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112 Eatery
Category: Restaurants American (New) American (New) [Edit]
112 N 3rd StMinneapolis, MN 55401
Neighborhood: Downtown Minneapolis
(612) 343-7696
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 5 pm - 12 am
Fri-Sat 5 pm - 1 am
Sun 5 pm - 10 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
354 reviews for 112 Eatery
Review Highlights
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"but on to the Tagliatelle with Foie Gras meatballs." In 33 reviews -
"Dessert-the Tres Leches cake is sooo yummy." In 37 reviews -
"Our second favorite was the cauliflower fritters." In 24 reviews
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354 reviews in English
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Review from Ebbin M.
Minneapolis, MN
Updated - 5/23/2012
This will be the least positive 5 star review you will ever read.
Since pretty much everything positive I could say, has been said, I figure I will give you a few irrelevant reasons to contuinue not to go here (so that I can always get a seat walking in off the st without a res)
- Not a lot of parking in the area (take, that suburbanites!)
- The scalop and oyster mushroom with truffle oil appetizer was just a tad scorched; thus not quite as amazing as I remembered
- Everything seemed a bit saltier than it needed to be.
- My wine glass did not refill itself magically
- The butterscotch budino was not bottomless/all you can eat
- They did not pay me to eat there
Ok, ok... I have to throw in some positive things -
- Great wine list with several more affordable options
- Huge portion of great steak tartar
- Everything I have tryed on the menu is amazing.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/11/2009
It has been a while since Ive been to 112, but both of my experiences were great! It is on the… Read more »
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Review from Ryan P.
5/18/2012
What do you get when you combine exquisite food, laid back, unpretentious, smooth ambiance, fantastic drinks, and overwhelmingly good service all for very reasonable prices in downtown Minneapolis? The answer would be the 112 Eatery.
I tried to go here a couple of years ago and they weren't open. Fast forward a couple of years, this place had alluded me... until now. Wow! I was expecting greatness and this place delivered in spades. Everything was exquisite. I relied heavily on my fellow yelpers to point me into the right direction on what to order, and you guys were fully on point.
Here's a blow-by-blow of what the table had:
- Cauliflower Fritters -- A GREAT way to start the meal
- Sea Scallops w/ Oyster Mushrooms -- YUM, these are sooo good
- Pan Fried Gnocchi -- to DIE for...
- Tagliatelle w/ Foie Gras Meatballs -- exquisite...
- Duck Pate Banh Mi -- complex flavors, very tasty
All of this was delicious.. HOWEVER we truly saved room for dessert:
- Tres Leches Cake - OMG, SO GOOD.
- Coconut Custard Cake - fantastic!
- Nancy Silverton's Butterscotch Budino - WOW. This was the champ of the night, we all looked at each other after eating it and smiled, words can't describe...
I also had a Colorado Bulldog and a White Russian to go with the meal, and they were both very well made.
Now to address a comment I noticed. Is it LOUD in here? Not really, at least in my opinion. I could hear everyone in my party the entire time. The music they play is great, similar to what you'd hear on The Current, only better. So definitely no complaints there.
The service was IMPRESSIVE. We had a very friendly server who gave us great recommendations and was the perfect amount of attentive. The waiter, seeing it was my birthday, even brought out a candle to go with the Tres Leches Cake! Nice! So thank you to everyone at 112 Eatery for a great birthday evening. -
Review from Whitney F.
Minneapolis, MN
5/16/2012 1 photo
This isn't even fair. 112 doesn't seem like they have to try, or do so excellently that you wouldn't notice, to create a delightful dining experience. After a handful of visits, as wonderful as everything on the menu is, I stuck to old faithful. The boy and I split a bottle of Carmenere; 112 has some really fun cocktails (who knew I'd love manhattans...) but a reasonable wine list too. I ordered the gnocchi and scallops and the boy ordered the burger and fries. We split the cauliflour fritters; seriously I could eat those as my meal and be a happy lady. For small plates, we both were too stuffed to even look at the dessert menu.
Mine was perfect as always; I think I'll enjoy this rich meal much more in the winter months. I tried a bite of the burger, with every intention to tast as much brie as possible. Heavenly. From a true "st paulite" the boy said this was his favorite burger ever. 112beats shamrocks equals a five star review in my book anyday. -
Review from Chris N.
Milwaukee, WI
5/23/2012
Recently had dinner here with friends and family, and we were all blown away. Interesting and diverse menu with surprisingly reasonable prices. The foie gras meatballs were amazing. The scallops were also incredible; fresh and well prepared. Nearly everything we had was excellent.
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Review from Chris F.
Ingalls Park, IL
5/5/2012
I was in town for work and came here on a Sunday night. I sat by myself at the bar upstairs - the place was pretty full that night. The bartender was very helpful with suggestions and the service overall was stellar.
I started with the boston bibb w/ fine herb vinaigrette. It was very simple, but it tasted super awesome and was just the kind of salad I was looking for.
Next I had the tagliatelle w/ foie gras meatballs. The pasta alone was fantastic - I don't think it could have been prepared better. The meatballs were one of the best things I ever tasted. Damn were they good. The texture and depth of flavor in those things were what I imagine the turds from God's heavenly pet rabbits must be like.
