New York . London . Tokyo . Bemidji?
We’ll admit it, we’re not the best Minnesotans. We don’t hunt, we’ve used a fishing pole just a couple of times, and our idea of “the cabin” usually involves something with a swimming pool.
Last weekend, we went “up North” to spend some time in the woods - and on the lake. It rained. A cabin that would comfortably house 4 became a little congested when 11 rain-soaked vacationers piled inside. We decided a hunting adventure into the North Woods was exactly what we needed. Rather than hunting the traditional game, we were on the hunt for culture. Not antique shops or Paul Bunyon souviners, but true culture. Food, design and of course…beer.We were completely blown away when we actually found it.
The Harmony Co-Op (117 3rd St NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.751.2009) was our first surprise encounter. Not only did they boast great local cheese and amazing produce, but a well stocked home-brewing department. Crafting your own IPA in the Naughty North to wash down locally sourced cheese sounds like the perfect way to spend some time. We tried the aged white cheddar on a fresh baguette that night and actually thought about driving back for more.
A short drive up the street revealed the grand opening of the Yellow Umbrella (422 4th St SE, Bemidji, MN 218.333.6962) and as they describe it: “A collection of locally and hand crafted awesomeness, assembled for your shopping delight in Bemidji, Minnesota”. It was awesome. Screen printed neckties, t-shirts and posters mingle with housewares and vintage. If it was located in the Twincy, we’d probably have a new addiction. Recommend stopping in if you’re on the hunt for culture to go along with your walleye dinner.
The sign on the street read “Mushroom + Whiskey Soup”. We love both, and decided to stop into Brigid’s Cross (317 Beltrami Ave. Bemidji, MN 218.444.0567) for lunch. The advertised soup was amazing, as was the local bison burger from Paradise Valley Ranch. Even tastier when it was topped with horseradish cheddar, sautéed red peppers and thick-cut cottage bacon. Much of the menu was locally sourced – and all of it was delicious. One of the biggest finds was their tap beer selection. Rogue Hazelnut Brown Nectar on tap?!? In Bemidji? Hell, yes.
We learned that the North is more than bears and jacked-up trucks. Not sure we’ll be back anytime soon – but when we do, we’ll swing through Bemidji for a pit-stop.
