Interested in sampling the freshest businesses in Minneapolis? From ice cream waffles to a build-it-your-way poke shop, read on to learn about the hottest new arrivals near you.
Waffle Bar
An Uptown newcomer, Waffle Bar is located at 2758 Lyndale Ave. S in Uptown and specializes in Hong Kong-style bubble waffles filled with ice cream.
Try the PB Love (peanut butter chocolate chip ice cream, Peanut Butter Crunch cereal and caramel drizzle), or go for a sweet and savory option like the Ice Ice Bacon (salted caramel ice cream, crumbled bacon and caramel drizzle).
Thirsty? Grab a bubble tea, smoothie or slushy.
Northeast Recreation Center
Now open at 1530 Johnson St. NE in Northeast Park is the Northeast Recreation Center, whose mission is to "provide places and recreation opportunities for all people to gather, celebrate, contemplate, and engage in activities that promote health, well-being, community and the environment," according to the business' website.
A part of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the Northeast Recreation Center has an indoor gymnasium and walking track, along with an air-conditioned community kitchen and game room. Outside, members can play sports such as baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball and tennis, or grill out and have a picnic.
Fish Bowl Poké
A newcomer to Lyndale, Fish Bowl Poké is a Hawaiian and Japanese spot offering poke and more, that's located at 5 W. 34th St.
This new addition allows customers to build their poke their way, first by choosing between a base of white or brown rice or salad. Tuna, salmon or tofu go on next for protein. Finally, visitors choose between sauces like K-Pop, Yuzu Ponzu or Unagi to drizzle on their concoction, and add-on vegetables and toppings as desired. Grab a soft drink or a water to quench your thirst.
The Bungalow Club
The Bungalow Club is a traditional American spot, offering dinner fare along with beer, wine and spirits, that opened recently at 4300 E. Lake St. in Cooper.
Chef Andrew Kraft focuses on making handmade pasta in a relaxed atmosphere, according to the business' website. The Bungalow Club's aim is to feature "comfortably adventurous cuisine, cocktails and wine in a laid back, approachable environment."
Try small plates like Italian sausage with bread and butter pickles or short rib tartare with horseradish to start. Pasta dishes include tortelli, rigatoni, lasagna and more. Pair your meal with a whiskey old fashioned; a mezcal mule with lime and ginger; or a Hemingway daquiri with rum, line, grapefruit and maraschino. Check out the full menu here.
Mortimer's Bar and Restaurant
Mortimer's Bar and Restaurant is a diner and lounge that has occupied the corner of Franklin and Lyndale avenues in Uptown since 1976, and has recently been revamped. New additions to the old space include pinball machines and more natural light, per the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal.
Expect traditional American favorites like burgers, pizza and chicken wings for munchables. Libations include wine, beer and cocktails. Try out the Minnesota Mule with vodka, lime and ginger beer, or a daiquiri with rum and lime.