For dessert, I had choucroute bread pudding. It's a savory bread pudding made with ham hocks, pork belly, sausage, kraut, bacon bits and other stuff. I felt like it might of given me super powers after eating it. I felt like I could of taken on 8 cops in a fight after eating it. This, like the foie gras meatballs, have been haunting me with phantom flavor a week later.
Very reasonably priced, great food, and great service. -
Review from Lauren J.
Minneapolis, MN
4/28/2012 1 Check-in Here
It's difficult for a restaurant to make you feel like you're the coolest person in the city without charging you like one. That's exactly what the food-driven, reasonably priced diverse menu of 112 Eatery offers.
I visited 112 the other night for the second time. It was the 112 steak tartar that lured me back within a month of my first try, and it is the 112 burger that will bring me back again. Simply stated, the food is delicious. All together, I've tried the steak tartar, gnocchi, cauliflower fritters, bacon, egg and harissa sandwich, 112 burger and fried shisito peppers. The cauliflower fritters and tartar are both incredibly flavorful yet simple. I coud eat either of them all day long.
The burger is juicy, cooked perfectly and the melty brie makes it taste luxurious. The harissa on the egg sandwich was very overpowering and the sandwich itself was filled with far too much cilantro. The bacon was also quite tough. I wasn't a huge fan of that sandwich, but someone who LOVES cilantro and harissa would probably have a better time with it. The gnocchi and peppers are both delicious sides, but neither are anything too special.
Special doesn't begin to describe their infamous butterscotch budino. While I am not a huge caramel person, or dessert person for that matter, this dessert sings. The thick flakes of sea salt on top perfectly contrasts the sweet butterscotch. I love the whole salty/savory dessert thing as I am someone who doesn't care for super sweet desserts, so this was perfect. My dinner companion loves all things dessert and caramel so there was a definite competition over the last couple spoon fulls
Lastly, I cannot express how much I appreciate restaurants that offer table side food. 112 starts your meal with spicy candied almonds and green olives. Dinner is served with a bread basket including a delicious focaccia, and caramel corn with candied almonds are served with your bill. You leave the restaurant stuffed and your bill does not nearly reflect the amount and quality of food you ate.
I also recommend going late night and on a week night. It is awesome that they serve full menu until midnight and the restaurant is a lot less packed than during dinner rush or on weekend nights. -
Review from Stuart M.
Silver Bay, MN
5/19/2012
This place was amazing! My girlfriend and I had an amazing time and the food was fairly priced and perfectly cooked. I wish we could remember our waiters name because he was great as well. I would recommend calling ahead because the place is small (which is great) and fills up fast.
If you haven't been here and you live in Minnesota, you need to go! -
Review from Mark M.
4/15/2012 1 Check-in Here
I saved my 500th review, so I could use it to write my highest praise for 112. I was in town on business, coming from food capital of the world - NYC. This place could make some waves in NYC. Minneapolis, you are so damn lucky to have it.
The entire experience was ethereal. From start to finish. From atmosphere, to service, to the other patrons we met during this highly uncommon moment in time. Then of course, there's the food. But we'll get to that.
We sat at the bar upstairs (read: make reservations a few days in advance). We were fortunate enough to have Leanne behind the bar. She's partly responsible for making this experience so exceptional (and so uncommon). I don't typically like sitting at a bar, but at 112 it's something I highly recommend.
We had numerous cocktails, each one made with care by Leanne. Our favorite (and the name escapes me) was with Gin, St Germaine and some other magical ingredients. The wine list is also incredibly impressive.
Now the food. You might want to buckle up for this ride. Firstly you get fresh bread and olives to munch on. The bread, it seems, was baked by the person who trained Jesus to make bread. Was this bread, in fact, baked by the hands of God? I think so:
Appetizers and Sides:
- Fresh ricotta: holy holy holy!!!
- Mussels - smokey and spicy southwestern flavors.
- Duck terrine and rabbit pate - maybe our favorite. If you don't think you like pate, quit your bitchin' and order this
- Sea scallops - extraordinary
- Roasted cauliflower - A MUST
- Pan fried gnocci - A MUST
Entrees:
- Tagliatelle w/ meatballs. WOW. Get half portion so you can get something else
- Burger - I wasn't a fan at all. Meat was more like meatloaf and the brie (and I love brie) was overpowering
- Duck pate banh mi - O M G again, O M G
Dessert:
- In a bizzarre turn of events, we were too full to even consider. I wonder why?
Coming from NYC, we were surprised at our check. Not because we thought it was expensive, but rather, were struck at how low the final tab was. In disbelief that we had such an unprecedented dining experience, we commented that a meal like this in NYC would be 2-3 times the cost.
For the business traveler dining solo - come here. There were a couple of guys in this situation and they were enjoying themselves. As a frequent traveler, this is somewhere I'd go alone.
I've never quoted movie lines in a Yelp review. Not until now. Like Mr. Darcy said to Ms. Bennett in Pride & Prejudice, I say to you, 112: "you have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love, I love, I love you. I never wish to be parted from you from this day on. " -
Review from Lila C.
4/28/2012 1 photo
First off, how have I not reviewed 112 yet, I've been there four times now! Moments like these make me feel like a subpar Yelper.
I've been to 112 for dinner twice and late night snacks after bar-hopping twice, definitely a major fan of the latter experience. My dinners there has seemed stuffy at times, some tables are definitely there on business occasions. Also, service can be slow with a full house. On the other hand, it can be quieter and more intimate when the crowd thins out late into the night. In my opinion the best spot is the bar, there's one on both floors, it's a great spot to have conversation with your friends, the stranger next to you, or the bartender.
