Review: Eastside is Constantly Evolving, Consistently Tasty

Story and photos by Julie Craven

Ask the folks at Eastside Eat + Drink what's new and they have a lot to share. There's a new spring menu, new wine dinners and starting May 23rd, they will add lunch service to their current dinner and brunch offerings.

We had a chance to visit Eastside before they opened to the public last August.  As Chef Nick Dugen described the menu - which was still at the printers - the focus would be on fresh and simply prepared foods.  He was quick to add that the menu would evolve and change over time and it certainly has!

There are several new additions to the Large Plate section of the menu including Roasted Spring Lamb and La Belle Farms Duck Trio. Old favorites such as the Roasted Half Chicken remain and the small plates and appetizer sections have been updated as well.

Our server Lisa was spot on with her descriptions and recommendations. She's been with Eastside since they opened and I asked her what has changed since that time. Her reply, “The menu! It's constantly evolving!” When I asked her what she enjoyed about being at Eastside she immediately said, “Chef Nick. He just makes me smile and he makes the menu work so beautifully. It's approachable and it’s special occasion.”

I ordered the Spring Pea Veloute with Alaskan King Crab (great presentation!) and others in our group chose the Pan Seared Diver Scallops and the Baked Pork Chops. The scallops were an interesting combination with a yummy side dish that included roasted cauliflower and chickpea croquettes. Our friend Julie only got part of her scallops entree because the other three of us were not the least bit shy about helping ourselves to a taste..

 

The dessert menu last fall had a wonderful list of pies, mostly fruit pies. And that's fine for many guests but for me, dessert means chocolate. Hazelnut Chocolate Tart with Sea Salt and Caramel Ice Cream is now on the menu. Thank you!

A wine dinner was being held in the private dining room, this one featured New France Winery, and it was a sold-out event. The next wine dinner is set for April 21st and will feature wines from Robert Sinskey Vineyards. The five course meal will include wine pairings and both vineyard representatives and Eastside chefs will be on hand to talk about each course. It's priced at $75 per person and reservations can be made at 612 208 1638.

Brunch was added shortly after they opened last fall and starting next month, Eastside will be open for lunch as well. Looking forward to some sunny afternoons to enjoy lunch when the outside seating opens.

Thanks to Lisa and manager Tyler Lineburg for a lovely dinner and for their hospitality at this new neighborhood favorite!

Location: 305 Washington Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota   55415

Website: eastsidempls.com

Julie Craven can be reached at julie@millcitymedia.org