Seemor
Aster HouseB+Worth Trying
25 SE Main St, Minneapolis, MN 55414
· Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (220 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Atmosphere-forward Modern American spot with strong hospitality and good cocktails; food ranges from excellent to uneven, priced on the higher side.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Aster House delivers solid neighborhood dining with exceptional service attentiveness and striking historic ambiance that elevate the experience. Food quality is above average with reliable crowd-pleasers, but inconsistent execution during special events prevents a higher grade. The moody riverfront setting and warm hospitality make it a worthwhile special-occasion choice, though execution gaps keep it from competing with the area's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Set in a restored riverfront building with old-growth beams and stone, Aster House leans into moody romance and polished ease. Guests rave about the bar and warm hospitality, with one diner noting the room felt like a "beautiful, intimate hall." Service is often attentive and thoughtful, and the setting alone can carry the night. The cooking skews Modern American comfort with elevated classics: steak frites, pot pie, meatballs, farro risotto. Many meals impress, though a few diners report uneven execution on busy nights. Cocktails get high marks, portions are respectable, and prices fit the area, especially if you value the historic ambiance. Families can make it work thanks to approachable dishes like burgers, fries, pot pie, and fish and chips. There is no explicit kids menu mentioned, but several items are kid-friendly; still, the space reads more date-night cozy than playtime casual, so plan accordingly.
At a Glance
- Stunning historic interior and spectacular bar
- Friendly, attentive service with standout servers
- Reliable crowd-pleasers like wild rice fritters and pot pie
- Inconsistent execution during special event nights
- Burger value and doneness draw mixed feedback
What Sets It Apart
- historic_riverfront_setting
- strong_event_capabilities
- spectacular_curved_bar
What People Love
- Evocative historic setting that feels special
- Warm, attentive servers who personalize the night
- Balanced cocktails and wine by the glass
- Shareable starters like the Lazy Susan and fritters
Points of Concern
- Event and holiday prix fixe nights had reports of long delays and misses
- A few diners found certain mains underseasoned or overcooked
- Some perceive the burger as overpriced for quality
- Review patterns show signs of enthusiastic language and staff-name clustering; interpret superlative-only reviews cautiously
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-$70 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians, choose Farro Risotto plus Wild Rice Fritters
- If gluten-avoiding, consider Roasted Salmon and Pickle Plate
- Share the Lazy Susan, then split a richer entree to balance cost
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails before a show
- Small weddings or milestone dinners
- Out-of-town guests who love atmospheric spaces
- A relaxed evening at the bar with shareables
Location Insights
Area: Historic riverfront corridor attracting date nights, weddings, and pre-show diners; upscale yet casual.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; well-lit along Main St and riverfront paths.
Nearby: Near Stone Arch Bridge, St. Anthony Main theaters, riverside trails, bars, patios; scenic skyline views.
Central Business DistrictThe Central Business District is bustling during weekdays with office workers and business visitors, while evenings and weekends attract diners and nightlife seekers. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from upscale restaurants and trendy bars to casual eateries, reflecting the area's energetic and cosmopolitan vibe.
Nicollet Mall CorridorThis pedestrian-friendly stretch along Nicollet Mall is a focal point for shopping, dining, and events, featuring a mix of chain and independent restaurants that cater to a broad demographic seeking convenience and variety in an urban setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–23:00
Saturday17:00–23:00
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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