The two must tries I would recommend are the Sea Scallops w/ Oyster Mushrooms and Tagliatelle w/ Foie Gras Meatballs. After the bars, I'm craving salty so the scallops hit the spot perfectly, plus the mushrooms! OMG my mouth waters thinking about them, something about the texture. Then there's the foie gras meatballs, melt in your mouth tasty delicious sized balls of liver fat.
Don't forget to try the complimentary olives and nuts, the perfect combination of flavors salty with a little spice. Unfortunately last time I was there they forgot the olives and nuts on our table. -
Review from Kimlinh B.
Eden Prairie, MN
4/13/2012
The biggest drawback of this restaurant is definitely the noise level. I celebrated my birthday dinner here during an off-peak time and sat in a half-full downstairs dining area and was still unable to carry on a conversation with my husband across the table from me. The small, narrow dining room is beautiful, but is also an acoustical nightmare. It wasn't just me: the tables near us were all shouting at each other. I just don't feel very classy belting out a conversation over scallops or foie gras.
Speaking of the scallops, they were amazing. Perfectly cooked, served on a bed of oyster mushrooms, they were easily the highlight of the evening. A warning, though, to those of you who aren't really into truffles. They were generously doused in truffle oil.
Cauliflower fritters: lightly pankoed, deep fried, with parmesan and parsley on top. Add a squeeze of lemon and the lowly cauliflower becomes heaven. It's a large portion, though: 6 large florets, each larger than a golf ball. These are technically a side dish, but they made a great appetizer.
112 Tartare: It was good, not great. (I enjoyed Butcher Block's more.) I would prefer if there were more kick to it: either more mustard, black pepper, or capers. Something with a little zing. Maybe more raw onion. The toasted bread looked like it would be hard (way too many places over-toast their bread), but while it was lightly crispy on the surface, it was still soft on the inside. Perfection. Many places treat the bread merely as an unimportant vehicle used to get the spread in your mouth, but it really can make or break a dish for me. Again, I was surprised by the portion size. It was probably a cup full of meat, and definitely enough appetizer for 4.
Duck Terrine and Rabbit Pate: Both were good, but the rabbit pate really was the star. The duck terrine was lovely, though, with a chunk of foie gras in the middle. These came with the same toasted crostini as the tartare. My husband also loved munching on the accompanying cornichons dipped in Dijon mustard.
The one disappointment of the night was my half order of tagliatelle with foie gras meatballs. The tagliatelle was overcooked and mushy, and the foie gras just got lost in the meatball. They actually just looked and tasted pretty similar to the chicken meatballs that you get in wonton soups, except softer. A little lemon juice from the cauliflower fritters helped brighten this one up, but it was disappointing after I'd read such rave reviews.
My husband's sautéed duck breast au poivre was much better, although its sauce was crazy salty. However, the duck was perfectly cooked and absolutely beautiful. They got the hard part right; it's too bad that an over-reduced sauce marred it.
Clearly we over-ordered. I was expecting small fine-dining portions and had no idea what I was in for. For 2 people, we would have done just fine on one or two appetizers, and 1 1/2 entrees. The service was absolutely wonderful. The appetizers came out in no time, and our server timed the entrees just right. I didn't feel rushed at all, even though I know it took us a long time to work our way through our many apps.
The caramel corn that came out with the check was a very nice finish. Sweet, salty, cinnamony, and with a hint of cayenne pepper. It was a nice tie in to the candied almonds and olives that waited for us when we first sat down. -
Review from Mimi Z.
Minneapolis, MN
4/14/2012
One of our favorite places! An overall great experience.
We had the scallops with oyster mushrooms as an appetizer. Wow. Don't know what they put in there (love?), but these are some of the best scallops we've ever had.
Nori encrusted sir loin with ponzu--it's not a surprise that this is one of their most popular items because it is just excellent. It had the juicy and plump feel of a perfectly seared medium-rare steak and the taste of a sushi roll. Great Asian/American fusion. Very sophisticated.
Other things we had that were really really good: butternut squash with blue cheese--I never knew they complemented each other so well! A week later I tried to imitate the same. Frog legs and the peppers--great, although wasn't the star.
Oh, and we finished everything.
Service was great.
Tried to make reservations here a couple of times, but the only options were 5PM or 9:30... so you should make a reservation probably a week before! -
Review from Mark L.
3/30/2012
You gotta love a place that goes out of its way to find you a table. Thanks to some bumbling co-workers, we were unable to place a reservation in time for a party of 10 people. Somehow, maybe by divine intervention, they got us a table, with the stipulation that someone had it reserved in about an hour, slightly rushing our dining experience. I didn't care. The fact that they went above and beyond is testament to a solid customer service model.
Oh yeah, and the food was awesome. Really, you won't have anything else like it in Minneapolis. I tried several dishes and wines I'd never even heard of before on that night. Thanks for an awesome experience, 112! -
Review from Donna N.
Mendota Heights, MN
4/10/2012
Foodies Dream! Reminds me of a solid NY restaurant. Had deconstructed short rib chilli which was amazing, tasted a friends tattaglia with foie gras meatballs (she said tasted like veal mix with foie gras which would be fabulous); tasted like pasta was cooked in chicken stock adding great flavor. Had crab appetizer (must try). We shared carrots and fried cauliflower (reminded me of a favorite Italian restaurant in NJ. Group had amazing deserts including boudino and great wines and proseco.
