Eagan’s Top 10 Local Legends Worth the Drive from Hastings
Updated for 2025: Just a short cruise up Highway 55 from Hastings lies Eagan – a suburb brimming with personality and must-visit small businesses. In this flagship Local Exchange feature, we profile ten of Eagan’s standout local legends. From iconic eateries to hidden gems, each has a unique origin story, a journey of growth, and a vibe all its own. These beloved establishments are worth the drive from Hastings, offering experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s dive into Eagan’s top 10 local legends – and why they should be on your radar!
1. Jensen’s Food & Cocktails
Placeholder image by LocalPigeon. Credit: “Illustration created with AI, Studio Ghibli–inspired.”
Founded by brothers Doron and Derek Jensen (and their dad Richard) in 1996, Jensen’s Food & Cocktails began life as “Jensen’s Supper Club” – an upscale local steakhouse with a celebratory spirit jensensfoodandcocktails.com. After nearly two decades as a classic supper club, they remodeled and rebranded in 2014 to the more casual Jensen’s Food & Cocktails, but kept the same commitment to quality that made them a hometown legend.
Origin Story & Journey
Doron Jensen was already a seasoned restaurateur (he helped start the Timber Lodge Steakhouse chain) when the family opened Jensen’s in Eagan. Their mission was simple: create “a place not merely to dine, but to celebrate” jensensfoodandcocktails.com. Over 25+ years, Jensen’s has perfected the art of the supper club experience – high-quality steaks and seafood, generous cocktails, and impeccable service – all in a comfortable, come-as-you-are environment. Regulars have celebrated anniversaries, birthdays and countless special occasions here, making Jensen’s synonymous with Eagan hospitality.
Vibe & Offerings
Walking into Jensen’s feels like stepping into a Mad Men-era dinner club, complete with an expansive wine list, stiff martinis, and the aroma of sizzling sirloin. White linens adorn the tables at dinner, but there’s no stuffy dress code – it’s upscale yet family-friendly. Signature dishes include Steak Oscar and beer-battered walleye, alongside Wisconsin supper-club classics like jumbo shrimp cocktail. They’ve also added a popular Sunday brunch. Whether you’re craving a classic Old Fashioned or their famous popovers with honey butter, Jensen’s delivers a “great meal with impeccable service in a comfortable environment” jensensfoodandcocktails.com.
Today
Located at 3840 Rahn Road (conveniently next to Twin Cities Premium Outlets), Jensen’s remains an Eagan landmark for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. The Jensen family is often on-site ensuring every guest feels like a VIP. They continue to evolve the menu with seasonal touches while “celebrating the original mission” of warm hospitality jensensfoodandcocktails.com. Reservations are recommended for weekend nights.
Website & Social
Visit JensensFoodandCocktails.com for menus and online reservations. Follow @jensensfoodcocktails on Instagram or Jensen’s Food & Cocktails on Facebook for steak night specials and mouth-watering food photos.
Hastings Insider Tip / CTA
Ready for a retro supper club experience without heading to the North Woods? Plan a date night at Jensen’s – it’s just a 30-minute drive from Hastings, but feels like a step back in time. Treat yourself to their “Celebration” dessert (a flaming tableside bananas foster) and make a memory! 🍸🎉
2. RISE Dispensaries (Eagan)
RISE Eagan at 1340 Town Centre Dr is open every day, serving many patients and preparing to welcome more.
Eagan made history as one of the first Minnesota cities to offer medical cannabis, and RISE Dispensary Eagan has grown into a trailblazer in the field. Tucked in a business park off Town Centre Dr, RISE (formerly known as LeafLine Labs) opened to serve patients in need when Minnesota’s cannabis program launched. In 2022, national cannabis company Green Thumb Industries acquired LeafLine and rebranded all five Minnesota locations to RISE https://risecannabis.com – bringing a fresh look and expanded product line to Eagan’s dispensary while keeping a strong presence in the community.
Origin Story & Journey
The Eagan dispensary originally opened under the LeafLine name around 2015, back when medical marijuana in MN meant strictly cannabis oils and pills for registered patients. As laws evolved, so did the dispensary: adding cannabis flower in 2022, then gummies and vapes – finally giving patients the options they’d long requested. The big turning point came with legalization. While full recreational sales are still ramping up in Minnesota (as of 2025), RISE Eagan is poised to transition from a medical-only clinic to a broader adult-use and medical cannabis boutique in the near future. Their journey from a small, clinical operation to a community-facing retail shop reflects changing attitudes toward cannabis. In fact, when RISE rebranded in 2022, they celebrated with patient appreciation events and even donated first-day profits to Habitat for Humanity https://risecannabis.com — showing their commitment to community. This is part of a RISE tradition where new dispensaries partner with and donate proceeds to a community-based organization.
