North Loop's Outdoor Dining Scene
North loop outdoor dining transforms Minneapolis' historic Warehouse District into a culinary playground where brick-and-mortar meets al fresco excellence. The neighborhood has evolved from its 19th-century warehouse roots into what's now described as the "beating heart" of Minneapolis's upscale dining scene.
Top North Loop Outdoor Dining Options:
- Rooftops: The Rooftop Bar at Nolo's Kitchen, Graze Food Hall second-floor patio
- Hidden Patios: Porzana's lush alley patio, Monte Carlo's sprawling sunny space
- Beer Gardens: Pryes Brewing's massive seating area, The Freehouse with fire pit
- Sidewalk Dining: Bar La Grassa, Smack Shack with heating elements
The North Loop offers every type of outdoor dining experience - from rooftop bars with downtown skyline views to hidden courtyards with twinkling cafe lights. These converted warehouse spaces now house everything from James Beard-nominated chefs to casual coastal seafood spots.
Great food, fresh air, and sunshine make for a perfect night out, and the North Loop delivers on all three. Whether seeking a dog-friendly patio at Graze Food Hall or an upscale steakhouse experience at Porzana's plant-filled hideaway, the neighborhood serves up options for every occasion.
Rooftop Retreats with Skyline Views
Nothing beats the feeling of dining under an open sky while taking in breathtaking city views. The north loop outdoor dining scene truly shines when it comes to rooftop experiences, where historic warehouse charm meets modern skyline panoramas.
These liftd spots offer more than just great food and drinks - they provide a front-row seat to Minneapolis' stunning downtown backdrop. Whether planning a night out with friends or looking for that perfect date spot, these rooftop retreats deliver memorable experiences high above the busy streets below.
The Rooftop Bar at Nolo's Kitchen
The Rooftop Bar at Nolo's Kitchen captures the best of both worlds - sweeping views of the historic warehouse district paired with the glittering downtown skyline. This lively spot has become a go-to destination for those seeking vibrant atmosphere and regular live music events.
Recent improvements for the 2024 season have made this rooftop even more appealing. The space now features new bathrooms and additional lounge areas, creating more comfort and capacity for guests. These upgrades, which debuted in June 2024, have transformed the experience into something even more special.
Weather can be unpredictable, but that doesn't stop the entertainment here. When storms roll in, live performances simply move downstairs to the Basement Bar, ensuring the party continues regardless of Mother Nature's plans.
The Rooftop Bar at Nolo's Kitchen
Graze Food Hall
Graze Food Hall by Travail takes rooftop dining to a whole new level with its second-floor patio overlooking the city skyline. What makes this spot truly unique is the incredible variety - seven distinct culinary concepts from Minneapolis chefs, including five James Beard-nominated talents, all under one roof.
This setup works perfectly for groups where everyone has different cravings. One person might want Asian fusion while another craves artisan pizza, and everyone can find exactly what they're looking for from the various vendors.
The outdoor experience extends beyond just the liftd patio. Graze also features a dog-friendly ground-level park, making it easy to bring furry companions along for the trip. With two full bars and diverse event spaces both indoors and out, this spot handles everything from casual hangouts to special celebrations.
The Best of North Loop Outdoor Dining: Patios and Beer Gardens
Step away from the rooftops and find the magic of north loop outdoor dining at street level. The neighborhood's hidden patios and sprawling beer gardens each tell their own story, offering everything from secret garden escapes to lively communal spaces where friends gather over craft brews.
Hidden Gems and Ambiance-Rich Patios
Some of the most memorable dining experiences happen in the most unexpected places. The North Loop's tucked-away patios transform ordinary alleys into enchanting outdoor rooms.
Porzana offers what feels like a secret garden hidden right in the heart of the city. This steakhouse has created something truly special with their alley patio - lush plants create natural walls while twinkling cafe lights overhead add a romantic glow. The intimate setting makes every meal feel like a special occasion, whether celebrating an anniversary or simply treating yourself to exceptional steakhouse cuisine.
Borough brings upscale dining to their weather-dependent patio, serving seasonal specialties and well-crafted cocktails seven days a week. The patio operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which adds a bit of trip to the dining experience. There's something exciting about stumbling upon an open table and settling in for an evening of liftd cuisine under the stars.
Monte Carlo has earned its reputation as a classic Minneapolis staple, and their sprawling alley patio shows why. This sunny outdoor space buzzes with energy - it's the kind of place where classic martinis flow and conversations last well into the evening. The timeless charm of this American fare restaurant makes it a neighborhood institution where locals and visitors alike come to see and be seen.
Breweries and Casual Hangouts for Your Crew
When the goal is good beer, great food, and even better company, the North Loop's brewery scene delivers in a big way. These spots understand that sometimes the best dining experiences happen when everyone can spread out and relax.
Pryes Brewing doesn't mess around when it comes to outdoor space. Their massive beer garden provides plenty of room for groups of any size, with seating that encourages lingering over craft beers and wood-fired pizzas. The generous space means there's always room for one more friend, making it the perfect spot for those spontaneous gatherings that turn into the best nights out.
The Freehouse creates the perfect brewpub atmosphere with their welcoming patio complete with a fire pit and live music. The all-day breakfast menu means there's never a wrong time to visit, while the brewpub fare and relaxed setting make it ideal for catching up with friends. When the fire pit is crackling and live music fills the air, it's easy to forget about the outside world for a while.
Busy Sidewalk Seating and Street-Side Eats
There's something special about north loop outdoor dining right on the sidewalk - where the energy of the neighborhood flows around tables and the sound of conversation mingles with city life. These street-side spots put diners right in the middle of the action, perfect for those who love to watch the world go by while enjoying a great meal.
