Surdyk’s, the iconic NE Minneapolis landmark, announced it’s transforming its space to open a restaurant. Sidebar, a modern brasserie and bar, will offer globally-inspired dishes made with local ingredients and an approachable selection of wine, local tap beer and inspired cocktails in an intimate neighborhood setting. Additionally, the Cheese Shop will undergo a complete renovation, expanding the space to offer fresh produce and more grab-and-go options. Surdyk’s Liquor will remain open to the public during construction.
“As the fourth generation of Surdyk’s, my sisters and I have an 85-year legacy to continue,” says Taylor Surdyk. “Our great-grandpa, Joe, opened Surdyk’s in 1934 right after prohibition. Our grandfather, Bill, helped to position Surdyk’s as the institution it is today. And our father, Jim, amped up the international wine program and opened the Cheese Shop. Sidebar will be our mark on the family business – we’ve been working on it for years to ensure it’s done right.”
Expanding on the concept of the award-winning Surdyk’s Flights at MSP Airport, Chef Mary Richter’s menu at Sidebar will offer clever takes on classic brasserie fare like Steak Frites with anchovy butter, Mussels in Riesling, and Frisée Salad with lardons, poached egg, and rustic croutons with warm champagne vinaigrette. Bar snacks will include Cheese Curds with hot honey and a classic Cheeseburger.
Shareable boards draw from the bounty of the Cheese Shop’s larder: paper-thin slices of Red Table Meats Salumi, Rustica and Baker’s Field bread and more. An unpretentious craft cocktail menu will be created by long-time Surdyk’s Flights bartender and owner of Sharab Shrubs, Alex Zweber, highlighting specialty spirits and staff favorites from the Liquor Store. The drink menu will feature rotating local beers on tap, along with an accessible yet unexpected varietals wine list, hand-picked by Surdyk’s wine experts. Surdyk’s hired Shea Design to design Sidebar and renovate the Cheese Shop.
The 60-seat restaurant will open up to a 34 seat patio overlooking E Hennepin Ave. A collection of Surdyk’s vintage ads will create a wallpaper that showcases the history of the space, blending together classic touches with a modern vibe. A large, central bar will create a communal feel.
The Cheese Shop will continue to offer its large array of global and local products but will be reoriented with new display cases to visually open the space. The palette includes simple marble, warm woods, white tile and black metal to allow the products to take center stage. Additionally there will be a street-side, walk-up window designed for on-the-go coffees and pastries at the Cheese Shop
