I didn't think I was going to like the Crooked Pint Ale House. No bar has been able to make this Washington Avenue address work in downtown Minneapolis -- not the 501 Club and definitely not Matty B's. (Remember that place? Me neither.)
To my surprise, there's very little not to like about this craft-beer focused bar, an offshoot of the Green Mill company. A lot of people seem to agree. Here are six things that surprised me about the Crooked Pint.
1. The new look.
I liked the 501 Club, but its concrete floors and minimalist decor gave it a cold air. The Crooked Pint is the complete opposite. Reclaimed oak floors and a dropped tin ceiling have warmed up the place. A new central bar gives drinkers something to crowd around, and the leather chairs and brass fixtures create a throwback vibe.
2. They got the 40-plus crowd to dance.
Hookers & Blow brought its high-energy soul revue to the new stage last Saturday, compelling a crowd of 40- and 50-somethings to take over the dance floor. There are ambitious plans to bring in touring acts, but in the meantime the booker has filled the calendar with old standby cover bands such as Mick Sterling and Boogie Wonderland.
3. The bar food comes with a twist.
Chef Keven Kvalsten is in charge at the Green Mill's other spinoff, the well-reviewed Twisted Fork Grille in St. Paul. He designed Crooked's menu, too, outfitting it with typical comfort-food options, plus some fun stuff. I dug the chorizo corn dogs and tempura mushrooms. The burgers include a Californian topped with arugula and avocado. A barbecue burger is covered with pulled pork and coleslaw.