The sidewalk dining scene here captures the essence of urban living. Historic warehouse buildings tower overhead while pedestrians stroll past, creating that quintessential city dining experience. It's like having a front-row seat to the neighborhood's daily rhythm.
A Guide to Upscale North Loop Outdoor Dining
When it comes to fine dining with fresh air, the North Loop delivers some truly exceptional experiences. These establishments prove that outdoor dining doesn't mean compromising on quality.
Just down the street, Bar La Grassa has built a devoted following for its exceptional Italian cuisine. The pasta bar here is legendary among Minneapolis diners, featuring handmade noodles and dishes like soft eggs and lobster bruschetta. Securing an outdoor table requires planning ahead - reservations are essential at this popular spot. The sidewalk seating provides the perfect backdrop for lingering over a plate of perfectly prepared pasta.
Casual Bites and Neighborhood Favorites
Not every great sidewalk meal needs white tablecloths. The North Loop's casual dining scene offers plenty of relaxed options that capture the neighborhood's approachable spirit.
Smack Shack brings coastal vibes to the landlocked Midwest with their famous lobster rolls - and as they say, these are "meant to be eaten outside." The restaurant's journey from a food truck in a downtown parking lot to a beloved North Loop fixture speaks to the quality of their coastal seafood. Their patio comes equipped with outdoor heating elements, extending the dining season well into cooler months. The lively atmosphere makes every meal feel like a celebration.
For those craving Italian-American comfort food, Red Rabbit delivers with both charm and flavor. The restaurant shines during weekend brunch service (Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am to 2 pm), when the outdoor tables fill with locals enjoying leisurely morning meals. Their daily happy hour (Tuesday through Friday, 2 pm to 5:30 pm) features discounted draft beers, house cocktails, wines by the glass, and special oyster deals - making it an ideal spot for after-work gatherings on the sidewalk.
Frequently Asked Questions about North Loop Patios
Planning the perfect outdoor dining experience in the North Loop brings up some common questions. Here's everything needed to know for a seamless al fresco trip in Minneapolis' most vibrant dining district.
Are there dog-friendly patios in the North Loop?
Yes, several spots welcome furry dining companions! Graze Food Hall stands out with both its second-floor patio and a dedicated dog-friendly ground-level park - making it incredibly convenient for pet owners who want options. The Freehouse also opens its doors (and patio) to well-behaved dogs.
For those living in the neighborhood, this pet-friendly dining scene pairs perfectly with apartment living that accepts the same philosophy. Many residents find that having nearby restaurants that welcome their companions makes the area feel even more like home.
Always double-check a restaurant's current pet policy before heading out, as guidelines can occasionally change with seasons or circumstances.
Which North Loop patios are best for brunch or happy hour?
For weekend brunch, Red Rabbit takes the crown with its Italian-American influenced weekend menu served from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. The Freehouse offers another excellent option with all-day breakfast available on their welcoming patio.
Happy hour enthusiasts should mark their calendars for Red Rabbit's Tuesday through Friday specials from 2 pm to 5:30 pm. The deals include discounted draft beers, house cocktails, wines by the glass, and special oyster pricing. NOLO's Kitchen & Bar frequently runs specials as well, though it's worth calling ahead to confirm current offerings.
These spots create the ideal transition from work day to evening, especially for those who can simply walk over from nearby warehouse loft apartments.
What should I know about reservations for outdoor seating?
Outdoor dining reservations in the North Loop can be tricky - each restaurant handles them differently. Many popular patios operate on a first-come, first-served basis, even when the indoor dining room takes reservations. Borough's patio exemplifies this approach, clearly stating their outdoor seating is available weather permitting without advance booking.
Bar La Grassa requires reservations due to its popularity, though patio tables still aren't guaranteed and get assigned upon arrival. For the best experience, calling ahead remains the smartest strategy.
Weather plays the biggest role in outdoor dining plans. Restaurants may close patios during rain, strong winds, or extreme temperatures without much notice. Having a backup indoor option or checking availability the day of the visit prevents disappointment.
The unpredictable nature of north loop outdoor dining reservations actually adds to the neighborhood's charm - sometimes the best meals happen when wandering and finding an available patio table at just the right moment.
Your Home Base for North Loop Trips
The north loop outdoor dining scene truly represents where Minneapolis history meets modern culinary excellence. From rooftop bars overlooking the skyline to hidden courtyards tucked behind historic warehouses, this neighborhood has transformed into something special. The same brick buildings that once stored grain and lumber now house James Beard-nominated chefs and craft breweries with sprawling beer gardens.
What makes this area remarkable is how seamlessly the past blends with the present. Those converted warehouse spaces that give the North Loop its character also provide the perfect backdrop for everything from intimate date nights at Porzana's plant-filled patio to group gatherings at Pryes Brewing's massive outdoor area.
Living in the heart of all this culinary excitement means never running out of options. The Hall Lofts captures this same spirit - taking those beautiful historic warehouse bones and filling them with everything needed for modern urban living. The location puts residents steps away from Graze Food Hall's diverse food vendors, and Monte Carlo's sunny alley patio.
Warehouse Loft Style Apartments
The beauty of calling the North Loop home is having this incredible variety right outside the front door. Want wood-fired pizza and craft beer? Pryes Brewing is around the corner. Craving coastal seafood with outdoor heaters for chilly evenings? Smack Shack delivers. Looking for a romantic dinner under twinkling cafe lights? Porzana's hidden patio awaits.
This neighborhood keeps evolving, with new restaurants and seasonal patios constantly adding to the mix. The outdoor dining scene here isn't just about good food - it's about community, atmosphere, and making the most of Minneapolis's beautiful weather.
