Spending time in Downtown East? Get to know this Minneapolis neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from an ice cream parlor to a brunch cafe.
Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top places to visit in Downtown East, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results.
1. Izzy's Ice Cream
Topping the list is Izzy's Ice Cream, which opened its doors back in 2013. Located at 1100 Second St. South, it's the highest rated business in the neighborhood, boasting 4.5 stars out of 252 reviews on Yelp.
The ice cream spot was established in 2000 in St. Paul by owners Lara Hammel and Jeff Sommers. With over 100 flavors to choose from, visitors won't be at a loss for options. Try classic flavors like strawberry, pineapple, banana or chocolate or opt for signature options like candy cane, cereal milk or Norwegian chai. Click here for the full line of flavors.
2. Zen Box Izakaya
Next up is Zen Box Izakaya, which offers ramen, cocktails and more, situated at 602 Washington Ave. South. With four stars out of 456 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite.
Serving Japanese comfort food, the menu features small plates like edamame, poke and chicken karaage; tonkotsu and kimchi ramen; and entrees like Japanese curry, grilled duck breast and tofu steak over rice. Check out the full menu here.
3. Day Block Brewing Company
Day Block Brewing Company is another top choice. Yelpers give the business, located at 1105 Washington Ave. South, four stars out of 237 reviews. Located in a late 19th-century building, the brewpub offers craft brews and a variety of fare, including pizzas, sandwiches and more.
Notable menu options include the Taco Truck pizza with carnitas, cilantro, jalapeños and salsa; a sandwich with Korean braised beef brisket and kimchi; and bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese.
Thirsty? Grab a house Coconut Pale Ale, a strong and heavy Stout Charming with hints of cherry or the dry Day Pucker weisse. Wine and spirits are also on offer. Check out the full menu here.
4. Sanctuary
Sanctuary, an upscale restaurant that serves modern American fare, is another neighborhood go-to, with four stars out of 188 Yelp reviews. Head over to 903 Washington Ave. South to see for yourself.
On the menu, look for appetizers like Maine lobster and filet mignon bites, chilled halibut and cheese and meat plates, and main courses like pan-seared jumbo scallops, Parmesan-crusted chicken breast and New York strip steak.
Pair your fare with a glass or bottle of white or red wine or a seasonal signature cocktail, like the vodka-based Island Mango Daiquiri with lime and bourbon sugar; the ginny Call Me Mellow Yellow with peppercorn syrup, orange bitters and lemon; or the boozy bourbon Arrivederci Rome featuring Italian vermouth. Check out the full list of menu options here.
5. Northern Coffeeworks
Then there's Northern Coffeeworks, which has earned 4.5 stars out of 53 reviews on Yelp. You can find the daytime cafe and coffee shop at 1027 Washington Ave. South. The spot offers caffeinated and alcoholic beverages as well as New American fare.
The kitchen is open from 7 a.m.–4 p.m. and visitors can expect menu options such as biscuit sandwiches with egg, bacon and arugula mayo; trout tartine with lemon, shallot and asparagus; and a smoked turkey sandwich with garlic and sweet and sour jam.
Grab a coffee, espresso, cappuccino or latte early or visit later in the day and enjoy a pint of beer or glass of wine. Check out the full menu here.
