Downtown Minneapolis’ Chili Institution Expands to Saint Paul

Downtown Minneapolis’ favorite spot for chili and a beer will soon expand its footprint to a second restaurant in downtown Saint Paul. The Loon Cafe will open inside the former Great Waters Brewing Company location on St. Peter Street and West 7th Place. Owner Tim Mahoney told the Pioneer Press that the second location won’t be a duplicate of the 37 year-old Minneapolis spot, but its own 160 seat restaurant. Chef Brian Turner will lead the kitchen, who worked for years at the Minneapolis spot before briefly moving to San Diego.

Jim Smart Architects will begin working on the remodel soon.

The Loon Cafe opening in 1982 in downtown Minneapolis, at the edge of the Warehouse District. The historic room and bar have long been a favorite stop for lunch, happy hour and a snack stop before and after events and games at Target Center. Menu staples include sandwiches, salads, tacos, and bar snacks.

• Loon Cafe Crosses the River, Open Second Location in Saint Paul [PiPress]
• The Loon Cafe [WEB]
• Where to Eat and Drink Near Target Field [ETC]