By Tesha M. Christensen
Kim Bartmann of Placemaker Hospitality has been working in the Uptown neighborhood since the mid 1980s. The owner of the French bistro Barbette (1600 W. Lake St.), as well as Trapeze, Gigi’s Cafe, Book Club, Pat’s Tap, Star Bar & Bistro, Tiny Diner, and Bread & Pickle, said she always had an itch to do an Italian restaurant.
When the Amore space across the street from Barbette opened, she decided it was time.
“I wanted to seize the opportunity,” said Bartmann.
“The mainstream media really likes to go after Uptown and denegrate Uptown. It’s always been a sort of alternative neighborhood,” observed Bartmann. “What’s going to bring it back is more arts and entertainment. Things with soul. That will happen.”
Pinoli officially opened at 1601 W. Lake St. in April. They specialize in Roman pizzas, with a focaccia base that is crunchy and buttery. Using seasonal ingredients is important to Bartmann, and they work to source them locally. Those following specific diets, including gluten-free, Keto, and paleo, can opt to order their veggies, meats and fish ala carte.
People are excited about the rooftop patio, observed Bartmann. “It’s really nice to sit up there,” she remarked. Feel free to bring your dog.
Check out the largest selection of amaro cocktails in town. These herbal-infused liquors make excellent appertifs and digestifs. Or, try a hard Italian soda featuring house-made simple syrup.
“I think people are really enjoying our low-alcohol drinks,” said Bartmann.
What’s next for Pinoli? Maybe rooftop movies.
Stay tuned.
A LITTLE MORE ABOUT THE UPTOWN THEATER
"The Uptown Theater is going to be a live entertainment destination for the neighborhood. Throughout the renovations, we’ve been focused on honoring the history and character of this venue and giving fans a new venue to enjoy. This building is important to the neighborhood and we're also looking forward to hosting numerous community celebrations and special events at the theater,“ remarked publicist Robb Leer.
“The response from the Uptown neighborhood has been celebratory and humbling like an old family relative you haven’t seen for a while -- everybody is excited to see this historic venue open for business again, and looking forward to getting reacquainted."
He added, "Honestly, we’re most proud of what we’re delivering back to our beloved community. This project was a labor of love. This neighborhood has been through a lot. Uptown needed a entertainment destination and we believe the re-opening of this landmark venue will help to revitalize the neighborhood and the city of Minneapolis.”
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