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New In Town: 46 North Pints & Provisions

Photos By Hillary Ehlen

Fine dining. The mere mention of the word draws up images of stuffy dining rooms, a string quartet and well-dressed diners. On the other hand, a traditional American gastropub has wide open spaces, people are talking and laughing and the speakers blare any number of classic rock hits. They are two entirely different atmospheres and, in many ways, are worlds apart from one another. It seems as though combining them would be like oil and water reacting to one another.

However, 46 North Pints & Provisions did just that and the exact opposite has occurred. They have quickly become one of Downtown Fargo’s most popular restaurants since opening its doors in October. With their mix of fine dining and classic American dishes, inviting atmosphere and diverse cocktail and beer menu, they are truly a one of a kind spot in Fargo.

npschmidt final 04087That is exactly what owner Blake Itterman was after when he decided to open his own restaurant. As Itterman will note, he was a fine dining chef in a past life, so he still wanted to incorporate some of that into his restaurant. That can be seen across 46 North’s entire menu. From blackened salmon salads to scallops with bean puree and fennel jam to lamb chops, there are menu items designed for the sophisticated palate.

On the other hand, Itterman has filled the menu with some American staples as well. Grilled cheese, fried chicken and six different types of burgers are also on the menu. On top of that, 46 North offers up a huge tap list and is sure to have the brew for you.

If beer is not your flavor, do not fret. 46 North has a hand-crafted cocktail menu and has 10 different kinds of wine. Their cocktail menu, crafted by local mixologist Conner Collins is one of the most ambitious in the area. The menu has everything from a Dirty Wheat Martini to a Bourye Old Fashioned or an Aruba Passoa. Collins’ use of underutilized liqueurs and alcohols gives this cocktail menu a sense of exclusivity. He also keeps thirsty guests guessing with a weekly “Mojito Of The Moment” which changes weekly.

npschmidt final 04113To accompany their drink menu, 46 North also hosts monthly wine dinners. As the weather warms, they plan to host cocktail and beer dinners each month. These dinners will pair a specific wine, cocktail or beer with a dish from the menu. Collins notes they usually host them near the end of the month.

All of this food and drink is coupled with a very open and inviting atmosphere. While the interior is sleek and borders on a fine dining establishment, the vibe reminds us of a buzzing bar and grill. Much of this is thanks to a very friendly staff and the fact that diners can see inside the kitchen as their food is being made. 46 North’s huge patio also offers a different element for diners too.

npschmidt final 04030Whether you like the fine dining experience or a more traditional style of dining, 46 North Pints & Provisions offers both. However, the flavor of their food and drink is anything but traditional. Their recipes and menu items are some of the most unique and tasty in the area. On top of that, their cocktails do not skimp on taste either.

All in all, 46 North has been able to do something very few restaurants can. They have successfully merged fine dining and classic American fare. For that, they should be commended and celebrated in our community.

Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-1 a.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m.-9 p.m.

635 2nd Ave N
46northpintsandprovisions.com

Written by Brady Drake

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