The closure of Palmer’s Bar, a neighborhood staple for nearly 120 years, marks a significant shift in the identity of the Cedar-Riverside area. Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Palmer’s will officially shut its doors in September 2023, following the trend of other beloved venues such as the Triple Rock Social Club, Viking Bar, and Nomad World Pub, which have all closed over the past 13 years.
The space will soon be repurposed by the Dar Al-Hijrah mosque, which plans to utilize it for educational programs, youth services, and interfaith dialogues. Board member Abdisalam Adam emphasized the mosque’s commitment to serving the community’s evolving needs. The shift reflects a broader transformation in Cedar-Riverside, which has seen an influx of African and Muslim residents, altering the cultural landscape that once thrived on punk music and craft beer.
The former location of the Triple Rock Social Club now houses Soma Grill & Deli, where patrons enjoy dishes like fish wraps and goat meat while engaging in conversations primarily in Somali. On a recent Thursday, the atmosphere was vibrant, with diners receiving bananas with their meals and one customer even using a rug for evening prayers. This juxtaposition of cultures illustrates the neighborhood’s ongoing evolution.
Community Reflections and Future Plans
Local cultural historian Jacqueline deVries, a professor at Augsburg University, lamented the loss of iconic businesses like International Video and Depth of Field, which she fondly remembers for their unique offerings. “There’s been so many different small restaurants, it’s hard to keep track,” she noted, highlighting the rapid changes in the area.
The Afghan Cultural Society, which moved into its current location in 2022, is also expanding into a former space occupied by Midwest Mountaineering. Executive Director Nasreen Sajady expressed her vision for the new venue, envisioning a hub for global music, art shows, and mental health workshops. An open house is planned for October 2023, aiming to showcase the center’s new capabilities, including a proposed playground and seating area.
While Sajady looks forward to these developments, she also carries a sense of nostalgia for the area’s past. “I went to Triple Rock so often that I ended up marrying one of the bartenders,” she shared, reflecting on her unique connection to the cultural fabric of Cedar-Riverside.
The Diminishing Nightlife and Economic Challenges
Despite ongoing transformations, Cedar-Riverside retains a diverse nightlife scene. Venues like the Cedar Cultural Center continue to host performances, while Theatre in the Round Players prepares for the opening of “Pride & Prejudice” in mid-September. However, the need to cater to the West Bank’s growing Muslim population presents challenges for some businesses, particularly those reliant on alcohol sales.
The recent closure of Palmer’s Bar, as articulated by owners Pat and Sarah Dwyer, was driven by economic pressures. They reported losses ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 per month due to changing drinking habits and reduced foot traffic in the neighborhood. The owners explained, “The situation was no longer sustainable. We cut expenses as much as possible and adjusted prices where we could, and it just wasn’t enough to climb out of the hole we were falling into.”
Despite the impending closure, the bar continues to attract patrons, particularly during events such as free weekly performances by Cornbread Harris, a local music legend. As the community prepares for Palmer’s final days, many, like local resident Steven Rolfson, reflect on the memories tied to the establishment. “My heart breaks every time I turn the corner where the 400 Bar used to be and remember that it’s gone,” he noted.
As Cedar-Riverside evolves, the future remains uncertain for its nightlife and cultural venues. While some residents cherish the area’s roots, others embrace the changes that reflect a more diverse community. As Sajady put it, “The Palmer’s situation is very heartbreaking to me. I don’t know the future, and that really scares me.” The blend of nostalgia and hope marks a pivotal moment for Cedar-Riverside, as it navigates its new identity in a changing world.