Vibe & Offerings
Walking into RISE Eagan feels more “spa boutique” than “head shop.” You’ll find a modern, clean interior with friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to guide you. The vibe is welcoming and stigma-free – they know many visitors are first-timers. Current offerings (for registered patients) include a wide range of GTI premium brands, such as Dogwalkers, Good Green, RYTHM, Dr. Solomon's, &Shine and Beboe. The menu contains: flower, pre-rolls, gummies, vapes, THC/CBD oils, capsules, tinctures and lotions. As Minnesota’s recreational market opens, RISE plans to expand these offerings to adult consumers with proper ID – likely adding pre-rolled joints, hemp-derived beverages, and more edible varieties. Upon arrival, you are welcomed by a member of their security team to check IDs and patient cards, and once inside, it’s a relaxed retail experience. Think Apple Store meets apothecary, with product displays and consultation stations. At checkout, patients have the option to round up their purchase to support non-profit partners, such as Backpacks for Life and Stop Soldier Suicide. Customers can conveniently order in-store or pre-order online, both will get you through the pick-up process quickly.
Today
RISE Eagan (located at 1340 Town Centre Dr, Eagan, MN) is open 7 days a week, serving hundreds of patients and gearing up for broader access. They host educational workshops for newcomers and partner with local veterans’ groups to ensure those in need get help registering for the state program. Insider note: Until recreational sales kick in statewide, only state-registered medical patients can purchase here. But you can visit their website https://risecannabis.com/getting-a-medical-card or stop in to ask questions – the staff is happy to explain how to get a medical card if you qualify.
Website & Social
Check out https://risecannabis.com/dispensaries/minnesota for the Eagan menu, hours, and online ordering for pickup. Follow @risecannabis on Twitter for updates on Minnesota cannabis laws and product drops. Their RISE Dispensaries Eagan Facebook page posts educational tidbits and any new hours or adult-use news as legislation evolves.
3. Kid to Kid Eagan
Placeholder image by LocalPigeon. Credit: “Illustration created with AI, Studio Ghibli–inspired.”
Kids grow fast – and that’s the big idea behind Kid to Kid, a children’s resale boutique that has become a savior for savvy parents. The Kid to Kid franchise was founded in 1992 on the principle that “kids grow faster than paychecks.” It quickly grew by helping families buy and sell gently-used kids’ items zippia.com. Kid to Kid Eagan, locally owned by a Twin Cities family, opened in April of 2022 and has since become a go-to for Hastings and Eagan parents alike.
Origin Story & Journey
The Kid to Kid chain began in Utah in the early ’90s, but Eagan’s store brought those secondhand savings to the southeast metro. Kid to Kid stepped in to continue the tradition of affordable kids’ gear. The Eagan franchise owners (a local couple with their own children who were clothed with second hand clothing growing up.) embraced the brand’s ethos of sustainability and value. They opened their bright, welcoming shop in the Town Centre retail strip (near Yankee Doodle and 35E), bringing a “upscale thrift” vibe to children’s apparel. Over the years, they’ve expanded inventory to include baby equipment and even a curated selection of new boutique toys and gifts.
Vibe & Offerings
Walking into Kid to Kid Eagan is like entering a well-organized kids’ department store – until you notice the prices (often 70% less than retail!). Racks are sorted by size from newborn to youth, and everything is in like-new condition. You’ll find popular brands (Hanna Andersson, Mini Boden, Zara, Bamboo, Kate Quinn, Nike) at thrift prices, plus shoes, books, and tons of toys. The shop offers cash or store credit for gently used items – Hastings parents often make a day of it, bringing in last season’s gear and leaving with “new” clothes and money in their pocket. The vibe is fun and family-friendly: the staff are knowledgeable and can chat about everything from teething to teen growth spurts. Sustainability is a big part of the draw too – reusing and recycling kids’ goods keeps thousands of items out of landfills each year.
Today
Kid to Kid Eagan is at 1278 Town Centre Drive and open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm. They buy every day up until an hour before closing. They rotate stock seasonally, so right now you’ll find summer tees, swimsuits, and sandals; come fall, it’ll be jackets and Halloween costumes galore. They post high-demand items (think: jogging strollers, exersaucers, American Girl dolls) on their Facebook page, so followers get first dibs. The store has won “Best Children’s Resale” in local parent magazines multiple years running, a testament to its quality.
Website & Social
For selling guidelines and current hours, see KidtoKid.com/Eagan. The Kid to Kid Eagan Facebook page is very active – they preview items that just hit the floor (with prices) and announce clearance blowouts. Follow their Instagram @kidtokideagan for outfit inspiration for the kiddos and occasional giveaway contests.
Hastings Insider Tip / CTA
Before you splurge on brand-new gear for your kids, take a short drive to Kid to Kid Eagan and treasure-hunt! Hastings parents say it’s “worth the trip” – you might outfit your child’s entire summer wardrobe for the cost of one mall outfit. Pro tip: bring in outgrown items for store credit, and you could pay nothing at all. 🛍️👶 Save money, save the planet, and support a local family business in one go!
