Dangerous Man Taproom Closes Doors in Northeast Minneapolis

A significant shift is coming to the Northeast Minneapolis craft beer scene. After 11 years, Dangerous Man Brewing Co. announced its beloved taproom will close permanently by the end of February 2024. This news marks the end of an era for one of the city’s pioneering and most cherished breweries, leaving many locals with a sense of nostalgia for a space that became much more than just a place to grab a pint.

The Details: What We Know About the Closure

Dangerous Man Brewing Co., a fixture since its opening in 2013, will cease taproom operations at its iconic 1907 2nd Street NE location due to its owners’ stated desire for “a different pace of life” and “personal reasons.” This decision, while understandable, has sent ripples through the local community, as the taproom was renowned for its unique brews like the Peanut Butter Porter and the Chocolate Milk Stout, alongside its innovative seasonal offerings. The good news for fans is that Dangerous Man plans to continue distributing its popular beers to local liquor stores and bars for the foreseeable future. This means you can still enjoy your favorites at home or at your local watering hole, but the distinctive experience of visiting their bustling taproom will soon be a memory.

A Northeast Legacy: More Than Just Beer

Dangerous Man quickly became a cornerstone of the burgeoning Northeast Arts District, contributing significantly to its reputation as a premier craft beer destination. It was among the first breweries to truly define the modern Minneapolis taproom experience, blending industrial aesthetics with a warm, communal atmosphere. Over the past decade, it not only served up consistently innovative brews but also anchored a vibrant stretch of 2nd Street NE, drawing substantial foot traffic that greatly benefited surrounding small businesses, from eateries to art studios. Its growler-fill-only initial model evolved, but its commitment to quality and community remained a constant, cementing its place in the hearts of Minneapolis beer enthusiasts.

Operations Shift: Before & After the Taproom Closure

Implications for the Local Scene and Beyond

The departure of Dangerous Man’s taproom leaves a noticeable void in Northeast Minneapolis’s bustling brewery corridor. While the area boasts a strong density of breweries, losing such an established and iconic venue will undoubtedly shift neighborhood dynamics. It might impact foot traffic on that particular block, potentially affecting nearby restaurants and shops that benefited from the consistent flow of brewery patrons. This closure also serves as a poignant reminder of the ever-evolving and highly competitive nature of the craft beer market, where even beloved institutions face tough decisions. For the wider Twin Cities beer community, it underscores the personal sacrifices often involved in running a successful, high-demand business like a brewery.

What’s Next for the Space and the Brand?

The future of the prime commercial real estate location at 1907 2nd Street NE is currently one of the biggest unknowns. Given its desirability within the vibrant Arts District, it’s likely to attract significant interest. This could present an exciting opportunity for another brewery looking to enter the market, a new restaurant concept, or a different type of local business aiming to establish roots in a high-traffic area. For Dangerous Man Brewing Co. itself, focusing solely on distribution could allow the brand to streamline operations, potentially expand its reach to new markets, and, most importantly, enable the owners to achieve their desired work-life balance while keeping their popular brand alive in Minneapolis and beyond. Locals should definitely stay tuned for announcements regarding the future tenants of this significant Northeast address.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Dangerous Man Brewing Co. closing entirely?
  No, only the taproom is closing. The brewery plans to continue brewing and distributing its beers to liquor stores and bars across the Twin Cities area for the foreseeable future.
• When is the last day to visit the Dangerous Man taproom?
  The taproom will officially close its doors permanently by the end of February 2024. Patrons are encouraged to check Dangerous Man’s social media channels for any specific final operating hours or farewell events leading up to the closure.
• Why are the owners closing the taproom?
  The owners have publicly stated that the decision stems from personal reasons and a desire to pursue “a different pace of life” after more than a decade of operating a demanding and popular taproom.
• Will I still be able to buy Dangerous Man beers after the taproom closes?
  Yes, absolutely. The brewery’s distribution model will continue, so you should still be able to find Dangerous Man beers—including popular mainstays and seasonal releases—at various local liquor stores and bars that carry their products throughout Minneapolis and the surrounding areas.
• What will happen to the taproom building?
  The future of the physical location at 1907 2nd Street NE is currently undetermined. It’s a highly desirable space in a bustling neighborhood, so new tenants are expected, though it’s too early to speculate on what kind of business might move in next.

While we bid a bittersweet farewell to the Dangerous Man taproom, a true institution in Northeast Minneapolis, this development offers a chance to reflect on its significant contribution to our city’s vibrant culture and to anticipate the new opportunities that change often brings to our dynamic community. Let’s continue to support our local breweries and businesses, both old and new, as our beloved beer scene evolves.

Dangerous Man Taproom Closes Permanently After Eleven Years