Experience Culinary Excellence at Spoon and Stable in Minneapolis

If you’re searching for one of Minneapolis’ most celebrated dining experiences, Spoon and Stable should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the vibrant North Loop neighborhood, this award-winning restaurant has become a landmark in the city’s evolving food scene. Known for its elegant blend of seasonal Midwestern ingredients and French-inspired techniques, Spoon and Stable is more than just a place to eat—it’s a destination for culinary artistry and hospitality.

Whether you’re a local resident exploring your own city or a traveler with a refined palate, Spoon and Stable offers a dining experience that is as unforgettable as it is sophisticated. From the thoughtfully designed interiors to the seasonal tasting menus crafted by a James Beard Award-winning chef, every detail is an intentional celebration of flavor, community, and creativity.

Here are three essential things to know about Spoon and Stable—why it stands out, what makes it a must-visit in Minneapolis, and what hidden culinary gems lie beyond the menu.

1. A Chef-Driven Concept Rooted in Heritage and Innovation

One of the most compelling aspects of Spoon and Stable is its culinary vision, led by none other than Chef Gavin Kaysen, one of the most revered chefs in the country. After working with globally renowned restaurateur Daniel Boulud in New York and Paris, Kaysen returned to his hometown of Minneapolis to create something extraordinary.

At Spoon and Stable, his mission was clear: bring fine-dining sensibilities to a relaxed, welcoming setting, using ingredients sourced directly from Minnesota’s rich agricultural landscape. The result is a menu that is both sophisticated and soulful.

Honoring Midwest Ingredients with French Technique

The cuisine at Spoon and Stable blends French culinary tradition with bold interpretations of American classics. Seasonal menus reflect the cycles of Minnesota’s produce—expect dishes that celebrate root vegetables in winter, foraged greens in spring, heirloom tomatoes in summer, and wild game in fall.

Some of the restaurant’s standout dishes have included:

• Duck breast with cherry gastrique and preserved walnut

• Handmade agnolotti stuffed with sweet corn and mascarpone

• Aged beef tartare topped with smoked egg yolk and puffed wild rice

The dishes are plated with fine-dining precision, but they never feel pretentious. Every bite strikes a balance between elegance and comfort—a nod to the restaurant’s namesake concept: a spoon representing hospitality, and a stable symbolizing its historic building roots.

2. Design That Elevates the Experience

From the moment you step into Spoon and Stable, it’s clear that just as much thought went into the space as into the food. The restaurant is housed in a former 1906 horse stable, and the design honors its architectural past while elevating it with modern sophistication.

Where Industrial History Meets Modern Elegance

The original brick walls, wood beams, and high ceilings provide a warm and rustic atmosphere, while the interior design elements—sleek lighting, open kitchen, and artistic fixtures—create a sense of refined urban chic. The open floor plan allows diners to feel a part of the action, with views of the kitchen as chefs prepare dishes in full view.

The large bar area is another focal point, offering an inviting space for pre-dinner cocktails or casual dining. The cocktail menu itself is as thoughtfully curated as the food, featuring both innovative house creations and timeless classics.

Natural materials, subdued tones, and intentional lighting create an ambiance that is both intimate and airy—a setting perfect for everything from a romantic night out to a celebratory dinner with friends or colleagues.

The Chef’s Table and Private Dining

For those seeking a more personalized experience, Spoon and Stable also offers a chef’s table tucked near the kitchen for immersive tasting menus, as well as private dining spaces that cater to events, business meetings, and special occasions. These exclusive settings come with a bespoke menu and the kind of service that turns any meal into a memory.

3. Spoon and Stable’s Role in Minneapolis’ Culinary Identity

While many cities have a few restaurants that rise above the rest, Spoon and Stable has become a defining part of Minneapolis’ cultural and culinary reputation. Since opening in 2014, the restaurant has received national acclaim from Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and The New York Times, helping to place the Twin Cities firmly on the map for food lovers.

Award-Winning Legacy

Shortly after its debut, Spoon and Stable was a James Beard Award finalist for Best New Restaurant, and Chef Gavin Kaysen went on to win Best Chef: Midwest. These accolades weren’t just a feather in the restaurant’s cap—they signified a movement that elevated the city’s food scene as a whole.

Kaysen didn’t stop with Spoon and Stable. He went on to open additional concepts such as Demi (a fine dining tasting counter) and Bellecour Bakery, but Spoon and Stable remains the cornerstone of his culinary empire. It has inspired a wave of other chef-driven restaurants in the North Loop and beyond, turning the area into one of the Midwest’s most dynamic dining districts.

A Community-Focused Philosophy

Beyond the plates, Spoon and Stable is deeply rooted in community. The staff embodies a sense of hospitality that feels genuine and grounded. Kaysen also mentors young chefs, supports local food systems, and engages in charity work throughout the region. The restaurant’s involvement with causes like World Central Kitchen and No Kid Hungry is a testament to its values beyond the table.

Why Spoon and Stable Is a Must-Visit in Minneapolis

Spoon and Stable isn’t just about dinner—it’s about storytelling, craftsmanship, and connection. Every part of the experience, from the curated menu to the refined ambiance and heartfelt service, feels like a love letter to the city and its people.

Whether you’re a Minneapolis native looking to rediscover a local gem or a visitor seeking a world-class dining experience, this restaurant offers something far greater than a meal. It delivers a moment—one that is curated, authentic, and unforgettable.

People often describe their visit as:

• “An elevated experience without the ego.”

• “A perfect balance between approachable and aspirational.”

• “The kind of place that reminds you why you love dining out.”

With its deep commitment to culinary excellence, local sourcing, and community hospitality, Spoon and Stable represents the best of Minneapolis dining—refined, rooted, and real.

Nearby Attractions to Explore After Your Meal

Located in the trendy North Loop, Spoon and Stable is just steps away from other vibrant attractions that make the experience even richer. After your meal, consider strolling through:

• The Minneapolis Farmers Market – Perfect for a post-dinner walk and fresh local finds.

• The Mississippi Riverfront – Ideal for catching sunset views or a scenic riverwalk.

• Target Field – Home to the Minnesota Twins, just a few blocks away for sports enthusiasts.

• Fulton Taproom – A local favorite for craft beer lovers, with a laid-back atmosphere.

The neighborhood is a fusion of old industrial roots and contemporary flair—mirroring the very ethos that makes Spoon and Stable so compelling.

Final Thoughts

In a city filled with outstanding dining options, Spoon and Stable rises above thanks to its blend of culinary sophistication, architectural charm, and heartfelt hospitality. It is more than a meal—it’s a destination that tells a story with every plate and every detail.

Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply want to experience Minneapolis at its finest, Spoon and Stable offers the kind of culinary journey that lingers long after the last bite. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, and where guests are always welcomed like family.