Forget the buzzer-beater. Ignore the encore. The real unsung hero at Target Center, Minneapolis’s premier destination for sports and entertainment, might just be the incredible food. For years, stadium concessions were synonymous with overpriced, underwhelming fare. But those days are gone. Target Center has upped its culinary game, transforming into a surprisingly diverse and delicious dining destination, offering everything from classic comfort food to innovative local specialties. This isn’t just about grabbing a quick bite; it’s about enhancing your entire experience. If you’re heading to a Timberwolves game, cheering on the Lynx, or catching a headlining concert, prepare to elevate your visit with this guide to the best eats Target Center has to offer.
From sizzling hot dogs and crispy pizzas to globally-inspired creations and local brewery selections, Target Center’s culinary landscape caters to every palate. So, ditch the preconceived notions about stadium grub and prepare to embark on a flavor-filled journey through the concourses. Consider this your ultimate guide to navigating the gastronomic delights within the arena. Let’s explore the best food options, ensuring you score big on and off the court. Get ready to indulge in the tastes that make Target Center a true winner, beyond the final score.
Can’t Miss Classics: For the Traditionalist
Sometimes, you just want the classics. The familiar comfort of a hot dog, the cheesy pull of pizza, the salty crunch of popcorn – these are the staples of the stadium experience. And Target Center delivers, ensuring these tried-and-true favorites are executed to perfection.
Let’s start with the quintessential ballpark food: the hot dog. While specific vendors might rotate, the general quality and care put into these dogs are consistently high. You can expect all-beef franks grilled to juicy perfection, nestled in a soft bun and ready for your personalized topping extravaganza. Ketchup, mustard, relish, onions – the possibilities are endless. Sometimes, you’ll find vendors offering premium sausages alongside the standard hot dog, perhaps featuring bratwurst or Italian sausage with peppers and onions. Look out for special condiments, too, like spicy mustard or house-made relish, that can elevate the experience. A great hot dog is a timeless classic, and Target Center understands that, serving up a satisfying and reliable option every time.
Pizza is another crowd-pleaser, and thankfully, Target Center doesn’t disappoint. Expect to find options from well-known national chains, as well as potentially local favorites that have established a presence within the arena. The pizza typically comes by the slice, allowing you to grab a quick and easy meal without missing any of the action. Traditional toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and cheese are always available, and you might find specialty pies featuring unique combinations of vegetables and meats. The key is to find a vendor that’s consistently turning out fresh, hot slices with a crispy crust and gooey cheese. Keep an eye out for the lines; a longer queue often indicates a particularly popular (and delicious) pizza option. Pizza at Target Center provides the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness.
Finally, let’s not forget the iconic pairing of popcorn and pretzels. These are the perfect snacks to munch on throughout the game or concert, providing a satisfying salty crunch. Look for vendors offering freshly popped popcorn, ideally still warm from the machine. Some stands might even offer flavored popcorn, such as caramel corn or cheese corn, adding a touch of sweetness or savory goodness to the mix. Pretzels, too, are a reliable choice, often available in jumbo sizes and served with a side of cheese sauce or mustard. Keep an eye out for the souvenir containers often available with popcorn purchase, making a great take-home memento of the event. Popcorn and Pretzels create the ideal snacking experience that complement any activity.
Minnesota Eats: Showcasing Local Culinary Gems
While the classics are always a safe bet, Target Center truly shines when it comes to showcasing local Minnesota culinary talent. Several popular Minneapolis restaurants have established outposts within the arena, bringing their signature dishes to a wider audience. This allows you to experience the city’s vibrant food scene without even leaving the venue.
One standout example is the presence of Revival Smoked Meats, a beloved Minneapolis restaurant known for its mouthwatering southern-inspired cuisine. Revival brings its signature smoked meats, including their award-winning fried chicken, to Target Center. Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly crispy, juicy fried chicken, seasoned with Revival’s secret blend of spices. Pair it with their creamy mac and cheese or coleslaw for the full Revival experience. While the prices might be slightly higher than standard stadium fare, the quality and flavor are well worth the investment. Revival at Target Center provides a genuine taste of Minneapolis’ thriving culinary landscape.
