Pint-Size Band Box Diner In Minnesota Is Open For The First Time Since 2020
By Trent Jonas|Published September 20, 2023
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Trent Jonas
Author
Trent Jonas came to Minnesota to attend college - and never left. He's a Twin Cities-based writer with a BA in English and a MFA in creative writing, a Minnesota Master Naturalist, and the proud father of two adult children. With more than a decade of freelance writing experience under his belt, Trent is often out exploring his favorite topics: Minnesota's woods, lakes, and trails. Rhubarb pie is his weakness, so discovering new diners is also a passion.
In March of 2020, Minnesota – like most other states – declared a health emergency, and restaurants were forced to close temporarily. When they were allowed to reopen, those that did were only permitted to offer takeout food for several weeks. Band Box Diner, a beloved and historic Minneapolis eatery, on the other hand, never reopened. Until now, that is – and folks are ecstatic to see this diner in Minnesota back in business.
Band Box opened in 1939 as part of a chain of hamburger stands that expanded in the mid-20th century.
At its peak, Band Box had 15 locations, all of which were in Minneapolis, except for one outpost in the nearby suburb of Columbia Heights. By 1972, however, the chain had contracted to the single restaurant at its present location in Minneapolis' Elliot Park neighborhood. Band Box rebranded itself as a neighborhood diner and went strong for another half-century. And then COVID-19 hit, and it closed its doors for more than three years.
In September 2023, however, it reopened its doors and intimate dining area to customers.
In true short-order style, all the food is prepped in full view of the counter, which folks fill as they wait patiently, sipping coffee or a Coke, for their favorite comfort fare.
It still serves up some of the best burgers - classic smash style - that you'll find in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Now that Band Box Diner is back in business, be sure to stop in and show it some love. Check out the diner’s Facebook page for current hours and updates. While you’re downtown, why not get reacquainted with Minneapolis? Viator offers several walking tours that delve into the history and culture of our state’s biggest burg.
Have you visited this diner in Minnesota since it reopened – or do you have a favorite memory of it? Let us know in the comments!
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