4. Bald Man Brewing Company
Placeholder image by LocalPigeon. Credit: “Illustration created with AI, Studio Ghibli–inspired.”
Eagan’s first craft brewery, Bald Man Brewing, is a rock ’n’ roll haven where great beer and great music collide. Founded in 2017 by brewmaster Tristan Kusnierek (the titular “Bald Man”) and business partner Dan Jacobs, Bald Man Brewing opened its doors in Eagan with a mission to bring fresh artisan beer to the suburbs citylifestyle.com. In just a few years, it’s become a community hub – think live bands, food trucks, and families playing board games – all under the glow of brewing tanks.
Origin Story & Journey
The Bald Man himself, Tristan, started homebrewing back in 1992 as a college student citylifestyle.com. After honing his craft for years (even completing formal brewer training and an apprenticeship citylifestyle.com), he teamed up with serial entrepreneur Dan Jacobs to turn the dream into reality. They deliberately chose Eagan, an area that had zero breweries at the time, figuring the community was thirsty for local beer. They were right – when Bald Man opened, beer lovers flocked in. The brewery began with a lineup of rock music-themed brews and a modest taproom. Over time, they’ve expanded the taproom, increased production (their cans now appear in Twin Cities liquor stores), and hosted everything from charity chili cook-offs to outdoor concert festivals. Despite growth, Bald Man stays true to its roots: it’s still owned by the founding friends, still all about “Beer that rocks!” (their motto), and you’ll still see Tristan behind the bar chatting about hops with customers.
Vibe & Offerings
This isn’t a pretentious taproom – it’s a come-as-you-are party. The space is large and industrial-chic, with a stage in the corner often featuring local bands (classic rock, of course). Guitars and music memorabilia adorn the walls. On tap, you’ll find a mix of staples and inventive brews: their flagship “Misty Mountain Hop” IPA is a fan-favorite, as is “Tupelo Honey Brown Ale” and their popular lighter beer “Heart Of Glass Blondie Ale”. New releases (like a funky pickle-flavored ale and decadent pastry stouts) keep beer geeks intrigued. For non-beer drinkers, Bald Man offers craft sodas and rotating hard seltzers citylifestyle.com. There’s no in-house kitchen, but they have a constant rotation of food trucks and also serve Heggies Pizza as a fallback citylifestyle.com. Kids and dogs are welcome – you’ll often see toddlers dancing to the music or coloring at picnic tables while parents sip pints. It’s that kind of warm, communal feel. Bald Man also runs weekly events: trivia nights, seasonal beer release parties, and “Beer & Yoga” on Saturday mornings for the wellness-minded hophead.
“Our ‘Juice Box Hero Pale Ale’ is also a very strong seller for us as another core beer.”
Today
Located at 2020 Silver Bell Road (in an easy-to-miss industrial park – just follow the “beer” signs!), Bald Man is open every day. They’ve become a fixture at Eagan Market Fest and sponsor local softball teams – truly ingraining themselves in the community. In 2025, they’re expanding their patio and planning a summer concert series outdoors. Keep an eye out for limited bottle releases of special barrel-aged beers, which tend to sell out fast to the Mug Club members.
Website & Social
Check BaldManBrewing.com for the latest tap list and the food truck schedule. The site shares the fun origin story of how Tristan’s homebrew impressed Dan so much he “designed and built the brewery with The Bald Man” citylifestyle.com – a great read. Follow @BaldManBrewing on Facebook or Instagram for live music schedules (they often announce which band is playing on Friday night) and new beer alerts.
Hastings Insider Tip / CTA
Grab your growler and head to Bald Man Brewing for a rockin’ good time! Hastings hop fans: this is your closest craft brewery, and they’ll treat you like family. Bring a vinyl record for them to spin (yes, they take requests). 🍻🎸 Cheers to good beer and good neighbors!
5. Ze’s Diner
Driving north from Hastings, you’ll spot a neon-glow time machine tucked beside Yankee Doodle Road: Ze’s Diner. Family-run since 2011, this 1950s-style eatery dishes bottomless nostalgia, breakfast all day, and milkshakes thick enough to bend a spoon. Open 365 days a year—and newly crowned “Best Service 2025” by Restaurant Guru—Ze’s is the perfect capstone for our “Eagan Top 10 Local Legends” tour.
Introduction
“Ze’s Diner is a family-owned and operated retro 1950s-style diner with six locations—and we’re excited to be opening a new location in Bloomington at the end of the month!
We pride ourselves on offering a fun, nostalgic atmosphere where families can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Our all-day menu means you can have breakfast for dinner or grab a burger first thing in the morning—whatever you’re in the mood for!”
Owners Moody and Zeze are passionate about what they do, and it shows in every one of our diners.
Origin Story & Journey
Moody and Zeze fell in love with their first location, Cahill Diner in Inver Grove Heights. They poured everything they had into making it a success, and through hard work and dedication, Cahill Diner became a beloved staple in the community.
