Seemor
Ray J's American GrillB+Worth Trying
500 Central Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
· Sports bar, American restaurant, Bar
· 4.4/5 Google (2064 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Neighborhood sports bar known for wings and burgers with creative pizzas; good food and portions, but service speed and consistency vary, especially on game days.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Ray J's delivers reliable neighborhood sports bar appeal with strong food quality in wings and burgers that justify repeat visits. However, quality variation across visits and service slowdowns during game days prevent grade A territory. The game-day energy and generous portions make it worth visiting if you're nearby and can time your visit off-peak, but it falls short of the area's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Ray J's feels like a neighborhood hub where game-day energy meets comfort food cravings. Reviewers call out "friendly bartenders" and hearty plates, from loaded wings to burgers that satisfy. Expect TVs everywhere and a lively crowd during big games; off-peak hours are easier. One diner put it simply: "Great food and atmosphere, but service can lag when it gets busy." The cooking leans classic American bar fare with a few playful twists rather than culinary theater. Think Bomba wings with jalapeño ranch, a bacon jam burger, and even a pastrami and pickle pizza that skeptics end up liking. It is hearty, shareable, and designed for sports-watching sessions; on event nights, patience helps if the kitchen is slammed. Families do well here thanks to kid-friendly staples like burgers, sliders, pizza, and fries. A vegan patty and cauliflower wings expand options for selective eaters, though adventurous toppings are optional, not required. If you need quick service, avoid peak game times and lean on straightforward crowd-pleasers.
At a Glance
- Wings and burgers are the standout draw with generous portions
- Creative pizzas like pastrami and pickle win unexpected fans
- Service slows and tickets can be lost during major games
- Quality varies, especially wings seasoning and doneness
- Occasional food safety complaints (undercooked items) reported
What Sets It Apart
- signature_wings_variety
- creative_pizza_toppings
- late_kitchen_service
What People Love
- Hearty portions that feel like a deal
- Bomba wings and wide sauce choices
- Bacon jam burger flavor combo
- Friendly bartenders and casual vibe
- Surprisingly good creative pizzas
Points of Concern
- Service delays and ticket mishaps on peak sports nights affect experience
- Inconsistent wing prep: some batches bland, over-sauced, or not crisp
- Isolated undercooked items reported; verify doneness if concerned
- A few complaints about disputed charges and communication lapses
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$34-$44 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- If you like heat: El Diablo Burger or Habanero Wings
- Crunch lovers: Homestyle Wings or add onion rings (+$2 swap) with burgers
- Value combo: Appetizer to share + burger/sandwich for a satisfying meal
- Vegetarian-friendly picks: Cauliflower Wings, Wild Mushroom & Herb Pizza, vegan burger patty add-on
Perfect For
- Watching a game with friends over wings and beer
- Casual weeknight burgers and fries
- Late-night bite near campus
- Solo bar seat with TVs and quick service
Location Insights
Area: Lively university-adjacent corridor serving students, locals, and game-day crowds; casual and social vibe.
Safety: Generally busy and lit; isolated safety complaints exist in reviews, especially late night or parking areas.
Nearby: Near University of Minnesota, bars, casual eateries, and mixed residential; TVs draw sports fans.
Northeast MinneapolisThe dining scene in Northeast Minneapolis is diverse, featuring everything from trendy gastropubs and craft breweries to authentic ethnic eateries and casual cafes. The area has a laid-back, community-oriented atmosphere with a strong emphasis on local businesses and artisanal food and drink.
Central Avenue CorridorCentral Avenue serves as a main commercial spine in Northeast Minneapolis, lined with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a lively stretch popular for casual dining and social gatherings, reflecting the neighborhood’s creative and approachable character.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–00:00
Tuesday11:00–00:00
Wednesday11:00–00:00
Thursday11:00–00:00
Friday11:00–02:00
Saturday11:00–02:00
Sunday11:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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