Foodies and craft beer enthusiasts rejoice—just 22 minutes (19 miles) to our east, in downtown Aitkin, is Block North Brew Pub. Sure, you can drive there—or consider taking the backroads by way of your gravel or road bike for a brew and a bite to eat. (HWYs 31→30→32, does the trick.)

A former furniture store, the space is rustic but modern, open, and filled with natural light. And there are plenty of tables for seating. There is space to host Block North private events at Block North, plus they will also cater with Block North for your private parties, weddings, anniversaries, and more at your location. They occasionally have live music, and they’re located just 20 feet from their new Locker Room, so check it out!

On the Block North tap list that changes seasonally, you’ll see quirky beer names like “For Pete’s Sake” and “For My Horses”—a pre-Prohibition style beer—that reflect Aitkin culture, as well as “Nerf Herder” and “Fog on the Bog,” with ingredients that are sourced locally—cranberries, apples, and locally spun honey.

If you’re looking for ordinary bar food, you won’t find it here. Co-owner, Aitkin native and world-traveling Chef Peter Lowe serves up delectable “city food,” as he calls it. Dishes unique to Aitkin, influenced by his experiences on movie sets around the globe as a film industry chef. (He prepared meals for the cast and crew of Pirates of the Caribbean Dead Man’s Chest, among others!)

The Block North Brew Pub menu includes a smattering of metropolitan cuisines such as smoked duck, bone-in New York strip, poached pear salad, crispy balsamic Brussels sprouts, shrimp and grits, and seafood pasta. Block North Brew Pub also offers burgers, salads, and hearty vegetarian options, such as the PLT (portabella mushroom, lettuce, tomato) and a black bean and wild rice burger.

Craft food, craft beer, craft wine—give Block North Brew Pub a try. You won’t regret it!