Inspired by that success, they opened the very first Ze's Diner in Eagan. At the time, the Ze's Diner name wasn’t widely known, so once again they had to start from scratch. With perseverance, passion, and long hours, they built a strong reputation—and soon Ze's Diner became a local favorite in the Eagan community.
From day one, Moody and Zeze have shared one clear mission: to create a welcoming, family-friendly place where everyone feels at home and can enjoy a great meal at an affordable price.
Vibe & Offerings
Step inside and you’re greeted by Elvis prints, neon jukebox lights, and 1950s hits piping through the speakers. Food matches the mood: corned-beef hash, Cajun bennies drenched in spicy hollandaise, pot-roast sandwiches, and that legendary “Meaty Cheesy” Texas-toast burger. zesdiner.com, zesdiner.com Diet-busting desserts steal the show—milkshakes “known throughout the Midwest,” homemade rhubarb jam slathered on everything, and rotating pies. zesdiner.com, zesdiner.com Kids score their own menu, classic-car clubs swing by for weekend breakfasts, and vinyl-spinning car-shows pop up on summer Sundays. facebook.com Prices stay wallet-friendly (average meal under $15), reinforcing Ze’s reputation as “best family-friendly restaurant in Minnesota.” exploreminnesota.com
What’s Happening at Ze’s Diner Today
Award season: Ze’s Eagan just nabbed Restaurant Guru’s 2025 “Best Service” badge. zesdiner.com
Extended hours: Open daily 7 a.m.–8 p.m. (Sun till 2 p.m.)—and yes, they’re open every holiday. zesdiner.com, zesdiner.com
Menu refresh: A new falafel-pita and seasonal walleye sandwich recently earned praise from Star Tribune food writers. startribune.com
Community ties: The diner hosts fundraising nights for local schools and rotates “Kids Eat Free after 4 p.m.” promos on its Facebook page, followed by more than 3,800 fans. facebook.com
Road-trip ready: Situated 25 minutes from Hastings (3448 Denmark Ave., near Twin Cities Premium Outlets), Ze’s makes an easy pit-stop before or after shopping. zesdiner.com, exploreminnesota.com
Website & Social
Main site & online ordering: ZesDiner.com offers menus, gift cards, and quick take-out ordering. zesdiner.com
Hours & locations: Full schedule for all five diners lives at zesdiner.com/locations. zesdiner.com
Social feeds: Follow @ZesDiner on Facebook for daily specials and event announcements; Instagram teases new shakes and car-meet photos. facebook.com
Hastings Insider Tip
Roll up on classic-car night (usually the third Sunday, 7–10 a.m.) for a side of chrome with your pancakes—then grab a malt to-go for the quick cruise back down Hwy 55.
6. Good Times Park
Placeholder image by LocalPigeon. Credit: “Illustration created with AI, Studio Ghibli–inspired.”
When cabin fever strikes in Minnesota, Good Times Park is the cure – an indoor playground the size of a small park, where kids can run wild and parents can actually relax. This privately owned indoor playland opened in 2013 in Eagan and was a groundbreaking concept: a 25,000 sq. ft. “bring the outside in” park that’s entirely self-service startribune.com, startribune.com. In other words, it’s always open, and you let yourself in – literally good times on demand!
Origin Story & Journey
Good Times Park was the brainchild of Bonnie O’Meara, an Eagan mom who left her corporate job to solve a problem: “Where can you take kids to play when it’s below zero?” startribune.com. City-run indoor parks existed (Edinborough in Edina, Eagle’s Nest in New Brighton), but none in the southeast metro – and Bonnie envisioned something bigger and more flexible. She and her husband Tim opened Good Times in April 2013 in an old warehouse space, outfitting it with playground equipment, a turf sports field, a giant jumping pillow – essentially an outdoor park, under a roof startribune.com. Their business model was novel: no on-site staff and no scheduled hours. Parents purchased a day pass or membership online, received an access code, and let themselves in through a secure door startribune.com. This two-pronged strategy – bigger facility + self-service entry – allowed them to keep costs down and doors open 7am-9pm, 365 days a year familyfuntwincities.com, familyfuntwincities.com. Families flocked, loving the freedom and the huge space to roam. Over the years, Good Times Park became a beloved community asset; countless Hastings families have made the trek for playdates, birthday parties, or just to burn off winter energy. In 2022, Bonnie passed the torch to new local owners who have since expanded the concept with a second location in Woodbury familyfuntwincities.com. Yet the Eagan original remains the flagship and has only gotten better with time – adding new equipment and amenities based on parent feedback.