One could eat here twice a week for life and never tire; amazing menu. -
Review from Courtney J.
St Paul, MN
3/15/2012
This place was fantastic.
The decor is a sort of swanky speakeasy vibe and very cozy. The restaurant is not too big so if you're really counting on eating here, you're best advised to make a reservation. There is a bar area that serves food too but it holds...oh, about 7 people.
No complaints about the servers--they were pleasant and attentive but they didn't hover. My friend and I ordered the gnocchi and the cauliflower fritters to share which were fantastic. The gnocchi is pan-seared and comes with simply shaved parmesan on top. Very light flavor but absolutely delicious. The cauliflower fritters were great as well and while I would probably get them again myself, I don't know that I would push them on someone else to try.
My friend had the 112 burger which he loved. I was going to try it but I couldn't see beyond the gnocchi blindness before he had devoured it. For dessert, I ordered the tres leches cake which.... there are no adequate words for the glory of this cake. Friends, countrymen... trust me on this one. It's amazing. I would recommend sharing it because it's a generous size and if you enjoyed your meal as much as I did, you might not be advised to get some backup. The flavor, again was light--not overly sweet but definitely satisfies the sweet tooth.
Overall it was an excellent dining experience and one I know I will repeat. Great date place too because it's casual enough to not be stuffy, but very classy. -
Review from David C.
3/8/2012
Bold flavors at even bolder prices! Awesome portions and great service. Lots of experimental dishes with Asian and Western flavors infused.
112 steak tartare: A+
A pretty standard steak tartare; very fresh ingredients and bread. Seasoning was spot on and the bread was nice and soft.
mussels in guajillo broth: A-
Strong seafood flavor with a touch of curry flavor. Not overcooked or chewy at all; cooked perfectly. Broth was a little overseasoned.
Veal Tongue with Cold Soba Noodles: B+
A fried strip of veal tongue served over a bed of cold soba noodles and siced cucumbers. The veal tongue had a nice beefy flavor, but perhaps had been resting too long so it was a bit stringy. Noodles and sauce were prepared well.
frog legs w/ wakame & mustard sauce: A-
Think of this as a more tender version of chicken wings (go for this if you love wings). The sauce was amazing, as was the garnish of seaweed salad.
Duck Pate Banh Mi: A+
Generoues portions of pate served sandwich style with pickled dicon. Flavors were on point; tanginess of the pickled veggies really accented the soft creaminess of the pate.
tagliatelle w/ foie gras meatballs: A+
Handcut noodles were nice and tender with just the perfect density. Sauce was very creamy and cheesy, as were the foie gras meatballs. Overall a very rich tasting dish.
PROTIP: The number of covers is extremeley limited and the venue is extremeley small. Best to come on a weeknight or you'll end up waiting a long, long time. Not suitable for large parties, but great for an intimate dinner. -
Review from Pascal M.
3/11/2012
112 Eatery, I wonder if they came up with this name because one could eat here 112 times and always leave happier than their last visit.
Last year my girlfriend and I had dinner with another couple while I was in on business. We agreed to getting small plates, sharing those, then getting our own entrees.
We wined and dined, laughed and cried (OK no crying), and left feeling very satisfied. The service and ambiance was perfect for the pace and style of food they provide.
Being so long ago, I don't remember everything we ordered. Although their menu on line provides pictures (very cool), which helped jog my memory. Their duck terrine and rabbit pate was gone before the plate hit the table. Their sauteed sweetbreads were fantastic, but I find it hard to not like sweetbreads. They had a Tagliatelle with foie gras meatballs that are no longer on the menu, but were mighty good. We also had their Nori encrusted Sirloin. Beautifully cooked, incredibly tender, and as Forrest Gump once said, "went together like peas and carrots."
The rest of the food I don't remember and may not be on their menu anymore. 112 Eatery is my kinda place, I look forward to my next visit when I'm back in the Minneapple. -
Review from Phil L.
2/26/2012 1 Check-in Here
112 Eatery is a small restaurant with a very limited amount of seating. There's a small bar area up front and lots of four seaters all the way along the wall back to the kitchen. I made my reservation two weeks in advance for 8:30. Everything about this restaurant is very small and intimate. Lots of low lighting, warm woods, exposed brick, and simple wall paper. The music was just loud enough to drown out other people's conversations while allowing your table to have a conversation without needing to scream.
We started off with the scallops, tartare. I had the duck breast and gnocchi finished off with the dulce de leche cake. When we first arrived the table was already prepped with olives and and some sort of home made spicy peanuts. This was followed by a bread basket filled with really fantastic bread. The scallop and wild mushroom was done very well. The scallops were cooked perfectly with some simple salt and a nice sear while the mushrooms were flavorful and not under nor overcooked. The tartare came out with plenty of bread to share with the table, it was good but not the best tartare I've had.
The duck was fantastic, came in a nice sauce with potatoes, perfectly cooked with just a little bit of pink. My gnocchi was simply seasoned with salt, parm, garlic, and olive oil. Simple but delicious. The dulce de leche should definitely be a desert to be shared, very rich and definitely too sweet if you don't have a cup of coffee. I think it was a bit heavy handed to have the cake sitting in condensed milk but thankfully it was at least diluted. After the bill was paid we also received a small shot glass of caramel corn, a nice touch!
