Tailgate Sports Cafe — Restaurant in Minneapolis

I was really hoping I wouldn’t have to write this post as we tried giving ownership time to handle this situation correctly but after many communications from parties involved with empty promises to get back to us in a timely manner … we have now been ghosted. On Dec 15th, a group of my friends and I came to Tailgate to enjoy some beverages and Karaoke. On last call, a couple of people in our group went to the bar to order a shot. Our other friend walked up to the bar and an off-duty bartender said “Not for you. We are closed black girl” … to which clearly there were big reactions. Of course, there was drinking involved (on both sides) so emotions were high, but I would hope that there would be heightened emotions when standing up for what was clearly wrong and a pointed racist comment. There was also another comment made after that which I am uncomfortable even typing the sentence but it involved the N word. We got kicked out (which wasn’t unexpected … but we did expect fair treatment for all parties involved) and as we were trying to get an Uber, the off-duty bartender and her friend group were allowed to stay inside and continue to scream things at our group. We left, and multiple people in our group reached out to the owner and management the next day. The owner apologized and said she would review the video footage as she didn’t review it with audio and follow up. We haven’t heard back as promised even after reaching out many times. Unfortunately, the things that were said are a hate crime. I want to support small, local businesses and would have hoped this was handled with grace. My fear is that there is a member of the staff here who clearly has a pointed view and to me, that is dangerous to have working at your establishment. Wishing for better, fair treatment …and a safe...

This was a decent experience. I did enjoy the variety of foods they offer but the service was really not the greatest. This is no fault on our server at all she was great. She did need help though and I don't feel she was well supported. This is on management. The section we were in had two different couple, my family of 3 and this huge family at least 10 of them including kids. I wish I could remember her name, but she was working the entire section on her own. There should have ben a bit more help for her considering most people were at the bar. Our food was the second to be put in but it was still a bit of a wait, nothing too crazy though. I ordered the bang bang shrimp bowl , my husband order fish and chips and my kid a cheese burger. My food was really good but just warm but my husband and kid food was hot which we like. The fish and chips were really good, he still talks about them and we went a few days ago. the fish was flaky, still with a crunch, lightly battered which is a plus . The burger was a typical burger but my kid seemed to really enjoy it. My food was pretty good as well even though it was too hot. Over all I had a really good experience just wish the team work was a bit better. I would try it again...

My daughter brought me here for our mother/daughter night out doing karaoke. I don't drink alcohol so I can't help you out there. Sober however this has become one of my favorite places to be on Saturday night. Karaoke is fun with the audience being appreciative of your efforts.

Good singers are truly appreciated. Others are politely clapped for and encouraged to try again. Everyone knows it takes guts to try. No one makes fun of you or heckles you. I love the kindness of strangers here. Another bonus is the delicious food! Tailgate serves some great food! Did I mention that the customer service is top notch? Friendly, fast and great. I love this place a great place to hang out with my daughter.

Follow-up:

Miss you guys! We haven't been for awhile before COVID-19 and pray all is well. Also, for those marking Tailgate as a Wisconsin fan bar nothing could be further from the truth. ALL fans are welcome. I have seen fans of both teams fill up the bar it just depends on who gets here first. So, I wouldn't prejudge on one visit, if you want to come and cheer for your team come in and do it. Just my two...