JOE'S GARAGE - Minneapolis

Joe’s Garage is located across the street from Loring Park in downtown Minneapolis. Joe has created an interesting, energetic space. The rooftop has been transformed into a comfortable, relaxing get-away with incredible views of the downtown skyline. There are maybe a handful of outdoor dining areas away from the exhaust fumes, lookie-loos, noisy buses and crowded sidewalk dining. Joe's rooftop is a must!

My dear friend, Tim, and I decided that we needed to eat before we went out for a couple of cool libations. It was so hot outside that we chose to eat inside in the first floor.

We started with a delicious Spinach and Artichoke Ramekin. Many restaurants have this as a starter; Joe’s is very good – filled with chunks of artichoke, an abundance of spinach and a light cheese sauce. I am not a fan of cheese sauces, but this starter was great spread over bits of fresh French bread.

Our starter had been on our table for only 5 minutes. We had, at most, taken 2 bites when the burgers and fries were delivered. Poor timing in the kitchen – we sent our meals back. I assumed the kitchen would have realized their mistake and sent out fresh, hot meals. Not tonight – maybe Joe was not in the house this evening.

I had the teriyaki beef burger, with tomato, lettuce and a zippy wasabi-mayo spread. The burger was okay but too small for the large bun. The fries were warm at best. Had the fries been hot, I would have asked for more of the wasabi-mayo for dipping.

The menu has an eclectic selection of burgers and pastas which have won some accolades, but none from us tonight. Tim & I passed on dessert and left for our next stop, 3 blocks away.

Mmm…

http://www.joes-garage.com

$
++
✦✦

Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+

Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”