Briana M.’s Field Notes from Minneapolis
Field Notes are firsthand travel recommendations for and by our ECT Clubhouse members. Get the lowdown on destinations across the globe from travelers and locals alike. This week, Briana M. walks her through one of her favorite cities, Minneapolis.
While I no longer reside in my beloved Minneapolis, I do work a stone’s throw from the city and one of my favorite neighborhoods (Hey Linden Hills, you cutie). As a hairstylist, I get to talk to ALOT of people, the benefit of which keeps me clued in; whether it’s sampling the latest restaurants, visiting old haunts, or attending events that purposely get me back to my favorite of the “Twin Cities”, I’m in my element! (no disrespect to our charming capital, St. Paul, that’s for another guide).
I’m approaching these field notes as if I am taking you, dear Clubhouse member, to some of my favorite places/neighborhoods OR what I personally would do on a staycation during our warmish months here in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With our vibrant music, theater, art scenes; diverse dining options, countless parks, 51 miles of bike paths, and 5 lakes within 15 minutes or less of downtown, (thousands more to explore in the greater MN area), there’s plenty to occupy your time while visiting!
I hope this food-forward guide introduces some maybe not so publicized gems, and leaves you understanding that we are so much more than flyover territory, (and that there’s more to see than just the Mall of America).
Stay
Alma: The 7-room boutique hotel sits above its bustling neighborhood cafe and restaurant of the same name. At Alma you are conveniently located to Minneapolis’ most charming cobblestone street (southeast Main St) and will have some of the best views of the skyline. Do take full advantage of their exclusive partnership with the luxurious Watershed spa and bathhouse; even if you stay elsewhere this should be on the list if you are into a little R&R while traveling. Steam, sauna, cold plunge, repeat. (I told you we are serious about therma culture here!) Option to add on a Massage and other healing modalities if you really want to indulge.
Eat
Owamni: Modern Indigenous food = Fine dining decolonized. Chef Sean Sherman’s vision realized as they have removed colonial ingredients such as wheat flour, dairy, cane sugar and purchase ingredients from indigenous food producers. Even the wine and beer program pulls selections from bipoc and woman producers as well as native winemakers from around the world. The seasonal menus celebrate region and culture of the native land we are on. It’s truly remarkable what Sean has done.
Drink/eat
112 Eatery: My go-to when friends are visiting. Wallpapered to the hilt, settle into the cozy atmosphere. Do share so you can taste more of the menu! We almost always have the 112 tartare and the gnocchi but sometimes the 112 Burger works its way in, and the Halibut is melt in your mouth.
Also included in her notes:
the chef that was a huge part of “elevating our food scene and the renaissance of what is now the North Loop”
a dog friendly boutique hotel with a rooftop bar, sauna, and pool
a lounge that serves “cocktails almost too beautiful to drink”
a Ukrainian deli that is “the place to grab a piroshky, house-made sausage and cabbage rolls”
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