Our server was fantastic, very friendly, great at selling dishes, and attentive throughout. When one of our dishes went out to the wrong table, we received the mistaken entree and the correct entree was brought out in about 5 minutes. In addition he gave us one free desert. Because we had an extra entree, I got to try their pasta and I must say they did a great job. Definitely made in house and not dried pasta, perfectly al dente.
I'd say this place is a good place to bring a date, the menu is reasonably priced but I think the kitchen could still be a little bit faster. The longest we had to wait was about 15-20 minutes between the appetizers and entrees which in my mind is too long. -
Review from Anne P.
Minneapolis, MN
2/1/2012
Why can't I eat here every day??
I've been here twice - the first time in May '09 and again in Nov '11. My new year's resolution should have been to eat here as many times as possible in '12. I've heard it said that this restaurant is done by a chef for chefs. Reservations - especially for prime times - need to be made a ways out - even though this restaurant has been open for several years.
I don't remember much about my visit from '09, but enough that I knew I wanted to come back. The building must've been converted to a restaurant, it's two-stories in an old building with cracks in the hardwood floors. The bar area is packed in with tables all around it, it's difficult to grab a seat at the bar, or even wait near it. Even holding a reservation, we needed to wait a while to be seated; there's not really any comfortable place to do so. There are a few tables that are awkwardly near the door. It'd make sense to get rid of them entirely and expand the entry way/host stand. You get the feeling that they want to invest in perfecting the menu rather than the decor.
The menu is varied and flavorful. It's listed online, but when I arrived and read it in person, I felt like I was noticing new things. Tons of dishes caught my eye. We decided to do a sample of several different plates. Gnocchi, butternut squash, scallops - all were delicious, but the dish we still talk about (and try to create at home) is the butternut squash.
It feels like it should be a fancy place, but pretty much everyone (including the servers) were in jeans. I saw a lot of couples or double dates; it doesn't seem to be good for groups at all. Service was prompt, non-intrusive, friendly.
Getting a res both times was already booked for prime dining times. There's no OpenTable system here... This restaurant makes me wish that it was bigger so it'd be easier to go, but it's kinda fun pretending to be an insider going to an in-the-know place. I'm glad they aren't selling out. -
Review from Rakhi N.
2/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
I was not as impressed with this place as I thought I would be.
My feelings about the tagliatelle with foie gras meatballs was mixed: the foie gras meatballs were absolutely amazing, but I thought the pasta was too large and dense to justify the lightness of the sauce and flavor of the meatballs. That said, I would order it again just to get my paws on those meatballs.
The 112 Steak Tartare was not very good, in my opinion. To me it tasted like it had sweet pickle relish in it. Not a fan. Maybe next time I will get the "unprepared" steak tartare.
The duck & radicchio salad was very good, although not particularly notable.
The service was amazing. We sat at the bar upstairs, and so we had the constant attention of the waitress.
The wine list looks amazing, and my glass of the "cheapest dry red on the menu" (yeah, I'm THAT classy) was great with my dinner. -
Review from Jason D.
Saint Paul, MN
Updated - 1/22/2012
Adventurous!
I was here again with my favorite dining companion. I was in charge of finding a place so of course I waited too long to make a reservation. Got one for 5:00pm. I used to eat dinner with my parents at 5:00pm, but nowadays that 's too early. We made an exception.
We were promptly and pleasantly greeted by the hostess at 5:05 for our 5:00 reservation. At first I thought the table was too small and would be cramped, but I did not feel that at all.
The server was prompt and attentive with being intrusive. He was also very helpful as I had a few questions about what my entree choice should be.
We started with the cauliflower fritters. They were pretty good, although my dining companion liked them more than I did. I liked them, did not love them. For a salad I had romaine leaves w/ Roquefort dressing. That was a very good salad. The romaine leaves were whole and very crispy. The dressing had a blue cheese flavor and some bacon bits were mixed in.
After some discussions with the server I settled on monkfish posole. I knew posole is a kind of soup/stew with hominy and pork. After eating about half of the dish, I discovered this posole had tripe. That did not bother me since it was so damn good. I would get it again.
Dining companion did get a piece of Tres Leche Cake. I tried some, it was good, but dessert are lost on me. I would eat more food than dessert.
Again server was spot on with the level of attention he gave us, and timing the courses.
One small negative: If I read the bill correctly, they charged me $1.25 for ice in a Scotch? I'm not fancy, so I don't know if that's normal or not.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/30/2011
I heard a few things about this place good and bad so I kind of had a chip on my shoulder going in.… Read more »
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Review from Lisa M.
Updated - 1/10/2012
Must have been the night....
I've gotta admit, I thought I didn't want to go back after my last experience. It must have been the night, because this trip was leaps and bounds better than my last visit.
We decided on very short notice to check out 112 on a Friday night. Call us Morty and Helen Seinfeld, we had to eat at 5:00. The only other reservation was 10:30.
We arrived right on time and walked in. The hostess was very friendly and seated at a cozy table for 2 right by the window. It was drafty when we first arrived, but the place fills up and heats up very quickly!
I started with a glass of Tempranillo which was a good pour and taste for the price of $6.