Vibe & Offerings
Imagine an indoor park with everything: slides, swings, sports courts, and open space galore – that’s Good Times. The play areas are segmented into zones: a “Little Tykes” area with toddler-sized houses and slides, a huge climbing jungle gym with slides for older kids, a padded “ninja course” with obstacles for aspiring American Ninja Warriors, a full basketball court (“Hoops Hall” familyfuntwincities.com), and a turf field with soccer goals for pickup games. And of course, the star of the show: the Jazzy Jumper, a massive inflated jumping pillow where dozens of kids can bounce together (think trampoline meets bouncy castle) goodtimespark.com. There’s also an Imagination Playground zone with giant foam blocks for building forts, and a spinning tire swing that’s perpetually in use. Parents are expected to supervise their own kids (no drop-off daycare here), but the facility is designed to make that easy: it’s open sight-lines everywhere, seating for grown-ups in each area, and you can even bring your own food for picnic lunches at the indoor tables. The vibe is “let kids be kids.” Without arcade games or loud music, it’s all about active play – you might hear shrieks of joy and laughter echoing off the high ceilings. On a cold January morning, it can feel like half of Eagan is there playing – yet thanks to the size, it rarely feels crowded. And because there are no staff roaming around, parents say it almost feels like their own private playground at times. (Don’t worry, the facility is monitored by cameras for safety, and it’s impeccably clean – they have a robust cleaning schedule).
Today
Located at 3265 Northwood Circle in Eagan (just off Lone Oak Road), Good Times Park is open daily 7:00am – 9:00pm – including holidays. (Yes, some families do spend Christmas Eve day here when the kids need to blow off steam!). Admission is currently $12 per child (ages 1-17) for a day pass familyfuntwincities.com, and adults are free. Frequent visitors opt for an annual membership or punch passes to save on cost. Since 2024, Good Times Eagan has had a sibling – Good Times Park Woodbury – accessible on the same membership. The new owners have kept all the original features and added a few new ones: an expanded infant area for babies, and Wi-Fi for parents. They also introduced limited staffed hours on weekend mornings where an attendant is available if you have questions or want to purchase a pass on-site (though 90% of customers still use the online self-check-in). Pro tip: weekday mornings are the quietest (perfect for toddlers), while weekends see the biggest crowds (but also the most kids to play with).
Website & Social
Everything operates through GoodTimesPark.com – where you purchase passes, get your door code, and even sign the waiver digitally. Their site proudly calls Good Times “Minnesota’s largest, family-owned indoor playground” and explains the concept for first-timers minnemamaadventures.com, minnemamaadventures.com. Follow @GoodTimesPark on Instagram or Facebook for fun updates – they often post cute photos of kids enjoying the park, announce when new equipment arrives, or share “Good Times at home” play ideas. (And if you tag them in your own photos, you might get featured on their page).
Hastings Insider Tip / CTA
Beat the winter blues – take your kids to Good Times Park Eagan for an epic play day! Hastings families, it’s worth the short drive: your kids will nap like champions afterwards (and you’ll get a breather). Bring snacks or a picnic lunch and make a day of it. No need to reserve, just buy your pass online, and get ready to watch the kiddos literally bounce off the walls (in a good way). 🤸♀️🏀 Good times, guaranteed!
7. Volstead House Whiskey Bar & Speakeasy
Placeholder image by LocalPigeon. Credit: “Illustration created with AI, Studio Ghibli–inspired.”
Hidden behind an unassuming burger joint in a strip mall, a secret world awaits: Volstead House, Eagan’s very own Prohibition-era speakeasy. This is not your average suburban bar – it’s a 1920s-themed whiskey lounge complete with dim lighting, craft cocktails, vintage decor, and a password-like mystique. Since opening quietly in late 2016, Volstead House has earned a reputation as a “find if you can” local legend that’s absolutely worth the sleuthing required to get in.
Origin Story & Journey
The speakeasy is named after Andrew Volstead – the Minnesota congressman behind the Prohibition Act – and it embraces that history to the hilt. Owner Tony Donatell had already launched the adjacent restaurant (Burgers and Bottles) in a former gas station, but in 2016 he “took it up a notch” by transforming the back room into Volstead House, an homage to the secret bars of Prohibition tcbmag.com. With no exterior signage and no separate entrance, it truly started as a word-of-mouth experience. (If you knew, you knew – you had to walk through Burgers & Bottles and find the red door inside.) Locals were delighted by the concept: finally, a cool downtown-style cocktail den right here in Eagan! Over the years, Volstead House has grown its whiskey collection to one of the largest in the state and has been featured in numerous “best speakeasy” lists. Yet it maintains a low profile – no big advertisements, just that insider buzz. The journey hasn’t been without hiccups: a fire in 2019 caused a temporary closure and rebuild, and of course 2020’s restrictions forced a pivot to patio service (yes, their hidden patio became the not-so-secret spot). But each time, Volstead came back stronger, doubling down on the clandestine charm. It’s now firmly planted as an Eagan institution – one that out-of-towners are often shocked to find in a suburban strip mall.
