East Coast Dining in the Heart of Minnesota: Why We're Called Boardwalk

When you think of east coast dining, your imagination might drift to elegant Manhattan restaurants or the mom-and-pop joints that can only be found in the quiet neighborhoods that lie far away from Times Square or other tourist-focused hot-spots.

But beyond the bustling cities like New York, Boston or Baltimore, there are incredible culinary traditions that you are most likely to find walking near the beach on a Boardwalk. Nestled in among the t-shirt shops and arcades, you can discover incredible examples of true, coastal comfort food.

In Minnesota, we just don't have that kind of place. We have malls, we have amazing lakes, we have beautiful parks, and we even have great horse racing. But we don't have Boardwalks. One thing we do have, though, is 6,000 square feet of restaurant with 18,000 square feet of patio called Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar. And it lives up to the name.

Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar brings a coastal-inspired menu with an upscale twist to the Land of 10,000 Lakes. That menu is paired with events, music, and track-side, outdoor seating to watch the races at Canterbury Park. 

So what makes Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar feel like a genuine, east coast boardwalk? And how exactly does the food reflect that feeling? 

Our Origin Story and Why We're Called Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar

Saying that Boardwalk carries the spirit of its namesakes means more than simply saying that we are a Minnesota restaurant with coastal flair. A boardwalk out east has a relaxed vibe, filled with a breezy, walkable feel under neon signs and the sounds of waves (as well as plenty of waves on shirts and signs all around you).

No matter who you are, there's something to do at the boardwalk. And the same is true at Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar. You can get a private dining experience, you can embrace the energy of the communal seating on the patio, you can bring in your family or a first date — there really is something for everyone here.

When you come here, you may not have the sound of the ocean, but the comfort food-based menu, the ambience, and the staff will make you feel like you're enjoying east coast living all the way up here in the Great White North.

The Flavor Framework: What Defines East Coast Dining

To be clear, when we talk about east coast cuisine, we mean the entire east coast. There are several distinct regions and flavor profiles that make up a rich tapestry of delicious food up and down the eastern United States.

Here's a brief breakdown of the inspirations for the flavor framework that Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar offers:

• New England: Think seafood, prepared simply, but deliciously. Lobster, cod, and creamy clam chowder. Our Steamed Mussels and Lobster Roll sandwich are examples of our nods to New England.
• Mid-Atlantic: The first step toward authentic Maryland food is Old Bay seasoning. As for the rest of the region: crab cakes, oysters, and crispy boardwalk fries are major staples. Try our oysters and truffle fries for that Mid-Atlantic flavor.
• NY/NJ: Classic pizza flavors abound from this region thanks to large Italian communities alongside deli-style sandwiches and perfect steakhouse cuts of high quality beef. Check out the Caprese flatbread and any of our prime steak cuts like the frites or filet mignon to get a taste of this region!
• Coastal Cocktails: Up and down the east coast, citrus-based cocktails and shandies are very popular. But don't forget classics like martinis, spritzes, and crush-style highballs. We have recommended drink pairings for our entrees as well as light and non-alcoholic options and a great wine list.

All of these different traditions create a balance to our menu, whether you come in for dinner, lunch, or brunch. No matter how many people you come in with, there will be a crowd-pleasing dish that they will love.

How We Source and Prepare Our Dishes

When it comes to sourcing our ingredients — especially our seafood — our focus is bringing everything from Shoreline to the Midwest. That means that our ingredients are always shipped directly from sustainable sources directly to our kitchens for unparalleled freshness.

And because we use only the freshest seafood, we have the pleasure of rotating seasonal seafood specials to reflect the best ingredients throughout the year. This philosophy is also reflected in our non-aquatic entrees, as well. 

Our pork tomahawks and other steakhouse favorites always come from suppliers that have proven track records of quality control and sustainability. And once we get ahold of our ingredients, the real fun begins.

We give our prime cuts of meat a beautiful wood-fire sear, use classic poaching and roasting techniques as appropriate for our seafood, and make our delicious sauces from scratch for a wholly unique and mind-blowing burst of flavor with every bite.

