Loring Pasta Bar Dinkytown: Your Guide to Delicious Pasta
A Detailed Look at a Dinkytown Institution
The Loring Pasta Bar, a Dinkytown landmark, holds a unique place in Minneapolis culinary history. Its story, however, is not simply one of delicious pasta and vibrant atmosphere; it's a narrative interwoven with change, controversy, and ultimately, transformation. This article will explore the Loring Pasta Bar's legacy, examining its evolution from a beloved neighborhood restaurant to its eventual closure and subsequent reincarnation as Grays. We will delve into specific details, analyzing its menu, atmosphere, and the broader context of its existence within the Dinkytown community.
The Early Years: A Dinkytown Gem (2001-2017)
Opened in 2001, the original Loring Pasta Bar quickly established itself as a Dinkytown favorite. Located at 327 14th Ave SE, its prime location within the bustling student district contributed to its initial success. Early reviews praise the restaurant's "eclectic venue," "nice atmosphere," and most importantly, "really delicious food." The menu, while evolving over time, consistently featured homemade pasta dishes, a variety of appetizers (the Artichoke Ramekin being a notable signature dish), and a selection of main courses that catered to diverse tastes, including vegetarian options. The establishment also gained a reputation for its lively atmosphere, often hosting live music, contributing to its overall appeal as a destination for both students and the wider Minneapolis community. The building itself, formerly a pharmacy, added to the unique character, with its rustic and mystical ambiance, often described as cozy and modern with a mezzanine and wall plants.
Specific menu items mentioned in various reviews include the Seafood Spaghetti, Portabella Mushroom Ravioli, and Chicken and Mozzarella Ravioli. These dishes, along with the overall dining experience, solidified the Loring Pasta Bar's reputation within the Dinkytown landscape, attracting a loyal following over its sixteen-year run. However, this period also saw the restaurant become intertwined with the controversies surrounding its then-owner, Jason McLean, eventually leading to its closure in 2017.
The Closure and the Aftermath: Controversy and Rebranding
The Loring Pasta Bar's closure in 2017 was not simply a result of declining business. It was significantly impacted by the legal issues faced by its owner at the time, Jason McLean. Following lawsuits and allegations of sexual abuse, McLean sold the establishment. The abrupt closure, coupled with the layoff of the entire staff, created significant uncertainty and disruption within the community. The subsequent reopening under staff ownership, a testament to the restaurant’s value within the community, marked a turning point. The rebranding to "Loring Bar & Restaurant" signaled a new chapter, though the legacy of the original Loring Pasta Bar remained strongly associated with the location.
Grays: A New Chapter, But Still Echoes of the Past
The current iteration, Grays, occupies the same space as the former Loring Pasta Bar. While it represents a significant shift, the building's history undeniably shapes the present. Grays, while offering a new menu and possibly a somewhat different ambiance, retains a connection to its predecessor. Reviews for Grays highlight a brunch buffet, known for its extensive selection of dishes, including mussels, eggs Benedict, pancakes, omelets, waffles, and desserts. The positive feedback for Grays suggests a continued success in the same location, albeit under a new identity. This underscores the enduring appeal of the space itself, a testament to its location and the ongoing demand for dining establishments in the heart of Dinkytown.
The Broader Context: Dinkytown and its Impact
The Loring Pasta Bar's story cannot be separated from the dynamic environment of Dinkytown. Situated near the University of Minnesota campus, it served as a meeting place for students, faculty, and residents. The limited parking options in the area, a common complaint among patrons, highlight the unique challenges and opportunities presented by its location. The high student turnover and the constant influx of new individuals shaped the restaurant's clientele and its ability to adapt to changing tastes and preferences. The building itself has a rich history, having previously housed Bob Dylan and a campus drug store, which adds a unique layer to its story.
Analyzing the Legacy: Success, Controversy, and Resilience
The Loring Pasta Bar’s legacy is complex. It was a successful restaurant that cultivated a loyal following for over a decade, offering a unique dining experience within the vibrant Dinkytown community. However, its story is also marked by controversy and the challenges associated with changing ownership and the legal troubles of its former owner. Its reincarnation as Grays demonstrates the resilience of the location and its continued appeal as a dining destination. The restaurant's story serves as a case study in the intertwined nature of business, community, and the long-term impacts of both success and controversy.
The Loring Pasta Bar’s impact on Dinkytown and Minneapolis remains significant. From its initial acclaim to its controversial closure and transformation into Grays, its story showcases the dynamic nature of the restaurant industry and the enduring influence of location and community. While the name may have changed, the legacy of delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere within that iconic Dinkytown building continues to resonate.
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