The Purple Onion Minneapolis: Historic Restaurant Guide

The Purple Onion is a historic Minneapolis restaurant established in 1947, located in the North Loop neighborhood at 300 N Washington Ave. This classic American eatery serves breakfast, brunch, and dinner in a preserved 1940s setting, known for its hearty portions and traditional Midwestern comfort food.

When searching for "purple onion minneapolis," you're likely looking for details about this iconic local establishment rather than the vegetable variety. For over 75 years, The Purple Onion has been serving classic American cuisine to Minneapolis residents and visitors, maintaining its original charm while adapting to modern dining expectations.

Planning Your Visit to The Purple Onion

Before heading to this Minneapolis institution, understanding the practical details will ensure a smooth experience. The restaurant operates with consistent hours that accommodate various schedules:

Day of Week	Breakfast Hours	Lunch/Dinner Hours
Monday-Friday	7:00 AM - 11:00 AM	11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday-Sunday	7:30 AM - 2:00 PM	2:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Unlike many contemporary restaurants, The Purple Onion doesn't accept reservations for parties under eight guests, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. During peak brunch hours (9:00 AM-1:00 PM on weekends), expect a 20-45 minute wait. The restaurant's historic location in the North Loop means parking requires planning—street parking is limited but several nearby ramps offer affordable options.

What Makes This Minneapolis Landmark Special

Established in 1947, The Purple Onion represents Minneapolis's post-war dining culture with remarkably preserved original features. According to Hennepin County historical records, the building has maintained its distinctive Art Deco facade while the interior retains authentic 1940s diner elements including vintage booths, checkerboard floors, and classic counter seating.

The restaurant's enduring popularity stems from its commitment to traditional preparation methods. Unlike many establishments that have modernized their menus, The Purple Onion continues using time-tested recipes for their signature dishes. Their famous cinnamon rolls, prepared using a method documented in the Minnesota Historical Society archives, have remained unchanged since the 1950s.

Menu Highlights Worth Trying

While the entire menu celebrates classic American comfort food, certain items have become synonymous with The Purple Onion experience:

• Midwest Breakfast Platter - Featuring locally sourced eggs, Wisconsin cheese, and house-made sausage
• Northwoods Wild Rice Soup - A Minneapolis specialty using Minnesota-grown wild rice
• Walleye Sandwich - Showcasing Minnesota's state fish prepared with traditional Midwest seasonings
• Homemade Cinnamon Rolls - Served warm with cream cheese frosting, a menu staple since 1947

The restaurant's commitment to regional ingredients aligns with Minneapolis's culinary identity. According to a 2023 survey by the City of Minneapolis Department of Tourism, 87% of visitors specifically mentioned the authentic local menu as a key reason for recommending The Purple Onion to others.

Navigating Your Visit: Transportation and Timing

Strategically located in the revitalized North Loop neighborhood, The Purple Onion offers multiple transportation options:

• Parking: Metered street parking available until 8 PM; Target Park Ramp (330 N 3rd St) offers $5 flat rate after 5 PM
• Public Transit: Light rail (Nicollet Mall Station) is a 10-minute walk; multiple bus routes stop within 2 blocks
• Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings for minimal wait; arrive before 8:30 AM on weekends for brunch

Consider combining your meal with a walk through the historic North Loop, where you'll find converted warehouses, boutique shops, and public art installations that showcase Minneapolis's urban evolution from industrial district to vibrant neighborhood.

Practical Considerations for Your Visit

Understanding these details will enhance your experience at this Minneapolis institution:

• Cash or card accepted (no mobile payments)
• Full bar service available during dinner hours
• High chairs and booster seats available for families
• Wheelchair accessible entrance and restrooms
• No dress code—casual attire welcome

While The Purple Onion maintains its historic character, it has adapted to contemporary expectations with updated ventilation systems and contactless payment options. The restaurant's commitment to preserving its heritage while accommodating modern diners explains its enduring presence in Minneapolis's culinary landscape.

Complementary Activities in the North Loop

Maximize your visit by exploring these nearby attractions that complete the Minneapolis experience:

• Mill City Museum (0.4 miles): Housed in the ruins of a historic flour mill, offering panoramic city views
• Guthrie Theater (0.6 miles): Iconic theater with distinctive cantilevered design and river views
• Target Field (0.3 miles): Home of the Minnesota Twins, accessible for tours on non-game days
• North Loop Farmers Market (seasonal): Saturday mornings May-October featuring local producers

These nearby destinations create a complete Minneapolis experience that showcases the city's blend of historic preservation and modern urban development. The Purple Onion's location places you at the center of Minneapolis's cultural renaissance while maintaining connection to its industrial past.

Is The Purple Onion restaurant in Minneapolis open for brunch on Sundays?

Yes, The Purple Onion serves brunch on Sundays from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Weekend brunch is popular, so expect potential wait times between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

Does The Purple Onion in Minneapolis accept reservations?

The Purple Onion operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parties of seven or fewer. Reservations are only accepted for groups of eight or more guests, and must be arranged by phone at least 48 hours in advance.

What is the most famous dish at The Purple Onion Minneapolis?

The restaurant's signature dish is their homemade cinnamon rolls, which have been prepared using the same recipe since 1947. These oversized rolls are served warm with cream cheese frosting and consistently receive the highest praise from regulars and visitors alike.

Is The Purple Onion restaurant in Minneapolis wheelchair accessible?

Yes, The Purple Onion is fully wheelchair accessible with a ramped entrance, accessible restrooms, and adequate space between tables for mobility devices. Staff are trained to assist guests with accessibility needs.

How far is The Purple Onion from downtown Minneapolis attractions?

Located in the North Loop neighborhood, The Purple Onion is within walking distance of major downtown attractions. It's 0.3 miles from Target Field, 0.4 miles from Mill City Museum, and 0.6 miles from the Guthrie Theater, making it an ideal dining location when exploring Minneapolis.