Vibe & Offerings
The atmosphere is immersive. Step past the heavy curtain at the back of Burgers & Bottles and you enter a different era: pressed tin ceilings, a vintage wooden bar, a bathtub (for decoration!), old-fashioned portraits on the walls, and jazz age music playing softly. The space is intimate and often hopping with conversation. True to speakeasy form, lighting is low and mood is high. Volstead House’s menu is anchored by an encyclopedic whiskey list – over 250 whiskeys from bourbons and Scotches to rare international finds line their “Wall of Booze,” a near-encyclopedic whiskey inventory startribune.com. Their expert bartenders mix up classic cocktails with a twist: think flawless Old Fashioneds, sidecars, and house signatures like the Volstead Old Fashioned (made with Minnesota maple syrup). They also barrel-age some cocktails on-site for extra depth. Not a whiskey fan? They’ve got you – there’s a strong wine list and craft beers too. The food comes from the Burgers & Bottles kitchen, but with an upscale bent: shareable appetizers (truffle fries, artisan cheese boards) and yes, you can absolutely order one of the best burgers in town to enjoy with your bourbon. (Fun fact: the speakeasy burger was lauded by the Star Tribune as a must-try startribune.com, startribune.com.) Service is polished yet warm – the bartenders love to talk spirits and will gladly guide you to a dram you’ll love. Half the fun is just finding the place: as the Star Tribune noted, “Don’t be thrown by the lack of signage… access is only by walking through [the] casual neighborhood hangout” Burgers & Bottles startribune.com. It’s a little piece of the Roaring Twenties in modern Eagan.
Today
Volstead House (1278 Lone Oak Rd, behind the red door) is open evenings Wednesday through Sunday. It doesn’t take reservations – seating is first-come, first-served, which can mean a wait on peak nights. Many patrons enjoy a burger and beer up front, then slip into Volstead when seats free up. The bar continues to innovate: they host periodic whiskey tasting flights and educational “vault nights” where ultra-rare bottles are opened for pours (announced to their Whiskey Society members via email). Dress is casual, but many guests get into the spirit with fedoras or flapper-style accessories on weekends. It’s a popular spot for date nights, celebrations, or a nightcap after dinner. As Eagan grows, Volstead House remains unique – you won’t find a chain or cookie-cutter feel here, it’s truly one-of-one.
Website & Social
For a sneak peek, visit VolsteadHouse.com – though in true speakeasy fashion, the website is pretty minimal (mostly hours and a hint at the menu). The Volstead House Whiskey Bar & Speakeasy Facebook page, however, is active: they post new cocktail creations, announce live music nights (did we mention, occasionally they have a solo jazz guitarist adding to the mood?), and any special closures. Follow @VolsteadHouse on Instagram for gorgeous cocktail photography set against that 1920s backdrop – it’s Instagram gold.
Hastings Insider Tip / CTA
Pssst… looking for a secret adventure? Seek out Volstead House on your next evening out. Hastings friends, this hidden gem is only 25 minutes away – but feels worlds apart. Impress your date or pals by “discovering” the red door inside Burgers & Bottles. Once you’re sipping a Smoked Manhattan in a tucked-away leather booth, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner. 🥃✨ No password required – just a sense of adventure!
8. Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar
Vibe & Offerings
Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar embodies the essence of Minnesota with a modern touch. From eggs benedict and sweet or savory waffles to their famous Tater Tot Hotdish, Minnesota Walleye, and New York Strip, the extensive menu features familiar favorites with fresh, elevated twists. Their in-house bakery offers a rotating selection of freshly baked cupcakes and macarons. Complementing the food is a carefully curated selection of wines, craft cocktails, and exclusively Minnesota-crafted beers. The ambiance is just as inviting, with two welcoming patios for warmer days, a cozy fireplace for cooler ones, and hundreds of hanging mason jars adding a touch of whimsy overhead.
Hastings Insider Tip / CTA
Guests can enjoy Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 3–6pm and daily from 8:30pm to close. During these times, tap beers (all from Minnesota), wines by the glass, and craft cocktails are $2 off—all the same premium quality during happy hour as always. The Weekday Happy Hour Menu includes 13 delicious specials, such as $7 Cheese Curds and $9 Juicy Lucia Meatballs. The Late-Night Happy Hour Menu features 11 flavorful options, including a $9 BBQ Chicken Flatbread and an $11 Birria Quesadilla.
9. Hoban Korean Restaurant
Placeholder image by LocalPigeon. Credit: “Illustration created with AI, Studio Ghibli–inspired.”
Long before Korean BBQ became trendy, Hoban Korean Restaurant has been quietly serving authentic Korean cuisine to thankful diners in Eagan. In fact, Hoban has been a beloved family-run establishment for over 30 years hobankoreanrestauranteagan.com, making it not just a restaurant but a true local legend. Tucked in a strip mall off Silver Bell Road, Hoban’s unassuming exterior hides some of the most flavor-packed, home-style Korean cooking in Minnesota.
