Dark Horse St Paul has captured the hearts of locals ever since its doors opened back in 2015. Situated in the Lower Town area of Saint Paul, this restaurant became a cherished spot for foodies and nightlife enthusiasts alike. Its sudden closure last February sent shockwaves through the community, but now, with new owners at the helm, it's set to reopen, bringing back the beloved eatery that many sorely missed.
For years, Dark Horse St Paul stood as a symbol of Lower Town's vibrant growth. With an ambitious menu that blended global flavors with local ingredients, it quickly became a go-to spot for casual dining and late-night entertainment. The restaurant's signature offerings—pizza, wings, and whiskey—were just the beginning. It was a place where people gathered to enjoy live music, hearty meals, and great company. So when the announcement came that it would close permanently, it felt like losing a piece of the neighborhood's soul.
But hope has returned. Chef Shane Oporto, known for his work at Degidio’s and La Belle Vie, along with hospitality veteran Sarah McDonough, have stepped in to breathe new life into the space. They're not just reopening the restaurant—they're honoring its legacy while infusing it with fresh ideas and flavors. This isn't just any reopening; it's a testament to the resilience and creativity of Saint Paul's dining scene. So, what can we expect from the new Dark Horse? Let’s explore.
Table of Contents
- What Makes the Dark Horse St Paul Unique?
- Who Are the New Owners Behind Dark Horse St Paul?
- Can Dark Horse St Paul Retain Its Original Charm?
- Where Is Dark Horse St Paul Located?
- History of Dark Horse St Paul
- Will Dark Horse St Paul Offer the Same Menu?
- How Has Dark Horse St Paul Evolved Over Time?
- Final Thoughts on Dark Horse St Paul
What Makes the Dark Horse St Paul Unique?
Dark Horse St Paul isn't your typical neighborhood bar and eatery. From the moment it opened its doors, it aimed to offer something special. The original owners, Sarah Schrantz and Paddy Whelan, brought their experience from running Minneapolis' iconic Muddy Waters to create a space that felt both familiar and innovative. Their menu featured bold flavors inspired by cuisines from around the globe, all served at prices that made fine dining accessible to everyone.
It's almost like they took the best parts of a gastropub and gave it a Saint Paul twist. The cozy atmosphere, combined with an extensive whiskey selection and live music events, made it a perfect spot for a night out. Now, with Chef Shane Oporto and Sarah McDonough taking over, the question remains: can they keep the magic alive?
Who Are the New Owners Behind Dark Horse St Paul?
Let’s get to know the people who are reviving this beloved establishment. Chef Shane Oporto is no stranger to the culinary world. With a career spanning several high-profile restaurants, he brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the table. His passion for food shines through every dish he creates. Meanwhile, Sarah McDonough brings years of hospitality experience, ensuring that guests receive top-notch service.
Together, they plan to honor the original Dark Horse while adding their own touches. For example, Shane intends to pay homage to the original menu while incorporating some of his signature dishes. Sarah, on the other hand, focuses on creating a warm, inviting environment where everyone feels welcome. It’s clear they’re not just reopening a restaurant—they’re building a community hub.
Can Dark Horse St Paul Retain Its Original Charm?
One of the biggest concerns for regulars is whether the new Dark Horse can capture the essence of the old one. The answer seems to be yes, but with a modern twist. Chef Shane Oporto has expressed his intention to stay true to the original concept while enhancing it with fresh ideas. This means you might still find those classic pizza and wing combinations, but perhaps with unexpected flavor profiles.
And then there’s the ambiance. Sarah McDonough is working hard to recreate the cozy, welcoming vibe that made Dark Horse such a favorite. Sometimes, it’s the little things—like the lighting or the music—that make all the difference. By combining the best of the past with the promise of the future, they aim to create something truly special.
Where Is Dark Horse St Paul Located?
Dark Horse St Paul sits right in the heart of Lower Town, near the corner of West 7th and Wacouta Streets. This prime location has been a key part of its appeal. Being surrounded by other popular spots, it’s easy to see why it became a staple of the neighborhood. The area itself has seen significant growth over the years, making it the perfect place for a restaurant like Dark Horse to thrive.
For locals, the location is more than convenient—it’s symbolic. Lower Town has gone through its own transformations, and Dark Horse has been part of that journey. Now, with the new ownership, it’s poised to play an even bigger role in the community.
History of Dark Horse St Paul
Dark Horse St Paul opened its doors in the spring of 2015, during a period of rapid development in Lower Town. Originally launched by Sarah Schrantz and Paddy Whelan, it quickly established itself as a neighborhood favorite. The menu, which promised global inspiration at affordable prices, struck a chord with locals who appreciated quality without the high price tag.
Over the years, Dark Horse became known for more than just its food. Live music nights, friendly staff, and an impressive whiskey selection all contributed to its charm. It wasn’t just a place to eat—it was a place to connect. Unfortunately, like many businesses, it faced challenges that eventually led to its closure. But now, with new leadership, it’s ready to write the next chapter of its story.
Will Dark Horse St Paul Offer the Same Menu?
While the new owners are committed to preserving the original spirit of Dark Horse, they also recognize the need for change. Chef Shane Oporto plans to stick with some of the crowd favorites, like the pizza and wings, but he’s also introducing a few new items. These additions are designed to reflect his culinary style while staying true to the restaurant’s roots.
For instance, you might see dishes that blend traditional techniques with unexpected ingredients. It’s all about keeping things interesting while maintaining the comfort food appeal that made Dark Horse so popular. And let’s not forget the whiskey selection—Shane and Sarah are working hard to expand it, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
How Has Dark Horse St Paul Evolved Over Time?
Since its inception, Dark Horse St Paul has undergone several changes. From the initial launch in 2015 to its eventual closure last February, it’s been a ride filled with ups and downs. Yet, through it all, it remained a beloved fixture in the community. Now, with new ownership, it’s poised to evolve once again.
This time, the evolution isn’t just about the food or the decor—it’s about the people. Chef Shane Oporto and Sarah McDonough bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. They’re not just focused on what worked in the past; they’re thinking about what will work in the future. That’s what makes this reopening so exciting—it’s not just a return to the past but a leap into the unknown.
Final Thoughts on Dark Horse St Paul
Dark Horse St Paul represents more than just a restaurant—it’s a piece of the community. Its reopening is a cause for celebration, not just for the fans who missed it but for everyone who believes in the power of resilience and creativity. With Chef Shane Oporto and Sarah McDonough at the helm, there’s no doubt that the future looks bright.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the scene, there’s plenty to look forward to. The combination of familiar favorites and exciting new offerings promises to keep things interesting. And with a location that’s as central as it is charming, Dark Horse St Paul is sure to remain a beloved spot for years to come.
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