Neighborhood Guide: East Town

One of the greatest spots for a bite to eat or a night out on the town is East Town in downtown Minneapolis. Based on how much money I’ve spent and how many carbs I’ve consumed there, I wouldn’t object if it changed its name to “Eat Town.” Check out the East Town Neighborhood Guide for a list of great spots to hang out and chow down.

eagleBOLTbar
Located in the heart of East Town, eagleBOLTbar is the perfect location for a night out with friends. A favorite neighborhood bar and a gay nightclub, eagleBOLTbar—celebrating its 20th anniversary this year—has it all, including a newly remodeled outdoor patio. RuPaul’s Drag Race viewings, Bear Nights, and even a Show Tunes night? Whether you’re looking for something new on tap, something fun like karaoke or bingo, or some simple bar food and cocktails, eagleBOLTbar is a must.
515 Washington Ave. S, Minneapolis
www.eagleboltbar.com

1010 Washington Wine and Spirits
Wine, beer, and liquor? We’ve hit the East Town jackpot. Stop by the Mill City neighborhood’s 1010 Washington Wine and Spirits—formerly Sorella Liquor—to check out the latest and greatest libations. Sip with friends at one of their wine tastings, learn more about the world’s top wine country, and grab a bottle or two to take home.
1010 Washington Ave., Minneapolis
www.1010wws.com

Erik the Red Bar
A Barbarian bar with Nordic BBQ and a stone’s throw from U.S. Bank Stadium, Erik the Red Bar is the perfect spot for all Vikings fans. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or the Barbarians themselves, you’ll have a good time at Erik the Red Bar. From burgers to brunch, Erik the Red Bar has exactly what you need to “get your inner viking on.”
601 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis
www.eriktheredbar.com

Grumpy’s Bar and Grill
One jukebox, two rooms, three pool tables—Grumpy’s Bar and Grill has more than enough to keep you entertained… and full. Whether you’re out for a quick beer, wine, or cocktail or looking for a full-service menu—such as wings, tots, taco salads, Coney dogs, and all kinds of chicken sandwiches—you’ll find it at Grumpy’s Bar and Grill. Special events include movie nights, trivia, comedians, bingo, karaoke and brunch.
1111 Washington Ave. S, Minneapolis
grumpys-bar.com

Mill City Farmers Market
Swing by the Mill City Farmers Market every Saturday or Tuesday for fresh produce, delicious pastries and coffee, and great views. Everything is grown locally, so you get a chance to meet some of Minnesota’s finest farmers. The Farmers Market runs until October, so hit them up for all your sustainable produce needs.
704 S Second St., Minneapolis
millcityfarmersmarket.org

Sanctuary
If you’re looking for somewhere new to try for dinner, or scoping out a pre-theater meal, consider trying Sanctuary in East Town. With delicious seafood options, great appetizers to share, and—my personal favorite part—dessert, Sanctuary is the perfect spot for a date night, celebration, or get-together with friends. And with a third of the menu changing every other month, expect some real versatility from Sanctuary.
903 Washington Ave. S, Suite 150
www.sanctuaryminneapolis.com

Sawatdee
Feel like a Thai goddess the second you step foot into Sawatdee. With gold leaf ceilings and glass etchings, Sawatdee is just as beautiful as it is tasty. Sawatdee offers catering and spaces for private events, as well as excellent Happy Hour deals from 3 to 6 p.m. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind pad thai dinner or just a quick lunch to-go, Sawatdee is the perfect spot.
607 Washington Ave. S, Minneapolis
www.sawatdee.com

Izzy’s Ice Cream
You scream, I scream, we all scream for Izzy! If you’re taking a stroll around Gold Medal Park or Stone Arch Bridge, there’s no better way to cool off than with an ice cream cone from Izzy’s Ice Cream. Located right next to the park, Izzy’s offers a modern take on the classic ice cream shop, with delectable flavors ranging from Bananas Foster and Mango Sorbet to Raspberry Cheesecake and Green Tea Oreo. With different flavors offered daily, Izzy’s always has something new for all ice cream lovers.
1100 Second St. S, Minneapolis
izzysicecream.com