We got the cauliflower fritters as an appetizer. I liked them way more than my dining companion. The were fried crisp with a nice coating of nutty cheese. I ate most of them. We each got a salad, I got the bibb with fine herb vinaigrette. It came dressed perfectly with a beautiful cloud of Parmesan cheese. My dining companion was a little jealous.
For my main course, I went small - the mortadella and gougère sandwich. My dining companion tried the monk-fish posole. I liked my sandwich and it was actually just enough. More of either the mortadella or cheese would have been to heavy for me. My dining companion raved about his posole.
I was saving room for Tres Leche Cake. It came out and it was beautiful! Nice moist cake and a great milk sauce. I couldn't eat the whole thing, for fear of being gluttonous, but I really wanted to.
We had fantastic service from I believe it was Marcus. He was very helpful to my dining companion with deciding what to choose as an entree.
I will say this, I was wrong about 112. I'm dying to go back! The fresh ricotta with white truffle honey is just calling my name.Listed in: The Hot 100, Side Salads - the great, the…, I act like I'm rich!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/6/2009
Cozy, yet delicious!
Small place, good size portions, large price tag.
I'm no fancy food expert, as… Read more »
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Review from Kyle N.
Minneapolis, MN
2/11/2012
112 Eatery is just about the perfect restaurant. With interesting, delicious takes on dishes as familiar as a cheeseburger to more adventurous options, there is something on the menu for everyone. Perhaps an under-rated aspect is how well the prices match the dishes. Sure, you can spend $20+ on a dish if you want, or order the cheeseburger or a few other options for less than $10 with no one judging you. I have eaten most of the items on the menu, and you can't miss. My only rule when ordering is that there must be an order of Lamb Scottadito on the table. If you haven't tried it yet, you must!
While others have pointed out that 112 is a great late-night spot, I don't think that could be emphasized enough. For food or drinks, it is the perfect choice. The kitchen serves the full menu until close, and I have definitely taken advantage of that. But if you are just in the mood for a drink, pull up a chair at the bar. Though it sounds simple, I can't go anywhere else and get a martini "just a little dirty" and have it turn out right, but it is perfect here every time. Of course they can make more than just martinis, so fire away. Oh, and even the bar snacks are delicious!
Chef Isaac Becker is clearly deserving of all the accolades, and I think he has created an amazing restaurant around his amazing food. -
Review from Alli D.
St Paul, MN
12/17/2011
This is, by far, the best restaurant I've ever been to because of both the food and the friendly and excellent service.
For appetizers, my dining partner and I ordered the fresh ricotta with white truffle honey and the mussels in guajillo broth. I had never been fond of mussels and I actually used to have an allergy to shellfish, but these appetizers were absolutely amazing. The mussels were too delicious to not eat, even if I was risking a minor allergic reaction. For entree, I had the half order of stringozzi with lamb sugo. Even for a "half" order, this was the perfect amount of food for me (and I can eat a lot!) and it was superb. My partner had the frog legs with wakame and mustard spice and enjoyed it.
I absolutely love that the 112 Eatery has very reasonably-priced half-orders for some of its entrees, which allows young and poor people like me the chance to experience fine dining and irresistibly delicious food! -
Review from Lyn S.
Basking Ridge, NJ
3/30/2012
Six of us visited 112 last night. We had a reservation (for 7) and it's a good thing, because it was packed! We started with salads (romaine with blue cheese, and Bibb with vinagrette), mussels and scallops, all of which were excellent. For main courses we opted for half portions of the Stringozzi with lamb sago, the baby lamb chop appetizer, the Brie cheeseburger and the duck breast au poivre -- enjoyed all of them. We had two bottles of Meiomi Pinot Noir -- a little warm, but delicious. Prices were uniformly reasonable and service was very good. Really good!
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Review from Chris P.
Minneapolis, MN
4/7/2012
Pure Heaven!
Nothing on the menu will disappoint you at all from the wines to the deserts. The gnocchi are an absolute must! My suggestion is to get several small plate items and pass them around the table to share so you can try more items. I have been back over and over and each time is a total pleasure. The tartare is some of the best I have had in a long time. -
Review from Bill W.
West Seventh, St. Paul, MN
1/27/2012
If i had to explain my experience @ the 112 with one dish. Cauliflower Fritter sprinkled with lemon. The flavors that are packed in this unassuming side dish are incredible. I literally wanted to lick this plate clean! Seriously i really did.
I had a half of stringozzi w/ lamb suggo my wife had a half of tagliatelle w/ foie gras meatballs both very tasty and well prepared. I'm not a huge fan of lamb but the sauce toned down the "gameyness" of lamb that i don't much care for. I sampled my wifes foie gras (which I've never had) let's just say "i ate foie gras and i liked it".
For dessert we split a nancy silverton's butterscotch budino. Again the flavors in this dessert and the splash of salt (my mouth is watering as i write). All this for around $50.00, Simply Amazing.
The atmosphere of the 112 is tight, cozy and very cool. It has 2 floors the second floor is accesed through a shared hall then up an elevator that opens up to the restraunt (where we sat). I loved the original red brick wall with the reclaimed wood clear finish floors.
The staff is on top of there game and very friendly! Save me a seat @ the bar I Love this place i will defenitely be back! -
Review from Andrew H.
