood that now houses boutique hotels, stylish shops and an enviable culinary scene. Welcome to the North Loop!

Where to Stay: Hewing Hotel

Arguably the most happening spot on the street, the Hewing Hotel’s lobby is a nightly gathering spot for those in search of posh relaxation and first-class cocktails.

It’s a bit laughable to think that a century ago, this floor space was used as a showroom for plows, seed planters and tractors — definitely not hip. The hotel’s name is inspired by the Minnesota-pine beams that were hewn in the neighbourhood, and evidence of that craftsmanship is everywhere in this hotel.

Rooms are big and bright, thanks to those soaring windows and high ceilings, while wool accent blankets and an easy chair by the window bring in the cosy factor. It’s all modern in the bathroom with a walk-in shower and plant-based Grown Alchemist amenities that beg to be taken home.

For a more vibrant vibe with nightly tunes, head to the rooftop where a bar, big outdoor hot tub and sauna offer panoramic views of the Minneapolis skyline.

Where to eat

Smack Shack

It’s always a bit unnerving to head to a seafood restaurant in the centre of the continent, but Smack Shack will quickly dispel those fears. The casual eatery and bar began life as a food truck before bringing its saltwater delights to a bricks-and-mortar location. The standout of the lobster-heavy menu is the Connecticut-style lobster roll featuring warm lobster tossed in butter with lemon and chives. It’s piled high on an equally buttery warm split-top bun.

Hope Breakfast Bar

With several locations throughout the city, Hope Breakfast Bar combines community-building with fabulous food. The parent company is known for its attention to staff health and charity work. A portion of sales goes back into the community. Start with an espresso laced with cardamom and pistachio and order the hearty breakfast tostada — a fried corn tortilla stack topped with red ranchero sauce, black beans, bell peppers, red onion, cheddar cheese, avocado, sour cream and a fried egg.

The North Loop location is a bit tricky to find — enter North Loop Green on your device for best results.

Graze Food Hall

For those who love to pick and choose, Graze Food Hall offers a selection of what Minneapolis has to offer under one roof. Fabled Rooster has mouthwatering barbecue plates and monstrous sandwiches, while Two Mixed Up offers an unforgettable peanut-butter-and-jelly burger with cheese curds on the side. The hall is welcoming new vendors Wrad (tavern-style pizza), Graze on Greens (salads and grain bowls), and Tixtli by Nixta (tacos), in the new year.

What to do

Explore the historic plaques

History buffs will love the historic plaques on buildings throughout the North Loop that tell stories about the good-old days. There was a mouthwash factory and Ford Model T assembly plant, a biscuit bakery and candy factory among them. Coming soon are signs that highlight an oyster distributor, glass factory and the city’s oldest retail business. Simply scan the QR code on the plaque to get the full stories.

Go for giggles

For an evening of belly-busting fun, head to Acme Comedy Club where the laughs happen five nights a week. Tucked into the basement of the historic Itasca Building, the snug spot has welcomed headliners while fostering Minneapolis’s growing pool of comedy talent. Onsite restaurant Sticks served up a big plate of toasted jumbo ravioli along with other Italian favourites, plus steaks, ribs and flatbreads.

Nordic Village at the Four Seasons

Your evening starts with an escort to an enchanted wooden cabin (heated, of course) perched on the rooftop of the Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, in the North Loop.

Inside there’s rustic décor including images of grizzly bears, mounted moose antlers and furry throws to drape over your lap. The Nordic Village is a pop-up that pays homage to the state’s Scandinavian heritage, and you’re in for a cosy, culinary tour.

The four-course event starts with a fondue — warm smoked Havarti with cubed bread, apples and pears, and potato sausage — a true Minnesotan delight. Next up is the smorgasbord, resembling a charcuterie board, but with a Midwestern twist. This one includes pickled herring, duck foie gras and a smoked whitefish spread, along with hearty breads and pickled things. Main courses change often and feature cedar-planked Arctic char, a massive portabella mushroom with wild rice, cider-glazed pork chops and root-vegetable chowder with walleye. And for dessert, house-made s’mores with all the trimmings (including a miniature tabletop campfire) add a final sweet touch. The event runs until the end of March.

shel@shelzolkewich.com