Another local gem that has found a home at Target Center is a vendor specializing in gourmet burgers. These aren’t your average stadium burgers; we’re talking about handcrafted patties made with high-quality beef, topped with artisanal cheeses, locally sourced produce, and creative sauces. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy burger piled high with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a tangy barbecue sauce. The options are endless, allowing you to customize your burger to your exact preferences. While there are several different options, any are an excellent and elevated meal.
Beyond specific restaurants, Target Center also boasts unique food items that can only be found within the arena. For example, you might encounter a stand offering locally made walleye tacos, a nod to Minnesota’s iconic fish. Imagine flaky, pan-fried walleye served in a warm tortilla with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, and a creamy cilantro-lime sauce. This is a truly unique and delicious dish that captures the essence of Minnesota cuisine. In addition, many Minnesota craft breweries are featured within the Target Center. Many different types of light and dark beers are available that are locally brewed and a fan favorite.
Quench Your Thirst & Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
No dining experience is complete without something to drink and a sweet treat to finish it off. Target Center offers a wide range of beverages and desserts to complement your meal and satisfy your cravings.
When it comes to drinks, the options are plentiful. You’ll find the usual suspects, such as soda, water, and juice, readily available at various concession stands. However, the real highlight is the selection of local craft beers. Many Minnesota breweries have partnerships with Target Center, offering a rotating selection of their signature brews. This is a great way to sample some of the state’s best craft beer while enjoying the game or concert. Be sure to check out the various bars and beverage stands throughout the concourse to see what’s on tap. You might also find specialty cocktails, such as margaritas or mojitos, available at select locations. Non-alcoholic options, such as mocktails and flavored lemonades, are also readily available.
For dessert, Target Center offers a variety of sweet treats to satisfy your sweet tooth. You’ll find classic options like ice cream, cookies, and brownies, as well as potentially more unique offerings. Imagine indulging in a warm, gooey chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. Or perhaps you’d prefer a scoop of locally made ice cream in a variety of flavors. Some vendors might even offer specialty desserts, such as mini donuts or gourmet cupcakes. Be sure to explore the various concession stands and dessert kiosks to see what tempting treats are available.
Navigating the Concourse: Tips for Foodies
Now that you know about the best food options at Target Center, here are some practical tips to help you navigate the concourse and make the most of your dining experience. While specific locations can vary slightly, most of the major food vendors are located on the main concourse, making them easily accessible from most seating areas. A general pricing guide is helpful for planning; Classics like hot dogs and pizza slices typically range in price from reasonable to moderate, while specialty items from local restaurants tend to be in a slightly higher price range.
Target Center is generally cashless, so be sure to bring a credit card or debit card for your purchases. Mobile ordering is often available through the venue’s app, allowing you to skip the lines and pick up your food at a designated location. This is especially helpful during peak times, such as intermissions or halftime. Speaking of lines, it’s always a good idea to arrive early or take advantage of lulls in the action to grab your food and drinks. This will help you avoid long wait times and ensure you don’t miss any of the entertainment. Furthermore, Target Center strives to make sure every vendor is accessible to everyone and can assist people with disabilities or those with health needs.
The Final Buzzer
Target Center has come a long way from the days of basic stadium fare. It’s now a culinary destination in its own right, offering a diverse and delicious range of options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re craving a classic hot dog, a gourmet burger, or a taste of local Minnesota cuisine, you’re sure to find something to love within the arena’s concourses. So, next time you’re at a Wolves game, a Lynx game, or a concert, take some time to explore the food options and elevate your entire experience. Target Center provides something for everyone.
What are your favorite Target Center eats? Share them in the comments below! We want to hear about your culinary adventures and discover even more hidden gems within the arena. Bon appétit!