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
i was only in minneapolis for 3 nights, but if i had to eat at 112 eatery each night, that would've been just fine for me. not being a minnesotan, i relied heavily on my coworkers to give me recommendations and i basically went on a food tour of their suggestions...and i would say that 112 eatery recommendation was clearly the best of them all.
after a decently full day of work, i immediately started out with a solid manhantan. it seemed like the right drink to fit the dimly lit, wood framed atmosphere the 112 exudes. i followed that up with a steak tartar for two for one. the amount of perfectly mixed raw beef and toast was probably a large appetizer for two people, but i very happily downed that whole plate by myself (why not? i wasn't paying for) already full but still needing to continue, i took on the 112 cheeseburger...holy crap, one of the better restaurant burgers i've ever had. the gruyere provided a rich, decadent, melted ooze of deliciousness over a juicy and flavorful beef patty.
next time i get to visit the city, i would want to try out some of the places that i couldn't fit into my schedule, but 112 eatery and that burger will definitely be a repeat visit. -
Review from Hung N.
12/18/2011 2 photos
I don't think you can ever leave disappointed from 112 eatery...
We left a sad Twins lost, to go get happy at 112...There dishes are always so creative and done well...even with the complimentary olives and spicy roasted peanuts...This time me and wife had blue prawns w/ rooster mayo, foie gras/lardon salad, 112 steak tartare, and fried bread w/ prosciutto. The foie gras plate was one of the best dishes i ever ate. It came with deep fried panko-ed egg that was still runny inside...how the hell do you do that?...also came with salad with little pork belly pieces...and foie gras was huge...fatty rich greatness to the max....happy tears.
Everything else was great...tartare was creamy, oniony delish (reminds me of larb), fried bread w/ prosciutto was good for days...except the blue prawns (kind of small shrimp with mediocre sauce). Great ambiance, pretty good service...I will come back as many times as I can. -
Review from Veronica O.
Minneapolis, MN
11/20/2011
6 years later I am still a fan.
It is Russian roulette trying to acquire a seat here but, it is worth the wait. Even when awards and write ups go to most restaurant's owners heads; this place always delivers. They are still in the game. The food still displays and contains true passion and awesome ingredients. If you have a bad experience, no worries, just let them know and they will rectify it. The fact they still maintain their status with two restaurants is also commendable.
Lamb scottadito still on my top ten list, all their duck preps are king, sirloin with nori and ponzu PERFECT and their pastas spun with the hair of a Raphaelite angel.
Never have had to worry about taking someone here because the service, food and place speaks for itself. The true test? I brought a bunch of 15 year olds here after a Northrop concert of all persuasions: vegan, meat and potatoes, veggie and a foodie in training ....all were happy and made to feel special. Being of MexiCAN persuasion I love me a good tres leches cake and this one makes me cry. Ejole cabrones.
Yeah--112 burger on my last meal list..besos. -
Review from Katie L.
12/2/2011
This is hands-down my favorite restaurant in the Twin Cities. It's just a really good menu filled with high-quality ingredients.
My boyfriend and I die for the steak tartare-- we start with this every time. Perfectly flavored, egg in the middle, served with crisp pieces of toast. Love. My go-to dinner choice in the 112 Burger with a side of gnocchi. Both of these are just so simple but so perfect. First the burger-- just a rich patty on an English muffin with a slice of melted brie. This burger doesn't need to hide behind layers of ketchup or onions-- it shines on it's own. The gnocchi is the same-- just gnocchi pasta topped with fresh grated Parmesan cheese. The gnocchi is so fresh and delicious, it just melts in your mouth. And the cheese adds JUST enough to complete the dish.
Great atmosphere, friendly and knowledgeable wait staff. Get ready for the best dinner of your life. -
Review from Kimberly K.
Austin, TX
9/8/2011
Being a rockstar photographer's assistant is hard, hard work. (Photographer is the rockstar, not me.)
Even harder is when the photographer is shooting food. Today I ate fried cheese curds, an enormous perfect brown pancake with scrambled eggs, fried mac and cheese on a stick, and a bag of hot Tom Thumb Donuts at the State Fair. It wasn't right in so many ways. All in the name of research and eating the subject.
In need of Gastronomic Healing, we waddled up to the bar.
Started with a cava, (Cava Riserva Brut, Mont Marcal, Spain 2007) to wake up my fried senses. Perfect beginning. The cava bubbles really help to get the taste buds and head clear and ready!
The very sexy foodies next to us (Claudia, Katie, Sasha, Inez and Adam) were sharing the Steak Tartare so we followed their lead. Raw meat mixed with capers, cornichon, fried onion, sea salt, olive oil, dijon mustard, ketchup, tabasco... served on bread that had been warmed on a burner long enough to brown.
The Viognier (de Pennautier, France 2010) was a great compliment to the meals ordered... on recommendation of mr. bartender. He knows.
Sweet and Sour Crab Salad was both sweet and sour.
After a long day of eating State Fair Foods, it only made sense to skip dessert but toast the day with an inexpensive but perfect dessert wine ($6 Loupiac, Chateau Segur du Cros 2005).
We did, however try a bite of our new friend's tres leches aaaand it was otherworldly, better than I have ever received in Texas. Of course this dairy state takes the cake, when it is soaked in 3 milks!
Princess Kay Kay of the Milky Way says, "The attentive service, the food, the drink, the night... all 5 stars. Real Butter stamp of authenticity!" -
Review from D B.