Origin Story & Journey
The story of Hoban is the story of the Lee family (the owners, though many regulars simply refer to them as “Mama and Papa Hoban”). They opened the restaurant in the early 1990s – back when finding bulgogi or kimchi in the Twin Cities was rare. The Lees, who emigrated from South Korea, wanted to share the comfort foods of their homeland with their new community. They started with a small menu of classic dishes and catered primarily to fellow Korean families and adventurous locals. But as word spread about the incredible flavors and hospitality at Hoban, more and more non-Korean diners ventured in. Over the decades, the restaurant expanded its space and menu. The second generation of the family joined in: you might have seen their son running the front of house or their daughter helping in the kitchen, as traditional recipes have been passed down through the generations hobankoreanrestauranteagan.com. In the 2010s, as Korean cuisine gained mainstream popularity, Hoban found itself busier than ever, even opening a second location in Minneapolis. Yet the Eagan original remains the heart and soul. Through ups (glowing reviews, the Korean Wave interest) and downs (they survived a kitchen fire in 2018 and the pandemic slowdown), Hoban has stayed true to what it does best: authentic, lovingly prepared food that tastes like it came from a Korean home kitchen.
Vibe & Offerings
Walking into Hoban, you’re greeted by the delicious smell of grilling meats and savory stews. The interior is cozy and modest, with a mix of booth and table seating. During peak times, it’s bustling with a diverse crowd: Korean families enjoying a taste of home, local Eaganites who are regulars, and newbies learning how to eat bulgogi lettuce wraps for the first time. The menu is extensive and authentically Korean – no “fusion” or trend-chasing here. Signature dishes include Bulgogi (marinated sliced beef), Galbi (BBQ short ribs), Bibimbap served in hot stone bowls that make the rice crackle, and bubbling hot Kimchi Jjigae (kimchi stew) hobankoreanrestauranteagan.com. Each meal comes with an array of banchan – those tasty side dishes like napa cabbage kimchi, pickled radish, bean sprouts, fish cakes – all refillable and all made in-house by the matriarch. One of Hoban’s standout experiences is the Korean BBQ grill tables: a few tables are equipped with grills for cooking marinated meats right at your table, a fun, interactive meal perfect for groups. (Make sure to call ahead to reserve a grill table, as they’re popular.) Don’t miss the Haemul Pajeon, a seafood green onion pancake the size of a plate, or the Mandu dumplings. And if you’re unsure what to order, the staff will kindly guide you – they might ask if you like spicy or not, and suggest something to suit your palate. The vibe is very family-friendly and casual, but also intimate – you’ll see couples on dates sharing sizzling BBQ and soju, and solo diners slurping up noodle soups. There’s a sense of community; many customers have been coming for years, and the owners often come out to say hello. As one reviewer put it, dining at Hoban feels “like an extension of the family home” hobankoreanrestauranteagan.com – warm, welcoming, and satisfying.
Today
Located at 1989 Silver Bell Road (just across from the Twin Cities Outlet Mall, and indeed conveniently near the airport), Hoban is open daily for lunch and dinner. Despite its age, it’s not stuck in time – the restaurant has kept up with technology (you can order online for pickup) and even added private karaoke rooms in the back for those who want to sing after dinner (a nod to a popular Korean pastime!). But the core hasn’t changed: the same family recipes, the same friendly service. In recent years, Hoban has garnered accolades like being named in the Top 10 Korean Restaurants in MN. But perhaps a greater honor is how multi-generational its customer base is – the kids who once came with their parents are now bringing their own kids. The restaurant is fairly large, yet it often fills up on weekend nights, so coming early is wise. They do a robust takeout business too (nothing beats cozying up at home with Hoban’s spicy Dakdori-tang chicken stew on a cold night).
Website & Social
Hoban keeps things simple. Their official site (HobanKoreanRestaurantEagan.com) provides their full menu and directions. On social media, they aren’t hugely active, but you can find Hoban Korean Restaurant on Facebook – where they post occasional updates like holiday hours or new dishes. If you’re curious about the menu or want to see dish photos, check out Yelp or Instagram tags; loyal fans have posted hundreds of mouth-watering pics.
Hastings Insider Tip / CTA
Craving something different for dinner? Drive over to Hoban in Eagan and treat yourself to an authentic Korean feast. If you’re new to Korean cuisine, start with the approachable Bulgogi beef BBQ or the famous Bibimbap – you won’t be disappointed. And for the spice lovers from Hastings: challenge yourself with their Kimchi Jjigae or spicy pork bulgogi – it’s the real deal. 🍜🔥 Experience a true “Seoul” food adventure at a place that’s as genuinely welcoming as it is delicious. Kam-sa-ham-ni-da! (Thank you!)
10. Andiamo Italian Ristorante
Placeholder image by LocalPigeon. Credit: “Illustration created with AI, Studio Ghibli–inspired.”
A little slice of Italy (by way of family tradition and a lot of heart) resides in Eagan at Andiamo Italian Ristorante. This family-owned Italian eatery opened in 2011 and quickly became a neighborhood favorite for its made-from-scratch pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and warm “famiglia” atmosphere. For Hastings folks, it’s absolutely worth the drive – Andiamo delivers that classic red-sauce joint comfort with an upbeat, modern flair.
