Update: July 7, 2021

This area of Minneapolis is working to rebuild its community after the events and unrest following George Floyd's death. The community continues to stay resilient and hopeful. You can help by supporting local businesses in this area.

Article By Samantha Chaney
November 18, 2018

This neighborhood that is often referred to as the “Northside” is located right outside the heart of downtown, and possesses a variety of music, art, festivals, and, of course, everyone’s favorite… food! North Minneapolis is often times overlooked, which is why I think it is time that we highlight all of the amazing things that this progressive neighborhood has to offer. The history of North Minneapolis allows it to stand out, not only to me as a native of this vibrant community, but to anyone that takes the time to visit this area. The sense of unity that is present throughout the Northside has allowed the neighborhood to gain the reputation of being Minneapolis’ most culturally diverse neighborhood.

More Than Your Typical Farmers Market

The West Broadway Farmers Market is a perfect example of the amazing talent, food, and entrepreneurship throughout this community. The farmers market takes place every Friday at Freedom Square from 3-7 p.m. The sound of African drums being played, people gathering, and an upbeat mix of music that is presented by a live DJ can be heard from blocks away. Besides enjoying music and dancing, vendors of the farmers market sell fresh fruits and vegetables, handcrafted jewelry, and a plethora of natural products for hair and skin. This four-hour event allows visitors and residents of North Minneapolis to gain a better understanding of the neighborhood’s multicultural appeal. The West Broadway farmers market provides a fun environment for every age group to get a glimpse of what the Northside is all about.

A Community Where Everyone is Welcome

North Minneapolis thrives on the success of its community-led businesses. Progress is made possible because of the support it is given by its local businesses. The Cookie Cart exemplifies this unified spirit. It’s known to be one of the sweetest cookie shops in the Twin Cities. More than that, thanks to this local cookie shop, teens 15- to 18-years-old learn valuable job skills (for many it’s their first job) and have an opportunity to gain leadership experience. If you are in the mood for something sweet and craving a good old fashioned chocolate chip or peanut butter oatmeal cookie, the Cookie Cart is the perfect place to stop by. Not only do they serve some of the best cookies that I’ve ever tasted, they are “baking bright futures.”

The Northside community provides a sense of togetherness. Whenever I go to a restaurant, I am met with friendly faces that make me feel welcomed and right at home. Emily’s F&M Café has been on the Northside of Minneapolis for over 50 years. I argue that this family operated restaurant makes the best omelet and its comforting customer service is unmatched. Emily and her husband take the time to familiarize themselves with their customers by name. The family oriented business that they have makes you want to come back, just as my family has done nearly every weekend for the past 14 years.

Celebrating Art

The supportive nature that North Minneapolis businesses have for one another allows visitors and residents of this community to experience the very best of the neighborhood. FLOW Northside Arts Crawl takes place every summer, highlighting the talent of North Minneapolis in all art genres, local restaurants and businesses. FLOW does an amazing job of bringing awareness to the many fun and creative things on the Northside.

North Minneapolis is a neighborhood that has the best of the best, whether that is food, art, music, clothing, or festivals. The sense of unity and closeness that this community has is what makes it so special. If anyone were to visit Minneapolis, they should make sure to include the North Minneapolis community on their list of stops.

About the Author

Samantha Chaney was born and raised in North Minneapolis. She graduated from DeLaSalle High School in 2017 and now attends Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism. After spending time away, Samantha returned to Minneapolis for the summer with open eyes and a new yearning to explore the secret treasures of the community that made her who she is. With this article, Samantha hopes to inspire Minneapolis dwellers to explore the North side of this amazing city.