Discover the Aster Cafe in Minneapolis: A Hidden Gem with History

Uncover the rich history and mouthwatering delights of the Aster Cafe – a hidden gem in Minneapolis on the banks of the Mississippi River! 🍽️✨ #AsterCafe #MinneapolisEats

Minneapolis, Minnesota – Hey there, fellow adventurers! If you’re on the lookout for an amazing local dining spot that’s bursting with history and offers stunning views, we’ve got just the place for you, right in Minneapolis! It’s time to set sail on a journey to the delightful Aster Cafe.

Nestled on the eastern bank of the mighty Mississippi, the Aster Cafe is not your run-of-the-mill eatery. Not only does it serve mouthwatering food, but it also comes with a generous helping of history and breathtaking scenery – talk about a meal with a view!

Minneapolis has a rich history, from its days as a lumber and flour production powerhouse in the 1800s to early 1900s, when it was home to industrial giants like General Mills and Pillsbury. Back then, wooden structures dotted the cityscape like hotdish at a potluck. And that’s where the Upton brothers, Rufus P. and Moses P., stepped in.

These two visionary siblings teamed up with local architect Benjamin O. Cutter to construct the Upton Building, located on the Ox Cart Trail. This versatile structure housed their hardware store, with their offices conveniently situated upstairs – no long commutes for these guys!

As the years rolled by, the Upton Building underwent various transformations. It served as the headquarters for the Minnesota Republican newspaper before being acquired by the Union Iron Works in 1879, which turned it into a warehouse for milling machinery. This building sure had many lives!

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Sadly, by the 1930s, our beloved structure had been abandoned. But fear not, this story has a happy ending. In 1985, the area experienced a revival, and the Upton Block got a fresh lease on life. Today, it proudly stands as Minneapolis’ oldest masonry building, a testament to the city’s rich history.

Reviving such a historic gem is no piece of cake, or should we say, hotdish? It takes dedication, time, and lots of love. The good folks at Aster Cafe knew it would be worth it, and they were absolutely right!


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Step inside the Aster Cafe, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The interior seamlessly blends retro charm with modern comfort, paying homage to the building’s incredible history. Picture this: tables adorned with candles, setting the perfect mood for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal.

But wait, there’s more! Don’t forget the European patio – it’s like a quick getaway without the jetlag! Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the food at Aster Cafe. It’s as delightful as a surprise birthday party – fresh, inventive, and sure to satisfy your taste buds.

So, what are you waiting for? Make a reservation at Aster Cafe and embark on a journey through time and flavor. This charming cafe in Minnesota is a true hidden gem, and we promise you’ll absolutely love it!

Friends dining at the Aster Cafe in Minneapolis MN pause for a selfie.

Know Before You Go: Aster Cafe in Minneapolis

📍 Location: The Aster is situated at 125 SE Main St, Minneapolis, MN 55414. It’s right in the heart of St. Anthony Main, so you won’t have any trouble finding it.

📅 Opening Hours:

  • Monday: Closed (Plan your visit accordingly!)
  • Tuesday – Friday: 4pm – Close (Stay late and enjoy!)
  • Saturday – Sunday: 10am – Close (Perfect for a leisurely weekend outing!)

🍽️ Kitchen Hours:

  • Tuesday – Thursday: 4pm – 9pm
  • Friday: 4pm – 10pm
  • Saturday: 10am – 10pm
  • Sunday: 10am – 9pm (Note: Hungry for some delicious food? Check the kitchen hours!)

🍻 Happy Hour:

  • Tuesday – Thursday + Sunday: 4pm – 6pm
  • Enjoy $5 Draft Beer, $7 Ercole Barbera, $7 Cavazza Pinot Grigio, $7/$30 Nitro Sangria On Tap, and $10 Summer Buzer during these happy hours. Cheers! 🍹

🎵 Live Music: One of the highlights at The Aster is the fantastic live music! They host live performances most nights of the year, featuring a mix of national acoustic acts and talented local artists. 🎶

🅿️ Parking: For your convenience and wallet-friendly parking, we recommend using the ramp. Simply enter the ramp off 2nd Street SE & 2nd Avenue SE.

Now that you’re armed with all this info, go ahead and plan your visit to The Aster in Minneapolis. Enjoy the music, food, and the vibrant atmosphere! 🎉🍔🎤 #TravelWithJackAndKitty #MinneapolisAdventure

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