Dinkytown’s Library Bar could see an increase in its customers by the time the Minnesota Vikings’ play their first game this fall.
The bar is replacing its parking lot with a patio, which some employees expect will bring in more business along with an increase in prices. Still, the bar won’t be able to serve patrons on the new addition unless they apply for another liquor license.
The patio, which will mimic a sidewalk cafe, will accommodate a greater number of customers and attract people looking for an outdoor experience, bartender and
server Sarah Larrive said.
Since TCF Bank Stadium became the temporary home field for the Vikings, the bar has served University of Minnesota students in addition to visiting fans, she said.
“The patio is definitely going to help a lot for our business during the football season,” Larrive said.
Because bar employees expect to see a rise in business, she said prices for food and drinks are expected to increase, too.
Still, Larrive said she doesn’t anticipate that the price increases will drive away any patrons, especially those who visit the Library on a regular basis.
The bar doesn’t need permission from the city to build the addition because it will sit on private property, Minneapolis business licenses manager Grant Wilson said.
Looser requirements have made it easier for the Library to start construction, but Wilson said the bar still needs to obtain an additional license to serve alcohol on the
patio.
The bar’s management hired a consultant to apply for the patio’s liquor license, but an application has not yet been submitted, he said.
The bar’s application could be turned down, Wilson said, even though they’ve already started construction.
“It’s at their own risk,” he said.
While the Library is building its new patio on its existing parking lot, general manager Joe Berg said he is not sure parking will be replaced at another location.
Burrito Loco Bar and Grill owner and University alum Greg Pillsbury said he thinks the patio will bring more customers looking for outdoor summer seating.
“Businesses should definitely take advantage of the patios and sidewalk cafes while the weather permits,” he said.
Though employees hope to open the patio by fall, a specific date hasn’t been set, Berg said.