Signature Boards and Plates: A Tour Through the Menu

Just as drink pairings can enhance a meal, combining elements from different coastal regions can create a wonderful east coast dining experience. Not sure how you'd approach the menu? We have some recommendations to help give you ideas.

The Seaside Starter

Sometimes, your appetite craves appetizers. Beyond just looking over raw bar selections, you can grab a shrimp cocktail and an oyster platter for the table with a little bit of chowder or some lemon-herb dressed greens for yourself.

Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar Classic

Go all-in on the boardwalk theme with a meal full of seaside classics. Maryland-style crab cakes lead into wood-fired steak or sublimely grilled fish paired with some slaw and/or authentic, crispy boardwalk fries.

Surf-Meets-Steakhouse

There's nothing quite like great surf and turf. Grab a few shareable starters for the table and follow them up with steak frites or one of our prime cuts of beef topped with buttered crab and some roasted seasonal veggies to add a little lightness and color to your plate.

Vegetarian Options

Just because a lot of east coast dining focuses on meat and fish preparations doesn't mean there is nothing available for our vegetarian friends. You can have a meat-free eggplant parmesan or a side of flash fried brussels sprouts and more — there is a lot more to choose from than the tossed salads that are the only options some restaurants offer.

Kid Stuff

We all know kids can be picky. Their palettes are not as refined as an adult's. But Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar is a family-friendly place and we make simplified dishes to satisfy kids' tastes. Chicken tenders, grilled cheese, and, for the truly finicky kids, buttered noodles are just some of the great kid's menu options.

Drinks: Simple, Bright, and Celebratory

Our drink offerings are designed to highlight the flavor profiles that drive our east coast style dining experience. Between the alcoholic servings and the zero-proof pairings we make available, there is always something to sip on to heighten your experience at Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar.

Sparkling wines, whites, rosés, and reds are on offer if you prefer to pair your meal with the fruit of the vine. You can also get a wide variety of locally brewed beers that vary from citrusy shandies to more bold IPAs.

Perhaps a signature cocktail is more your speed. Many of the drinks our mixologists have put together bring a citrus-infused lightness that goes very well with seafood, but we also have classic martinis and Manhattans that provide an incredible accent to a steak. Take a look at our drink lists, and you're sure to spot something you'd love to try.

Boardwalk Experience: Wonderful Atmosphere and Impeccable Vibes

In order to give the feel of a breezy walk on a coastal boardwalk, the design of Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar incorporates wood textures and open, bright spaces. You'll find some seating with walls painted like a storefront awning and artwork that perfectly balances on the line between kitsch and class.

You're encouraged to dine at a pace that encourages conversation and unrushed enjoyment of every bite you eat. A boardwalk is a place to stroll and take in the sights and sounds. That's how we want you to experience our atmosphere.

The sound of Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar is upbeat, the lighting is warm, and when the weather is nice and the horses are running, the unique patio dining vibes are second-to-none. And if you feel the urge, you can step over to The Stable for live music and a more high-energy feeling.

Private Dinners and Gatherings: Putting Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar in Celebration Mode

One of the great things about New England seafood classics, Mid-Atlantic food, New York/New Jersey comfort dishes and every other coastal delicacy is that many of them scale up easily for a private event or dinner.

Corporate lunch events, holiday parties, large family gatherings, and more can be accommodated at Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar. A private dining experience featuring family-style platters, dessert spreads and main dishes from our top-of-the-line menu ensures a satisfied crowd.

AV equipment is available on request, as is advice for pacing your event meal. We've hosted a lot of private gatherings and we know how to make them go off without a hitch. Reach out to us if you want more information for your upcoming event!

Our Promise: Hospitality that Feels Like a Seaside Stroll

A day on a boardwalk is fun, relaxing, and unforgettable. And the best place to get that feeling in Minnesota is Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar — that's why we have the name! From our decor to our soundtrack to the easy pace we love our patrons to enjoy as they dine, we truly bring the seaside to Minnesota.

Our fresh, sustainably cultivated and caught ingredients make for the best east coast dining experience in Shakopee and, arguably, in the whole state. From a first date to a night out without the kids to a family gathering to a get-together with friends, Boardwalk Kitchen & Bar has something incredible for everyone. Stroll on by and experience the coast like you never have before!