Origin Story & Journey
Andiamo was founded by the Ruiz family – notably brothers Ramon and Armando Ruiz, who had decades of experience in the Twin Cities restaurant scene (Ramon was an executive chef with Buca di Beppo, and Armando cooked there for 16 years) patch.com. They seized an opportunity when a former Italian restaurant space on Diffley Road became available, determined to build something of their own. “Andiamo” means “Let’s go” in Italian, and that enthusiastic spirit fueled their opening in January 2011 patch.com. Two previous Italian restaurants had failed at that location, but the Ruiz family was on a mission to connect with the community in a way those predecessors hadn’t patch.com. They emphasized a family-oriented, neighborhood feel from day one: getting to know customers by name, listening to feedback, and consistently serving high-quality dishes. Their approach worked – Andiamo steadily grew a loyal following. By combining authentic Italian recipes (some learned from Italian mentors, some crafted by Ramon himself) with a Minnesotan touch (yes, you’ll find walleye on the menu alongside chicken parmigiana patch.com), they appealed to a broad crowd. Over the years, they expanded the dining room, added a beautiful patio, and even opened a second Andiamo in Woodbury in 2017. But the Eagan original, now run with help from the second generation (Ramon’s son Enrique became manager patch.com), remains the heart of the enterprise. The journey has been one of steady growth and community integration – from hosting wine pairing dinners to sponsoring local little league teams – Andiamo has woven itself into Eagan’s social fabric.
Vibe & Offerings
Andiamo manages to be both date-night cozy and family-night friendly. The interior is inviting with rustic touches: murals of Italian countryside, checked linens on the tables, and the mouth-watering aroma of garlic in the air. You’ll often be greeted by a host or even one of the Ruizes themselves with a hearty “Welcome in!” The menu is a greatest-hits of Italian-American cuisine: Start with warm bread and olive oil, perhaps an order of calamari fritti or their popular antipasto platter. For mains, pasta is king – favorites include Lobster Ravioli, hearty Spaghetti Bolognese, and Penne Alla Vodka. Their lasagna is homemade and bubbling with cheese – true comfort food. Pizza lovers won’t be disappointed either: Andiamo crafts thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas with toppings ranging from classic Margherita to spicy Italian sausage and giardiniera. One thing regulars rave about is that they balance authenticity with approachability: “This is an Italian restaurant but we are in Minnesota… of course we’re going to include a walleye dish and make burgers available,” Enrique Ruiz said patch.com. Indeed, the menu has a delicious Walleye Milanese and even an Andiamo Burger (which local patrons insist rivals any burger bar in town patch.com). The vibe is lively but not loud – you’ll see couples sharing tiramisu and espresso in one corner, a big family gathering in another, and maybe a group of friends toasting with chianti at the bar. Service is personal and attentive; the staff often make great recommendations for wine pairings or dessert (do not skip the cannoli or seasonal cheesecake). They have a lovely little bar area too, so popping in for a glass of wine and an app is welcome. With Italian music softly playing and the clink of wine glasses, you might just feel transported to that “cucina della nonna” (grandma’s kitchen) experience.
Today
Andiamo (located at 1629 Lena Court, just off Diffley & Lexington) is open for dinner every night and lunch on weekdays. It draws diners from all over Dakota County (Hastings included!) especially on weekends – reservations are a good idea for Friday/Saturday nights. The family’s commitment to improvement is ongoing: they update the menu regularly with seasonal specialties (but never remove the classics people love). They’ve also adapted by offering take-and-bake meals and family-style to-go pans (lasagna for 8, anyone?) which became very popular in recent years. The Woodbury location has extended the brand’s reach, but the Eagan location is the original “home” – you’ll often see the Ruiz brothers there ensuring everything’s just right. They recently spruced up the patio with string lights and flower boxes, making it a perfect summer evening spot for an al fresco pasta dinner. And if you happen to visit on your birthday, expect a warm celebratory song from the staff – it’s that kind of place.
Website & Social
Explore AndiamoEagan.com (or AndiamoMN.com, as they rebranded online) to see their full menu, book a table, or even order catering. The site shares their story and philosophy in connecting with the community, echoing Enrique’s sentiment: “We want to focus on family and be part of the neighborhood… build relationships with our customers”patch.com. Follow Andiamo Italian Ristorante on Facebook for updates on live music nights (they occasionally have a guitarist on the patio) and specials like Wine Wednesdays (half-price bottles!). On Instagram @andiamomn, drool over photos of perfectly twirled pasta, brimming wine glasses, and customers having a blast at their tables.
Hastings Insider Tip / CTA
Say ciao to ordinary dinners – andiamo (let’s go) to Andiamo! Hastings foodies, if you haven’t tried this gem yet, add it to your list for your next date night or family celebration. It’s the kind of place where you come as a customer and leave feeling like part of the family. 🍝❤️ “Let’s go” enjoy la dolce vita at Andiamo – your table is waiting! Buon appetito!
