Changes Arrive to Robbinsdale’s Restaurant Scene

Robbinsdale’s restaurant scene continues to evolve. From the new-look Pig Ate My Pizza, to Travail’s future new digs, the city has many food options.

“The overall restaurant scene in Robbinsdale is really good,” said Rolando Diaz, owner of Marna’s Eatery and Lounge.

Marna’s is now in the old Pig Ate My Pizza location and has a completely different vibe.

“A lot of people walk in and they’re like, wow,” Diaz said. “It looks so different. We brightened the whole space up.”

The eatery’s trademark is Costa Rican food. It’s one of the many culinary choices Robbinsdale offers.

“We have a good blend,” Diaz said. “None of us really compete against each other. Pig is a different atmosphere than us. Nona Rosa’s Italian. Latin American, Mexican down the street. Travail‘s coming up.”

Neighboring restaurant owner Wendy Schallock of the Smokin’ Flame Saloon agrees.

“I think Robbinsdale is the new hot spot in Minneapolis,” she said.

New Robbinsdale Restaurant Opens

Just a few blocks from Marna’s is the new Smokin’ Flame Saloon. They opened up this week and their forte is unique to the city.

“We feel that barbecue and live music kind of go hand in hand,” Schallock said. “That’s something that’s not in this demographic or their neighborhood.”

Smokin’ Flame hopes to heat up fast and carve a niche by showcasing local bands and bringing in national entertainment.

“I think we have an opportunity to be a jewel,” Schallock predicted.

They also plan on building a solid foundation in the city.

“We’re not here to franchise,” Schallock said. “We’re not here to make a quick buck and leave, we’re here to stay.”

When you boil it all down, the real winner is anyone with an appetite.

“We all work together,” Diaz said. “At the end of it it’s all about bringing in more people. Making it a more modern, fun area to come and visit.”

Robbinsdale