Minneapolis, MN
Updated - 3/8/2012
Still one of the best. Just wish they would change their menu seasonally and offer more vegetarian options. :*( Love sitting upstairs at the bar. Service is always great.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/16/2009
Consistently the best restaurant in the city. We head upstairs, get great service, the food is… Read more »
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Review from Colleen H.
Glen Lake, MN
1/3/2012
This special little place is unique in character and in menu.
This is a great place to go for both... a delight in explorations! -
Review from Olga I.
Minneapolis, MN
3/14/2012
I feel very enthusiastic about this restaurant! We went two Saturdays in a roll, because we were simply craving it! Everything about this place is great! For those of you who enjoy espresso after dinner--- you won't be disappointed!
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Review from Jeff F.
11/10/2011
If you're looking a for a restaurant in Minneapolis with an awesome atmosphere, creative menu and excellent service, this is your spot. I rolled up to the bar a few nights ago and proceeded to try:
- 112 steak tartare - ridiculous, possibly best tartare I've ever had
- lamb scottadito w/ goats milk yogurt - exceptional - amazing reco by the bartender
- duck & radicchio salad - meh
- sea scallops w/ oyster mushrooms - good, but nothing special if you've eaten a fair amount of scallops at great restaurants in the Northeast or the Northwest
Simply, 112 is perfect for a solo dinner at the bar, date, dinner with friends...pretty much any situation. -
Review from shawn s.
Bellevue, WA
2/19/2012
Heard such good things about this place. Its really tiny..but cozy, they do a good job of maneuvering about. First time sat at upstairs bar which I actually prefer.
Ordered 112 steak tartare..too sweet for me but love the do it yourself version with all the condiments included, so clever.
Mussels were good but lukewarm, bartender said "no problem" and returned with another piping hot bowl. Martini was cold and substantial.
Next visit not so pleasant...sat downstairs against wall staring into kitchen, it was a busy night. Waiter acted like we were lucky to be there...ordered a martini and it came watered down like it was shaken with already melted ice....I hate when that happens! -
Review from Jen G.
11/21/2011
Hands down, the best burger I have ever eaten in my life was here. There really isn't much else to say but go and eat amazing food. Everything is delicious. EVERYTHING.
The atmosphere is great: intimate yet trendy and casual. The restroom is through the kitchen. Don't be shy to walk through. -
Review from Aaron W.
Minneapolis, MN
3/2/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Absolutely love this place, have been here a few times and can usually get a seat either at the bar or upstairs. My old man was in town from San Francisco and wanted to give 112 a try. They tried seating us at the bar, however father wanted a booth. The hostess gave us a little attitude, however we were able to get a table upstairs. Everything was amazing, make sure to save room for the Butterscotch Budino, best dessert by far in Minneapolis! It was so good that my sister ordered some to go to bring home for the next night!
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Review from Julie N.
Champlin, MN
10/26/2011
Amazing food and such a cozy place to have date night. It's really small and quaint so it's easy to have a sweet intimate night with your guy (or gal).
We went for my birthday dinner and our server made the night so fun for us but in a professional way of course. I wish I remember his name because he was incredible and such a blast.
Now to the food... I had the sirloin and my guy had the ahi tuna. We split the sired gnocchi and all of it was over the top to die for. I used the juice from my meat to soak into the gnocchi and goodness it was perfection.
OH and the tres leches for dessert which was a dream! :) -
Review from Annie D.
8/3/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The 112 butterscotch budino should win a gold medal in the dessert olympics. It's too good to even speak while you're eating it. Just grunting and other vaguely sexual sounds come out.
Moving on, I've been to 112 Eatery just twice and I got the exact same four items both times: 112 burger, side of gnocchi, butterscotch budino and Makers Mark.
I didn't really plan on a re-run, but when I sat down with my menu, I found myself salivating for that burger and gnocchi immediately. There was no way I could bring myself to order anything else. Luckily, my gentleman caller went with the veal tongue with cold soba noodles that was also really amazing, and my friends love to share so I got to try a few other things too.
The 112 burger is the richest burger I've ever had... and for $9, you don't even have to be rich to eat it. It's cooked to perfection---juicy, buttery and smothered in melted brie. Then it's set between the best English muffin you've ever tasted, the perfect vehicle for this tastebud madness.
The gnocchi is also very rich, but I just can't help myself. The man and I shared it, which was probably a bad choice since we both hoovered it up within about six minutes.
So the food? Totally deserving of every bit of praise ever written about it. Isaac Becker is a god among food, and that includes the olives and almonds that stare at you from the table when you arrive, begging to be devoured. However, our server left me with a bone to pick. Not the staff in general (everyone else was great), just the one guy.
The first issue was that he never really resolved anything for my friend when she sent her over-done steak back, aside from taking it off her bill. She actually ate our scraps because he never came back with a new steak or a menu so she could choose something else. Nada. He also rushed our large reservation through our dinner by actually bringing the bill before offering us dessert. Not only that, but all of us were still eating our entrees. What gives?
It was very unexpected to feel like you're being rushed through your reservation in a restaurant like this, and I was so surprised that they let my friend go hungry. It didn't ruin the food for me (I doubt anything could), but it did really take away from the whole experience. Next time, I hope the food at 112 is exactly the same and the service is quite a bit different.
